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Dear Fellow Travelers: GENERAL INFORMATION, TERMS &
CONDITIONSWelcome to the fourteenth season of Spirit of India and
Cancellations/Refunds:Original World. Through the years we have
been fortunate Number of Days prior to departure Cancellation Feeto
take an increasing number of guests on magical journeys Deposit,
non-refundable $500 + any airfare penaltiesto India, Asia, Africa,
the Middle East and Eastern Europe. 90-76 days 75%This year we are
adding an incredible cultural tour of Syria 75 days or less no
refundand Iran to our portfolio, and we are excited that some of
Trip Cancellation Insurance is highly recommended. We recommend
Travelex. Cost varies according to your tripour newer trips to
Sudan, Central Asia and the Balkans have package. A brochure
describing benefits and fees is included in your trip preparations
packet. Cancelled Trips: Our tours are guaranteed with a minimum of
two people. Original World reserves the right tomet with resounding
approval from our loyal customers. cancel any trip due to
inadequate sign-up, which makes the trip economically infeasible to
operate. NotificationAs we continue to grow, we are conscious that
the economy will be given at least 60 days prior to departure. A
full refund will be given or you may choose to transfer to another
tour. We have never cancelled a tour that had at least 2 people
booked, however a supplement fee appliesweighs heavily on the minds
of many. We are committed to if the group size is less than the
minimum listed for the tour price quote.ensuring that our clients
are still able to travel by keepingour prices reasonable and
ensuring that our clients get good Limitation of Liabilityvalue for
their money. Original World Inc, aka Spirit of India, its owners,
agents and affiliated companies act only as agents for hotels,
transportation companies, land operators and suppliers of travel
services and assume no liability in connection withEven in tough
times, we yearn to explore other cultures and the operation or
service of any transportation vehicle or hotel which may be used
for services to Original World triplearn. More than ever, we want
to understand both the members. Original World and its operators
and agents will assume no liability for injury, damage, loss,
accident, delay, irregularity or additional costs resulting
directly or indirectly from any of the following causes: weather,
failure of anydifferences and the ways in which we are alike.
Mostly we means of transportation to adhere to schedules,
quarantines, strikes, civil disturbances, theft, government
regulations,find that the universal principles that unite us love
for our or changes in transport and lodging beyond our reasonable
control. Original World reserves the right at any time,families,
desire for health care and education can lift our either prior to
or after departure, to, in its good-faith discretion, change or
reprice any tour, including but not limited tospirits during these
uncertain times. the right to alter or omit any part of the
itinerary, to substitute hotels or leaders, or change any means of
conveyance without notice and without allowance of refund, with the
liability of increased costsif anyto be borne by tripAs we traverse
the earth from one exotic pocket to the members. Original World
reserves the right to change any itinerary at any time when it is
deemed advisory for thenext, our awareness of the abundance in our
own lives is safety of the group or to comply with government
restrictions. We have never had to drastically change an itinerary
inawakened. We are reminded of what is truly important in our ten
years of operation. On rare occasion minor logistical changes are
needed due to changes in conditions.life. That is a precious gift
indeed. Assumption of risk and release of liability I acknowledge
the risk and hazards of travel. By signing this statement I accept
responsibility for my own welfare andAs cultural ambassadors of the
world, may all your travel waive future claims against Original
World for liability to the maximum extent permitted by law. I
understand thatexperiences be journeys of continual renewal.
Original World contracts with a network of operators around the
world through affiliate tour operators. These thirdWed love to have
you join us! party service providers are deemed qualified and
experienced to the best of Original Worlds knowledge. I understand,
however, that Original World is unable to fully supervise or
guarantee the performance of such third parties. Therefore, I fully
release and hold harmless Original World Inc from any and all
liability for all their acts or omissions. I agree thatSincerely,
this Assumption of Risk and Release of Liability statement shall be
legally binding upon myself, all minors under the age of 21
traveling with me, my heirs, successors, and legal representatives.
I further agree to fully indemnify Original World Inc from all and
any liabilities to the maximum extent permitted by law and for all
its costs, expenses, damages, etc (including attorneys fees)
arising from or attributable to any claims or actions arising from
my travel with OriginalBarbara Sansone World and which claims or
actions are specifically released by me in this document. I confirm
that I have read, fullySpirit of India/Original World understand
and agree to all the terms and conditions contained in this
document.YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS Barbara Sansone launched Spirit of
India in 1997. A former educator, magazine photographer and
passionate traveler, Our group tours are priced based on a stated
minimum number of sign-up yet are guaranteed to operate with awith
our first phone conversation during which you will let she
conceived of the idea after a 13-year career in Public minimum of
two people. If a tour has less than the minimumus know all about
your special interests, preferences, where Relations for arts and
culture. The company extended required within 30 days of departure,
a supplement fee isyouve been and where youd like to go next. We
enjoy its offerings beginning in 1999 to include other parts of
charged to cover the fixed costs of the trip.learning about your
particular travel style and discussing the world which contained an
element of adventure andwith you the various types of travel
experiences available so mystique. Barbara conceived of the name
Original World for Single Room: If you prefer a single room, a
single room the expanded company offerings and incorporated in
2006. supplement is charged. If you would like to share, we will
trythat we can offer suggestions that will suit you best. We will
to match you with a roommate and offer a subsidized singlehelp you
decide which group tour or custom itinerary will WHY CHOOSE US?
room fee if we are unable.fulfill your vision and, after you book,
we are available toyou every step of the way as you prepare. 1)
Original Worlds customer service, highly praised by our Requested
Modifications to custom tours after booking clients, is extremely
personal and extensive. Each client is are subject to a $150
administrative fee plus any penaltiesWe suggest booking a minimum
of six to nine months in treated as an individual with particular
needs, preferences imposed by the hotels or airlines for
cancellations oradvance, though we can usually arrange trips with a
shorter and concerns. rescheduled dates.lead time. Please note
however, you may not get your firstchoice hotels and certain trips
require special permits. 2) Spirit of Indias roster of group tours
is unsurpassed Transfers: You may transfer to other group tours in
the same by any other tour company in terms of diversity of areas
calendar year for an administration fee of $50 per personWe are
constantly adding new destinations, new dates within India, variety
of special interest focuses, depth of by notifying us no later than
90 days prior to the departureand fine-tuning our itineraries based
on feedback from explorations and comprehensiveness of the
itineraries. date of their trip.our current clients as well as new
people who call in todiscuss their special interests. You can check
our websites Spirit of India has gained a reputation as the premier
tour operator to for travelers who want more than the usual.
