India, Nepal, Bhutan 2023 & Beyond_NZ

Everything

INDIA NEPAL

BHUTAN

2023 & BEYOND

www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS is a Travel Wholesaler as well as a Destination Management Company with a combined experience of over 40 years in designing and operating bespoke trips to India, Nepal and Bhutan with offices on the ground, the company has been a backbone and ground operator for thousands of small, independent and large Travel Companies across the Globe.

We pride ourselves on having an unparalleled understanding of the Countries and use this knowledge to create tours that exceed travellers expectations. Our Sales and Product teams live and breathe the culture of the country. We don’t believe in cookie cutting experience and make travellers satisfaction a priority.

We are dedicated to ensuring that every step of the journey, down to the last detail, is taken care of with in-depth product knowledge and range of services offered, highly trained and motivated teams, an exclusive panel of knowledgeable Local guides & Tour Manager along with our Wi-Fi-equipped modern fleet of transport creates enriching travel experiences.

This means you’ll enjoy a wealth of choices you simply won’t find with anyone else. Whether it’s our Small Group Journeys or our Bespoke, Private Escorted Tours, Luxury Train and/or River Cruising. All tours are prepared according to travellers wish list, interests, style and pace.

The TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS team ensure that every itinerary is well balanced and introduces you to centuries-old amazing cultural experiences, breathtaking scenery and historical sites. Most of the must-see attractions and must-do activities are included, allowing you to witness the sights, taste the delicious cuisine, visit bazaars for souvenirs, meet and experience the life of the locals, with plenty of free time to explore locations the way you want to.

TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS is: The source The destination management company The ground operator The travel wholesaler Multi-award-winning Experienced Accredited Respected 2 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

W

Welcome to TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS Collection. Inside you’ll find a special selection of our favourite trips across our Leisure, Luxury and Adventure programs designed to immerse you in the cultures and sights that makes India, Nepal and Bhutan so attractive as a destination Bucket list.

Put together by our Product specialists, our destination brochures are not only designed to showcase the countless beautiful places you can travel to, but also to help narrow down the many choices you’re faced with when planning a trip. They feature places to stay, suggested routes to take and different kinds of experiences you can have, as well as features on history, culture, culinary and wildlife. Whether you’re heading out to join a Group Tour, Private Tour such as Family Holiday, Honeymoon, Wellness, Wildlife Safari, Fly & Flop, Cycling, Walking Tour or special interest tour we have got it covered.

Although the world has changed, our passion for travel hasn’t stopped, and we’re looking forward to welcoming our customers back on a safe and secure trip. You can continue to book with confidence and added peace of mind that you are travelling with the Destination Management Company who maintained the highest standard of safety and hygiene from the start.

We are confident that you will find your perfect holiday with TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS. Don’t forget that we craft outstanding bespoke tours if you wish to tailor a holiday to your unique desires.

Contents 9

Small Group Journeys

10

Golden Triangle & Tiger

11

Best of Rajasthan & Kerala

12

Highlights of Rajasthan

14

Solo Journeys

16

Women’s Getaway

24

Land & River Cruising

30

Special Interest Group Journeys

32

North India Culinary Tour

34

South India Culinary Tour

40

Golf Tour of India

42

India Photography Tour

60

Bespoke, Private Escorted Tours

71

Family Holidays

74

Honeymoon Tours

76

Wildlife Tours

78

India by Rail

80

Unique Experiences & Short Tours

87

Fly & Flop & Short Tours

90

Destination Wedding India

96

Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing & Events

102

Nepal

105

Bhutan

106

Booking Conditions

Amaan Khan Anita Thomas Global CEO & MD Global Director Sales & Marketing www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 3

India

The magic, the mystery we make it yours...

Travelling to India is not so much a journey but an experience. It’s size, diversity, beauty and careless flowing of countless cultures make a journey through India a continuous Cinerama. India embraces you, looks at you, evaluates you, turns you inside out and ensures that the guest of India has an incredible experience.

Welcome onboard and witness a canvas of majestic landscapes, snow-capped mountains, endless plains, virgin beaches, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, fantastic fairs and festivals and museums, known to be the best in the world.

TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS offices across the countries

SRINAGAR

AMRITSAR SHIMLA CHANDIGARH INDIA DMC Head Office DELHI

BIKANER

KATHMANDU

JAISALMER

GANGTOK

AGRA JAIPUR

JODHPUR GANDHINAGAR

Nepal Office

LUCKNOW VARANASI KHAJURAHO

UDAIPUR

KOLKATA

BHUBANESHWAR

AURANGABAD MUMBAI

HYDERABAD

GOA

BANGALORE

CHENNAI PORT BLAIR

COCHIN THIRUVANANTHAPURAM

Sri Lanka DMC Head Office COLOMBO

4 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

THO FOUNDATION We’re the not-for-profit entity of TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS and making a difference by supporting education, job, food, basic health care for not so privileged children and take care of the destitute elderly.

You empower us as we have not done any fundraiser functions or asked for any donation on behalf of the THO Foundation. $10 to $30 are donated from every booking as well as by the company directors to ensure our care continues. All the work is managed by our THO volunteers and is supported by the company.

We ask people to book with TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS and experience the culture and people behind it. The encouraging factor is the people who choose to travel with us time and time again.

Preference is given to locals when hiring and training is provided to improve the livelihoods of vulnerable individuals and communities through sustainable travel experiences.

VOLUNTEERS www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 5

A boundless variety of accommodation Choosing your accommodation is not difficult with the number of locations on offer. We have collated a list of our preferred hotels, a few of which are mentioned below. In our small group journeys, deluxe category accommodations are selected which includes a mix of unique / boutique and luxury accommodation. For our bespoke and chauffeurdriven holidays, you can choose from a selection of top luxury hotels to unique and boutique options. We don’t

favour any specific brand and our preferred accommodation selection is based on the feedback of our guests as well as extensive research. Our hotel contracting team ensures our hand-picked selection provides consistency and aweinspiring services, fine dining restaurants, a good selection of amenities and facilities, all with the best experience and at a great value.

Taj Group of Palace, Hotels & Resorts

The Oberoi Group of Hotels & Resorts

ITC Group of Hotels & Resorts

The Leela Group of Palace Hotels & Resorts

CGH Earth

Sarovar Group Hotels & Resorts

Relais and Chateaux

Independent and Boutique Hotels

6 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Important information Passport and Tourist Visas

Hotel Grading

INDIA: Visa is required and can be obtained online up to 6 months before arrival by visiting www.indianvisaonline. gov.in/visa

Deluxe: A great mix of 5 and 4-star hotels, boutique palaces and heritage properties offering above average to very good facilities.

NEPAL: Visa is required and can be obtained on arrival.

Luxury: 5-star hotels, palaces and heritage properties offering a full range of facilities and exceptional services.

BHUTAN: Visa is required and the fee is included in the tour cost.

Discounts and Savings We are a family people so always love a discount to use during a holiday. Therefore we offer discounts if you are travelling on any of our small group tours: Save 5% when you book early (a minimum 10-12 months in advance) Save 5 to 10% when travelling together as a group of six or more passengers

Premium: Unique 5-star resorts, hotels, palaces and heritage properties offering an extensive range of facilities and outstanding services.

Important Note: Where destinations have less choice in accommodation, the best available category of hotels is provided.

On Bespoke, Private Escorted Tours It is also possible to take a combination of deluxe, luxury and premium accommodation in one itinerary. Nepal, being an adventure destination, the choices of accommodation are limited. To ensure a comfortable standard of service we have used 4* & 5* accommodations. In Bhutan basic standard hotel accommodation is used unless requested.

Save 5% if you have already travelled with us within the last 2 years When you combine two or more tours in one holiday, save 5% on your second and onwards tour package For more details please refer to booking conditions at the end of the brochure.

TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS Ground Transport All our transportation comes with an experienced driver for your tour. Our deluxe and luxury tour packages include a large vehicle for additional comfort and space. When passengers are in a group of 4-8, a mini coach is used.

Where more than 9 passengers are travelling in a group, medium or large coaches will be used to accommodate the number of passengers and their luggage.

Medium Vehicle Suzuki Dzire

Mini Coach Tempo Traveller

x2 +Driver

x 4-12 +Driver & assistant

Large Vehicle Toyota Innova

Medium Coach

Vehicle type may vary from country to country and place to place though all our vehicles are air-conditioned, except in remote Himalayan, Bhutan and Nepal regions where air-conditioning is not available or is unnecessary. In national parks and sanctuaries, open-top vehicles are used.

x 2-4 +Driver

x 13-22 +Driver & assistant

Large Vehicle Suzuki Ertiga

Large Coach

x 2-4 +Driver

x 23-40 +Driver & assistant

www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 7

Looking after you isn’t just our job – it’s our passion Local Experts We are the source, the Destination Management Company, Ground Operator and wholesaler, offering nothing but the best in its category.

Inclusive and Guaranteed Our price covers everything as mentioned on the tour page. Price is guaranteed once your deposit has been paid.

100% Guaranteed Departure Every departure is guaranteed as mentioned on the tour page. So book and relax knowing the tour will not be cancelled unless there are circumstances beyond our control.

Small Group Size Average group size is between 6-10 people with a maximum of 16 people.

Bespoke, Private Escorted Tours Our team of local experts can create a bespoke itinerary considering your interest, style and wishlist.

Travel Companions When you book in Australia and New Zealand rest assured the tour cohort will be your fellow citizens only.

THO Assistance From start to end of your tour, check-in and check-out, arrivals and departures are assisted by any of our 38 local and regional THO office teams.

24/7 Helpline For peace of mind, 24/7 emergency help is available to you.

Meet and Greet and Transfers Just look for a THO Tour Executive as soon as you emerge from the airport arrival lounge. All transfers are included so you can focus on the tour experience.

8 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

More Free Time Our carefully designed itineraries are leisurely paced and offer enough time to explore.

