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Kerala BackwatersTribal Markets of Odisha

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• proudly Australian owned an

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1984–2013

India 2013

Page 2 | Back Track Adventures The Other India 2013 - Ancient Odisha - Karnataka Heritage - Classic Kerala

www.backtrackadventures.com.au

India mesmerises, astounds and bewilders. It shocks and delights; soothes and excites. India is a land of extreme contrasts… poverty alongside wealth; vibrant one moment, tranquil the next; the ancient and the modern.

For travellers, India is more than a country filled with travel marvels; it is a marvel.

Back Track wants to introduce you to the other India. Sure, our journey does visit some of the more popular highlights, particularly the delightful, verdant state of Kerala and the jumping, pulsating mega city of Kolkata. We will also take you into the lesser known States of Odisha and Karnataka for a taste of rural and tribal India. You will see outstanding examples of the art and architecture of past civilisations, explore medieval temples, behold the stunning World Heritage sites at Konark and Hampi, enjoy close encounters with wildlife in jungle sanctuaries, sample mouth-watering local cuisine, visit craft workshops, cruise the backwaters of Kerala, wander through country markets and enjoy close interaction with friendly and charming local inhabitants.

For first time India visitors who wish to visit the more popular, iconic attractions, we also offer a range of optional add-ons. So if it’s a few days relaxing beach-side in Goa, exploring the mysteries of ancient Varanasi or enjoying the Mughal charms of the Golden Triangle, Back Track can take you there.

The essence of Back Track’s India adventure is to ensure that income is generated for the benefit of the communities we visit. We have formed a proud association with local tour companies and share a common goal of responsible tourism and eco friendly practices.

Explore IndiaAncient OdishaKarnataka HeritageClassic Kerala

The Other India 2013 - Ancient Odisha - Karnataka Heritage - Classic Kerala Back Track Adventures | Page 3


Back Track Adventures have been operating small group adventures to exotic locations around the world since 1985. Our experience in small group holidays would be hard to surpass by any other Australian Travel Agency.

Our aim is to give you the best holiday you have ever had. Your Back Track crew will strive to ensure that you really experience the areas of India you are visiting in an up-close, personal manner and in comfortable style. You will never feel isolated from the local people and their culture. We will keep you well informed about the history, places of interest and the people in all the areas you visit.

India is a special destination and we extend an invitation to anyone with a spirit of adventure to join us on this memorable journey through India.

You’ll be joined in Kerala by Prakash. He has worked as a guide for the past 5 years and specialises in the interpretation of art forms. Prakash is also very active on a variety of social initiatives for the benefit of local comm unities.

Pulak exudes an infectious passion for people from all walks of life. His uncanny ability to strike instant rapport has won many friendships and much affection. A creature of nature at heart, he is most at home sharing jibes with the fishermen of Chilika Lake and sleeping under the stars.

Your Back Track Crew

TRIP OVERVIEWDate Day START ANCIENT ODISHA Meals

20 Nov 1 Arrive in Kolkata. Met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. D

21 Nov 2 Kolkata city orientation. BL

22 Nov 3 Bhubaneswar Heritage Walk. BLD

23 Nov 4 Visit Konak Sun Temple. BLD

24 Nov 5 Puri Old City tour by cycle rickshaw. BL

25 Nov 6 Chilika Lake boat cruise. BLD

26 Nov 7 Travel into tribal territory. BLD

27 Nov 8 Tribal weekly market visits. BLD

28 Nov 9 Visit tribal areas. BLD

29 Nov 10 Visit tribal areas. BLD

30 Nov 11 Visit Simachalam Temple. BLD

01 Dec 12 Overnight at the Justa Regency Hotel. BLD

END ANCIENT ODISHA AND START KARNATAKA HERITAGE

02 Dec 13 Explore old Bidar on foot. Visit Bidar Fort. BD

03 Dec 14 Visit the Mosque and Fort. BD

04 Dec 15 Visit Gol Gumbaz, Ibrahim Roza and Jama Masjid. BD

05 Dec 16 Explore the cave temples. BD

06 Dec 17 Visit Aihole and Pattadakal. BD

07 Dec 18 Explore Anegundi Village. BD

08 Dec 19 Explore Anegundi Village. BD

09 Dec 20 Explore World Heritage listed ruins of Hampi. BD

10 Dec 21 Further exploration of Hampi. BD

11 Dec 22 Explore the artist’s village and ancient temples. BD

12 Dec 23 Visit Chitradurga Fort. BD

13 Dec 24 Overnight at the Infantry Hotel. BD

END KARNATAKA HERITAGE AND START CLASSIC KERALA

14 Dec 25 Train Journey to Mysore. Visit Chamundi Hill and Mysore Palace. B

15 Dec 26 Explore caves of Edakkal. BD

16 Dec 27 Visit Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary and tea plantations. BLD

17 Dec 28 Drive to Nilaumbur. Visit farm and sacred grove. BLD

18 Dec 29 River cruise and visit Thunjan Parambu Cultural Park and Vakkad beach. BD

19 Dec 30Visit to Kalamandalam classical dance and music school; potters and bell metal workshops. Evening folk art demonstrations.