RESERVATIONSfor updates and if you had indicated interest in
certaindestinations in the past, you will receive an email or
postal 3) All tours under the Original World umbrella are developed
You may book the trip by phone to assure your space butannouncement
of changes and additions specific to you. with the same priorities:
strong trusted relationships within please mail or fax the signed
application.Weve built our company on personal service and your the
country, unique personalized twists on the standard Upon booking,
you will receive a confirmation packet whichvaluable suggestions so
please feel free to call with itinerary, attention to detail,
continual refinement based on will include information on preparing
for your journey and aquestions, concerns and comments. our clients
feedback and requests. travel insurance brochure application. 4)
The company allows great flexibility. You are not requiredABOUT US
PAYMENT SCHEDULE to purchase a designated group air flight, you can
add preOriginal World Inc, also dba Spirit of India, provides
specialty and post tour extensions, purchase a partial tour
itinerary $600 per person deposit is required to confirm your
booking.tours and travel services to discriminating travelers
seeking and custom clients can change hotels and services even
Internal flights are due upon request. Final balance 90
daysinsights into non-western cultures. The tours focus on while in
the midst of their trip (additional fees may apply). prior to
departure. We accept Visa, Mastercard and Americanpromoting
cultural understanding and offer opportunities for 5) Our goal is
to ensure that you have an extraordinary Express and offer 3%
discount for payment by check.authentic interaction with the local
people. travel experience. We will do whatever is possible to
achieveOur groups are operated with flexibility to accommodate this
goal. No amount of calls and questions are too many. Our office
hours are: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm Pacific Time.individual requests
when possible and to partake in PRICES
www.originalworld.comunscheduled local events that may cross the
clients path [email protected] their journey. We
strive to keep the prices as published, however since our tours are
planned more than a year in advance, prices are US & Canada
Toll Free: 888-367-6147For the independent traveler who does not
like to travel with International: 415-381-5861a group, but seeks a
level of security, the customized travel subject to change due to
increases in hotel rates, fuel costsplans offer complete travel
support services. and foreign currency fluctuation. All photos by
Barbara Sansone except where noted otherwise.
SPIRIT OF INDIA Fall 2010-Summer 2011 GROUP TOURSNORTH and
SOUTH INDIA HIMALAYAS TRIBAL REGIONS WILDLIFE 888.367.6147
EARLY BOOKING SPECIAL! BOOK ANY 2011 INDIA TOUR BY APRIL 15,
2010 AND LOCK IN 2010 PRICE. SPIRIT OF INDIA | NORTH INDIA T RAVEL
THROUGH EXOTIC COLORFUL RAJASTHAN, the land of maharajas, sand
dunes, wooded hills, scintillating lakes, palaces and rugged forts!
These two tours offer you an excellent introduction to India,
covering Rajasthan with Pushkar Fair November 12-28, 2010 with
Pushkar Camel Fair O Rajasthans highlights and a visit to the Taj
Mahal. BSERVING TRIBAL and nomadic lifestyle up Royal Rajasthan
Enjoy stays at historic palaces and heritage close at the Pushkar
Fair is one of the fascinating features of this tour. We arrive a
couple of days properties. An overland tour offers an opportunity
to glimpse traditional lifestyles in before the India Tourists
official 3 day fair, so as to villages and towns. You will see
magnificent art and architecture, unspoiled desert experience the
authentic event which is actually 10 days. A landscapes and
experience the bustle of daily life virtually unchanged over the
great many of the camel herders leave Pushkar before the centuries.
event for the tourists commences. November 1-15, 2010; February
1-15, 2011 Day 1 Arrive Delhi Day 2 Delhi Tour Old & New Delhi.
November Tour includes Dilwali-Festival of Lights Day 34 Udaipur
Palace, Museum, art galleries, bazaars. Sunset boat ride. Attend
puja at Jagdish Temple. Day 5 RanakpurNarlai Visit Ranakpur Jain
Temple. Continue to Narlai - an enchanting new destination with
bustling bazaars and temples where a miraculous flame has burnt for
centuries producing saffron! We stay at a restored 15th century
home of Merwar nobility. Day 68 Pushkar Attend the fair and explore
the village. Day 9 Jodhpur Day 1011 Jaiselmer Day 12 Bikaner Day 13
Shekawati Day 1415 Jaipur Day 16 Agra Visit Fatehpur Sikri. enroute
Day 17 Taj MahalHome Prices: $4225, Private Room Upgrade: $1985.
Plus Estimated Internal Air: Delhi- Udaipur: $200. Meals: Daily
breakfast, six lunches, four dinners. Art and Architecture of North
India October 26 November 11, 2010; February 8-24, 2011 Day 1
Arrive Delhi Day 2 Tour Old and New Delhi. Day 3 Shekawati see the
amazing painted havelis and frescos. Day 4 Bikaner A medieval
grandeur permeates the citys lifestyle. Day 56 Jaiselmer enjoy the
dramatic Thar Desert and genuine warmth of the people. Tour the
12th century Jaisalmer Fort, the beautiful havelis profusely
decorated with intricately carved motifs. The results are A RTISTS,
ART HISTORY BUFFSanyone interested in ancient cultureswill
especially enjoy this excursion into Indias magnificent artistic
legacy. The tour highlights the art history of Indo Aryan and
Dravidian architecture (Sikhara, Nagara and Gopuram Styles),
Sultanat, Persian, Mughul, Rajput and Deccani paintings, Chola
Bronzes, IndoPersian and Mori carpets and architectural purity that
cannot be seen elsewhere. Day 78 Jodhpur Drive thru textiles, and
the marble inlay technique, pietra dura. North India, with its well
the heart of the Thar Desert via Bishnoi tribal villages. Day 910
Udaipur enroute known monuments and temples, is the original source
of various painting styles, visit the breathtaking Ranakpur Jain
Temples built in 1439. Visit the Royal Palace, sculpture and
textiles. You will also enjoy Rajasthani music and dances;
traditional bazaars, miniature painting studios. Sunset private
boat ride on Lake Pichola. Day Indian meals and special
presentations. 11-13 Jaipur/Samode one night at 18th century Samode
Palace. Visit the City Palace, Hawa Mahal (The Palace of Winds) and
the Jantar Mantar Observatory. Day 14 Agra Visit Fatephur Sikri and
Taj Mahal. Day 15 Depart Extension to Khajuraho and Varanasi
November 15-19, 2010; February 15-19, 2011 Day 15 Gwailor Overnight
at 120-year-old Usha Kiran Palace. Day 16 Khajuraho visit the
classical temples. Of the original 85, only 25 survive and each is
a masterpiece. Day 17-18 Varanasi Attend Aarti (fire ceremony) on
the banks of the Ganges. Dawn boat ride on Ganges, walking tour of
ghats and temples. Visit Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first
sermon in 500 BC. Day 19 Depart Prices : $4565/Nov, $4770/Feb;
Private Room Upgrade: $1865. Plus Estimated Internal Air:
UdaipurJaipur: $150. Meals: daily breakfasts, four lunches, two
dinners. Extension: $740-$1060 Private Room Upgrade: $325. Day 1
Arrive Delhi Day 23 Delhi Tour Old and New Delhi. Day 45 Plus
Estimated Internal Air: KhajurahoVaranasiDelhi $300. Khajuraho
classical temples Chandella Period. Day 6 OrcchaGwalior Jahangir
Mahal Palace and Ram Raja Temple. Enjoy a stay at the 120-year-old
regal Usha Kiran Palace with artistic stone carvings and delicate
filigree. Day 7 Agra Introduction to the Indo-Persian architecture
of the Timurid Dynasty and the famous marble inlay work of Agra,
pietra dura. Visit Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Day 89 Jaipur visit
Fatephur Sikri and Jaipur. Day 10-11 Jodhpur visit Ossian village,
Jodhpur city and fort. Browse the bazaars. Day 1213 Udaipur
Rankapur Jain Temples, Palace, Museum, miniature paintings and
artists studios. Sunset boat ride. Day 1415 Bombay Prince of Wales
and Gandhi Museums, cave temples on Elephanta Island. A walk
through the old part of Bombay with Bombay Heritage Walking Club.
