ast-india-2017Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, abbreviated as HPCA Stadium, is located in the city of Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh, India. The town of Dharamsala is

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INDIA 2017INDIA 2017test cricket tourtest cricket tour

astsports.com.au | 1800 026 668

WelcomeG’day, Merv Hughes here inviting you to join me on AST’s tour to India in 2017.Having toured as both a player & spectator over the past 30 years, I can assure you India is one of the most fascinating places on earth and I can’t wait to get back again next year.We’ve got an amazing itinerary planned for our 2nd & 3rd Test feature tour which I’ll be hosting through Bangalore, the Golden Triangle and Ranchi, returning to many places I’ve visited in the past and always look forward to experiencing again and again.So if you’re thinking about coming along, do yourself a favour and lock in your place with AST today and prepare for an amazing trip.Looking forward to meeting you!Merv Hughes AST Tour Host

WelcomeAustralian Sports Tours is proud to invite you on tour to India in February-March 2017. Australia take on hosts India to contest the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in a four Test Match series that is certain to produce an intriguing and closely fought battle between world cricket’s two powerhouses. We have created a range of tours encompassing the whole Test series. With a full six night gap between the 2nd & 3rd Tests, our Feature Tour in 2017 is our 18 night 2nd & 3rd Tests + Golden Triangle tour hosted by Merv Hughes which enables you to maximise your Test cricket & India sightseeing experience. You are also able to extend your travels to include the 1st Test &/or 4th Test. Or, if your travel time is limited, you may enjoy a shorter trip taking in just one Test combined with either 3 or 6 nights touring. India is well known as the world’s most passionate cricket loving nation and with a population of over 1.2 billion, India’s cricketers enjoy a superstar status that makes many of them among the highest paid sportsmen on an international scale. As such, touring India as a fan means immersing yourself into a culture that lives and breathes cricket. Just as importantly, the Indian people are an extremely warm and welcoming society who enjoy social, religious & cultural diversity and harmony across its vast physical expanse. Collectively, our tours cover an impressive range of cities & must-see touring destinations that are sure to leave you with a fond and lasting love of this incredible part of the sub-continent. In addition to the Test cities of Pune, Bangalore, Ranchi and Dharamsala, our tours also visit Mumbai and Goa, plus the Golden Triangle including New Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Amritsar and Varanasi. This is truly a unique opportunity to support Australia in one of world cricket’s great touring destinations. We warmly welcome you to join us!

The team at Australian Sports Tours

Welcome from Merv Hughes

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Welcome



1st, 2nd & 3rd Teststour HIGHLIGHTS • 29 nights accommodation • Breakfast included daily • Hospitality tickets & return match transfers

to the 1st , 2nd Test & 3rd Test Matches • All inclusive Test Match Dinner in Bangalore

& Ranchi featuring guest speaker • Services of AST Tour Host Merv Hughes

from Bangalore to fi nish of tour • Services of experienced AST Tour Rep • Guided sightseeing tour of Mumbai,

Elephanta Island, Hanging Garden, the Tower of Silence, Goa, The Red Fort, Lotus Temple, Indian Gate & Amritsar

• Entry into Taj Mahal and Golden Temple, plus guided elephant ride to see Amber Fort, Jaipur

• Internal fl ights & transfers: Pune to Goa, Goa to Bangalore, Bangalore to Delhi, Jaipur to Amritsar, Amritsar to Ranchi

• Private coach travel throughout • AST tour merchandise

Matches included

Jaipur to Amritsar, Amritsar to Ranchi

$9,580*

$9,580*

* twin/double share

Single supplement$3,360

* twin/double share

Single supplement

$3,360Thu 23 - Mon 27 Feb: Maharashtra CA Stadium Pune Sat 4 - Wed 8 Mar: M Chinnaswamy Stadium Bangalore Thu 16 - Mon 20 Mar: JSCA Intl Cricket Stadium Ranchi

1ST TEST

2ND TEST

3RD TEST Test tour Summary

2nd & 3rd Tests with merv hughesTour HIGHLIGHTS • 18 nights accommodation • Breakfast included daily • Hospitality tickets and return match

transfers to the 2nd & 3rd Test Matches • All inclusive Test Match Dinner in Bangalore

& Ranchi featuring guest speaker • Services of AST Tour Host Merv Hughes for

the duration of tour • Services of experienced AST Tour Rep • Guided Sightseeing Tour of Delhi - The Red

Fort, Lotus Temple, Indian Gate & more • Entry into Taj Mahal and Golden Temple,

plus guided elephant ride to see Amber Fort, Jaipur

• Internal fl ights & transfers: Bangalore to Delhi, Jaipur to Amritsar , Amritsar to Ranchi with airport transfers