B

20 Dec 31 Visit Thattekad Bird Sanctuary. BLD

21 Dec 32 Morning birding tour. Evening Kathakali dance performance. B

22 Dec 33 Half day tour of Fort Cochin. B

23 Dec 34 Drive to Periyar. Night time trek of tiger reserve. B

24 Dec 35 Half day trek and half day excursion by bullock cart. B

25 Dec 36 Merry Christmas.Drive to Kumarakom. Day of relaxation. B

26 Dec 37 Cruise the backwaters. BLD

27 Dec 38 Morning backwater cruise then road transfer to Marari. B

28 Dec 39 Trip ends. Transfer to Cochin Airport.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

The Other India

ODISHA

KARNATAKA

KERALA

Kolkata

Bhubaneswar

VisakhapatnamHyderabad

Bangalore

Kochi

BAY OF BENGAL

SriLanka

PakistanBangladesh

ARABIANSEA

Ancient OrissaKarnataka HeritageClassic KeralaFlights



Ancient OdishaTOUR INCLUSIONSKolkata - City Orientation

Bhubaneswar - Heritage Walking Tour

Puri - Old City Tour by Cycle Rickshaw, Raghurajpur heritage painting

Chilika Lake - Boat Cruise

Dongria Kondh, Bonda, Gaddava and Paroja - Tribal weekly market visits

Visakhapatnam - Simachalam Temple Entry

Hyderabad - City Orientation

WHERE WE STAY7 nights Indian 3 star hotels

2 nights Indian 2 star hotels

3 nights 3 star lodge

TRANSPORTDomestic flights, private road transport, boat, cycle rickshaw and foot.

HOW ACTIVE IS THIS TRIP?While no part of this trip is strenuous, you’ll spend a lot of time walking around various sights.

MEALS10 dinners

11 lunches

12 breakfasts

A BIT MORE ABOUT OUR TRIPJoin us on a vibrant and sumptuous journey through ancient Odisha. Discover some of India’s earliest temples at Bhubaneswar and Konark. Soak up the eclectic seaside temple town of Puri. Cruise along Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest salt lake lagoon and traverse rustic countryside. Join festive weekly markets where indigenous cultures converge and interact with peoples imbued with centuries of independent traditions. Although the highlights of this trip are Odisha’s rich cultural heritage you’ll begin and finish in two dynamic bustling Indian cities. Contrasting to the rural landscapes of Odisha, Kolkata and Hyderabad have fascinatingly complex histories of their own to discover.

Back Track’s partner in Odisha promotes distinct native culture in partnership with local communities. We encourage local people living on the fringes of society to participate in tourism initiatives, empowering them to become part of a wider community of travellers keen to learn and share experiences. Our responsible tourism initiatives highlight local conservation groups and societies keen on preserving their rich cultural heritage while engaging local communities to endorse existing traditional knowledge and skills. This assures them of a dignified livelihood and reinforces the value of their unique culture. In choosing the Ancient Odisha journey you will be directly benefiting rickshaw pullers in Puri, village conservationists on Chilika Lake and marginalized indigenous communities deep in Odisha’s tribal heartland.

TRIP OVERVIEW - ANCIENT ODISHADate Day START ANCIENT ODISHA Meals

20 Nov 1Arrive in Kolkata. Met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. Overnight at the Bawa Walson Hotel.

D

21 Nov 2Kolkata city orientation. Overnight at the Bawa Walson Hotel.

BL

22 Nov 3Bhubaneswar Heritage Walk. Overnight at the Crown Hotel.

BLD

23 Nov 4Visit Konak Sun Temple. Overnight at the BNR Hotel.

BLD

24 Nov 5Puri Old City tour by cycle rickshaw. Overnight at the BNR Hotel.

BL

25 Nov 6Chilika Lake boat cruise. Overnight at the Motel Mermaid.

BLD

26 Nov 7Travel into tribal territory. Overnight at the New Hope Hotel.

BLD

27 Nov 8Tribal weekly market visits. Overnight at the Chandoori Sai Guesthouse.

BLD

28 Nov 9Visit tribal areas. Overnight at the Chandoori Sai Guesthouse.

BLD

29 Nov 10Visit tribal areas. Overnight at the Chandoori Sai Guesthouse.

BLD

30 Nov 11Visit Simachalam Temple. Overnight at the Daspalla Hotel.

BLD

01 Dec 12 Overnight at the Justa Regency Hotel. BLD

02 Dec 13Check-out after breakfast and transfer to the airport.

B


India - ACIENT ODISSA

RoadFlights

ODISHA

CHHATTISGARH

ANDHRA PRADESH

MADHYAPRADESH

JHARKHAND WEST BENGAL

Kolkata

Bhubaneswar

Visakhapatnam

KonakPuri

Goudaduga

Chilika Lake

BAY OFBENGAL



ItineraryDAYS 1–2 KOLKATAThe intellectual and cultural capital of India, vibrant and quirky Kolkata bursts with life; we explore the cities proud colonial heritage by tram, drop into esteemed art galleries, wander through traditional Bengali markets and take in the breathtaking view from Kolkata’s famous Hoogly Bridge.

DAY 3 BHUBANESWSARThe lively capital of Odisha since the ancient ‘Kalinga’ empire boasts settlement stretching back 2000 years. We explore medieval temples and broad, tree lined avenues to unearth the spirit of the city. Bhubaneswar’s impressive skyline: the towering spire of the Lingaraj temple, the magnificent Japanese Peace Pagoda of Dhauli hills and the remarkable temple of Mahavir Jain on Khandagiri hills exemplifies the arrival and evolution of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism during different periods of Odisha’s long spiritual journey.

DAYS 4 - 5 PURIBehold the famous UNESCO World Heritage site at Konark. We traverse rural villages to reach the coastal temple town of Puri and meet village craftsmen skilled in the hereditary craft of traditional painting. You’ll soak up the traditional temple culture of Puri, one of India’s Char Dham’s (four holy spots of India).

DAY 6 GOPALPUR VIA CHILIKA LAKEUnwind on the tranquil waters of Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and another Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. Spot rare migratory birds at play among their nests. Stroll along the shore at Gopalpur and explore the beachside fishing village.

DAY 7 MUNIGUDAThe trip now travels along country roads, past teak plantations, forested hillocks, idyllic villages and local markets. Today we enter tribal territory!