Carefully Selected Accommodation Hotels in every tour are carefully selected according to its location, restaurants, character, service, facilities and value.

Must-do and Must-see Being local our team knows the destination well and ensures every tour includes the must-do activities and must-see locations of the area.

Wireless Connectivity Every THO guest enjoys free Wi-Fi while touring on most coaches, cars and hotels.

Travel in Comfort & Style Window seats and panoramic views for everyone is our priority. For 16 people we offer 32-45 seater coaches.

Experienced and Licensed Tour Managers Our Tour Managers are historians, great storytellers and government licensed, with 10-12 years of experience.

Local Tour Guides Our destination Tour Guides are local and belong to many different cultures and ethnic backgrounds.

No Early Starts Enjoy your leisurely breakfast as most activity starts after 8.30am unless specified due to its importance.

99.99% Guest Satisfaction We acknowledge your trust and do everything possible to ensure you return home with only great experiences.

Small Group Journeys Guaranteed Departure

DELUXE Small Group Journeys

Golden Triangle & Tiger (Tour Code: GTATFGT) 9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS

2,055 PP

EASY-PACED GUARANTEED DEPARTURE MIN PAX: 04 DELUXE FROM NZ $

Explore some of the most impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites and search for the elusive tiger at Ranthambhore National Park. The dazzling forts and monuments of Delhi are evidence of Mughal opulence and British sophistication.

The Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love, is definitely a highlight along with visits to Agra Fort and the local markets. Not to be missed is the Pink City of Jaipur with its rich architectural legacy of Jaipur merchants.

Delhi 2

Jaipur 2

1 Agra 2

Ranthambhore NP

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel in Delhi for two nights stay.

B D Day 2: Delhi Enjoy breakfast and an introduction to the tour before starting full day sightseeing of Old and New Delhi. Visit Qutb Minar, India Gate, Asia’s largest spice market and Chandni Chowk bazaar. Enjoy a welcome dinner.

B D Day 3: Delhi - Jaipur Travel to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Evening free to explore the colourful bazaar of this pink city. Stay two nights at Jaipur.

B D Day 4: Jaipur Start full day sightseeing tour with a visit to Amber Fort and the Maharaja’s City Palace, the Observatory, photo stop at the Hawa Mahal and drive past the old part of the city.

Day 5: Jaipur B L D Ranthambhore After breakfast travel to Ranthambhore National Park and enjoy a village tour.

Stay two nights at the wildlife resort.

B L D Day 6: Ranthambhore Enjoy morning and afternoon wildlife safari at the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, home to many wildlife species.

B D Day 7: Ranthambhore - Agra We make our way for the last leg of our journey to Agra, en-route visit Keoladeo Ghana bird sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a rickshaw ride to see several species of Indian and international migratory birds. Stay overnight in Agra.

B D Day 8: Agra Visit the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love and the impressive 16th century Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Conclude the day with a visit to a marble inlay workshop to see artisans creating a masterpiece.

B Day 9: Agra - Delhi Departure After breakfast travel back to Delhi.

Tour finishes with direct transfer to international airport.

Departure & Pricing (NZ$ PER PERSON From)

Dates 2023 21-29 Oct 18-26 Nov 10-18 Dec 2024 21-29 Jan

Twin NZ$ 2,201 2,201 2,201 NZ$ 2,201

Solo NZ$ 2,967 2,967 2,967 NZ$ 2,967

10-18 Feb

2,201

2,967

21-30 Mar

2,752

3,726

20-28 Apr

2,055

2,734

05-13 May

2,055

2,734

19-27 Oct

2,294

3,136

30 Oct-07 Nov

2,638

3,593

08-16 Dec 2025 25 Jan-02 Feb

2,288 NZ$ 2,294

2,967 NZ$ 3,136

22 Feb-02 Mar

2,294

3,136

11-20 Mar

2,844

3,894

20-28 Apr

2,169

2,916

04-12 May

2,169

2,916

Tour notes: Departure during Holi includes one extra night to Holi Diwali experience the festival.

Suggested gratuity NZ$ 90pp: Driver, Tour Guide and Tour Manager Add international return airfare: From NZ$ 1,200pp (Low season)

What’s included: 08 Nights deluxe accommodation Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Local English-speaking tour guide Monument entrance fees Jeep ride in Jaipur Rickshaw ride in Delhi 02 Wildlife safaris at Ranthambhore Bottled water while travelling All current collectable taxes.

10 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Best of Rajasthan & Kerala (Tour Code: BORAKFGT) 18 DAYS / 17 NIGHTS EASY-PACED GUARANTEED DEPARTURE MIN PAX: 04

4,858 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

Explore the best of Rajasthan and Kerala on this incredible group tour. Great for first-time travellers to India who want to see a broad range of the best the entire country has to offer, the tour features breath-taking landscapes, spectacular cultural sites, one of India’s most interesting game reserves, and two dynamic regions.

2 Delhi 2

Jaipur

2 Agra 2

Ranthambhore NP

1 Munnar

Cochin 2

Kumarakom

Alleppey 1

2 Thekkady

Trivandrum

3 Kovalam

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel. Stay two nights in Delhi.

B D Day 2: Delhi Enjoy breakfast followed by a briefing before starting the full day sightseeing of Delhi. Visit Jama Masjid, Qutab Minar, India Gate and explore Chandni Chowk bazaar by rickshaw.

B D Day 3: Delhi – Jaipur Travel to Jaipur, the pink city of India.

Rest of the evening is free to explore the colourful bazaars and stay two nights in Jaipur.

B D Day 4: Jaipur Start a full-day sightseeing tour with an excursion to the Amber Fort, a photo Stop at Hawa Mahal and visit the City Palace Museum. Late afternoon women will have Heena painting and men will learn the art of Rajasthani Turban tying.

Day 5: Jaipur – Ranthambhore B D Travel to Ranthambhore National Park and enjoy a village tour. Stay two nights at Ranthambhore.

Day 14: Overnight Houseboat B L D Morning travel to Kumarakom and enjoy a cruise through canals and lakes. Stay overnight on a traditional houseboat.

B L D Day 6: Wildlife Safari Enjoy a morning and afternoon canter safari around the game reserve to spot wildlife, birds and reptiles and if lucky, see a Royal Bengal Tiger.

Day 15-17: Alleppey – Kovalam B D After breakfast disembark and travel to Kovalam. Enjoy a basic Ayurveda massage with three nights at a beach resort.

Day 7: Ranthambhore – Agra B D Travel to Agra, en-route visit Fatehpur Sikri and Stay two nights in Agra.

B Day 18: Trivandrum Departure After breakfast, the tour finishes with a direct transfer to Trivandrum airport.

B D Day 8: Agra An early start to visit the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love. After breakfast visit Agra Fort, Itmad-UdDaulah and a marble inlay workshop.

B D Day 9: Agra – Cochin Travel back to Delhi and board a flight to Cochin. Evening free to relax and stay two nights in Cochin.

B D Day 10: Cochin Enjoy city sightseeing and visit the Harbour terminus, Mattancherry Dutch Palace, The Jewish Synagogue and St. Francis Church. Evening watch a Kathakali Dance Show.

B D Day 11: Cochin – Munnar Travel to Munnar, famous for its Tea Plantations. Afternoon visit tea plantations and then learn about how the tea is processed at the local factory. Overnight stay in Munnar.

B D Day 12: Munnar – Thekkady Today travel to Thekkady, Evening enjoy a boat ride on Periyar lake and stay two nights in Thekkady.

B D Day 13: Thekkady Morning visit to a Spice Plantation.

Evening at leisure to explore the local market famous for its spice and local produce.

Departure & Pricing (NZ$ PER PERSON From)

Dates 2023 30 Sep-17 Oct 21 Oct-07 Nov 18 Nov-05 Dec 2024 21 Jan-07 Feb

Twin NZ$ 5,154 5,154 6,104 NZ$ 5154

Solo NZ$ 6,848 6,848 7,832 NZ$ 6,848

10-27 Feb

5,154

6,848

21 Mar-08 Apr

5,726

7,607

20 Apr-07 May

4,858

6,375

21 Sep-08 Oct

4,985

6,588

19 Oct-05 Nov

5,319

7,195

30 Oct-16 Nov 2025 25 Jan-11 Feb

5,677 NZ$ 5,319

7,654 NZ$ 7,195

22 Feb-11 Mar

5,319

7,195

11 Mar-29 Mar

5,892

7,954

20 Apr-07 May

5,164

6,816

Tour notes: Departure during Holi includes one extra night to Holi Diwali experience the festival.

Suggested gratuity NZ$ 195pp: Driver, Tour Guide and Tour Manager Economy airfare included: NZ$ 103 pp Add international return airfare: From NZ$ 1,200pp (Low season)

What’s included: 17 Nights deluxe accommodation

Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Local English-speaking tour guide Monument entrance fees Airfare Delhi-Cochin in economy class Overnight backwater cruise 02 Wildlife safaris at Ranthambhore Jeep ride in Jaipur 01 Basic Ayurveda massage Kathakali dance show Boat ride at Periyar Spice plantation visit Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 11

DELUXE Small Group Journeys

time First-ellers Trav ice Cho

INDIA

Top r Selle

Highlights of Rajasthan (Tour Code: HORFGT) 17 DAYS / 16 NIGHTS EASY-PACED GUARANTEED DEPARTURE MIN PAX: 04

3,858 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

Rajasthan, the ‘Land of Kings’ is steeped in romantic history, chivalry and valour. It boasts some of the finest fortress palaces set against the stark desert landscape. With its brightly coloured costumes of local, turbaned men and richly jewelled women, the haveli’s and villages, fairs and festivals, this tour takes you back to a bygone era.

2 Delhi

Bikaner 1 2

Jaisalmer

Jaipur

Jodhpur

2

2

2

1

2 Agra 2 Ranthambore NP

Pushkar

Udaipur

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel. Stay two nights in Delhi.