Introduction to the Indo Saracenic architectural styles that
influenced many of Indias monuments. Day 16 Ellora/Ajanta Caves Day
17 Depart Prices: $5300/Oct. $5573/Feb; Private Room Upgrade:
$1830. Plus Estimated Internal Air: $695. Meals: daily breakfast,
three lunches, four dinners. www.originalworld.com 4
EARLY BOOKING SPECIAL! BOOK ANY 2011 INDIA TOUR BY APRIL 15,
2010 AND LOCK IN 2010 PRICE. SPIRIT OF INDIA | NORTH INDIA
Spiritual India Ancient Cultures of the Indian Himalayas:
Comprehensive Tour of the Diverse Cultures of India June 10-28 and
September 2-20, 2010 April 523, 2010 coincides with Ardh Kumbh Mela
October 5-23, 2010 coincides with Dusshera TRAVEL THROUGH A DIVERSE
cross section of India both geographically and spiritually, from
the Himalayas through Rajasthan, visiting the holy pilgrimage sites
of various religions of India. As spiritual traditions are woven
into Indias cultural K INNAUR AND SPITI VALLEY, two remote
districts within the Indian Himalaya and bordering Tibet, are the
highlights of this extraordinary journey. A chance for genuine
interaction with local people and unspoilt beauty, traditional
villages, ancient monasteries containing priceless collections of
thankas, sculptures and wall paintings, meetings with lamas.
fabric, the best way to experience India is to visit its sacred
sites. Previously restricted, the districts opened to foreigners
about 15 years ago; Spirit of India began offering this tour in
1998. Our partner and escort is the foremost expert. One of the
most comprehensive itineraries of North India, we traverse through
seven Indian States, stay at some of the best hotels and
participate in special ceremonies. Day 1 Arrival in Delhi Day 2
Delhi Tour of Old and New Delhi. Day 3 No other company either runs
such a tour or is able to conduct it like us. Shimla Walking tour.
Day 4 Sarahan, a lovely village surrounded by apple orchards and
dominated by Shrikhand Mahadev Peak. Day 5 Sangla Valley, Day 1
Arrive Delhi Day 23 the most beautiful valley of Himachal Pradesh,
with wooded slopes surrounded by Delhi Orientation, Bazaars and
green fields and high peaks. Day 67 Kalpa Easy walks to the ancient
villages. Yoga. Tour Old and New Delhi. Day We stay at beautiful
Kalpa Villa at the base of Mt. Kinner Kailash. Day 8 Nako, a 46
Dharamsala Walking tours- sweet village, once an important center
of Buddhism. Seven temples built between prayer wheel, nunnery;
Namgyal 11th - 12th centuries are distributed throughout the
village, including a monastic Monastery (Dalai Lamas monastery)
complex which preserves the earliest artistic heritage. Day 9 Spiti
ValleyTabo to witness monks puja. Join locals Geographically and
archeologically, Spiti is a living museum. The mountains are for a
meditation walk around the devoid of any vegetation due to erosion
by wind, sun and snow over thousands of monastery complex. A
breathtaking, years. In Tabo village we visit the Chos Khor
Monastery. Built 996 AD, it is one of the inspiring experiencenot
to be few remaining examples of the Golden Period of Buddhist
Culture. It houses more missed! than 100 lamas, a large number of
scriptures, art, wall paintings, tankhas and stucco. Namgyal
Monastery practices Kalachakra Tantra, which is instrumental in
bringing about world peace and harmony. When in residence, the
Dalai Lama leads the prayers on special occasions. Day 67 Taragarh
Excursion to Norbulinka Institute enroute. Visit Sherabiling
Monastery. Attend the prayer session of the grammy-winning monks.
Day 8 Amritsar witness religious traditions of the Sikhs at the
Golden Temple. Day 911 HaridwarRishikesh Walking tours. Homa
ceremony, performed by a Hindu Priest with a sacred fire while
Sanskrit mantras are chanted. Bhajan, Kirtan. Day 1214 Varanasi
Sunrise boat ride on the Ganges. Walking tour observing the rituals
of Hindu worship. Attend Aarti (fire ceremony) on the banks of the
Gan- ges. Visit Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon in 500
BC. Dusshera and Bharat Milap Festival. Day 15 Khajuraho visit the
Classical Temples Day 16-17 Agra Sunrise at the Taj Mahal and Agra
Fort. Excursion to Mathura, birthplace of Krishna and Vrindavan,
Day 10-12 LhalungDankar Rise early to join the monks puja.
Afterwards, where he spent his childhood. Day 18 Jaipur visit
Fathepur Sikri, Amber, ancient drive to Lhalung, a magnificent
village of 45 houses and the monastery of Spiti. The kingdom of
Jaipur, attend puja. Day 19 Depart unusually rich interior of
Lhalungs main chapel suggests that the temple site, like Tabo, was
designed as a Chokhor site, a place for learning and debate as
opposed to a simple chapel for worship. Dankar Gompa, built in the
12th century, contains Prices: $4225/Ap, $4810/Oct based on min 6
people; Private Room Upgrade: more than 160 scriptures of Lamas in
Bhoti language. Visit the ancient Ki and Kib- $1200/1420. Plus
Estimated Internal Air: $440-$500. Meals: daily ber Gompas and the
village Gete, which are among the highest inhabited villages
breakfasts and dinners. in the world. Day 13-14 Manali Magnificent
views as we drive over Kunzum Pass, enroute visiting Lahaul Valley.
Onward to Manali over Rohtang La where we Khajuraho Dance Festival
relax and enjoy breathtaking beauty. Explore the picturesque valley
of Manali and the quaint village of Nagar. Day 15-16 Taragarh Visit
the most ancient existing Taj Mahal, Rajasthan, Varanasi Shiva
temples at Baijnath, several buddhist villages and a tiny Tibetan
settlement January February, 2011 Exact dates TBA of the Nyingmapa
order where the monks, unused to visitors, are very friendly. Hear
Day 1 Arrival in Delhi Day 2 Tour Old and New Delhi. Day 34
Varanasi grammy winning chants of the monks. (2003 Best Traditional
World Music Album). Fly to Varanasi. Attend Aarti on the banks of
the Ganges. Dawn boat ride on the Attend the Mahakala Ceremony. Day
17 Dharamsala Norbulinka Institute of Ganges, walking tour of
temples and ghats. Visit Sarnath. Day 56 Khajuraho Tibetan Arts and
Handicrafts; Circumambulate the Dalai Lamas monastery at dawn
Attend opening night dance performance. Visit temples and the old
village. Day with the locals. Day 18 Amritsar visit the Golden
Temple. Day 19 Depart 78 Agra visit Agra Fort and Taj Mahal. Day
9-10 Jaipur Enroute visit Fatephur Escort: Sanjay Verman leads
Spiritual Sikri. Explore Jaipur. Day 11 Jodhpur Drive via Pushkar.