Adivasis (literally ‘original inhabitants’) are the indigenous population of India. Nestled in the remote hills of the Eastern Ghats they constitute 25% of Odisha’s population; the most populous Adivasi region of all India. They comprise 62 diverse ethnicities and although co-dependent, fiercely guard their own distinct traditions. We will meet the Mali, Gaddava, Paroja, Kondh & Dongoria Kondh tribes and witness a way of life relatively unchanged through the centuries.

DAYS 8 - 10 CHANDOORI SAI, GOUDAGUDA VILLAGEThe journey continues to roll through the hilly regions of the Eastern Ghats. We rub shoulders with the largest weekly gathering of indigenous peoples, the vibrant Chatikona market. Join Dongria Kondh girls with their countless hairpins, earrings and nose rings. Let the most extraordinary and ordinary confound you at Onukadeli; the weekly market of India’s most primitive indigenous peoples. Be dazzled by the kaleidoscope of beads adorning traditional Bonda tribeswomen. Enjoy a picnic lunch under a waterfall and follow the footsteps of the Gaddava and Paroja tribes.

The weekly markets are a melting pot of indigenous cultures where independent tribes gather and trade local produce once a week. A healthy balance maintained between co-dependency and individual identity is most apparent during these occasions.

DAY 11 VISAKHAPATNAM (VIZAG)Check out the diverse wares at Kunduli weekly market; everything from cattle to dried fish and terracotta pots. Not to mention the swarm of onlookers! Behold home brewed alcohol measured and juggled into bottles. Pass forested hills and lush valleys separating Orissa and Andhra Pradesh to the port city of Visakhapatnam. Visit the hilltop 11th century Simachalam temple, explore the city and chill out at the beach.

DAY 12 HYDERABADAfter an early morning flight explore Hyderabad’s iconic Char Minar. Walk the bustling market streets heady with fragrant perfume and a kaleidoscope of colour. Bear witness to the city’s heritage at Salar Jung Museum and discover hidden treasures.

DAY 13 TOUR ENDS IN HYDERABADTour ends after breakfast. You are free to depart or stay on and enjoy this exciting city. We can provide additional accommodation and a departure transfer for you, please let us know at the time of booking.

Passengers who are only doing the ANCIENT ODISHA section of the tour will leave the tour this morning and checkout from the hotel after breakfast. Passengers continuing on the KARNATAKA HERITAGE section will be collected from the hotel and driven to Bidar.

section of the tour

breakfast. Passengers continuing on section



Karnataka HeritageTOUR INCLUSIONSHyderabad – Char Minar, Choodi Bazaar

Bidar – Bidar Fort & Palaces, Gurudwara Nanak (Sikh Temple)

Gulbarga – Gulbarga Fort and Mosque

Bijapur – Gol Gumbaz, Ibrahim Roza, Jama Masjid

Badami – Cave Temples, Aihole and Pattadakal World Heritage Sites

Anegundi – Village and Temple Tour, Tungabadra River coracle ride

Hampi – Tour of Ruins

Chitradurga – Kallina Kote fortress

WHERE WE STAY6 nights budget hotel

4 nights mid-range hotel

1 night superior hotel

2 nights rural cottages

TRANSPORTPrivate road transport

HOW ACTIVE IS THIS TRIP?While no part of this trip is strenuous, you’ll spend a lot of time walking around various sights

MEALS13 breakfasts

13 dinners

TRIP OVERVIEW - KARNATAKA HERITAGEDate Day START KARNATAKA HERITAGE Meals

01 Dec 1Arrive Hyderabad. Met and transferred to your hotel. Overnight at the Central Court Hotel.

D

02 Dec 2Morning tour of Hyderabad. Drive to Bidar. Visit Bidar Fort. Overnight at Sapna Continental hotel.

BD

03 Dec 3Visit the Mosque and Fort. Overnight at Heritage Inn.

BD

04 Dec 4Visit Gol Gumbaz, Ibrahim Roza and Jama Masjid. Overnight at the Madhuvan International Hotel.

BD

05 Dec 5Explore the cave temples. Overnight at the Badami Court Hotel.

BD

06 Dec 6Visit Aihole and Pattadakal. Overnight at the Badami Court Hotel.

BD

07 Dec 7Explore Anegundi Village. Overnight at the Kishkinda Trust Cottages.

BD

08 Dec 8Explore Anegundi Village. Overnight at the Kishkinda Trust Cottages.

BD

09 Dec 9Explore World Heritage listed ruins of Hampi. Overnight at the Malligi Tourist Home.

BD

10 Dec 10Further exploration of Hampi. Overnight at the Malligi Tourist Home.

BD

11 Dec 11Drive to Chitradurga. Explore Bellary Fort en route. Overnight at the Aishwarya Fort Hotel.

BD

12 Dec 12Explore Kallina Kote. Overnight at the Aishwarya Fort Hotel.

BD

13 Dec 13Drive to Bangalore. Overnight at the Infantry Hotel.

BD

14 Dec 14Checkout after breakfast and transfer to airport.

B


India - KARNATAKA HERITAGE

RoadFlights

KARNATAKA

ODISHA

KERALA

MAHARASHTRA

ANDHRA PRADESH

TAMIL NADU

VisakhapatnamHyderabad

Bidar

Bijapur

Badam

Hampi

Bangalore

BAY OFBENGAL

ARABIANSEA



ItineraryDAY 1 ARRIVE HYDERABADYou will be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. If time allows, Hyderabad is a fascinating city to explore. Steeped in history and revered as a centrepiece of Islamic art and culture, Hyderabad will astound you. (This is day 12 for passengers participating in the ANCIENT ODISHA tour)

DAY 2 BIDARThere will be a morning tour of Hyderabad, visiting Visit Char Minar and Choodi Bazaar. Leave for Bidar after lunch. On the drive we cross from Andhra Pradesh State into the State of Karnataka. At the tip of Karnataka, rests the old town of Bidar where we walk through the old streets and experience the rustic side of Karnataka. We visit the Bidar Fort, built and rebuilt by different rulers for different reasons and in different styles. Bidar also has the first Gurdwara (Sikh Temple) in India. Today presents a rare opportunity to engage with the artists of Vijaynagar Colony in Bidar, who have preserved the ancestral art form called Bidri. The art requires a lot of hard work, creativity and scientific application. Bidri is characteristic of the Persian dynasties that settled here long ago. The artists continue to stick to their originality yet in a contemporary style. Overnight in Bidar.