• Private coach travel throughout • AST Tour merchandise

Matches included

$6,290*

$6,290*

* twin/double share


* twin/double share

Single supplement

$1,960

Sat 4 - Wed 8 Mar: M Chinnaswamy Stadium Bangalore Thu 16 - Mon 20 Mar: JSCA Intl Cricket Stadium Ranchi

2ND TEST

3RD TEST

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4th Testtour HIGHLIGHTS • 9 nights accommodation • Breakfast included daily at every hotel • Hospitality tickets & return match transfers

to the 4th Test Match • Services of experienced AST Tour Rep • Guided sightseeing tour of Varanasi • Internal fl ight & transfers: Ranch to Varanasi

+ Varanasi to Dharamsala via Delhi 1 night stopover

• AST tour merchandise

Match includedSat 25 - Wed 29 Mar: HPCA Stadium Dharamsala

1ST TEST

tour HIGHLIGHTS

$2,690*

$2,690*

* twin/double share

Single supplement$900

* twin/double share

Single supplement $900

2nd Test Tour HIGHLIGHTS • 12 nights accommodation • Breakfast included daily • Hospitality tickets and return match

transfers to the 2nd & 3rd Test Matches • All inclusive Test Match Dinner in Bangalore

featuring guest speaker • Services of AST Tour Host Merv Hughes for

the duration of tour • Services of experienced AST Tour Rep • Guided Sightseeing Tour of Delhi - The Red

Fort, Lotus Temple, Indian Gate & more • Entry into Taj Mahal, Amber Fort, Golden

Temple & Jaipur which includes guided elephant ride

• Internal fl ights & transfers: Bangalore to Delhi, Jaipur to Amritsar , Amritsar to Delhi with airport transfers

• Private coach travel throughout • AST Tour merchandise

Match included

$4,690*

$4,690*

* twin/double share


* twin/double share

Single supplement

$1,600

Sat 4 - Wed 8 Mar: M Chinnaswamy Stadium Bangalore

2ND TEST $9,580

*$9,580

*1st Testtour HIGHLIGHTS • 11 nights accommodation • Breakfast included • Hospitality tickets & return match transfers

to the 1st Test Match • Services of experienced AST Tour Rep • Guided sightseeing tour of Mumbai,

Elephanta Island, Hanging Garden, the Tower of Silence & Goa

• Internal fl ight & transfers Pune to Goa • AST tour merchandise

Match includedThu 23 - Mon 27 Feb: Maharashtra CA Stadium Pune

1ST TEST

tour HIGHLIGHTS11 nights accommodation

$3,290*

$3,290*

* twin/double share


* twin/double share

Single supplement

$1,400


Test OneMaharashtra CA StadiumThe state-of-the-art Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium is located on the outskirts of Pune at Gahunje. The ground, also popularly known as Subrata Roy Sahara Stadium, was inaugurated by Sharad Pawar in 2012 and the first match was played between Kings XI Punjab and Pune Warriors. The first 20-20 International match at the stadium was played between India and England in December 2012. The Test between Australia and India will be the first played at this ground.The track tends to be a good wicket for batting. However, the spinners are known to play their part as the game progresses and can get it to grip off the surface.

Test Date: Thu 23 - Mon 27 Feb 2017

Address: Pune, Maharashtra

Capacity: 42,000

Established: 2012

End Names: Pavilion EndN/A

Test TwoM Chinnaswamy StadiumM Chinnaswamy stadium is one of India’s biggest cricketing centres. In its debut Test Match, it had the honour of hosting the West Indies in 1974. The match also marked the emergence of two modern legends, Gordon Greenidge and Sir Viv Richards. Since then, the stadium has regularly hosted Tests, although it’s an unhappy hunting ground for Indian test sides.Short boundaries and high altitude makes the Chinnaswamy track a heaven for batters in the limited-overs formats. Many big scores have been posted and chased down with immense ease. The pitch has plenty of spice and pacers love to exhibit their ware in the five-day version of the game.

Test Date: Sat 4 - Wed 8 March 2017

Address: Bengaluru, Karnataka (Bangalore)

Capacity: 40,000

Established: 1969

End Names: Pavilion EndBEML End

2017 India Test TourCricket Grounds

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Test ThreeJSCA Intl Cricket StadiumJSCA International Stadium Complex or formerly known as Jharkhand States Cricket Association International Cricket Stadium is situated in Ranchi. The first ODI at the ground was played between India and England on January 19, 2013. Since then, two more ODIs have been played at this ground. The stadium has also hosted six IPL games. The Test between Australia and India will be the first played at this ground.As it is a relatively big stadium, spinners tend to play a big role at the ground, as the pitch offers the spinners grip and turn.