B D Day 2: Delhi Enjoy breakfast and an introduction to the tour by the Tour Manager before, starting full-day sightseeing of Delhi. Visit the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride past the several busy bazaars and Asia’s largest spice market which has existed since the 17th century. Finally, visit Qutub Minar a World Heritage site, this is the tallest brick minaret in the world, completed

in the 14th century with beautiful terra cotta embellishments and balconies.

Evening enjoy a welcome dinner.

B D Day 3: Delhi – Jaipur After breakfast travel to Jaipur, the first planned city of India, a treasure trove of culture, art and history, famous for its colour, lifestyle and Rajasthani cuisine. Stay two nights in Jaipur.

B D Day 4: Sightseeing & Bazaar Start the day’s sightseeing with a visit to Amber Fort. Later continue to City Palace and the Observatory and take a photo stop at Hawa Mahal, the Palace of the Winds, built in the 17th Century. Jaipur is famous for colourful markets filled with textiles, jewellery and fantastic souvenirs so you’ll enjoy exploring the local bazaar in the evening.

B D Day 5: Jaipur – Bikaner Travel to Bikaner, a centre of art and culture of medieval India. In the

afternoon visit the well-preserved 16th-century Junagarh Fort and Lallgarh Palace. Evening at leisure to explore and experience the royal legacy of a bygone era. Stay overnight in Bikaner.

B D Day 6: Bikaner – Jaisalmer After breakfast travel to the Golden City of Jaisalmer, built-in 1156 AD and named after its founder, Bhatti Rajput Rao Jaisal. Located deep in the heart of the desert, the city is popular for its centuries-old forts, palaces, havelies and amber-hued houses. Evening free to explore the town and stay two nights in Jaisalmer.

Day 7: Jaisalmer Sightseeing B D Go on a sightseeing tour to visit the imposing Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli and Gadisar Lake. Later this evening, enjoy a camel ride on the exotic dunes, offering an unforgettable experience of rich cultural heritage.

What’s included: 16 Nights deluxe accommodation Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers Local English-speaking tour guide Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified Accompanied Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Monument entrance fees Rickshaw ride in Delhi Camel ride in Jaisalmer Jeep ride at Jaipur 02 Wildlife safaris at Ranthambhore Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes.

12 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

B D Day 8: Jaisalmer – Jodhpur Today drive to Jodhpur, the bustling desert city the second-largest city in Rajasthan with a landscape dominated by the massive Mehrangarh Fort atop a sheer rocky ridge. Evening free to explore the Sadar Bazaar famous for glass bangles, rugged camel leather mojri slippers and incredible fabrics.

Stay two nights in Jodhpur.

B D Day 9: Jodhpur Sightseeing Morning enjoy a city tour and visit Mehrangarh Fort nestled atop a hill, at a height of 410 ft above the city, and stands as a majestic citadel of colossal proportions also go to Jaswant Thada, an imposing marble cenotaph.

B D Day 10: Jodhpur – Udaipur Drive to Udaipur and en-route visit Ranakpur, renowned for its Jain temples with intricately carved marble pillars and domes believed to have been built in 1439AD. The temple rests on 1444 elegantly carved pillars – no two identical. Stay two nights in Udaipur.

Day 11: Udaipur Sightseeing Start your full-day sightseeing tour with visit to City Palace, Jagdish Temple, Museum, Jag Mandir, Saheliyon-Ki-Bari and Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandir which is an Indian folk art museum. Conclude your evening with a boat ride on Lake Pichola.

B

D

B D Day 12: Udaipur – Pushkar We will leave early this morning and drive west to Pushkar, the peaceful Hindu pilgrimage centre made famous

by the annual Camel Fair. Evening visit Brahma Temple, Pushkar Lake and the local bazaars around. stay overnight in Pushkar.

Day 13: Pushkar – Ranthambhore B D Today travel to Ranthambhore National Park, the former hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur a famous tiger reserve. Evening free to explore the town and stay two nights in Ranthambhore.

B L D Day 14: Wildlife Safari Enjoy a morning and afternoon canter safari around the game reserve with an estimated area of 400sq km. Spot various wildlife species of animals, birds and reptiles and if lucky, see a Royal Bengal Tiger.

Day 15: Ranthambhore – Agra B D We make our way for the last leg of our journey to Agra, en-route visit Keoladeo Ghana bird sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a rickshaw ride to see several species of Indian and international migratory birds. Stay two nights in Agra.

B D Day 16: Agra An early start to visit the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love and devotion with its superb craftsmanship of semi-precious stones inlaid in the marble. After breakfast visit the impressive 16th century Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is admired for its splendour, architectural beauty and magnificent halls. Conclude the day with a visit to a marble inlay workshop to see artisans

creating a masterpiece in marble and precious gemstones.

B Day 17: Agra - Delhi Departure Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and checkout by 1200hrs and travel to Delhi, tour finishes by late evening with a direct transfer to Delhi International airport.

Departure & Pricing (NZ$ PER PERSON From)

Dates

Twin

Solo

2023

NZ$

NZ$

22 Sep-08 Oct

3,959

5,351

20 Oct-05 Nov

5,173

6,695

17 Nov-03 Dec

5,173

6,695

2024

NZ$

NZ$

09-25 Feb

4,160

5,742

22 Mar-08 Apr

4,709

6,499

12-28 Apr

3,858

5,208

20 Sep-06 Oct

3,961

5,316

12 Oct-28 Oct

4,351

6,083

5,003

7,079

29 Oct-15 Nov



2025

NZ$

NZ$

24 Jan-09 Feb

4,359

6,092

21 Feb-09 Mar

4,359

6,091

11 Mar-28 Mar

4,909

6,850

18 Apr-04 May

4,094

5,598

Tour notes: Departure during Holi & Pushkar includes one extra night to experience the festival.

Holi Diwali  Pushkar Suggested gratuity NZ$ 180pp: Driver, Tour Guide and Tour Manager Add international return airfare: From NZ$ 1,200pp (Low season)

www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 13

INDIA Solo’s India (Tour Code: SIFGT) 12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS EASY-PACED GUARANTEED DEPARTURE MIN PAX: 04

3,671 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

This 12 days tour of North India reveals a number of its most famous sights and fairy-tale-like palaces. Exclusively designed for solo travellers who love travelling with like-minded people but like the comfort of having their private accommodation.

Delhi 2 Jaipur 2

1 2 Agra Kalakho

2 Jojawar 2 Udaipur

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist with the transfer to the hotel for two night stay in Delhi.

B D Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing Enjoy breakfast and an introduction to the tour by the Tour Manager before, starting full day sightseeing of Delhi. Visit the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride past the several busy bazaars and Asia’s largest spice market which has existed since the

17th-century. Finally, visit Qutub Minar a World Heritage site, this is the tallest brick minaret in the world, wa completed in the 14th century with beautiful terra cotta embellishments and balconies. Evening enjoy a welcome dinner.

B D Day 3: Delhi – Agra After leisurely breakfast travel to Agra, home to India’s most famous landmark, the Taj Mahal. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a lasting tribute to his beloved wife, Queen Mumtaz Mahal.

Completed in 1652, skilled artisans from Persia, Turkey, France and Italy worked for 17 years with some 20,000 labourers to construct this magnificent edifice. Evening free to relax or enjoy various optional activities. Stay two nights in Agra.

Day 4: Agra An early start to visit the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of B

D

love and devotion with its superb craftsmanship of semi-precious stones inlaid in the marble. After breakfast visit the impressive 16th century Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is admired for its splendour, architectural beauty and magnificent halls. Conclude the day with a visit to a marble inlay workshop to see artisans creating a masterpiece in marble and precious gemstones.

B D Day 5: Agra – Kalakho Travel to Kalakho, a small village brimming with culture and history.

Afternoon get a henna tattoo from the village ladies and and men can learn the art of Rajasthani Turban tying as the day is free to explore. Overnight at Ummaid Lake Palace.

B D Day 6: Kalakho – Jaipur Morning enjoy a farm-fresh breakfast and visit an authentic Rajasthani village by Juggad ride, the way locals

What’s included: 11 Nights deluxe accommodation Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers Local English-speaking tour guide Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified Accompanied Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Monument entrance fees Rickshaw ride in Delhi Jeep ride at Jaipur boat ride in Udaipur Village experience & jeep safari in Jojawar Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes.

14 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

do and to get an insight in real rural India. Later travel to Jaipur, the pink city of India. Afternoon enjoy a handson experience with block printing, next visit a jewellery shop to witness how precious and semi-precious stones are cut to perfection. Evening free to relax and stay two nights in Jaipur.

B D Day 7: Jaipur Start a full-day sightseeing tour with an excursion to the majestic Amber Fort, constructed from yellow and pink sandstone and gleaming white marble. Back in the city, photo stop at Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds.

At the City Palace Museum, our knowledgeable guide will enhance your tour of its extensive and carefully curated collection including miniature paintings, ancient weapons and traditional Rajasthani royal costumes.

You’ll also visit Jantar Mantar, an observatory built in 1726, to measure time, predict eclipses and track the movements of the stars and planet.

B D Day 8: Jaipur – Jojawar After breakfast drive to Jojawar – Rawla Jojawar is the fort which is converted into a heritage hotel. The new generation of King Rao, is looking after the hotel in the Rawla, recently

restored into its old-world splendour.

Stay two nights in Jojawar.

B D Day 9: Jojawar Enjoy the village experience accompanied by one of the staff guides, a great way to experience life here as it unfolds before your eyes. The afternoon starts with a new adventure called Countryside jeep safari – It is said that the real India is its rural areas, the country around Jojawar boasts of very interesting landscapes, with the picturesque Aravali Hills in the east.