Visit Jodhpur. Day India and the Ancient Cultures tours. 12
Deogarah - a medieval fortress town and home of Rawat Nahar
Singhji, a knowledgeable art connoisseur. Explore the town.
Accommodation: Deogarh Mahal, Prices : $4065 per person, a classic
Rajasthani castle, built in 1670 AD. Day 13-14 Udaipur Visit
Rankapur Private Room Upgrade: $950; Plus Jain Temples, palace,
museum, galleries, bazaars. Sunset boat ride. Estimated Internal
Air: $550. Meals: Daily breakfast, nine lunches, 17 Prices: TBA;
Private Room Upgrade: $TBA. Plus Estimated Internal Air: $505.
dinners. Accommodation: 5* Delhi, one Meals: daily breakfast two
lunches five dinners. deluxe camp, mountain resorts, guest houses,
heritage palace 5 888.367.6147
EARLY BOOKING SPECIAL! BOOK ANY 2011 INDIA TOUR BY APRIL 15,
2010 AND LOCK IN 2010 PRICE. SPIRIT OF INDIA | NORTH AND SOUTH
INDIA Ultimate India North & South Essential South India
Splendors of the Deep South November 10 December 1, 2010 November
11-27, 2010 with Arratupuzha Festival February 6-27, 2011 February
2-16; February 2-24, 2011 A March 9-26, 2011 perfect combination
itinerary North follows Sri Lanka tour The oldest and most
spectacular of the Pooram Fes- Extension: Ellora/Ajanta Caves
tivals of Kerala. Approximately 60 elephants feature E India
contains some of the most well-known monuments and palaces and is
the original source in the procession bearing bright colored
parasols, of various painting styles, sculpture and textiles. South
XPLORE the architecture and history of presenting an unparalleled
spectacle. Traditional music India is known for its exquisite
beauty, a slower paced South Indias temples and palaces and enjoy
accompaniment adds to the festivities. lifestyle and the Dravidian
temples. the peaceful ambiance of its abundant natural beauty. This
is one of the most comprehensive tours of Day 1 Arrive Madras. Day
2 Mahabalipuram Traditions and rituals abound everywhere we go!
Ample the south. Visit Shore Temples, Five Rathas. Day 3 -4 Madurai
time for intensive exploration of each city. Stop at Kanchipuram
enroute to Madurai. Tour Day 1 Arrive Madras Day 2 Madras Meenakshi
Temple and attend evening ceremony. North India Day 1-3 Delhi Tour
Old & New Delhi. Mahabalipuram City tour including the Day 4-5
Varanasi Attend Aarti (fire ceremony performed Mylapore temple
area. Visit Kanchipuram enroute Day 5 Chettinad, homeland of the
Nattukottai by priests). Dawn boat ride. Tour the Old City. Visit
Sarnath, to Mahabalipuram. Day 4 Pondicherry Visit Chettiars.
Experience heritage, art and architecture where Buddha gave his
first sermon. Day 6 Khajuraho untouched by time. Day 6 Periyar, a
beautiful hill highlights. Day 5 Tanjore Enroute visit temples
station, spice and tea plantation and wildlife. Day 7 Visit the
classical temples of Chandella period, 9-11th at Chidambaram,
Gangaikonda Cholapuram Kerala Backwaters Cruise Day 89 Cochin
century. Day 7 Orchha-Gwailor the capital of the and Darasuram.
Foreigners may enter the inner Attend Kathkali dance performance,
visit the palace, kingdom of the Bundella Rajputs from 1531-1783.
Day 8 Agra-Taj Mahal Visit Itmad-Ud-Daulah, the first sanctums
here. Day 6 Trichy-Chettinad Visit Sri churches, Jewish Synagogue,
spice bazaars. Day white marble inlaid grave in pure Indo-Persian
style, built Ranganathasvami Temple in Tanjore. Explore Karaikudi
10 Arattupuzha Festival Thrissur village 1622-1628; Sikandra and
Agra Fort; Taj Mahal at sunset village. Day 7-8 Madurai Tour
Meenakshi Temple; experience the Pooram Festival, an ancient
religious Day 9-10 Fatehpur Sikri-Jaipur Amber Fort, City evening
witness ceremony; browse bazaars and textile celebration. Day 11
Calicut visit the Sree Krishna Palace; Jantar Mantar Observatory
and the colorful market shops. Day 9 Periyar Boat ride to view
wildlife. Temple, one of the most sacred and important pilgrim
dominated by the elegant facade of the Hawa Mahal. Day 10 Kerala
Backwaters Cruise. Day 11-12 centers of Kerala. Continue to
Kozhikode. Day 12 Cochin City tour, attend Kathkali dance
performance, Wayanad & Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuaries visit
Jewish Synagogue, spice bazaar, antique shops. Wayanad Wildlife
Sanctuary, the protected area Day 13-14 Mysore Enroute visit
Srirangapatnam, of Nagarhole and Bandipur of Karnataka and Sri
Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tippus summer palace. Mudumalai of
Tamilnadu. Continue to Muthanga Sightseeing in and around Mysore
including an Wildlife Sanctuary, second largest in the state with a
excursion to Somnathapur. Day 15 Depart. fine selection of
wildlife. Day 1314 Nagarhole November Tour goes up to Day 17 (Rajiv
Gandhi National Park) is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve,
Indias largest stretch of In-Depth Option February Only protected
forest, which includes Nagarhole and the Day 15 Drive to Hassan,
enroute visit Belur and neighboring sanctuaries of Bandipur,
Mudumalai Halebid temples and Sravanbelagola. Day 16 Drive and
Wayanad. Day 15 Coorg set amidst verdant Day 11-12 Jodhpur Sunset
on sand dunes; village to Hospet, visiting various sites and
Tumkur, an valleys, imposing mountains and teak wood forests,
lifestyles, bazaars. Tour the 15th century Mehrangarh Fort. is one
of the most beautiful hill stations. Day 1617 important market
town, enroute. Day 17 Full day in Day 13-14 Udaipur the magnificent
Ranakpur Jain Mysore a magnificent royal city, site of the Goddess
Hampi. Day 18 Visit Aiholeand Pattadakal enroute Temples. City
Palace, museum, art galleries, bazaars. Chamundeswari Temple and
the Sacred Chamundi to Badami. Day 19 Visit Badami Caves and other
South India Day 15-16 Cochin City tour and temples of note. Day 20
Drive to Bijapur and visit. Hill with its palaces built by Tippu
Sultan. Day 18 kathakali dance program. Excursion to Kodanad- Day
21 Drive to Gulbarga. Visit the fort, mosque and Bangalore-Depart
enroute visit Srirangapatnam. Elephant Kraal, one of the largest
elephant training tombs. Day 22 Visit Bidar enroute to Hyderabad.
centers of Kerala -set on the banks of the Periyar River Price:
$5085, Private Room Upgrade: $2100. Plus Day 23 Visit Hyderabad.