Test Date: Thu 16 - Mon 20 Mar 2017

Address: Ranchi, India

Capacity: 39,000

Established: 2010

End Names: North EndSouth End

Test FourHPCA Stadium DharamsalaHimachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, abbreviated as HPCA Stadium, is located in the city of Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh, India. The town of Dharamsala is best known as the home of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile. The venue is unique to India in that it is situated at an altitude of 1,457m above sea level and has the snow-capped magnificient Himalayan mountains in the background of this amazing venue that rivals Newlands and the Adelaide Oval for its beauty.It is often considered the fastest pitch in India.

Test Date: Sat 25 - Wed 29 March 2017

Address: Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh

Capacity: 26,000

Established: 2003

End Names: River EndCollege End


Golden triangle India’s golden triangle is a tourist circuit which connects the three most visited cities in the country’s north-west - the national capital Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. On the map, these form a roughly equilateral triangle, some 200 - 250km along each side. This triangle has been dubbed golden for the extraordinary wealth of cultural and historical splendour on offer in each of the three cities.

DelhiDelhi’s chief sight is its street life. The teeming bazaars of imagination lie in Old Delhi, the city of the Moghuls, established in the 17th century and still largely Muslim, the immense Jama Masjid (Great Mosque) dominates the quarter. Its main thoroughfare, the tumultuous Chandni Chowk, abuts the Red Fort, whose pristine lawns and lofty Moghul audience halls offer a tranquil haven.

Jaipur Jaipur, capital of the largely desert state of Rajasthan, is home to some of Asia’s best bazaars. The city’s alluringly frenetic old quarter is known as the Pink City after its red-washed buildings, packed with stalls selling everything from silk to milk. Of Jaipur’s numerous monuments, the Hawa Mahal - an ornate five-storey facade, designed to allow the women of the royal household to observe the street in anonymity - has become an icon of Rajasthani architecture.

Agra Agra was once the heart of the Moghul empire, boasts the unparalleled beauty of the Taj Mahal, which adorns the banks of the Yamuna river. The marble mausoleum is by far the most popular tourist site in India - and despite the hype and the cliché it is an astounding and mesmerising building.

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2nd & 3rd Testswith Merv Hughes + Golden Triangle

Day 1 Fri 3 Mar: Arrive BangaloreWelcome to Bangalore (officially known as Bengaluru). It is not your typical Indian city and has a big emphasis placed on dining, shopping and socialising. This evening is yours to relax in preparation for the all important 2nd Test Match beginning tomorrow. Accommodation: JW Marriott Bangalore

Days 2-6 Sat 4 - Wed 8 Mar: 2nd Test, India v Australia at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, BangaloreBefore each day’s play our Tour Host Merv Hughes will provide the group with an insight as to how he sees the day’s play unfolding. Following breakfast we transfer to the stadium for what promises to be 5 days of absorbing cricket action.We have a pretty successful strike rate at M Chinnaswamy Stadium playing 5 times, winning twice, losing once and drawing twice. Our only loss came in 2010 where the little master Sachin Tendulkar led his side to a 7 wicket victory with a double century in his 1st innings and an unbeaten half century in their 2nd innings run chase. During this Test Match, Merv Hughes and a special guest speaker will host an all inclusive dinner.Overnight: JW Marriott Bangalore

Day 7 Thu 9 Mar: Bangalore to DelhiFor the next 6 days we will have a break from cricket and experience some of the best sightseeing India has to offer.Today we depart Bangalore and fly to the country’s capital, Delhi, where will be staying for the next two nights. A combination of the country’s rich past and thriving present, Delhi is a melting pot where ancient and modern blend together. It moves at a thousand miles an hour, but amongst the hustle and bustle visitors have the chance to explore all the wonders of the city, be it its heritage, the art & crafts or the diverse cuisine and culture.Overnight: The Lalit Delhi

Day 8 Fri 10 Mar: Delhi Sightseeing TourThis morning we head out on a guided sightseeing tour to experience firsthand some of the city’s most celebrated sites and spectacular architecture. There is a massive contrast between old & new in Delhi, but the most famous stops centre around the historic sites including Qutub Minar, the Red Fort, India Gate and Lotus Temple.Overnight: Grand Hotel or similar

// 3 - 21 March 2017 // 19 Days/18 Nights

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Day 9 Sat 11 Mar: Delhi to Agra Today is a travel day which starts after breakfast when we farewell Delhi and travel by coach to Agra where tomorrow we will get to experience the UNESCO World Heritage Site – the Taj Mahal.Overnight: Courtyard by Marriott