B D Day 10: Jojawar – Udaipur After breakfast check out of the hotel and travel towards the lake city of Udaipur, en-route pass lush green valleys, and heart-capturing views before visiting Ranakpur, with intricately carved marble Pillars and Domes. Tucked away in a remote valley in the Aravalli ranges, it boasts of one of the largest and most important Jain Temples in the country. Stay two nights at Udaipur.

B D Day 11: Udaipur An excursion from Udaipur to visit a Bhil Village. The sightseeing in Udaipur is set around the City Palace a complex of 11 palaces, all with intricate

“Oh WOW! I think I am still coming back down to earth! I cannot thank you enough for my most amazing time in India. Everyone was wonderful, so caring and exceptional service everywhere. The guides in each city were so knowledgeable, I cannot fault anything about the trip.

– Suzanne Laister

stone work and interiors featuring glass mirrors and ornamental tiles.

Visit the gardens of Sahelion Ki Bari, the old city and conclude your day with a boat ride on Lake Pichola.

B Day 12: Udaipur Departure After breakfast tour finishes with a direct transfer to Udaipur airport.

Departure & Pricing (NZ$ PER PERSON From)

Dates

Solo

2023

NZ$

16-27 Sep

4,183

07-18 Oct

4,183

04-15 Nov

4,508

2024

NZ$

10-21 Feb

4,183

19-31 Mar

4,972

13-24 Apr

3,671

14-25 Sep

3,671

05-16 Oct

4,439

27 Oct-07 Nov

4,917

2025

NZ$

25 Jan-05 Feb

4,439

22 Feb-05 Mar

4,439

09-21 Mar

5,229

19-30-Apr

3,880

Tour notes: Departure during Holi includes one extra night to Holi Diwali experience the festival.

Suggested gratuity NZ$ 130pp: Driver, Tour Guide and Tour Manager Add international return airfare: From NZ$ 1,200pp (Low season)

www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 15

Women’s Getaway to India (Tour Code: WGTIFGT) 16 DAYS / 15 NIGHTS EASY-PACED GUARANTEED DEPARTURE MIN PAX: 04

4,458 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

This tour is designed for women with different activities and experiences, ensuring the must-see-and-do features of the area are covered. We take you to cities full of colour and culture, delicious cuisine, immense beauty and glorious history. While staying in character accommodations providing the flavour of a princely state.

The days are planned carefully with exciting sightseeing, activities, shopping time, Hi-Tea and Spa time. All this combined with the legendary Indian passion for service, ensures you will get the very best out of your visit to this fascinating and enchanting part of the world, returning home with some truly enchanting memories.

Delhi 2 Jodhpur

Jaipur 3

2

2

Agra

2

Deogarh Palace

2

Varanasi

2 Mumbai

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist with the transfer to the hotel for two night stay in Delhi.

B D Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing Enjoy breakfast and an introduction to the tour by the Tour Manager before, starting full day sightseeing of Delhi. Visit the Jama Masjid, one of

the largest mosques in India, enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride past the several busy bazaars and Asia’s largest spice market which has existed since the 17th-century. Finally, visit Qutub Minar a World Heritage site, this is the tallest brick minaret in the world, which was completed in the 14th century with beautiful terra cotta embellishments and balconies. Evening free to explore local bazaar or shopping centre.

B D Day 3: Delhi – Varanasi Transfer to board the morning train to Varanasi. Evening witness the breathtaking Ganga Aarti ceremony. Stay two nights in Varanasi.

B D Day 4: Varanasi An early morning start for a heritage walk and sunrise boat ride on the Ganges to witness the perpetual movement of the pilgrims on the steps. After breakfast enjoy a city tour

What’s included: 15 Nights deluxe accommodation

and then take an excursion to Sarnath where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon at the deer park after his enlightenment. Later we explore the silk weaving village observing the art of silk weaving and shop for beautiful souvenirs.

B D Day 5: Varanasi – Agra After breakfast, we board a flight to Delhi and travel to Agra, home to India’s most famous landmark, the Taj Mahal. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a lasting tribute to his beloved wife, Queen Mumtaz Mahal. Completed in 1652, skilled artisans from Persia, Turkey, France and Italy worked for 17 years with some 20,000 labourers to construct this magnificent edifice. Evening free to relax or enjoy various optional activities.

Stay two nights in Agra.

B D Day 6: Agra An early start to visit the Taj Mahal,

Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified Accompanied Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Local Englishspeaking guide Monument entrance fees Train fare in AC Class Airfare Varanasi-Delhi and Jodhpur-Mumbai in economy class Rickshaw ride at Old Delhi Boat ride on River Ganges Jeep ride at Amber Fort Heena hand painting High Tea at Jaipur Short adventure ride on the local train Village Tour Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes.

16 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Deogarh Mahal the world’s greatest monument of love and devotion with its superb craftsmanship of semi-precious stones inlaid in the marble. After breakfast visit the impressive 16th century Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Conclude the day with a visit to a marble inlay workshop to see artisans creating a masterpiece in marble and precious gemstones.

B T D Day 7: Agra – Jaipur Travel to Jaipur the pink city of India.

After a brief rest get ready for a Hi-Tea at the Rambagh Palace, Savour the best teas of the world with an exquisite array of exotic canapés and pastries while watching the resident peacocks strut in the gardens. The rest of the evening is free to explore and indulge in shopping at the colourful bazaars of Jaipur. Stay three nights in Jaipur.

B D Day 8: Jaipur Start a full-day sightseeing tour with an excursion to the majestic Amber Fort, constructed from yellow and pink sandstone and gleaming white marble. Back in the city, photo Stop at Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds and visit City Palace Museum. Afternoon Heena painting, learn to tie saree and get ready for a group photograph.

Day 9: Jaipur Morning free to book a spa / Ayurveda massage (on a direct payment basis). Or go shopping in Jaipur’s exotic markets.

B

D

Day 10: Jaipur - Deogarh Palace B D Today travel to the southwest across Rajasthan, the land dotted with historic palaces and Havelis, to arrive this afternoon at the Deogarh Mahal

heritage hotel, former home to Mewar rulers. Upon arrival, join a local guide for a fascinating jeep safari through the surrounding countryside and walk through the local village. Dinner will be served at the hotel. Enjoy two nights stay at Deogarh Mahal.

B D Day 11: Deogarh Palace Morning enjoy an experience into the Aravalli Hills by local Meter gauge train on 1930’s British Track. You’ll travel with the locals, enjoying cups of tea at station stops, experience some rugged desert scenery before re-joining your car and driver for the return trip to Deogarh. Afternoon join a walking tour and explore the village.

B D Day 12: Deogarh – Jodhpur Today you will experience the feeling of travelling back in time with a journey to Jodhpur, while you catch a glimpse of the splendour and magnificence of this ancient desert city built on the edge of the Thar Desert. Afternoon free to explore the city’s colourful bazaars and stay two nights in Jodhpur.

B D Day 13: Jodhpur Enjoy a city tour and visit Jaswant Thada and Mehrangarh Fort, one of the best-preserved forts in India.

Rest of the day free to relax or head to Sadar Bazaar famous for glass bangles, rugged camel leather mojari slippers and incredible fabrics.

Day 14: Jodhpur – Mumbai After a leisurely breakfast board your flight to Mumbai, famous for Bollywood, local and international fashion brands and also home to a B

D

wide assortment of local markets and boutiques. Stay two nights in Mumbai.

B D Day 15: Mumbai We enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour of Mumbai, visiting the Prince of Wales Museum, Gateway of India and Dhobi Ghat. The remainder of the day is free to relax or go shopping.

B Day 16: Mumbai Departure After breakfast tour finishes with a direct transfer to Mumbai airport.

Departure & Pricing (NZ$ PER PERSON From)

DATES

TWIN

SOLO

2023

NZ$

NZ$

22 Sep-07 Oct 21 Oct-05 Nov

4,601

5,868

5,860

7,372

17 Nov-02 Dec 

4,771

6,214

2024

NZ$

NZ$

19-03 Feb

4,771

6,214

16 Feb-02 Mar

4,771

6,214

18 Mar-03 Apr

5,321

6,974

19 Apr-04 May

4,458

5,652

20 Sep-05 Oct

4,560

5,818

25 Oct-09 Nov

5,305

7,008

15-30 Nov

4,962

6,549

2025

NZ$

NZ$

17 Jan-01 Feb

4,962

6,549

15 Feb-02 Mar

4,962

6,549

07-23 Mar 18 Apr-03 May

5,511

7,308

4,618

5,930

Tour notes: Departure during Holi includes one extra night to Holi Diwali experience the festival.

Suggested gratuity NZ$170pp: Driver, Tour Guide and Tour Manager Economy airfare included: NZ$291 pp Add international return airfare: From NZ$ 1,200pp (Low season)

www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 17

Most r la Popu

Incredible India (Tour Code: IIFGT)

5,030 PP

17 DAYS / 16 NIGHTS EASY-PACED GUARANTEED DEPARTURE MIN PAX: 04 DELUXE FROM NZ $

This Tour covers all the must-see sites of India in 17 days. India provides a unique combination of tradition and innovation, mixed with an abundance of landscapes and monuments. Take on the bustling capital Delhi before discovering the famous Golden Triangle Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Explore Varanasi and soak in the local culture whilst dazzling by the famous Grand Prayer Ceremony along the river Ganges. Live like a Royal in Rajasthan and discover a world full of contrast in Mumbai. Explore the popular sites as well as hidden beauties off the beaten path. Witness the lifestyle of locals while engulfing in cultural diversity.

B D Day 3: Delhi – Varanasi Transfer to board the morning train to Varanasi. Evening witness the breathtaking Ganga Aarti ceremony. Stay two nights in Varanasi.

Delhi 2 Jaipur 2

2

Jodhpur

Udaipur 2

Agra 1 2

Lucknow

2

Varanasi

3 Mumbai

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel. Stay two nights in Delhi.