Fly to Bombay. Depart. amid beautiful high ranges. Day 17-18 Kerala
Estimated Internal Air: $300 . Meals: Daily breakfast, Backwaters
stay on an island in the midst of the Prices: Essential $4685/Nov,
$4570/Feb; Private six lunches, six dinners. backwaters. Explore
the village and meet the locals. Enjoy Room Upgrade: $1810/1665.
cruising in a traditional rice boat for a glimpse of life
Accommodations: Five star hotels, one heritage and impossible to
get from road transport. Day 19 Periyar one best available (very
nice) in Tanjore. Meals: Daily Wildlife Sanctuary Boat ride to view
wildlife. Day breakfast, three lunches, four dinners 20 Madurai
Meenakshi Temple ceremony. Day 21 Kanchipuram-Mahabalipuram ancient
temples and In-Depth: $5825 per person; Private Room Upgrade
hand-woven silks.. Day 22 Depart $1750. Plus Estimated Internal
Air: $300; Accommodation best available. Meals: Eight lunches,
seven dinners. Escort: Dr. Lakuma Chebrolu, Ph.D, University of
Madras, on the Social History of South India. She skillfully
compares and contrasts the different cultures during the journey.
Dr. Chebrolu has 15 years of experience guiding heritage cultural
tours. Fabric painting is her hobby. As female guides are uncommon
in India, you will undoubtedly enjoy her insights immensely.
Prices: $5435/Nov; $5745/Feb; Private Room Upgrade: $1740/$1850.
Plus Estimated Internal Air: $850. Accommodation: five star and
heritage. Meals: Daily breakfast, four lunches, four dinners.
www.originalworld.com 6
EARLY BOOKING SPECIAL! BOOK ANY 2011 INDIA TOUR BY APRIL 15,
2010 AND LOCK IN 2010 PRICE. SPIRIT OF INDIA | TRIBALS Textiles and
Crafts of Tribal Gujarat Temples and Tribes of Orissa November 25
December 9, 2010 October 18 November 3, 2010 February 10-24, 2011
February 15 March 2, 2011 Post Tour Ellora/Ajanta Caves 3 Days
February tour includes Kornark Dance Festival G ujarats tribal
villages are rich with detailed textiles still produced by
traditional methods. You will meet and interact with textile
families and observe their process and way of life. Anyone
interested in indigenous T HE STATE OF ORISSA is a blend of art,
architecture and ancient cultures. Orissa has the third highest
concentration of tribals in India and because of the remoteness of
their villages, the tribes are untouched by modern times. Though
economically challenged with a low rate of literacy, the tribal
groups have culture, traditional textiles and crafts will
appreciate this authentic experience. highly developed artistic
skills as seen in their body paintings, ornaments, weaving and wall
paintings. Music and dance also are an integral part of their
ceremonies Day 1 Arrival in Delhi. Day 2 Visit and seasonal
festivals. This adventuresome tour includes the new
frontierChhattsi- Crafts Museum and textile markets. garh, where
the largest concentration of the oldest tribes of India reside. Day
3-6 Ahmedabad Visit the Calico Museum of Textiles which Day 1-2
Calcutta. One full day sightseeing. Day 34 Bhubaneshwar Attend
exhibits spectacular antique and modern evening ceremony at
Parsurameswara Temple. Excursion to metal and textile textiles and
old weaving machines. Visit villages. Day 5 Konark-Puri Visit
artisan and craft villages and the Sun temple. Sabarmati Ashram
founded in 1918 by Mahatma Gandhi, who re-vitalized the FEBRUARY
TOUR: attend Konark Dance Festival held by the textile industry
here. It is now primarily a stunning ruins of the Sun Temple.
spinning wheel factory. Excursion to Sayla Day 6 Chilka Lake Visit
the community at Belakati which specializes in work with where
mirrors are made for Gujarats bell metal. Drive to Chilka Lake
through scenic countryside and attractive villages. mirror work
embroidery. Visit the villages where bead work traditions thrive,
the Onward to Gopalpur on Sea, an ancient sea port not often
visited by tourists. silk weavers who use the ikat technique Days
7-14 Tribal and the town of Wadhwan where women Villages Visit the
Saoras. work on bandhani or tie-and-dye. The walls of the mud Day
78 PatanZainabad see a selection of Patans 100 Jain Temples
including houses are decorated with the Sun Temple in Modhera.
Visit the Salvi family, master weavers of the colorful remarkable
paintings. Potala silk including the ancient art of double ikat.
Kothgarh tribes speak Kuvi, Day 910 Bhuj Enjoy a morning wildlife
safari, then visit Kutchhi and Banni a language derived from the
settlements to see the traditional glass embroidery of the
Abyssinians who migrated Dravidian strain of South here around the
10th century. Visits to the block printing village and the nomadic
India. The members of this Rabari who weave camel wool on pit looms
into blankets and shawls. Visit the tribe use bows and arrows
Shrujan organization which has a network of over 2500 craftswomen
and extensive to protect themselves from exhibits of embroidery
from various tribal groups. wild animals. Dongariya Bhuj, the major
town of Kutch, is an old walled city, featuring walls within walls,
Kondh villages and attractive gateways, intricately carved old
palaces and brightly colored Hindu Dongariya Kondh market. temples.
You will learn to identify each tribe by its unique traditional
attire and form The fierce Bondas (naked of handicraft. The Banni
dwellings are made of round mud huts called bhungas with people) of
Tibetan-Burmese a thatched or tiled roof, all surrounding a large
community courtyard. The women origin. The colorful Godabas, tend
to be shy with male visitors, but are hospitable and welcome you
into their a munda tribe who speak in homes where you will be
amazed by exquisite personal collections of embroidered the
Austro-Asiatic dialect. Photo: Bonda woman courtesy of Sanjay
Verman quilts and garments. Walls, shelves, grain containers and
cupboards are fashioned in mud with decorative designs washed with
lime paste and embedded with mirrors Day 12 Chattisgarah The
bison-horn Maria Gonds, known for their fine dancing throwing
shimmering reflections throughout their homes. Handicrafts includes
and headdresses. Day 13 Kangar Nat. Park observe wildlife and
forest tribal textiles, vegetable color dye printing, Rogan art
(wax printing), glass bead work, people. Day 14 Kanker Maria and
Muria tribes. Day 15 Narayanpur villages: woolen shawls, leather
articles and more. Visit weaving families famous for scoof discover
Bastars finest handicrafts and the people who make them. embroidery
and Nirona Village with its fabulous Rogan art and a bell making
village Day 16 Raipur Day 17 Depart from Calcutta or Delhi. Day
1112 Gondal Stay at a royal palace and visit Udyog Bhartispinning
and Escort: Shiba Prasad Bhuyan, a native of Orissa, holds post
graduate degrees in weaving of Khadi. Day 1314 SomnathSassan Gir
wildlife safaris in the history and in Tourism Management from
Alliance France. He has been working with park, home to Asiatic
lions, leopards, four horned antelope, and marsh muggers. the US
market for 15 years leading ethnic, craft, art and history tours.