Day 10 Sun 12 Mar: Taj Mahal / Agra to JaipurIt’s an early start this morning as we make the short drive to one of the word’s most famous buildings - the Taj Mahal. The best time to see this monument is at dawn when the sun hits the marble and changes it to amazing colours. Built by Shahjehan following the death of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, it took 20,000 men a total of 17 years to complete this amazing white marble memorial with the attention to detail unbelievable. Following the Taj Mahal visit we depart Agra and make our way to Jaipur where the remainder of the day will be at your leisure.Overnight: Marriott Jaipur

Day 11 Mon 13 Mar Jaipur Sightseeing / Jaipur to AmritsarWe start today with a visit to one of the most famous monuments in Rajasthan, Amber Fort. Amber Fort is a honey coloured fortress-palace in the Aravalli Hills just 15km north of Jaipur. It has been described as the sleeping beauty of Rajasthan. The sombre exterior belies the richness of the royal apartments, which open to striking views of the gorge. It also possesses a Chamber of Mirrors and the

Hall of Victory presents a galaxy of decorative art. You will also have the opportunity to travel around the Fort on the back of an elephant.Following this sightseeing tour, we make our way to the airport for our flight to Amritsar.Overnight: Hyatt Amritsar

Day 12 Tue 14 Mar: Amritsar SightseeingToday’s sightseeing in Amritsar is all about the Golden Temple as part of the Harmindar Sahib (gurdwara complex), the spiritual heart of the Sikh faith. Built in the 16th-century, its dome is richly gilded in shimmering gold, the lower level built from elegant marble all while floating on the sacred waters of Amrit Sarovar. Pilgrims come from across the world to bathe in its purifying waters. Accommodation: Hyatt Amritsar

Day 13 Wed 15 Mar: Amritsar to Ranchi This morning we fly to Ranchi (via Delhi) where we will be based for the last 6 nights of our tour. Ranchi is not your typical large Indian city as the district is home to many waterfalls and has a more relaxed vibe, or as relaxed as an Indian city can feel. The afternoon is yours to explore the city or relax in preparations for tomorrow’s 3rd Test Match. Overnight: BNR Chanakya

Days 14-18 Thu 16 – Mon 20 March: 3rd Test, India v Australia at JSCA International Cricket Stadium, RanchiIt’s the 3rd Test of this Series and we find ourselves at another venue playing host to its first ever Test Match which no doubt will be special to a lot of fans attending.Before each day’s play our Tour Host Merv Hughes will provide the group with an insight as to how he sees the days play unfolding. The 3rd Test of our last visit to India was played at Chandigarh and we suffered another loss after another reasonable start. We batted first and posted a good total of 408 with Mitchell Starc falling agonisingly short of his maiden Test century on 99. In reply the Australian bowlers did exceptionally well to restrict India to 499 after their opening partnership of 289. Peter Siddle did the damage with the ball taking 5 wickets as the hosts took a 91 run lead into the 2nd innings. Unfortunately the Aussies couldn’t put enough runs on the board in their 2nd dig being bowled out for 223 and India chased down the runs with 6 wickets in hand.During this Test Match, Merv Hughes and a special guest speaker will host an all inclusive dinner. Overnight: BNR Chanakya

Day 19 Tue 21 March: Depart RanchiToday sees our tour of India come to an end. Following check out of the hotel you will make your own way to the airport for the flight home or continue on with your travels.


$5,490*

$5,490*

* twin/double share


* twin/double share

Single supplement

$1,900

1st, 2nd & 3rd Test Tour Golden Triangle, Mumbai & Goa// 20 February - 21 March 2017 // 30 Days/29 Nights

Be there to witness history in Pune and Ranchi as the venues for the 1st and 3rd Test Matches stage their very first Tests and won’t the locals be out in force to support their idols take on the Aussies.

In between we travel to Bangalore with the 2nd Test scheduled to be played at the world renowned M Chinnaswamy Stadium where the Aussies will be hoping to get an advantage in this 4 Test Series.

Day 1 Mon 20 Feb: Arrive MumbaiWelcome to Mumbai! Make your way to the hotel where you will meet your AST tour leader & fellow travelers.Accommodation: Intercontinental Marine Drive Mumbai or similar

Day 2 Tue 21 Feb: Mumbai SightseeingToday is an opportunity to explore the city and its people as we embark on a fully guided half-day city tour where we will cruise out to Mumbai’s premier tourist attraction, Elephanta Island and its rock cut temples. Little is known about the origin of the temples but are thought to have been created between AD 450 and 750 when the island was known as Gharapuri (Place of Caves). We will also get to see other sights such as the Dhobi Ghat, Hanging Garden, Prince of Wales Museum and the Tower of Silence.Overnight: Intercontinental Marine Drive Mumbai or similar

Days 3 Wed 22 Feb: Mumbai to PuneToday we depart Mumbai and make our way to Pune. This unique city retains its colonial-era charm amongst the modern buildings. Famous landmarks include The Aga Khan Palace, Pataleshvara Cave Temple and Gandhi National Memorial. Overnight: W Marriott Pune or similar