DAY 3 GULBARGAWe leave Bidar early morning for the drive to Gulbarga, stopping for lunch enroute. The architectural splendours of Gulbarga are unforgettable. Gulbarga’s moated Fort built in 1347, contains the Jama Masjid, a mosque reputed to have been built by a Moorish architect during the late 14th or early 15th century who imitated the great mosque in Cordoba Spain. The mosque is unique in India, with a huge dome covering the whole area, four smaller ones at the corners, and 75 smaller still, all the way around. Overnight in Gulbarga.

DAY 4 BIJAPURDrive to Bijapur. The one-time capital of the Adil Shahi kings, Bijapur is dotted with mosques, mausoleums, palaces, fortifications, watchtowers and strong gateways, with the massive, 17th Century Gol Gumbaz, the tomb of a Shah that dominates the landscape for miles around. The dome of Gol Gumbaz is the second largest ever built and where every sound within is echoed seven times.

DAYS 5–6 BADAMIToday continues our journey to Badami. The ancient capital of the Chalukya Dynasty, Badami still retains its majesty. We visit the famous cave temples and view the masterfully caved panels dedicated to Hindu gods. From our base at Badami, we travel to Aihole and Pattadakal, both World Heritage listed sights. The temples here highlight the birth of classic Hindu architecture. Overnight in Badami.

DAY 7–8 ANEGUNDIAcross the river bank from the ruins of Hampi, lies a small, secluded village of Anegundi, situated on the banks of the mighty Tungabhadra river. The capital of the mythical kingdom of Kishkinda mentioned in the Ramayana, Anegundi has a charm like no other! If one walks around its streets, you can see women grinding spices to make pickle, decorating their whitewashed houses with rangoli, or weaving banana fibre into bags for The Kishkinda Trust’s (www.thekishkindatrust.org)

art and crafts shop, ‘Shorba’. Through witnessing the performing arts of Anegundi and the practices of organic farming, we receive a close insight into the livelihood of the community. Cycle and trek around, shop for unique banana fibre products at the Craft shop. There will be an opportunity for a morning or dusk ride across the Tungabadra River in a traditional coracle. Overnight in Anegundi.

DAYS 9–10 HAMPIAfter lunch, head to Hampi. The ruins of World Heritage listed Hampi represent a stunning example of Hindu art and architecture. Every part of this magnificent sight signifies its place as the capital of a golden empire. The sheer detail of the carvings and the number of sculptures speak of a race of artisans that weren’t quite done in their business of outdoing each other in craftsmanship. Monolithic structures carved out of a single rock - the imposing Lakshmi Narasimha, the majestic Stone Chariot, the massive Ganesha statues and the Badavilinga are proof of the brilliance that was once envied. In the late afternoon the dying rays of the sun turn these ancient stones to gold. Relax at a home stay in Hampi. On our second day here we enjoy an early morning heritage walk in Hampi. Explore what the Vijaynagar kingdom has left behind for us. One day is not long enough to see the expansive ruins of Hampi so you’ll appreciate the extra time spent here. There will also be the opportunity to shop at the Hampi Bazaar. In the evening we’ll enjoy a fulfilling dinner of local cuisine. Overnight in Hampi.

DAYS 11–12 CHITRADURGALeave for Chitradurga. We drive to Bellary Fort en route. The historical and military significance of Bellary dates from 300BC up to the early 20th century British Raj. We explore the magnificent granite ramparts before continuing our journey. We have a late afternoon arrival into Chitradurga and check into our hotel. On our second day here we visit the Chitradurga Fort, known locally as Kallina Kote (Palace of Stone) fort, a marvel of military architecture and impregnable when constructed. It has 19 gateways, 38 posterior entrances, a palace, a mosque, granaries, oil pits, four secret entrances, and water tanks. Amidst rocky surroundings inside the fort complex on the hill are many temples. Overnight in Chitradurga.

DAY 13 BANGALOREArrive into Bangalore and transfer to our hotel. The remainder of the day is free time for leisure. Overnight in Bangalore.

DAY 14 TOUR ENDS IN BANGALORETour ends after breakfast. You are free to depart or stay on and enjoy this exciting city. We can provide additional accommodation and a departure transfer for you, please let us know at the time of booking.

Passengers who are only doing the KARNATAKA HERITAGE will leave the tour this morning and checkout from the hotel after breakfast. Passengers continuing on the CLASSIC KERALA section will be collected from the hotel and driven to Bangalore train station for the onward train journey to Mysore.