In addition Day 15 Diu The secluded island is a sensuous blend of
sun, sand and the deep to English, German, French, Japanese, Hindi
and Punjabi, he speaks Oriva, Kuvi and blue Arabian Sea. Connected
to the mainland of Gujarat by a causeway, Diu, a Gadaua tribal
dialects. He is well known and respected by all tribal groups and,
former Portuguese enclave, is dotted by three Portuguese churches,
one which has therefore, offers us opportunities for authentic
interaction and an upclose view of been converted into a museum
housing rare artifacts. Day 16 Bombay lifestyles and customs. You
will be delighted with him during this journey. Prices: $4095/Nov,
$4225/Feb based on min 4 people; Private Room Upgrade: Prices:
$4055/Oct, $4215/Feb; Private Room Upgrade $935 $1665; Plus
Estimated Internal Air: $540. Meals: daily breakfast, six lunches,
seven Plus Estimated Internal Air: $500. Accommodation: First class
and heritage hotels, dinners. Accommodation: five star, heritage
best available in tribal belt. Meals: Daily breakfast, 13 lunches;
11 dinners Ellora-Ajanta Caves Extension: $540 per person; Private
Room Upgrade $165; Plus Estimated Internal Air: $300 . 7
888.367.6147
SPIRIT OF INDIA | TRIBALS & WILDLIFE Ancient Tribes of the
Hidden Northeast Last Abodes of the Asiatic Big Cats, Wild Assam
& Arunachal Pradesh Oct. 1-17, 2010; Oct. 19 Nov. 4, 2011
Donkey and Tigers Includes four wildlife parks! December 27, 2010
January 11, 2011; March 4-19, 2011 R UGGED ADVENTURE TO REMOTE
TRIBAL VILLAGES. Long drives and a few funky hotels will reward
those with the right spirit as you gain insight into traditional
Pre-Tour Option: Kazaranga National Park December 23-27, 2010;
February 28 March 4, 2011 Post-Tour Option: Corbett National Park
tribal cultures and enjoy close interaction with January 11-14,
March 19-22, 2011 the locals. Go where few have gone before. Day 1
Arrive Bombay. Day 2 Fly to Diu a secluded, beautiful island off
Day 1 Arrive Calcutta. Day 2 Calcutta Visit the lively flower
market on the the west coast of India in the Arabian banks of the
Hoogly River, Dakshineshwar Temple, one of Mother Theresas homes
Sea. Onward to Sasan Gir National for the underprivileged. Evening
ceremony at Dakshinkali temple. Day 3 Fly to Park. Day 3-4 Sasan
Gir National Dibrugarah; overnight at tea estate. Park Thirty
species of mammals, twenty Day 45 Along Ferry across Brahmaputra
River. Visit the Bokar, Ramo, Gallong species of reptiles and
several species and Adi villages. Adi women are noted for their
weaving with highly artistic designs. of birds are found here. The
forest is Day 6 Draporizo Interface with Tagins, Hill Miris and the
Tamens who have the only place in the world, outside their
dwellings in villages between Along and Africa, where the lion can
be seen in Damporizo. The Nyishi and Tamens are among the its
natural habitat. Gir is one of the main Hill Miri tribes who form
the largest groups largest and most important wildlife of people in
this region. Their men wear their hair sanctuaries in India. Day 5
Gondal long and tie it in a knot above the forehead. The A pleasant
stop breaks up the long drive to Little Raan of Kutch. Visit the
17th cent. Sulungs or Puroik are reputedly one of the oldest
Navlakha Palace. Enjoy accommodation in colonial style palace
amidst a garden. tribes in the area. Day 6 Little Raan of Kutch
Embark on a cross-desert safari visiting the bets to Day 78 Ziro,
home of the Apatani people view wildlife. Accommodation is an
eco-friendly resort surrounded by wetlands. The where older men tie
their hair in topknots and cottages, resembling the kooba houses of
the Bajania community and the bhunga tattoo the faces. Wearing of
circular nose plugs houses of the Rabaris of Kutch, decorated with
mirrors, mud-plaster work and and tattooing of faces is the most
characteristic embroideries, have comfortable cane bed, western
bathroom with hot showers and aspect of ornamentation of older
Apatani women. air conditioning. Day 7-8 Safaris morning &
afternoon safaris, one village tour Visit the largest Homg village
in Asia along with by camel cart, evening music and dance
performance. Day 9 Nal Sarovar Bird other Apatani and Nishi tribal
villages. Sanctuary Continue to Ahmedabad for flight. Day 10-11
Kanna National Day 9 Itanagar Drive to the capital of Arunachal
Pradesh. Visit numerous villages Park three safaris. Day 12-14
Bandhavgarah National Park four safaris. enroute. Scenery is
extremely beautiful during the first two hours of the journey: lush
Day 15 Khajuraho visit the classical temples. Day 16 Depart Delhi
green tropical forest, clouds floating over ridges, singing
waterfalls and a variety of tropical birds and flowers, including
orchids. Pre-tour Extension to Kaziranga National Park Day 1 Arrive
Delhi Overnight Day 2 -4 Guwahati-Kazaranga Day 10 Nameri National
Park easy trek or a relaxing day. Accommodations in beautifully Day
11 Dirang, altitude 6500 ft. inhabited by the Monpa tribe. Day 12-
designed air-conditioned 13 Tawang crossing Sela Pass at 14000 ft,
the highest motorable pass in the cottages. Jeep and elephant
Northeast. Visit the 400 year old Tawang Monastery. Interact with
the lamas (monks). safaris through the park: wild Day 14 Bomdilla
Drive to Bomdilla. Visit local market. Day 16 Kazaranga elephant,
tiger, hoolock gibbon, National Park. Day 17 Guwahati-Calcutta and
Depart. capped langur, bristly hare, hog badger, otter, leopard,
swamp deer, hog deer, muntjack, water Escort: Sanjay Verman. We are
honored to have our partner lead three of our buffalo, adjutant
stork, Bengal tours annually. A travel professional since 1993, he
is versed in the philosophies florican, Pallas fish eagle, and
traditions of the diverse religions and a certified yoga teacher.