B D Day 2: Delhi Enjoy breakfast followed by a briefing before starting the full day sightseeing of Delhi. Visit Jama Masjid, Qutab Minar, India Gate and explore Chandni Chowk bazaar by rickshaw.

B D Day 4: Varanasi An early morning start for a heritage walk and sunrise boat ride on the Ganges to witness the perpetual movement of the pilgrims on the steps. After breakfast enjoy a city tour and then take an excursion to Sarnath where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon at the deer park after his enlightenment. Later we explore the silk weaving village observing the art of silk weaving and shop for beautiful souvenirs.

B D Day 5: Varanasi – Lucknow Travel to Lucknow, known as ’The City of Nawabs’, this bustling city is home to exceptional Islamic and British Rajera architecture, some fascinating bazaars and amazing food, and is truly a unique mix of the ancient and the modern. In the evening enjoy a

walking food tour which allows you to hop in, hop-out of the world-famous traditional roadside eateries. Stay two nights in Lucknow.

B D Day 6: Lucknow Enjoy a city sightseeing tour and visit Bada Imambara, a famous monument of Lucknow, Government Museum. In the afternoon visit a chikan workshop that will mesmerise you as you watch skilled workers delicately working in unique styles and stitches on very light cotton cloths. Also, take a leisure walk in Hazrat Ganj and Aminabad’s local bazaar.

B D Day 7: Lucknow – Agra After breakfast travel to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. Visit to a marble inlay workshop to see artisans creating a masterpiece in marble and precious gemstones. Stay overnight in Agra.

B D Day 8: Agra – Jaipur Early morning visit the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love and devotion with its superb

What’s included: 16 Nights deluxe accommodation Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers Local English-speaking tour guide Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified Accompanied Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Monument entrance fees Rickshaw ride in Delhi Jeep ride at Jaipur Village experience Walking food tour in Lucknow Airfare Udaipur-Mumbai in economy class Train ticket in air-conditioned class Boat ride at Varanasi and Udaipur Dharavi Slum Tour Bottled water while travelling and current collectable taxes.

18 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Varanasi craftsmanship of semi-precious stones inlaid into the marble in beautiful patterns. After breakfast visit the impressive 16th century Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travel to Jaipur, famous for colourful markets filled with textiles, jewellery and fantastic souvenirs. Stay two nights in Jaipur.

B D Day 9: Jaipur Start a full-day sightseeing tour with an excursion to the majestic Amber Fort, constructed from yellow and pink sandstone and gleaming white marble.

Back in the city, photo stop at Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds and visit City Palace Museum. Late afternoon women will have Heena painting, and men will learn the art of Rajasthani Turban tying. Enjoy exploring the local bazaar in the evening.

B D Day 10: Jaipur – Jodhpur Today drive to Jodhpur, a bustling desert city the second-largest city in Rajasthan with a landscape dominated by the massive Mehrangarh Fort atop a sheer rocky ridge. Evening free to explore the Sadar Bazaar famous for glass bangles, rugged camel leather mojari slippers and incredible fabrics.

Stay two nights in Jodhpur.

Day 11: Jodhpur Sightseeing B D Morning enjoy a city tour and visit Mehrangarh Fort nestled atop a hill, at a height of 410 ft above the city, and stands as a majestic citadel of colossal proportions also go to Jaswant Thada, an imposing marble cenotaph.

B D Day 12: Jodhpur – Udaipur Drive to Udaipur and en-route visit Ranakpur, renowned for its Jain temples with intricately carved marble pillars and domes believed to have been built in 1439 AD. The temple rests on 1444 elegantly carved pillars no two pillars are identical. Stay two nights in Udaipur.

B D Day 13: Udaipur Sightseeing Start your full-day sightseeing tour with visit to City Palace, Jagdish Temple, Museum, Jag Mandir, Saheliyon-Ki-Bari and Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandir which is an Indian folk-art museum. Conclude your evening with a boat ride on Lake Pichola.

B D Day 14: Udaipur – Mumbai Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before the transfer to board your flight to Mumbai.

On arrival transfer to the hotel, the remaining day is free to relax. Stay three nights in Mumbai.

Day 15: Dharavi Slum & City Tour B D In the morning we enjoy a city sightseeing tour of Mumbai and visit, the Gateway of India, Hanging Garden and Dhobi Ghat. Our afternoon visit to Dharavi demonstrates why it is the heart of a small-scale industry in Mumbai. Many people know Dharavi as the ‘largest slum in Asia’, but there is much more to this historic area of Mumbai than poverty. This place is the best example of multicultural and multireligious as the temples, mosques and churches stand side by side.

“India is so diverse in culture and food I could not believe until I experienced. This was a perfect tour for me and I loved everything. THO staff and tour guide was so caring. Thank you for suggesting this tour.”

– Anne Hamilton

B D Day 16: Elephanta & Bazaar We enjoy an excursion to Elephanta Island and visit beautiful caves dating back to the 5th Century. On our return we explore Crawford Markets, having goodies for everyone that bring back childhood memories no matter where you were born.

B Day 17: Mumbai Departure After breakfast tour finishes with a direct transfer to Mumbai airport.

Departure & Pricing (NZ$ PER PERSON From)

DATES

TWIN

2023

NZ$

SOLO NZ$

21 Sep-07 Oct 19 Oct-04 Nov

5,163

6,625

5,398

7,081

09-25 Nov

5,614

7,364

2024 25 Jan-10 Feb

NZ$

NZ$

5,398

7,081

22 Feb-09 Mar

5,398

7,081

17 Mar-03 Apr

5,947

7,840

11-27 Apr

5,030

6,338

19 Sep-05 Oct

5,318

6,874

25 Oct-10 Nov

6,048

8,012

14-30 Nov

5,703

7,554

2025

NZ$

NZ$

23 Jan-08 Feb

5,703

7,554

16 Feb-04 Mar

5,703

7,554

06-23 Mar

6,254

8,312

17 Apr-03 May

5,215

6,727

Tour notes: Departure during Holi includes one extra night to Holi Diwali experience the festival.

Suggested gratuity NZ$ 180pp: Driver, Tour Guide and Tour Manager Economy airfare included: NZ$ 105 pp Add international return airfare: From NZ$ 1,200pp (Low season)

www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 19

Highlights of India & Nepal (Tour Code: HOIANFGT)

6,536 PP

19 DAYS / 18 NIGHTS EASY-PACED GUARANTEED DEPARTURE MIN PAX: 04 DELUXE FROM NZ $

This tour is an overview of India and Nepal’s diverse region and showcases the culture, cuisine, traditions and fascinating monument of these two neighbouring countries.

Chitwan 2

Delhi 3 Jaipur 2

2 2

Ranthambhore NP

3

Kathmandu

Agra 2

Lucknow

2 Varanasi

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel. Stay two nights in Delhi.

B D Day 2: Delhi Enjoy breakfast followed by a briefing before starting the full day sightseeing of Delhi. Visit Jama Masjid, Qutab Minar, India Gate, Asia’s largest spice market and explore Chandni Chowk bazaar by rickshaw.

B D Day 3: Delhi – Jaipur Travel to Jaipur. Afternoon we enjoy some shopping at the local bazaar in Choti Chopper located inside the walled city. Stay two nights in Jaipur.

B D Day 4: Jaipur Start sightseeing tour with a photo stop at Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) and visit Amber Fort. This afternoon visit the City Palace and Jantar Mantar and end the day with a cultural evening and dinner.

Day 5: Jaipur – Ranthambhore B D Today travel to Ranthambhore National Park, the former hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur a famous tiger reserve. Evening free to explore the town and stay two nights in Ranthambhore.

B L D Day 6: Wildlife Safari Enjoy a morning and afternoon canter safari around the game reserve with an estimated area of 400sq km. Spot various wildlife species of animals, birds and reptiles and if lucky, see a Royal Bengal Tiger.

Day 7: Ranthambhore – Agra B D We make our way to Agra, en-route visit Keoladeo Ghana bird sanctuary,

a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a rickshaw ride to see several species of Indian and international migratory birds. Stay two nights in Agra.

B D Day 8: Agra An early start to visit the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love and devotion with its superb craftsmanship of semi-precious stones inlaid in the marble.

After breakfast visit the impressive 16th century Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is admired for its splendour, architectural beauty and magnificent halls. Conclude the day with a visit to a marble inlay workshop to see artisans creating a masterpiece in marble and precious gemstones.

B D Day 9: Agra – Lucknow After breakfast travel to Lucknow, known as “the City of Nawab’s”. This bustling city is home to exceptional Islamic and British Raj-era architecture, some fascinating bazaars and amazing food, and is truly a unique mix of the

What’s included: 18 Nights deluxe accommodation Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers Local English-speaking tour guide Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Monument entrance fees Air Fare Varanasi-Delhi-Kathmandu in Economy Class Rickshaw ride in Delhi Walking food tour in Lucknow Jeep ride in Jaipur Boat ride in Varanasi 02 Wildlife safaris at Ranthambhore & Chitwan Bottled water while travelling and current collectable taxes.

20 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Amber Fort ancient and the modern. In the evening enjoy a walking food tour which allows you to hop in, hop-out of the worldfamous traditional roadside eateries.

Stay two nights in Lucknow.

B D Day 10: Lucknow Enjoy a city sightseeing tour and visit Bada Imambara, a famous monument of Lucknow, Government Museum. In the afternoon visit a chikan workshop that will mesmerise you as you watch skilled workers delicately working in unique styles and stitches on very light cotton cloths. Also, take a leisure walk in Hazrat Ganj and Aminabad local bazaar.

B D Day 11: Lucknow – Varanasi Travel to Varanasi, the abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati, the origins of Varanasi are yet unknown. Be guided to the Dashashwamedh Ghat and witness the breath-taking evening Ganga Aarti ceremony (oil lamp prayer). Stay two nights in Varanasi.