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Days 4 -8 Thu 23 Feb - Mon 27 Feb: 1st Test, India v Australia at Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, PuneThis is the first Test Match staged in Pune so it is bound to be a massive occasion for the locals and fans alike. In 2013, Australia played an ODI here which resulted in an easy win for the Aussies.The first Test will set the tone for the remainder of the series and the Aussies will be hoping for a better start to the tour than on their previous visit to India in 2013. During this Test Match, Merv Hughes will host an all inclusive dinner.Overnight: JW Marriott Pune

Day 9 Tue 28 Feb: Pune to Goa After breakfast, we will fly to the beautiful beachside destination of Goa. The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendours of its temples, churches and old houses have made Goa a firm favourite with travellers around the world. Goa has much more to offer than its beaches with a unique history and rich culture that has tourists coming back time and time again.Overnight: Alila Diwa Goa

Day 10 Wed 1 Mar: Goa Sightseeing Today we will embark on a guided tour of Goa and its surrounds. We will explore parts of Old Goa with its magnificent cathedrals and history, travel through the Old Portuguese quarter of Panaji and also take in some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. After the tour concludes you will have the opportunity to try your hand at haggling at some of the regions flea markets.Overnight: Alila Diwa Goa

Day 11 Thu 2 Mar: Goa Free DayToday is a free day to further explore the region of Goa or simply relax on one of their world famous beaches and watch the world go by. There is ample shopping with markets aplenty and for the foodies amongst us, much like the rest of India, Goa is an absolute haven full of tremendous dishes especially fresh seafood.Overnight: Alila Diwa Goa

Day 12 Fri 3 March: Goa to BangaloreWelcome to India and Bangalore (officially known as Bengaluru). Over 8 million people call this mega city home with a large majority of them being students or employees in the booming IT sector. It is not your typical Indian city with a big emphasis placed on dining, shopping and socialising. This evening will be at your leisure to continue exploring the city or to relax in preparation for the all important 2nd Test Match beginning tomorrowOvernight: JW Marriott Bangalore

Days 13 - 17 Sat 4 - Wed 8 March: 2nd Test, India v Australia at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, BangaloreBefore each day’s play our Tour Host Merv Hughes will provide the group with an insight as to how he sees the days play unfolding in our daily briefing. Following breakfast we make our way to the stadium for what promises to be 5 days of absorbing cricket action. During this Test Match, Merv Hughes and a special guest speaker will host an all inclusive dinner.Overnight: JW Marriott Bangalore

Day 18 Thu 9 March: Bangalore to DelhiFor the next 6 days we will have a break from cricket and experience some of the best sightseeing India has to offer. Today we depart Bangalore and make our way to the country’s capital – Delhi. A combination of the country’s rich past and thriving present, Delhi is a melting pot where ancient and modern blend together. It moves at a thousand miles an hour, but amongst the hustle and bustle visitors have the chance to explore all the wonders of the city, be it its heritage, the art & crafts or the diverse cuisine and culture.Overnight: The Lalit Delhi

continued overleaf....


$5,490*

$5,490*

* twin/double share


* twin/double share

Single supplement

$1,900

1st, 2nd & 3rd Test Tour...continued

Day 19 Fri 10 March: Delhi SightseeingThis morning we head out on a guided sightseeing tour to experience firsthand some of the city’s most celebrated sites and spectacular architecture. There is a massive contrast between old & new in Delhi, but the most famous stops centre around the historic sites including Qutub Minar, the Red Fort, India Gate and Lotus Temple.Overnight: The Lalit Delhi

Day 20 Sat 11 March: Delhi to AgraToday is a travel day which starts after breakfast when we farewell Delhi and travel by coach to Agra where tomorrow we will get to experience the UNESCO World Heritage Site – the Taj Mahal. Overnight: Courtyard by Marriott

Day 21 Sun 12 March: Taj Mahal / Agra to Jaipur It’s an early start this morning as we make the short drive to one of the world’s most famous buildings - the Taj Mahal. The best time to see this monument is at dawn when the sun hits the marble and changes it to amazing colours. Built by Shahjehan following the death of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, it took 20,000 men a

total of 17 years to complete this amazing white marble memorial with the attention to detail unbelievable. Following the Taj Mahal visit we depart Agra and make our way to Jaipur where once we arrive, the remainder of the day will be at your leisure.Overnight: Marriott Jaipur