Sanjay is the swap partridge, grey peacock- foremost expert for
Spiti Valley and Kinnaur as he established relationships with
pheasant. You will have the the monks and locals before it opened
to foreigners. He is also the foremost Photo: Tiger by Nancy
Crenshaw-Miller opportunity to embark on river authority on the
remote tribal belt of Assam and Arunachal. Sanjay is the ultimate
trips in dugout canoes from which you can watch out for buffalo,
deer or rhino. Day professional and a gracious, generous and
devoted host. Your experience of India 5 Fly to Bombay will be
enhanced by his guidance and companionship. Prices 2010: $4290;
Private Room Upgrade: $1225. Plus Estimated Internal Air: Post-tour
Extension to Corbett National Park Calcutta-Dibrugarah,
Guwahati-Calcutta $336 Accommodations: 4 star Calcutta, Day 16
Train Delhi-Corbett. Day 17-18 Corbett Morning and afternoon best
available elsewhere; Meals: Daily breakfast, all meals days 3-15,
dinner day 16 safaris. Day 19 Train to Delhi and Depart. Prices
2011 TBA Prices 2010: $4585; Private Room Upgrade: $1675. Plus
Estimated Internal Air: $550. Meals: Daily breakfasts, ten lunches,
ten dinners Pre-Tour: $1225; Private Room Upgrade $585 Plus
Estimated Internal Air: $450 Post-Tour: $685; Private Room Upgrade:
$255. Prices 2011 TBAwww.originalworld.com 8
ORIGINAL WORLD20102011 GROUP TOURS ASIA AFRICA MIDDLE EAST
EASTERN & CENTRAL EUROPE 888.367.6147
ORIGINAL WORLD | BHUTAN/TIBET/CHINA/BURMA all Nyigma
monasteries in Sikkim are subordinate Festivals of Bhutan to
Pemayagtse Monastery where 108 monks reside. Spirit of Burma
(Myanmar) September 13-27, 2010 Day 5 Darjeeling stunning forests
of oak, pine and October 16-27, 2010 with Phaung Daw An art master
will give a brief introduction of art orchids. Dorje Lingplace of
the thunderboltnow Oo Festival; February 4-15, 2011 in Bhutan and
its relevance in everyday life. Special called Darjeeling still
rules with its little villages, tiny arrangements can be made to
attend a class at the School of Arts and Crafts for those
interested. waterfalls and an even tinier toy train track. Visit
Post-Tour Extension to Tribal Villages Aloobari Monastery at Ghoom.
Day 6 Bhutan Tiger October 28 November 3, 2010; Pre-Tour Extension
Sikkim-Darjeeling Hill at sunrise, then drive to Phuntsholing
(Bhutanese February 16-22, 2011 September 6-13, 2010 border). Day 7
Paro Drive through forests of blue Tibet Post-Tour Extension pine,
oak, cypress and rhododendron with fantastic Post Tour to Angkor
Temples & Laos September 28 October 7, 2010 H views of plains,
jungles, tea plantations, waterfalls, terraced fields and charming
Bhutanese farm houses. IDDEN TREASURES await you on this Day 8 Paro
Festival Day 9 Punakha Drive via insiders journey exploring Burmese
art, Dochula Pass. Day 10 Bumthang via Chume village architecture
and a gracious culture. Weve known for its yathra weaving and
embroidered cloth. partnered with two fabulous women for many
years. Day 11 Trongsa Visit cultural/spiritual sites. Day Day 1
Arrive in Yangon Half day tour. Sunset 12-13 Thimphu Full day
tours. Day 14 Paro at Shwedagon Pagoda. Day 2-3 Yangon visit art
Optional hike to Taktsang Monastery. Day 15 Home galleries,
temples, bazaars, cruise excursion to pottery village. Day 46 Bagan
(Pagan), the countrys Prices 2010: $3796 per person, Private Room
Angkor Wat. Visit temples and Mt. Popa. Day 79 Upgrade: $820. Plus
Estimated Internal Air: Mandalay Mahamuni Pagoda; Shwenandaw
$375.Meals: Daily breakfast, all meals in Bhutan. Monastery; other
significant sites. By boat to Mingun Day 1 Arrive Paro visit Paro
Dzong. Stroll to gain Prices 2011 TBA Pagoda. Excursion to Sagaing,
Ava and Amarapura. insights into Bhutanese life. Day 2 Paro
Optional Day 1011 Inle Lake Our individual cottages float hike to
Taktsang Monastery. Visit National Museum, in the midst of the
lake. Boat tour through floating Drugyel Dzong for a magnificent
view of Mt. Jumolhari. Tibet: Art and Culture gardens, view the
unique leg-rowers; visit crafts people. Day 3 Attend Thimphu
Drupchen The deities Day 12 Depart Fly to Yangon then Bangkok.
September 28 October 7, 2010; are prayed to and dances performed by
monks in Extension Day 13 Fly to Sittwe. Boat trip to Mrauk April
2011 (Follows Bhutan Tours) costume. Day 45 Thimphu attend tsechu
in the U. Day 14 Visit the remains of Wethali. Continue to
mornings- dances are performed by monks and secular Prices both
dates: $2255, Private Room Danyawaddy village to Mahamuni Pagoda,
containing people. Sightseeing in the afternoons. Upgrade: $450;
Plus Estimated Internal Air: $779 80,000 Buddha images.
Archeological Museum. Sunset Accommodation: Heritage. All meals in
Tibet. at Shwe Gou Taung Temple. Day 15 Tatoo Villages Day 67
Punakha Dawn unfurling of the $200 discount if booked with Bhutan
tour Scenic drive on a bumpy road to tattoo villages of throngdrel.
Drive to Punakha, passing the Simtokha Laytoo Chin minority and
Shakama (Thet) minority. Dzong- the oldest in Bhutan. It now houses
the Day 16 Sitwe Visit local fish market and the 100- Institute for
Language and Culture. Visit a traditional Festivals of Southwestern
year-old Buddha with a golden face. Day 17 Depart village to view
rural life. Day 8 Trongsa China Guizhou, Yunnan, Sichuan Escorts:
Daw Khin Myo Lwin (Rosie) has Bumthang A magnificent drive with
many waterfalls April 27 May 13 Sisters Rice Festival escorted
American and European groups for 25+ years along the climbing road.
Day 910 Bumthang October 24 November 9 Lusheng Festival C including
museum tours. She speaks fluent English and Attend Tangi Mani and
sightseeing. As Buddhism in French and offers an insightful window
into Burmese Bhutan was first introduced in Bumthang, religious
OLORFUL TRADITIONS cockfighting, culture. She follows traditional
Burmese values, yet bullfights, dragon dances; bamboo flutes and
sites are many. Day 11 Mongar This drive is the best is unmarried
and holds contemporary views. Moe wooden drums echo throughout the
valley. in the country, with dense forest, waterfalls, sometimes
Moe, also a delightful and professional guide, holds Fall itinerary
will be reversed to enjoy the mountains in encountering wildlife
and beautifully built traditional a degree from Mandalay University
and speaks fluent best weather. villages. Day 12 Trashiyangtse
Visit the dzong, English and Spanish. Both have escorted our
clients village, Rigney Institute a traditional learning center Day
1-2 Arrive Guiyang. Day 3-6 Kali Visit since 1999. the Miao
handicraft workshop, Kaili Museum, attend and Chorten Kora a stupa
styled after Boudanath Prices 2010: $2950, Private Room Upgrade
$650 festival, Kali Sunday market; explore nearby villages. in
Nepal. Day 13 Guwahati stop in the village of Extension: from
$1045, Private Room Upgrade Day 7 Huangguoshu Waterfall. Walk along
a Khaling, renowned for its weaving and school for the cliff path
behind the waterfall. Visit the Dragon Palace. $200. Meals: All
meals included. Prices 2011 TBA blind. Day 14 Depart Day 8 Xingyi
Visit the black sect of Miao with frilled Price: $4585; Private
Room Upgrade: $1125. Plus skirts and dazzling silver decorations.