B D Day 12: Varanasi An early morning start for a heritage walk and sunrise boat ride on the Ganges to witness the perpetual movement of the pilgrims on the steps. After breakfast enjoy a city tour and then take an excursion to Sarnath where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon at the deer park after his enlightenment. We explore the weaving village observing the art of silk weaving and shop for beautiful souvenirs.

B D Day 13: Varanasi – Delhi After breakfast transfer to board your flight to Delhi. The remainder of the day is free to explore or go shopping.

Stay overnight in Delhi.

B D Day 14: Delhi - Kathmandu Transfer to the airport to board a flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival you will be met and assisted by a TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS executive in the arrival lounge followed by an assisted transfer to the designated hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 15: Kathmandu - Chitwan B L D After breakfast travel to Chitwan. Chitwan National Park is the first national park in Nepal. Formerly called Royal Chitwan National Park it was established in 1973 and granted the status of a World Heritage Site in 1984. Chitwan is one of the few remaining undisturbed vestiges of the Terai region, which formerly extended over the foothills of Nepal.

Day 16: Chitwan National Park B L D After breakfast, enjoy wildlife safari.

Experience rich wildlife, lush grasslands and spectacular sight of rare species of bird and animals such as one-horned rhinoceros, leopard, bear, wild boar, deer, bison and wild crocodiles in their natural habitat. Afternoon walk around the nearby village to witness the daily life of the locals.

Day 17: Chitwan - Kathmandu B D Early morning drive back to Kathmandu. Half day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu visiting the 5th century-old Pashupatinath temple, one of the largest Boudhanath stupa, Swayambhunath temple and the famous Durbar Square.

B D Day 18: Kathmandu Enjoy an excursion to Patan and Bhaktapur to witness a treasure of ancient Newari architecture and arts.

Bhaktapur is an ancient Newar town in the east corner of the Kathmandu Valley.

Bhaktapur is listed as a World Heritage

by UNESCO for its rich culture, temples, and wood, metal and stone artwork.

Enjoy an evening visit to Thamel Market.

B Day 19: Kathmandu Departure After breakfast tour finishes with a direct transfer to Kathmandu airport.

Departure & Pricing (NZ$ PER PERSON From)

Dates 2023 30 Sep-18 Oct

Twin NZ$ 6,732

Solo NZ$ 8,836

21 Oct-08 Nov

6,732

8,836

18 Nov-06 Dec 2024 21 Jan-08 Feb

6,732 NZ$ 6,732

8,836 NZ$ 8,836

10-28-Feb

6,732

8,836

21 Mar-09 Apr 20 Apr-08 May

7,283

9,595

6,536

8,520

21 Sep-09 Oct

6,619

8,637

19 Oct-06 Nov

6,901

9,136

30 Oct-17 Nov 2025 25 Jan-12 Feb

7,244 NZ$ 6,901

9,595 NZ$ 9,136

22 Feb-12 Mar

6,901

9,136

11-30 Mar 20 Apr-08 May

7,450

9,895

6,684

8,703

Tour notes: Departure during Holi includes one extra night to Holi Diwali experience the festival.

Suggested gratuity NZ$ 195pp: Driver, Tour Guide and Tour Manager Economy airfare included: NZ$ 305pp Add international return airfare: From NZ$ 1,200pp (Low season)

www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 21

Southern Explorer & Bollywood (Tour Code: SEABGTB) 15 DAYS / 14 NIGHTS EASY-PACED GUARANTEED DEPARTURE MIN PAX: 04

4,525 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

This tour is a highly recommended for those wishing to experience the beautiful scenery and rich culture of Southern India. Explore some of India’s most important pilgrimage sites and temples, taste spices at their source, cruise waterways, and experience the multicultural harbour town of Cochin and the exciting city of Mumbai.

Afternoon travel to Mahabalipuram and stay two nights.

2 Mumbai

Chennai 1 2 Mahabalipuram 1 Pondicherry

2 Thanjavur 1 Chettinad

1 Madurai Cochin 1 2 Thekkady 1 Alleppey

Day 1: Arrive Chennai On arrival at the airport, meet your tour manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay in Chennai.

B D Day 2: Mahabalipuram After a brief introduction to the city by our tour manager we visit the Museum and Art Gallery and Marina beach, one of the longest beaches in the world.

Day 3: Kanchipuram Excursion B D We enjoy an excursion to Kanchipuram, the flourishing capital city of the 2nd century Cholas Dynasty, now known as City of a Thousand Temples and one of the seven most sacred cities of the Hindu faith. Visit intricately stone carved 8th century Shore Temples constructed in Dravidian style and now a World UNESCO site. Later visit a silk weavers village, settled around 400 years ago with an enviable reputation, who still use the highest quality silk and pure gold thread.

B D Day 4: Pondicherry Journey to Pondicherry, explore this well planned city and note the French legacy of beautiful promenades and architecturally imposing buildings left behind before independence. Stay overnight in the hotel.

Day 5: Pondicherry – Thanjavur B D Morning we enjoy city sightseeing and visit Rai Nivas and Sri Aurobindo Ashram and explore the medieval town of the French province, which has managed to preserve its French aura. Later travel to Thanjavur and stay two nights at the hotel.

B D Day 6: Thanjavur After breakfast we enjoy the city sightseeing, granary of South India, lying in the deltaic region of the famous river Cauvery and crisscrossed by a lengthy network of irrigation canals. The city rose to glory during the later Chola Reign between 11th and 14th centuries and became the centre of learning and culture. It is also known for its exquisite handicrafts, bronzes and South Indian Musical Instruments. Evening free to explore the local bazaar.

What’s included: 14 Nights deluxe accommodation Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified Accompanied Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Local English-speaking guide Monument entrance fees Backwater cruise Spice plantation visit Economy class airfare Cochin-Mumbai Boat ride in Periyar National Park Kathakali dance show Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes.

22 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Day 7: Thanjavur – Trichy – B D Chettinad Today we travel to Chettinad, en-route stopping at Trichy. Visit Srirangam Temple located at River Kaveri and most famed 83 meter high rock on flat land, said to be 3800 million years old. Evening free to explore the local bazaar and witness 18thcentury wooden carved houses. Later in the evening, we enjoy Chettinad cuisine.

Spices are so important to the cuisine – marathi mokku (dried flower pods) anasipoo (star anise), tamarind and saunf (fennel seed) are amongst the favourites used.

B D Day 8: Chettinad – Madurai After breakfast we start our city sightseeing tour by visiting heritage mansions built more than 100 years ago and famous for their architecture, chandeliers and wooden craftsmanship.

Continue with a visit to the Museum and famous temple before travelling to Madurai, the centre of Tamil heritage and culture. Stay overnight in hotel.

B D Day 9: Madurai – Thekkady Start our sightseeing tour of the city, once the capital of the Pandyan King in 550 AD. Visit the magnificent Meenakshi Temple to experience stunning architecture such as the sculpted pillars that tell the story of the beautiful princess of Madurai and her marriage to Lord Shiva. Later travel to Thekkady, famous for its wildlife sanctuary and enjoy a spice plantation tour to see crops of cardamom, cinnamon, pepper and coffee. Stay two nights at Thekkady.

B D Day 10: Wildlife Sanctuary Wake up early to enjoy a boat ride in the Periyar wildlife sanctuary to spot various wild animals, birds and reptiles. Later visit a spice plantation.

Evening attend a local cooking class to learn to cook Kerala dishes, one of the most intriguing cuisines of the world.

The class will be held in a traditional home set on the grounds of a working bioorganic spice garden.

Day 11: Backwaters Cruise B L D Today we travel to Kumarakom and embark on our houseboat. Enjoy cruising through palm-fringed narrow canals winding through the vast expanse of paddy fields and the neat tiny hamlets lined up along the sides of the canals providing panoramic sights never to be forgotten. All meals and overnight on board.

B D Day 12: Alleppey – Cochin Disembark after breakfast and travel to Cochin. Afternoon visit the Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace and St Francis church, the oldest church built in 1503AD by the Portuguese. In the evening explore the local bazaar of Fort Cochin and finish the day with a Kathakali cultural show in the theatre.

Stay overnight at the hotel.

B D Day 13: Cochin – Mumbai After breakfast transfer to board a flight to Mumbai to enjoy the glamour of Bollywood cinema and shopping malls full of designer labels and explore the local bazaar. Stay two nights in Mumbai.

B D Day 14: Mumbai We enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour of Mumbai, visiting the Prince of Wales Museum, Gateway of India and Dhobi Ghat. The remainder of the day is free to relax or go shopping.

B Day 15: Mumbai Departure After a leisurely breakfast, the tour finishes with a transfer to the airport.

Departure & Pricing (NZ$ PER PERSON From)

DATES 2023 09-23 Oct 06-20 Nov 04-18 Dec

TWIN NZ$ 4,657 4,657 4,657 NZ$

SOLO NZ$ 6,218 6,218 6,218 NZ$

12-26 Jan 26 Feb-11 Mar

5,000

6,678

4,657

6,218

25 Mar-08 Apr

4,610

6,115

2024

29 Apr-13 May

4,525

5,975

07-21 Oct

4,804

6,475

04-18 Nov

4,804

6,475

02-16 Dec

4,804

6,475

2025

NZ$

NZ$

11-25 Jan

5,147

6,932

10-24 Feb

4,804

6,475

10-24 Mar

4,804

6,475

14-28 Apr

4,681

6,215

05-19 May

4,681

6,215

Tour notes: Departure during festival and fair: Pongal Suggested gratuity NZ$ 160pp: Driver, Tour Guide and Tour Manager Economy airfare included: NZ$ 103pp Add international return airfare: From NZ$ 1,200pp (Low season)

www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 23

Land & River Cruising R

iver cruising in India is still in its infancy but it is catching on fast with those who have sailed the established waterways in Europe and Asia, and are now looking for different destinations. It is also increasingly popular with travellers who have not cruised before and who want to see rural India. Cruising in these rivers gives a unique opportunity to meet locals, see rural and remote villages, spot wildlife and experience fascinating and culturally rich parts of the country.