Classic KeralaTOUR INCLUSIONSMysore – Chamundi Hill, Maharaja’s Palace

Wayanad – Edakkal Caves, wildlife safari, spice tourRiver Nila – River cruise, pottery workshop, Thunjan Parambu Culture Park, Classical Arts workshopThattekkad – Wilderness trekFort Cochin – Kathakali dance performance, heritage walkPeriyar – Trekking and bullock cart excursionKumarakom – Christmas DinnerAlleppey – Traditional houseboat cruise

WHERE WE STAY2 night superior hotel

2 nights premium plantation retreat

1 night family home stay

2 nights ayurvedic resort

1 night eco camp

2 nights heritage hotel

2 nights eco cottages

1 night backwater resort

1 night deluxe a/c houseboat

1 night a/c beach cottage

TRANSPORTMostly air conditioned private vehicle

HOW ACTIVE IS THIS TRIP?While no part of this trip is strenuous, you’ll spend a lot of time walking around various sights

MEALS15 breakfasts

4 lunches

6 dinners

TRIP OVERVIEW - CLASSIC KERALADate Day START CLASSIC KERALA Meals

13 Dec 1Arrive Bangalore. Met and transferred to your hotel. Overnight at the Infantry Hotel.

14 Dec 2Train Journey to Mysore. Visit Chamundi Hill and Mysore Palace. Overnight at the Park Hotel.

B

15 Dec 3Explore caves of Edakkal. Overnight at the Garden of Eden Resort.

BD

16 Dec 4Visit Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary and tea plantations. Overnight at the Garden of Eden Resort.

BLD

17 Dec 5Drive to Nilaumbur. Visit farm and sacred grove. Overnight at the Maranat Mana.

BLD

18 Dec 6River cruise and visit Thunjan Parambu Cultural Park and Vakkad beach.Overnight at the River Retreat

BD

19 Dec 7

Morning visit to Kalamandalam classical dance and music school. Afternoon potters and bell metal workshops. Evening folk art demonstrations. Overnight at the River Retreat Resort.

B

20 Dec 8Visit Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary. Overnight at the Hornbill Camp.

BLD

21 Dec 9Morning birding tour. Evening Kathakali dance performance. Overnight at the Fort Heritage Hotel.

B

22 Dec 10Half day tour of Fort CochinOvernight at the Fort Heritage Hotel.

B

23 Dec 11Drive to Periyar. Night time trek of tiger reserve. Overnight at the Tree Top Cottages.

B

24 Dec 12Half day trek and half day excursion by bullock cart. Overnight at the Tree Top Cottages.

B

25 Dec 13Merry Christmas! Drive to Kumarakom. Day of relaxation. Overnight at the Backwater Ripples Resort.

B

26 Dec 14Cruise the backwaters. Overnight aboard Houseboat.

BLD

27 Dec 15Morning backwater cruise then road transfer to Marari. Overnight at the Fishermans Village Hotel.

B

28 Dec 16 Trip ends. Transfer to Cochin Airport. B


India - CLASSIC KERALA

RailRoad

KERALA

KARNATAKA

ANDHRA PRADESH

TAMIL NADU

SRI LANKA

Bangalore

MysoreWayanad

Cochin

PeriyarAlleppey

BAY OFBENGAL

ARABIANSEA



ItineraryDAY 1 ARRIVE BANGALOREArrive Bangalore. You’ll be met on arrival and transferred to your Hotel. (This is Day 24 for passengers participating in the ANCIENT ODISHA & KARNATAKA HERITAGE tours)

DAY 2 MYSORE Train to Mysore. On arrival we are transferred to our hotel. In the afternoon we visit Chamundi Hill, topped by a Hindu temple. Those who wish my walk down the 1000 steps, past a 5m high statue of Nandi, Shiva’s bull, to the base of the hill. We then visit the vast, ornate Maharaja’s Palace.

DAYS 3–4 WAYANAD Travel to Wayanad by road (3 hours). Visit Edakkal caves to see the pictorial remnants of civilisation dating back to 5,000 BC. Enjoy the adrenaline rush of a wildlife safari in Muthanga wildlife sanctuary, a biodiversity hotspot. The 24-kilometre safari is a chance to spot the Asian elephants, bears, wild gaurs (bison), spotted and sambar deers or even a leopard. After lunch at a local home, we take you on a spice tour, tea trail and finally cool off at a waterfall in the middle of a rainforest.

DAYS 5–7 RIVER NILADrive down to the historic and scenic River Nila (4 ½ hours). After lunch with a local planter’s family, we take you on a leisurely cruise down the Nila on a thoni (traditional boat). The day ends with a visit to Thunjan Parambu Culture Park and Vakkad beach. Get your hands dirty learning pottery with local artisans, and watch them weave magic on clay. Be blown away by creating intricate designs such as tea pots and door locks at the bell metal workshop, which is a craft confined to a few families in the region. It is also your chance to shop for souvenirs. The day ends with time spent with young folk artists who showcase the folk heritage of River Nila. Spend a half day in interactive sessions with the masters of classical arts at Kalamandalam. Watch the sun go down while cooling off on the numerous sand banks that dot the River Nila.

DAY 8 THATTEKKAD BIRD SANCTUARYDrive down to Thattekkad (2 hours). Our naturalist will lead you on a light trek through the wilderness which is comprised of tropical evergreen and deciduous forests. The day ends camping under the starlit sky by the rainforest.

DAYS 9–10 FORT COCHINStart the day early with a birdwalk with our naturalist and then drive down to Cochin (2 hours). Attend a Kathakali performance in the evening at a theatre in Fort Cochin. Go on a heritage walk of the fabulous Fort Cochin and check out the Jew Town synagogue, spice markets, the Dutch palace, St Francis Church and Chinese fishing nets.

DAYS 11–12 PERIYAR WILDLIFE RESERVEDrive down to the Periyar wildlife reserve (5 hours), the home of the regal Royal Bengal Tiger. The first activity is a light three hour night trek to explore the wonders of life in the jungle after dusk.

Spend a half day trekking and a half day bullock cart ride to a nearby village. The day offers a good chance of spotting wildlife in close quarters.

DAY 13 KUMARAKOMMerry Christmas! Drive up to the idyllic backwaters of Kumarakom (4 hours). Kumarakom is about 10kms from Kottayam and is the most beautiful backwater stretch in Kerala. Wind down and relax at a backwater resort in Kumarakom. Enjoy Christmas dinner at the resort.