Day 22 Mon 13 March: Jaipur Sightseeing / Jaipur to AmritsarWe start today with a visit to one of the most famous monuments in Rajasthan, Amber Fort. Amber Fort is a honey coloured fortress-palace in the Aravalli Hills just 15 kilometres north of Jaipur. It has been described as the “sleeping beauty of Rajasthan”. The sombre exterior belies the richness of the royal apartments, which open to striking views of the gorge. It also possesses a Chamber of Mirrors and the Hall of Victory presents a galaxy of decorative art. You will also have the opportunity to travel around the Fort on the back of an elephant.Following this sightseeing tour, we make our way to the airport for our flight to AmritsarOvernight: Hyatt Amritsar

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Day 23 Tue 14 March: Amritsar SightseeingToday’s sightseeing in Amritsar is all about the Golden Temple as part of the Harmindar Sahib (gurdwara complex), the spiritual heart of the Sikh faith. Built in the 16th-century, its dome is richly gilded in shimmering gold, the lower level built from elegant marble all while floating on the sacred waters of Amrit Sarovar. Pilgrims come from across the world to bathe in its purifying waters. Overnight: Hyatt Amritsar

Day 24 Wed 15 March: Amritsar to RanchiToday we fly to Ranchi (via Delhi) where we will be based for the last 6 nights of our tour. Ranchi is not your typical large Indian city as the district is home to many waterfalls and has a more relaxed vibe, or as relaxed as an Indian city can feel. The afternoon is yours to explore the city or relax in preparations for tomorrow’s 3rd Test Match.Overnight: BNR Chanakya

Days 25-29 Thu 16 – Mon 20 March: 3rd Test, India v Australia at JSCA International Cricket Stadium, RanchiIt’s the 3rd Test of this Series and we find ourselves at another venue playing host to its first ever Test Match which no doubt will be special to a lot of fans attending.Before each day’s play our Tour Host Merv Hughes will provide the group with an insight as to how he sees the days play unfolding in our daily briefing. The 3rd Test of our last visit to India was played at Chandigarh and we suffered another loss after another reasonable start. Again we batted first and posted a good total of 408 with Mitchell Starc falling agonisingly short of his maiden Test century on 99. In reply the Australian bowlers did exceptionally well to restrict India to 499 after their opening partnership of 289. Peter Siddle did the damage with the ball taking 5 wickets as the hosts took a 91 run lead into the 2nd innings. Unfortunately the Aussies couldn’t put enough runs on the board in their 2nd dig being bowled out for 223 and India chased down the runs with 6 wickets in hand.During this Test Match, you will once again be our guest at our Test Match Dinner hosted by Merv Hughes which includes dinner, drinks and a special guest speaker. Overnight: BNR Chanakya

Day 30 Tue 21 March: Depart RanchiToday sees our tour of India come to an end. Following check out of the hotel you will make your own way to the airport for the flight home or continue on with your travels.


1st TestMumbai & Goa

You will be there to see this series kick off as the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune plays host to its very first Test Match.

The Aussies have played here once in an ODI back in 2013 which resulted in an easy win for the visitors and we will be hoping for a similar result here. Since its inauguration in 2012, the stadium is a regular host of top class cricket with IPL team Rising Pune Supergiants based here.

Day 1 Mon 20 Feb: Arrive MumbaiWelcome to India and Mumbai! Upon arrival into Mumbai make your own way to the Tour hotel where this evening you will meet your AST tour leader & fellow travelers. Accommodation: Intercontinental Marine Drive Mumbai or similar

Day 2 Tue 21 Feb: Mumbai Sightseeing TourToday is an opportunity to explore the city and its people as you embark on a fully guided half-day city tour.This morning we will visit Mumbai’s premier tourist attraction, Elephanta Island and its rock cut temples. Boarding a boat from the Gateway of India we will cruise out through Mumbai harbour to the island. Little is known about the origin of the temples but are thought to have been created between AD 450 and 750 when the island was known as Gharapuri (Place of Caves). We will also get to see other sights such as the Dhobi Ghat, Hanging Garden, Prince of Wales Museum and the Tower of Silence.Overnight: Intercontinental Marine Drive Mumbai or similar

// 20 February - 3 March 2017 // 12 Days/11 Nights

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Day 3 Wed 22 Feb: Mumbai to PuneWe depart Mumbai today and make our way to the venue of the all important first Test Match – Pune. This is a unique city made up of old and new world India with some colonial-era charm retained amongst the modern buildings. The Aga Khan Palace, Pataleshvara Cave Temple and Gandhi National Memorial are just some of the local landmarks known throughout the city.Overnight: JW Marriott Pune