Visit Stone Forest. Estimated Internal Air: $500. Includes all
meals Day 9 Kumming/ Day 10-11 Dali visit old town, minority
villages. Day 12-13 Lijiang, former capital of the Naxi
Kingdom-enjoy its maze of cobblestone Himalayan Explorer streets,
narrow canals and decorative wooden houses; Jade Dragon Snow
Mountain and Baisha village. Day Sikkim & Darjeeling; Paro
Festival 14-15 Lugu lake At the junction of Southwest March April,
2011 Sichuan and Northwest Yunnan, the lakes shores are Tibet
Extension April, 2011 home to the Mosuo branch of the Naxi who have
lived Day 1 Arrive Calcutta Day 2-3 Gangtok view here since 111
B.C. and have maintained many ancient Kanchandzonga and the eastern
Himalayan range. traditions. Day 16 Zhongdian. Day 17 Depart Visit
Gangtok monasteries, Institute of Tibetology, Prices: $3310 per
person, Private Room Upgrade: and Rumtek Dharma Center which houses
unique $810. Plus Estimated Internal Air: $900. Meals: daily
religious art. Day 4 Pemayagtse impressive views; breakfast and
dinner.www.originalworld.com 10
ORIGINAL WORLD | LAOS/SRI LANKAJourney to the Heart of Laos
Soul of Sri Lanka November 4-11, 2010October 27 November 13, 2010
February, 2011 with Navam Perahara FestivalFebruary 23 March 12,
2011 (precedes South India Tour) ADay 1 Arrive Chiang Mai. Day 2
Chiang Rai Drive through scenic hillsidesand jungles to Chiang Rai.
Visit the magnificent Wat Rong Khun and Wat Phra NCIENT Buddhist
sitesKeo which once housed the Emerald Buddha. Day 3 Pakbeng Cruise
down the and traditions, andMekong to Pakbeng aboard the Northern
Jewels. Stops at Lao, Hmong, Yao and architecture influenced
throughKHmu villages offer views of rural life, little changed in
centuries. the years by Portuguese, Dutch andDay 4 Kamu Village
Visit a hill tribes market and villages. English traders. Sri Lanka
is home to seven World Heritage sites. A beautifulAccommodation:
Kamu Lodge, an eco-resort in an isolated setting; deluxe tents with
country and serene ambiance.private bathroom and solar-powered hot
water shower. Day 1-3 Colombo full day tours including bazaar area,
Dutch Period Museum, art galleries, Fort area. F ebruary Tour:
Attend Navam Perahara Festival - a delightful procession of
decorated elephants, dancers and musicians. Day 4
AnuradapuraHabarana. Buddhisms influence produced magnificent
temples and ornate pleasure gardens, site of Sri Maha Bodhi, grown
from the same tree under which Prince Sidhharth attained
enlightenment. Day 5: SigiriyaPolonnaruwaHabarana Sigiriya, a
massive rock fortress, just declared a World Heritage site. Easy
climb (steps) to the summit to view the ruins of the monastic
complex. Day 6 DambullaKandy Golden Temple, tour a batik factory
and a spice garden; visit Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage.Photo: by
Joy RobinsonDay 57 Pak Ou CavesLuang Prabang we stop at Pak Ou
Caves duringthe short cruise to Luang Prabang- a UNESCO World
Heritage Site. Visit exquisitetemples, Kuang Si Waterfall; crafts
and weaving villages. Attend Royal Ballet Theater.Enjoy sunset on
Mount Phou Si. Day 89 Plain of Jars Our drive passes
throughstriking mountain ranges and Hmong villages. Visit main
sites of the Plain of Jars.Day 1011 Vientiane Walking tour. Lao
dinner/performance overlooking the Day 7 Kandy Rich in cultural
heritage, the city presents an interesting mixtureMekong. Visit
National Museum, exquisite Wat Si Saket, Ho Pha Keo, National
Ethnic of old and new. Evening attend traditional dance performance
and puja at TempleCultural Park, Buddha Park. Day 12-13 Tad Lo
Explore the area. of Sacred Tooth. Day 8 Colombo Return to Columbo
for flight home or fly toTad Lo Resort, rustic spacious bungalows
with thatch walls, located on the falls. Madras to continue on our
South India tour.Day 14 Pakse enroute stops at Pat Bath Phon San
Temple and Thakhet town, Prices 2010: $1835 per person based on min
4 people; Private Room Upgrade:then across the Bolaven Plateau, a
coffee growing area inhabited by the Laven $385. Meals: daily
breakfast, 4 dinners. $200 discount if booked with Southtribe; Katu
and Alak villages-distinctive for the face tattoos of their women;
Wat India Tour. Prices 2011:TBALuang. Day 15 Khong Island-Wat Phou
Journey along the Mekong River toChampasak, a small village of
inauspicious houses and old French mansions. WatPhou, a UNESCO
site, is all that remains of one of Southeast Asias most
mysteriouskingdoms. The Hindu-influenced ruins are the finest
example of Khmer templeruins outside Cambodia. Day 16 Four Thousand
Islands Full day cruising.Day 17 Villages visit Kiet Ngong village
known for its unique textiles. Elephantride to Phou Asa village.
Day 18 Preah Vihear-Bangkok This eastern pocketof Thailand is home
to some of the great Angkorian-era Khmer temples. Visit
themagnificent 9th century Preah Vihear on a sheer edge of the
border. OvernightBangkok Airport Hotel. Day 19 Depart.Prices 2010:
From $3610. Private Room Upgrade: from $1085.Plus Estimated
Internal Air: $120. 2011 Price TBAAccommodation: 4 star, boutique,
heritage; Meals: breakfast, 4 lunches, 4 dinners 11
888.367.6147
ORIGINAL WORLD | CENTRAL ASIA/MIDDLE EAST Mongolia July 9-23,
2010 The Heart of the Great Silk Iran, Persian Treasures A TTEND
NAADAM FESTIVAL tour the countryside learning about Mongolias
nomadic culture and Buddhist history. We travel through the
unspoiled landscapes exploring varied and unique sites in some of
the most Road: The Five Stans Precedes Syria tour August 16
September 10, 2010 with Independence Day Celebration March 5-30,
2011 with Navruz Festival; Caravan routes affected history and
cultures October 5 November 1, 2010 April 1-24, 2011 remarkable and
untouched parts of the globe. In dramatically by opening lines of
communication and trade, resulting in rich diversity and
significant cultural growth. The region is famous not only for the
many branches of the silk route that ply within, but also as the
birthplace of great builders of empires such as the Moghuls and
Tamerlane. During this exciting journey, we explore the classical
route as well as venture into offthepath villages for a glimpse of
rural life. Kazakhstan Day 1-2 Almaty. tour the former Photo: by
Carla Newton capital of Kazakhstan. E Kyrgyzstan XPERIENCE THE
GLORY of ancient