Our boutique ship sails on the well-known River Ganges, from Kolkata to Varanasi, passing through three states and offering insights into an incredible culture.

The sights, tastes and lifestyle of the locals living in remote villages on the Brahmaputra will appeal to anyone with a taste for adventure.

The river rises in the Himalayas and flows south through northeast India and into Bangladesh at a leisurely pace that sandbanks and islands are glides past before your eyes. Cruising in this area gives an entirely different experience than that of the River Ganges, as the Brahmaputra crisscrosses three major states of North East India. Witness the unbelievable local tribal culture and the unique wildlife at Kaziranga National Park, where one-horned rhino, buffalo, elephants, tigers and deer call the park home.

Small Group Journeys

24 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

L

Land and River Cruising options offer the best way to experience a country. On the following pages, we have presented a few of the most popular tour options combined with seven nights of cruising. Cruising in these rivers starts in August and ends at the end of April each year. There are many longer cruising options available on these ships which can be easily combined with any tailor-made itinerary on request.

www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 25

Golden Triangle, Varanasi, Lucknow & Cruising on Ganges (Tour Code: GTVLCOG) 18 DAYS / 17 NIGHTS EASY-PACED GUARANTEED DEPARTURE MIN PAX: 02

8,222 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

Offering an inspiring introduction to the Subcontinent, this journey combines Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Varanasi and Lucknow’s cultural and natural wonders. Delving into centuries of history, the tour uncovers ornate temples, magnificent Islamic architecture and marble palaces. Explore the Delhi highlights; visit the ultimate symbol of love, the Taj Mahal in Agra, Varanasi which is considered the oldest living city in the world. Experience the spiritual aspect of India’s age-old beliefs and enjoy a unique culinary experience in the metropolis of Nawab known as Lucknow. Exploring India through its river gives the opportunity to witness untouched and yet to be explored rural India and its true culture. Setting sail from Kolkata-downstream/Farrkha-upstream along the intimate Ganges sidestream, the River Hooghly, which flows from Farakka on the main river down to Kolkata.

Experience French, British and Dutch influence and explore deeper into the rich and diverse history of the region, Murshidabad, the capital of the Nawabs, the battlefield of Plassey, little known Bengali Terracotta temples and monuments of the medieval Islamic capital of Gaur.

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two nights stay in Delhi.

B D Day 2: Delhi Mesmerise yourself in a splendid sightseeing tour of Delhi. Visit Qutb

Minar, Jama Masjid, the Gandhi Memorial and the India Gate. Explore Chandni Chowk Bazaar by Rickshaw and witness the legacy of the past that survives in the many monuments left behind by the regents.

B D Day 3: Delhi - Varanasi After breakfast, transfer to board

What’s included: 10 Nights luxury accommodation

the train to Varanasi. In the evening witness a grand prayer ceremony at the Ghats. Stay two nights in Varanasi.

B D Day 4: Varanasi Early morning start with a heritage walk and sunrise boat ride on the river Ganges. After breakfast enjoy a city tour and an excursion to Sarnath where

07 nights onboard ship Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO Tour Manager Delhi-Jaipur (minimum 07 people) Cruise THO Tour Manager while on-board ship Local English-speaking guide Entry fees and monument charges Jeep ride in Jaipur Walking food tour in Lucknow Train fare in air conditioned class Economy class airfare Jaipur-Kolkata Express train ride Cultural show Rickshaw ride in Delhi Bottled water while travelling All current collectable taxes.

26 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

After a leisurely breakfast, checkout in time to be transferred to the airport to board the flight to Kolkata and followed by transfer to the ship. Stay seven nights on board.

B D Day 5: Varanasi – Lucknow Travel to Lucknow. Known as ’The City of Nawabs’, Lucknow is an intriguing blend of old-world charm, beautiful architecture, warm hospitality, and rich heritage. The city has carved a niche by offering it’s Awadhi Cuisine. This is the place that has a full colony of chefs called, ‘Bawarchi Tola’ and also the full street, where one can find the best from Lucknow’s very own traditional kitchens. In the evening enjoy a walking food tour which allows you to hop-in, hop-out of the world-famous roadside eateries.

B L D Day 12: Malda This morning cruise along a straight canal section to Jangipur, here we enjoy a full-day tour of Gaur. This quiet, deserted place was once one of India’s great cities, first under the Hindus in the 12th century, then as the Muslim capital of Eastern India from the 1416th century.

B D Day 6: Lucknow Enjoy a city sightseeing tour and visit Bada Imambara, a famous monument of Lucknow, Government Museum. In the afternoon visit a chikan workshop that will mesmerise you as you watch skilled workers working on very light cotton cloths. Also, take a leisure walk in Hazrat Ganj and Aminabad local bazaar.

B D Day 7: Lucknow – Agra After breakfast travel to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. The city is still associated with the Mughals who were great builders and you will witness this as you pass the architectural buildings.

Stay two nights in Agra.

B D Day 8: Agra Visit the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love and devotion with its superb craftsmanship of semiprecious stones inlaid into the marble in beautiful patterns. Later visit the impressive 16th century Agra Fort, Itimad-ud-daulah known as Baby Taj, and a marble workshop to witness remaining artisans at work.

B D Day 9: Agra – Jaipur After breakfast travel to Jaipur. Enroute visit abandoned city of Mughals, Fatehpur Sikri. Evening free to explore the markets. Stay two nights at Jaipur.

B D Day 10: Jaipur Start full-day sightseeing tour with a visit to Amber Fort, the Maharaja’s City Palace, the Observatory and photo stop at the Hawa Mahal as we drive past the old part of the magnificent Pink City.

Day 11: Jaipur – Farakka (Board Ship)

B

D

Day 13: Baranagar & B L D Murshidabad This morning moor at the delightful sleepy village of Baranagar with three gorgeous miniature terracotta temples.

After lunch continue to Murshidabad where the Nawab’s great Hazarduari Palace built-in 1837 dominates the waterfront and later great Katra Mosque and Nashipara Palace before driving out to see the Katgola Palace.

century church and Dupleix’s House, the erstwhile Governor-General of French India, before continuing down to Barrackpore.

B Day 18: Kolkata Departure Early this morning, cruise under the Howrah Bridge to central Kolkata and disembark after breakfast. Tour finish with direct transfer to the airport by afternoon.

Delhi 2 Agra

Jaipur

2

2

2

B L D Day 16: Kalna Continue down to the country town of Kalna. Take rickshaws to explore the culture and see the unique Shiva temple with concentric rings made up of 108 shrinelets and later visit the imposing Imambara at Hooghly for an opportunity to step back in time and relive a slice of Islamic history in Bengal.

B L D Day 17: Chandernagore Sail downstream – past fine waterfront buildings and the old Dutch settlement at Chinsura – to land at Chandernagore, a French possession until 1950. Visit the 18th-

2

River Ganges 7 Cruise Kolkata

Farakka

B L D Day 14: Murshidabad Sail downstream a short distance then walk to the silk weaving village and Khushbagh, a peaceful Mughul-style garden enclosing the tombs of SirajUd-Daulah. Continue downstream past the old British cantonment of Berhampur to the battlefield of Plassey.

You can walk through the fields to the commemorative obelisk and narrow bustling bazaars.

B L D Day 15: Matiari Visit the brassworking village of Matiari where you can see the whole primitive process of beating out brass water pots and other vessels. Continue through the countryside to Mayapur to visit the vast new ISKCON temple which dominates the skyline.

Varanasi Farakka

Lucknow

River Ganges Cruise

Baranagar Murshidabad Matiari Kalna Chandernagore Kolkata

Departure & Pricing (NZ$ PER PERSON From) DATES

TWIN

2023

NZ$

27 Oct-13 Nov 27 Nov-14 Dec 2024

10,644 10,644 NZ$

22 Jan-08 Feb

10,644

26 Feb-14 Mar

10,644

25 Oct-11 Nov

10,644

11-28 Nov

10,644

2025

NZ$

10-27 Jan

10,999

10-27 Feb

10,644

31 Mar-17 Apr

8,222

Tour notes: Departs every week. More departure dates available on request.

Suggested gratuity NZ$190pp: Driver, Tour Guide, Crew and Tour Manager Economy airfare included: NZ$150 pp Price for solo travellers: available on request

www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 27

DELUXE Small Group Journeys

Lord Buddha preached his first sermon after his enlightenment. Later in the afternoon visit a silk-weaving village to witness the unique art of weaving silk and shop for souvenirs.

Scenic South & Cruising on Ganges (Tour Code: SSCOG) 23 DAYS / 22 NIGHTS EASY-PACED GUARANTEED DEPARTURE MIN PAX: 02

9,503 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

Discover South India with its versatility as this tour offers you the possibility of admiring the rich cultural heritage in its original form. Its awe-inspiring ancient temples will make you change the way you look about India. Its finesse and grandeur is truly unparalleled. You will feel as you are transported back in time at the spice trading port of Cochin and the fragrant tea plantations and hill forests of Munnar are sure to enchant.

Day 1: Arrive Chennai On arrival at the airport meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two night stay in Chennai.

B D Day 2: Chennai Visit Kalakshetra; a school that teaches local art, music, weaving and design, St. Mary’s Church, Sri Parthasarathy Temple and San Thomas Cathedral Basilica, which was rebuilt in 1606.

B D Day 3: Mahabalipuram Drive to Mahabalipuram, en-route visit 2nd century Kanchipuram, a city with a thousand temples and famous for its silk weavers, who settled around 400 years ago. Stay two nights in Mahabalipuram.

B D Day 4: Mahabalipuram Go on a sightseeing tour and visit marvellous monuments with sculptured panels, caves and temples built during the Pallava Dynasty. In the evening enjoy a walk and witness the life of locals living in the town.