DAY 14 BACKWATER CRUISECheck into a luxurious houseboat for a leisurely overnight backwater cruise. Watch as time slows down to a crawl in the idyllic settings of the backwaters.

DAY 15 MARARIThe houseboat drops you at Alleppey and then you transfer to a beach resort in Marari (45-minutes).

DAY 16 MARARI - COCHIN AIRPORTTransfer to Cochin airport for your departure flight check-in.



Pricing and Dates

Trip Information

Cost includes: Tour inclusions and site entrance fees listed in the brochure, arrival and departure airport transfers if arriving on tour start and finish dates as listed above, all transportation mentioned in the itinerary, all accommodation, all meals listed in the brochure, English speaking tour escort and local guides.

Cost does not include: International flights and taxes (contact Back Track for airfares), Visa costs, travel insurance (compulsory), medical expenses, all items of a personal nature, any meals not listed in the brochure, drinks with meals, tips.

Group size: Minimum 4, Maximum 10 plus tour escort.

Single Supplement*: Single Supplement costs as listed do not apply to the nights accommodation at Muniguda and Chandoori Sai on the Ancient Odisha tour as no single accommodation is available at these places.

Ancient ODISHA and KARNATAKA Heritage

Trip Duration: 24 nights from Kolkata

Start Kolkata

Finish Hyderabad

Cost from Kolkata

Single Supplement*

20 Nov 2013 14 Dec 2013 AUD $3995 AUD $958

KARNATAKA Heritage and Classic KERALA

Trip Duration: 27 nights from Hyderabad

Start Hyderabad

Finish Cochin

Cost from

Hyderabad

Single Supplement*

1 Dec 2013 28 Dec 2013 AUD $3950 AUD $1711

Ancient ODISHA and KARNATAKA Heritage and

Classic KERALA


Start Kolkata

Finish Cochin

Cost from Kolkata

Single Supplement*

20 Nov 2013 28 Dec 2013 AUD $5995 AUD $2211

Ancient ODISHA


Start Kolkata

Finish Hyderabad

Cost from Kolkata

Single Supplement*

20 Nov 2013 2 Dec 2013 AUD $2273 AUD $500

KARNATAKA Heritage

Trip Duration: 13 nights from Hyderabad

Start Hyderabad

Finish Bangalore

Cost from

Hyderabad

Single Supplement

1 Dec 2013 14 Dec 2013 AUD $1833 AUD $458

Classic KERALA

Trip Duration: 15 nights from Bangalore

Start Bangalore

Finish Cochin

Cost from Bangalore

Single Supplement

13 Dec 2013 28 Dec 2013 AUD $2128 AUD $1253

** All prices are per person and subject to change without notice at anytime.

Joining hotel extra accommodation and airport transfersPer person costs Kolkata Hyderabad Bangalore Cochin

One way Airport/Hotel transfer one person AUD34 from AUD57 AUD69 AUD69

One way Airport/Hotel transfer two persons AUD23 from AUD34 AUD35 AUD35

One night hotel twin share bed & breakfast AUD109 from AUD86 AUD63 AUD69

One night hotel single bed & breakfast AUD114 from AUD100 AUD125 AUD111



India is jam packed with so many highlights and attractions that only a guide book could come close to listing them all. Back Track has selected three iconic destinations for you to consider should you wish to extend your time in India before or after your adventure.Goa - swaying palms; golden beaches; delicious, freshly caught seafood and Portuguese influenced culture. Varanasi - the holiest of holy Hindu cities situated on the banks of the mighty River Ganges.The Golden Triangle - Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, steeped in history and adorned with elegant, Mughal influenced architectural gems.

GOA 5 nights/6 days

You deserve a break. Get some sun on your face and some sand between your toes. We’ve chosen 2 distinctly different types of accommodation for this 5 night adventure. The first 2 nights will be spent in Panjim, Goa’s main city. You’ll stay in a century old converted home in Goa’s old Latin Quarter. This eco-friendly establishment uses solar power, rain water harvesting, energy saving lights and composting. Your stay here includes a heritage walk, excursion to Old Goa Churches and a visit to a spice plantation. You’ll also have a choice of quality restaurants to sample mouth-watering Goan cuisine.

The following 3 nights are spent in a nature resort in North Goa on a beautiful secluded beach called Morjim. The beach is popularly known as Turtle Beach where the famous Olive Ridley turtles lay their eggs. The nesting site is protected by the forest department - Government of Goa and there are also ample opportunities for avid bird watchers. Goa is known for its beaches and nothing would make your holiday more memorable than staying on one of the best beaches of Goa.

The package includes return airport transfers, bed & breakfast twin share accommodation (contact Back Track for single rates), Panjim heritage walk, excursion to Old Goa churches, visit to a spice plantation, all transportation.

Departs Daily Per person cost: From $895

VARANASI 2 nights/3 daysVaranasi, once known as Benares or Kashi, is a historical city in northern India. The city is sacred to Hindus and also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. The scene of pilgrims doing their devotions in the River Ganges at sunrise set against the backdrop of the centuries old temples is probably one of the most impressive sights in the world. Some people believe that Varanasi is a must see destination on any trip to northern India.

We have a 2 night/3 day package available, staying in the venerable Hotel Ganges View, situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges. The hotel offers enthralling river views from its spacious veranda. Previous owners of the hotel were well known patrons of the arts and since then the Ganges View has become the haunt of scholars, poets, writers, actors, musicians, philosophers, choreographers and painters. Workshops and artists camps are also frequently arranged in the hotel to promote local talent. Apart from these ongoing programs there is a permanent display of artefacts in the hotel premises, open for visitors and in house guests.

The package includes twin share bed and breakfast accommodation, airport transfers, dawn and dusk Ganges boat rides and a heritage walking tour.