Days 4-8 Thu 23 Feb - Mon 27 Feb: 1st Test, India v Australia at Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, PuneThis will be the first ever Test Match staged in this city so it is bound to be a massive occasion for the locals and visiting fans alike. Australia has played one ODI here back in 2013 which resulted in an easy win for the Aussies.The first Test will set the tone for the remainder of the series and the Aussies will be hoping for a better start to the tour than on their previous visit to India in 2013. In this Test Australia started well enough making 380 in their 1st innings as Michael Clarke top scored with 130 and Ravi Ashwin took 7-103. Our bowling attack was then plundered in India’s 1st innings as they made 572 thanks to a double century from MS Dhoni and century from Virat Kohli. It was all uphill work from there as the hosts only required 50 runs in their 2nd innings to take an early scalp in this series.Overnight: JW Marriott Pune

Day 9 Tue 28 Feb: Pune to Goa This morning after breakfast, we will depart today on our economy flight to the beautiful beachside destination of Goa. The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendours of its temples, churches and old houses have made Goa a firm favourite with travellers around the world. Goa has much more to offer than its beaches with a unique history and rich culture that has tourists coming back time and time again.Overnight: Alila Diwa Goa

Day 10 Wed 1 Mar: Goa SightseeingToday we will embark on a guided tour of Goa and its surrounds. We will explore parts of Old Goa with its magnificent cathedrals and history, travel through the Old Portuguese quarter of Panaji and also take in some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. After the tour concludes you will have the opportunity to try your hand at haggling at some of the regions flea markets.Overnight: Alila Diwa Goa

Day 11 Thu 2 Mar: Goa Free DayToday is a free day to further explore the region of Goa or simply relax on one of their world famous beaches and watch the world go by. There is ample shopping with markets aplenty and for the foodies amongst us, much like the rest of India, Goa is an absolute haven full of tremendous dishes especially fresh seafood.Overnight: Alila Diwa Goa

Day 12 Fri 3 Mar: Depart GoaThis morning after breakfast your Mumbai, Pune and Goa experience comes to an end. Thanks for travelling with AST and we look forward to seeing you on tour again soon.


2nd Test Bangalore + Golden Triangle

The 2nd Test Match will be played at the world renowned M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore where Australia hold a great winning strike rate.

To compliment the cricket there is the endless list of sights to take in throughout our 6 night stay in the famed Golden Triangle.

Day 1 Fri 3 Mar: Arrive BangaloreWelcome to Bangalore (officially known as Bengaluru). It is not your typical Indian city and has a big emphasis placed on dining, shopping and socialising. This evening is yours to relax in preparation for the all-important 2nd Test Match beginning tomorrow. Accommodation: JW Marriott Bangalore

Days 2-6 Sat 4 - Wed 8 Mar: 2nd Test, India v Australia at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, BangaloreBefore each day’s play our Tour Host Merv Hughes will provide the group with an insight as to how he sees the days play unfolding. Following breakfast we transfer to the stadium for what promises to be 5 days of absorbing cricket action.We have a pretty successful strike rate at M Chinnaswamy Stadium playing 5 times, winning twice, losing once and drawing twice. Our only loss came in 2010 where the little master Sachin Tendulkar led his side to a 7 wicket victory with a double century in his 1st innings and an unbeaten half century in their 2nd innings run chase. During this Test Match, Merv Hughes and a special guest speaker will host an all inclusive dinner.Overnight: JW Marriott Bangalore

// 3 - 18 Mar 2017 // 13 Days/12 Nights

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Day 7 Thu 9 Mar: Bangalore to DelhiFor the next 6 days we will have a break from cricket and experience some of the best sightseeing India has to offer.Today we depart Bangalore and fly to the country’s capital, Delhi, where will be staying for the next two nights.Overnight: The Lalit Delhi

Day 8 Fri 10 Mar: Delhi Sightseeing TourThis morning we head out on a guided sightseeing tour to experience firsthand some of the city’s most celebrated sites and spectacular architecture. There is a massive contrast between old & new in Delhi, but the most famous stops centre around the historic sites including Qutub Minar, the Red Fort, India Gate and Lotus Temple.Overnight: The Lalit Delhi

Day 9 Sat 11 Mar: Delhi to Agra Today is a travel day which starts after breakfast when we farewell Delhi and travel by coach to Agra where tomorrow we will get to experience the UNESCO World Heritage Site – the Taj Mahal.Overnight: Courtyard by Marriott

Day 10 Sun 12 Mar: Taj Mahal / Agra to JaipurIt’s an early start this morning as we make the short drive to one of the world’s most famous buildings - the Taj Mahal. The best time to see this monument is at dawn when the sun hits the marble and changes it to amazing colours. Built by Shahjehan following the death of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, it took 20,000 men a total of 17 years to complete this amazing white marble memorial with the attention to detail unbelievable. Following the Taj Mahal visit we depart Agra and make our way to Jaipur where the remainder of the day will be at your leisure.Overnight: Marriott Jaipur

Day 11 Mon 13 Mar Jaipur Sightseeing / Jaipur to AmritsarWe start today with a visit to one of the most famous monuments in Rajasthan, Amber Fort. Amber Fort is a honey coloured fortress-palace in the Aravalli Hills just 15km north of Jaipur. It has been described as the sleeping beauty of Rajasthan. The sombre exterior belies the richness of the royal apartments, which open to striking views of the gorge. It also possesses a Chamber of Mirrors and the Hall of Victory presents a galaxy of decorative art. You will also have the opportunity to travel around the Fort on the back of an elephant.Following this sightseeing tour, we make our way to the airport for our flight to Amritsar.Overnight: Hyatt Amritsar

Day 12 Tue 14 Mar: Amritsar SightseeingToday’s sightseeing in Amritsar is all about the Golden Temple as part of the Harmindar Sahib (gurdwara complex), the spiritual heart of the Sikh faith. Built in the 16th-century, its dome is richly gilded in shimmering gold, the lower level built from elegant marble all while floating on the sacred waters of Amrit Sarovar. Pilgrims come from across the world to bathe in its purifying waters. Accommodation: Hyatt Amritsar

Day 13 Wed 15 Mar: Amritsar to Delhi We make our way to the airport this morning for our flight to Delhi. The tour ends upon arrival at Delhi airport where you are free to continue your own onward travels with your amazing memories of India locked away. Thanks for travelling with AST and we look forward to seeing you on tour again soon.


4th Test Add On Dharamsala & Varanasi

With the Himalayas setting a back drop to this amazing venue that rivals Newlands and the Adelaide Oval for its beauty, the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala will host an historic first ever Test Match as the 4th Test in this series.

Dharamsala is one of the most unique venues in world cricket and has the potential to be one of the most popular as crowds discover not only this picturesque ground, but also everything that the home town of the Dalai Lama has to offer.

Day 1 Tue 21 Mar: Ranchi to VaranasiWe depart Ranchi today and fly via Delhi to the sacred Hindu city of Varanasi. This city is located on the banks of the River Ganges and locals will tell you its the oldest city in the world, dating back some 3000 years. Known for its final quality silks, Paan and being a pilgrimage point for Hindus the world over, this city will be unlike anything you have experienced before. Accommodation: The Gateway Hotel Varanasi or similar

Day 2 Wed 22 Mar: Varanasi SightseeingToday we will embark on a guided sightseeing tour of this amazing place. We’ll wander through the Old City with its maze of narrow alleyways packed full of small shops and stalls. See pilgrims bathing in the Ganges River and performing rituals and ceremonies that have remained unchanged for hundreds of years; temples full of bells chime and the smell of incense; the dhobi wallahs and the burning ghats.Overnight: The Gateway Hotel Varanasi or similar

// 21 - 30 March 2017 // 10 Days/9 Nights

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Day 3 Thu 23 Mar: Varanasi to DelhiWe depart Varanasi today and take the flight to Delhi where we will transit in a luxury airport hotel tonight before flying out to Dharamsala tomorrow.Overnight: JThe Lalit Delhi or similar

Day 4 Fri 24 Mar: Delhi to DharamshalaWe make our way to Dharamsala today and upon arrival you will feel a million miles away from most of India’s busy cities. Strung with prayer flags and busy with robed monks strolling between monasteries, this hilltop retreat is home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile. Many people from around the world travel here to learn the ways of the Dalai Lama and Buddhism and with a backdrop such as the Himalayas, its any wonder they leave.Overnight: Fortune Moksha or similar

Day 5-9 Sat 25 - Wed 29 Mar: 4th Test, India v Australia HPCA Stadium, DharamsalaOne of the most picturesque cricket grounds in world cricket plays host to their first ever Test Match today as this 4 Test Series between India and Australia draws to an end.The 4th Test in 2013 saw the Aussies end their tour on a sour note as India won by 6 wickets. After a lack lustre opening innings of 262 runs by the Aussies, Nathan Lyon kept the visitors in the game taking an amazing 7-94 in India’s 1st innings restricting them to 272 runs. Unfortunately the turning wicket in Delhi proved our undoing

as we were bundled out for 164 with Peter Siddle top scoring on 50, before India cruised to victory on the 3rd day.Overnight: Fortune Moksha or similar

Day 10 Thu 30 Mar: Depart DharamshalaToday sees our 2017 Tour of India come to an end. Following check out of the hotel you will make your own way to the airport for the flight home or continue on with your travels.


Book now and guarantee your place on our Indian test tourby visiting our website or contacting our office:

1800 026 668 | www.astsports.com.au

Documents

ast-india-2017Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, abbreviated as HPCA Stadium, is located in the city of Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh, India. The town of Dharamsala is