Departs Daily Per person cost: From $725

GOLDEN TRIANGLE – DELHI, AGRA, JAIPUR 6 nights/7 daysThe Golden Triangle is so called because of the triangular shape on a map formed by the location of three of India’s most important travel destinations; Delhi - India’s capital city and home to numerous historical attractions; Agra - the sight of India’s most famous architectural wonder, the Taj Mahal; and Jaipur, the Pink City on the edge of the Rajasthan Desert. Back Track has added an outstanding highlight to this itinerary. Rather than do the long drive from Delhi to Jaipur in one hit, we drive you to the Hill Fort Kesroli for a night. Kesroli is one of the unique heritage hotels in India that dates back to the 14th century! Take the time to stroll around the neighbouring village and gain an insight into authentic Rajasthani life. Later on, grab a G & T from the well-stocked bar and admire the sunset from the fort ramparts.

Further tour highlights include the striking Pink City of Jaipur containing the marvellous City Palace and the historic observatory of Jantar Mantar. Further on you’ll visit Agra and gaze upon man’s greatest monument to love, the Taj Mahal. Close by is Agra Fort, an imposing citadel, once home to the ruling Mughal Emperor. Your accommodation in Agra is in the heritage Grand Imperial Hotel. After a comfortable fast train ride aboard the Shatabdi Express, you’ll arrive in Delhi where more discoveries await in India’s capital. Continuously habitated since the 6th century BC, Delhi contains the relics of 7 major cities and is home to outstanding examples of Mughal architecture, wide boulevards and impressive government buildings constructed during the British Raj. In Delhi, you’ll join an interesting and engaging walking tour of Old Delhi escorted and guided by a former homeless, street person. Your accommodation in Delhi is in a boutique guest house, Colonel’s Retreat.

Departs Daily except Tuesday Per person cost from: $995

All add on tour costs are based on a minimum of two persons.

Exciting Holiday Add ons

Back Track Adventures222A Barry Parade, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006PO Box 132, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006

Phone 07 3850 7655 | Fax 07 3854 1079email [email protected] www.backtrackadventures.com.au

ABN 23 910 991 873 | Licence Number 177/178 | Member AFTA, TCF, WTAAA

www.backtrackadventures.com.au India Assist Line: 1300 669 780

IND

BRO-13-08

• proudly Australian owned an

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ed •

1984–2013

www.backtrackadventures.com.au Back Track Adventures India 2013 - Ancient Odisha - Karnataka Heritage - Classic Kerala Booking Form | Page 1 of 2

India Booking Form 2013IN

DBO

OK-13-02

1. CHeCK AvAIlABIlIty: Call Back Track Adventures to check availability of your preferred tour. Some tours book quickly so please book early. 2. ensure tHAt yOu reAd And understAnd Our BOOKIng COndItIOns: By paying your deposit you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Terms and Conditions of Booking on page two (2) of this Booking Form and you agree to be bound by these Booking Conditions. 3. COmplete tHIs BOOKIng FOrm And pAy ApplICABle depOsIt: A non-refundable deposit of $600 per person is required or full payment if booking is within 60 days of your Team departure date. On receipt of your booking form and deposit your Confirmation Pack will be sent to you. The Pack contains all the information you need to prepare for your tour plus a Personal Details Booklet that must be completed and returned to us immediately. 4. trAvel InsurAnCe Is COmpulsOry and it is recommended that you arrange this at time of booking. Visit our website: www.backtrack.com.au/insurance.htm to arrange insurance online, or contact us for insurance information.please complete All FIelds in the form below to ensure accurate processing of your booking and deposit payment.

How to Book:

details trAveller 1 trAveller 2

please reserve a place for me on (please tick):

n Ancient OdIsHA n KArnAtAKA Heritage n Classic KerAlAn Ancient OdIsHA & KArnAtAKA Heritage n KArnAtAKA Heritage & Classic KerAlA n Ancient OdIsHA & KArnAtAKA Heritage & Classic KerAlA

please tick where appropriate

I require: n Flights from ________________(please supply quote) I require: n Flights from ________________(please supply quote)

n Additional land arrangements n Additional land arrangements

Full name (as per your passport)

Title Surname Title Surname

First Name(s) Middle Name(s) First Name(s) Middle Name(s)

Preferred Name Preferred Name

Sex M n F n Date of Birth Sex M n F n Date of Birth

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telephone AH ( ) BH ( ) AH ( ) BH ( )

mobile

preferred Contact

n Email n Phone - AH n Phone - BH n Phone - Mobile

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Occupation

n I would like to subscribe to the Back Track Adventures Newsletter n I would like to subscribe to the Back Track Adventures Newsletter

depOsIt pAyment detAIls - payment of $600 per person is required to secure your booking

payment Options

Please complete payment details as requested and return this form via fax, post or scanned email copy.

n Payment by Cheque. Please make all cheques payable to Back track Adventures

n Payment by direct deposit Date paid ____ / ____ / 20____ Please allow 24hours for your payment to process into our bank account

Bank and Branch ANZ Bank, Fortitude Valley BSB 014 240 Account No. 3714 19046 Account Name Back track Adventures Qld Swift Code (for overseas payments) AnZBAu3mPlease enter your Surname and/or Team number into the REFERENCE field when transferring your deposit payment

n Payment by Credit Card:

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Signature_________________________________________________Please note: credit card fees apply to deposit payments and all payments thereafter:

Visa/Mastercard > 1.2% American Express (AMEX) > 3.45%

Where to send your form and payment details

Phone 1300 669 780 Fax 07 3854 1079 email [email protected] Address PO Box 132 Fortitude Valley QLD 4006 Office 132 Wickham St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006

1984–2013

Back Track Adventures (Travel agents Licence Numbers 177/178), ABN 23910991873, act as Travel Agents and Tour Operators contracting some services from other tour operators, Travel Agents, Airlines, Hotels and others, herein referred to as Service Providers.

1. gettIng stArted: A booking is made by completing the booking form and returning same with your deposit of $600 per person to Back Track Adventures. A Confirmation pack will be sent to you as soon as possible after receipt of your booking form and deposit. It is a condition of booking that you arrange comprehensive travel insurance with emergency evacuation cover when you pay your deposit or within 7 days of receiving your Confirmation Pack. If travel insurance cover can not be obtained for a medical condition, or any reason, you must advise us immediately. pleAse nOte tHe depOsIt Is strICtly nOn–reFundABle. Payment: Final balance is due 65 days prior to your departure from Australia. If you book less then 65 days prior to departure then full payment must be made at time of booking. If payment is not made by the due date, we reserve the right to cancel your booking. Your deposit is non-refundable. Trip Price: The trip price is based on costs and exchange rates current at time of printing this brochure. We reserve the right to adjust prices before or after your booking. If we receive any increase in prices for services, these increases may be passed on even after final balance has been received. Airfares quoted by Back Track are subject to change by the airlines. Any airfare increases will be passed on. Flight taxes are subject to increase at any time.

2. CAnCellAtIOn By yOu: If you cancel your trip, land and air cancellation fees apply. The fee is determined by the date that we receive written notification of your cancellation. Fees are as follows: Days before Departure: More than 65 days: loss of deposit, 65 days or less: 100% of total booking cost. Depending on your reason for cancelling, charges may be recoverable by you under your insurance policy. CAnCellAtIOn By us: Our tour departures are subject to minimum numbers being obtained. We reserve the right to cancel the tour if minimum numbers are not achieved within 60 days of the scheduled departure date. We will advise anyone affected no later then 60 days prior to departure and in this case all monies paid to us by you will be refunded except any payment for travel insurance. No responsibility is taken by us for any costs incurred for goods or services purchased by you independently for this tour. These costs might include, but are not limited to, costs imposed by an airline on cancelled advance purchase airline tickets.

3. evACuAtIOn: In the unlikely event that you are evacuated from the tour for any reason, all costs associated with the evacuation are your expense. Costs include, but are not limited to, evacuation costs by helicopter or fixed wing aircraft, medical expenses, doctors fees, additional accommodation and transport. From the moment you leave the tour itinerary, any meals, accommodation or services provided at the evacuation point are at your expense. No refunds are given for unused services.

4. ACCeptIng InHerent dAngers: You understand and accept that your proposed tour may expose you to inherent dangers. The client may find the tour to be physically and mentally demanding. Only people in good physical and mental condition should undertake this tour. You must check with your

Doctor and ensure that your health is sound and you are able to undertake a rigorous training programme as necessary. You must accept that you will be travelling through a remote area where outside assistance may be delayed or unavailable if an unforeseen event occurs. This may be due to medical, weather or political situations and may affect you or other members of the group or our tour crew. You must understand and accept that a medical emergency in this remote area may be life threatening and by completing this booking form you accept these potential adverse and unfavourable conditions and potential life threatening situations as your choice. You agree that Back Track Staff have answered, in a forthright manner, all questions you may have asked regarding all aspects of the Tour, in particular, questions regarding Health, Fitness, Physical and Mental challenges and risks.

5. lIABIlIty releAse And respOnsIBIlItIes: Back Track Adventures will always act with due care and skill. Where Back Track Adventures utilise Services Providers, Back Track Adventures are not responsible for the acts and omissions of these Service Providers, including tour guides, for any loss, damage or expense, including loss of money paid in advance which you may incur as a consequence of the acts, omissions and negligence of others. As soon as possible on receipt of your completed booking form and deposit, you will be sent with your Confirmation Pack, an ‘Indemnity & Release Form’, This must be read, understood, signed and returned in the envelope provided within 7 days of receipt.

6. yOur HeAltH And FItness: We strongly recommend a visit to your doctor immediately to determine if you have any health issues that may prevent you from participating in this holiday. You must ask your doctor about current inoculation requirements. A ‘Medical Questionnaire and a Fitness Questionnaire’ will be sent to you with your Confirmation Pack which must be completed and returned within 7 days of receipt. On receipt of your completed Medical Questionnaire, some clients, in particular those with pre-existing medical conditions may be asked to obtain a clearance from their Doctor as to their ability to complete the tour. We reserve the right, at our discretion, to cancel any booking and refund any monies paid. During your tour you are under the authority of your tour leader who has authority to determine your suitability to continue with your tour.

7. mInOrs: In general, minors (under 18 years) are not accepted on this trip. Acceptance of a minor on a trip is strictly at the discretion of Back Track Adventures. In most cases we are happy to accept minors. Please enquire.

8. use OF pHOtOs: You agree that Back Track may use images of you taken during your trip without recourse to you and without compensation to you. The images will be for marketing and promotional purposes only and the selected medium will be at Back Track’s discretion.

www.backtrackadventures.com.au Back Track Adventures India 2013 - Ancient Odisha - Karnataka Heritage - Classic Kerala Booking Form | Page 2 of 2

India Booking Form 2013

terms and Conditions of Booking:By paying your deposit you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Terms and Conditions of Booking as outlined below and you agree to be bound by these Booking Conditions.

Back track Adventures1st Floor, 132 Wickham Street, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006PO Box 132, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006

phone 07 3850 7600 | Fax 07 3854 1079email [email protected] www.backtrackadventures.com.au

ABN 23 910 991 873 | Licence Number 177/178 | Member AFTA, TCF, WTAAA

www.backtrackadventures.com.au India Assist line: 1300 669 780

1984–2013

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Travel india with Back Track Adventures