B D Day 5: Pondicherry Travel by road to Pondicherry and enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city ruled by the French before independence. Stay overnight in Pondicherry.

B D Day 6: Thanjavur Drive to Thanjavur, en-route visit Chidambaram, noted for its dancing Shiva Natraja sculptures that illustrate 108 forms of dance. Also, visit

What’s included: 13 Nights luxury accommodation

Gangaikonda Cholapuram with its richly carved temples from the Chola Dynasty. Stay two nights in Thanjavur.

B D Day 7: Thanjavur We proceed for a sightseeing tour of the city also known as the “Rice Bowl”, famous for the ancient handicraft making of bronze icons. Visit intricately carved temples dating back to the 10th century and shop for souvenirs.

B D Day 8: Thanjavur – Trichy Enjoy a short drive to Trichy, claimed to be one of the oldest towns established several centuries before the birth of Christ. Visit Rock Fort and ancient temples and walk around to witness the culture left behind by many rulers. Stay overnight at Trichy.

07 nights onboard ship Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO Tour Manager Cochin-Chennai (minimum 07 people) Cruise Tour Manager onboard ship Local English-speaking guide Entry fees and monument charges Cultural show Flower market visit Nature walk in Periyar Spice plantation visit Economy class airfare Chennai-Kolkata Express train ride Bottled water while travelling All current collectable taxes

28 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Day 10: Madurai Visit the magnificent Meenakshi Temple and experience the stunning architecture. The sculpted pillars tell the story of the beautiful princess of Madurai and her marriage to Lord Shiva.

B

D

Day 11: Madurai – Thekkady B D After breakfast travel to Thekkady and visit the spice plantation growing cardamom, pepper, coffee, and tea.

Later stop at the local market and purchase some fresh spices as souvenirs. Stay two nights at Thekkady.

B D Day 12: Thekkady This morning we enjoy a boat ride and walk at the Periyar National Park. The remainder of the day is free to relax.

Day 13: Backwater Cruise B L D Drive to Alleppey and embark on your private houseboat. Cruise through the narrow canals and backwaters of Kerala and experience unforgettable panoramic sights. All meals and overnight on board.

Day 14: Kumarakom – Cochin B D Disembark after breakfast and travel to Cochin, set on a cluster of peninsulas and islands in the Indian Ocean. Enjoy a half day city tour, explore Fort Cochin and conclude your evening with a Kathakali dance show at the local theatre.

B D Day 15: Cochin – Kolkata After breakfast transfer to board flight to Kolkata. Evening free to explore this historical city and its culture.

Stay overnight.

Day 16: Kolkata - Farakka B D (Board Ship) After a leisurely breakfast, the morning is free until midday later checkout in time to be transferred to the railway station to board the express train to Farakka followed by transfer to the ship. Stay seven nights on board.

Day 17: Malda This morning cruise along a straight canal section to Jangipur, here we B

L

D

enjoy a full-day tour of Gaur. This quiet, deserted place was once one of India’s great cities, first under the Hindus in the 12th century, then as the Muslim capital of Eastern India from the 1416th century.

Day 18: Baranagar & B L D Murshidabad This morning moor at the delightful sleepy village of Baranagar with three gorgeous miniature terracotta temples to which you walk through the fields.

After lunch continue to Murshidabad where the Nawab’s great Hazarduari Palace built-in 1837 dominates the waterfront and later great Katra Mosque and Nashipara Palace before driving out to see the Katgola Palace.

B L D Day 19: Murshidabad Sail downstream a short distance then walk to the silk weaving village and Khushbagh, a peaceful Mughul-style garden enclosing the tombs of SirajUd-Daulah, the last independent Nawab of Bengal and his family.

Continue downstream past the old British cantonment of Berhampur to the battlefield of Plassey. You can walk through the fields to the commemorative obelisk and narrow bustling bazaars.

century church and Dupleix’s House, the erstwhile Governor-General of French India, before continuing down to Barrackpore.

B Day 23: Kolkata Departure Early this morning, cruise under the Howrah Bridge to central Kolkata and disembark after breakfast. Tour finish with direct transfer to the airport by afternoon.

To River Ganges Cruise

2 Chennai 2 Mahabalipuram 1 Pondicherry

Thekkady Cochin

Trichy 1 2 2 1

Alleppey

B L D Day 22: Chandernagore Sail downstream – past fine waterfront buildings and the old Dutch settlement at Chinsura – to land at Chandernagore, a French possession until 1950. Visit the 18th-

Baranagar Murshidabad Matiari Kalna Chandernagore Kolkata

Departure & Pricing (NZ$ PER PERSON From) DATES 2023

– Diana

TWIN NZ$

22 Oct-13 Nov 22 Nov-14 Dec 2024

11,803 11,803 NZ$

17 Jan-08 Feb 21 Feb-14 Mar 20 Oct-11 Nov 06-28 Nov 2025

11,803 11803 11,803 11,803 NZ$

05-27 Jan 05-27 Feb 26 Mar-17 Apr

“Your services whilst in India were amazing, we were so well looked after. We had not one worry and absolutely loved the whole trip.”

2 Madurai Periyar Kumarakom

Farakka

B L D ​ ay 20: Matiari D Visit the brassworking village of Matiari where you can see the whole primitive process of beating out brass water pots and other vessels. Continue through the countryside to Mayapur to visit the vast new ISKCON temple which dominates the skyline.

B L D Day 21: Kalna Continue down to the country town of Kalna. Take rickshaws to explore the culture and see the unique Shiva temple with concentric rings made up of 108 shrinelets and later visit the imposing Imambara at Hooghly for an opportunity to step back in time and relive a slice of Islamic history in Bengal.

2 Thanjavar

12,280 11,803 9,503

Tour notes: Departs every week. More departure dates available on request.

Suggested gratuity NZ$ 240pp: Driver, Tour Guide, Crew and Tour Manager Economy airfare included: NZ$ 150 pp Price for solo travellers: available on request

www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 29

DELUXE Small Group Journeys

B D Day 9: Trichy – Madurai Travel to Madurai and relax at the hotel or explore the town, famous for silk weaving. Stay two nights at Madurai.

Special Interest Group Journeys

The Grand Palaces & Historic Forts (Tour Code: TGPAHFGJ)

9,066 PP

16 DAYS / 15 NIGHTS EASY-PACED

PREMIUM FROM NZ $

This extraordinary small-group tour includes stays in some of Northern India’s finest heritage hotels and is packed with memorable experiences, culture and history as you go beyond the Golden Triangle and see more of Royal Rajasthan. Explore the local bazaar for Rajasthani crafts, carpets and jewellery. Fine dining in some astonishing settings, Stay in Palace accommodations, Visit major landmarks with a local guide who’ll fill you in on their histories and a host of tours and excursions that will bring your surroundings thrillingly to life, this is India at its finest.

Tour notes: Itinerary Can be tailormade Tour Type: Bespoke Special Interest Group Journey Group size: Minimum 07 and above Departs daily: Choose your dates Best Time to Travel: Sept to April Accommodation: 5* Premium Added Value: Travelling during one of the festival or Fair

Bikaner

Delhi 2

1

2 Agra

2 Jaisalmer

2

Jaipur

Jodhpur 2

2 Gwalior

2

Udaipur

Day 01: Delhi Arrival On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist with the transfer to the hotel for two night stay at Taj Mahal in Delhi.

B Day 02: Delhi Sightseeing Enjoy breakfast and an introduction to the tour by the Tour Manager before, starting full day sightseeing of Delhi. Visit the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride past the several busy bazaars and Asia’s largest spice market which has existed since the 17th-century. Finally, visit Qutub Minar a World Heritage site, this is the tallest brick minaret in the world.

B Day 03: Delhi – Gwalior Travel to Gwalior once a princely state

in central India. On arrival check-in at The Taj Usha Kiran Palace, Rich in history, this 120-year-old palace is now a heritage hotel. Afternoon join a guided sightseeing tour and visit the captivating Jai Vilas Palace, which has a stock of antiques and furniture imported from Europe in the mid 19th century. Stay two nights at Taj Usha Kiran Palace in Gwalior.

B Day 04: Gwalior Morning explore the Kasera Oil, a lane during the walk one will explore the various techniques used in utensil making and gain an insight into the way of life of these artisans who have been working here for generations. Afternoon is free to relax or go shopping, Gwalior is famous for its Chandari, Maheshwari Silks and Handicraft.

What’s included: 15 Nights premium luxury and palace accommodations Travel, sightseeing and transfers by chartered airconditioned vehicle Group assistance Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified Accompanied Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Local English-speaking guide Monument entrance fees Rickshaw ride at Old Delhi Jeep ride at Amber Fort Bishnoi Village Heena painting & Turban Tying Hi-Tea at Rambagh Palace Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes

30 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

B Day 05: Gwalior – Agra Travel to Agra to visit the impressive 16th century Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is admired for its splendour, architectural beauty and magnificent halls. Stay two nights at Oberoi Amarvilas in Agra.

B Day 06: Agra An early start to visit the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love and devotion with its superb craftsmanship of semi-precious stones inlaid in the marble. Afternoon visit to a marble inlay workshop to see artisans creating a masterpiece in marble and precious gemstones.

B T Day 07: Agra – Jaipur After breakfast travel to Jaipur, the pink city of India. After a brief rest get ready for a Hi-Tea at the Rambagh Palace, Savour the best teas of the world with an exquisite array of exotic canapés and pastries while watching the resident peacocks strut in the gardens. Stay two nights at Taj Rambagh Palace in Jaipur.

B Day 08: Jaipur Start the sightseeing tour with an excursion to the majestic Amber Fort, constructed from yellow and pink sandstone and gleaming white marble.

Photo Stop at Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds. At the City Palace Museum, witness the curated collection of miniature paintings, ancient weapons and traditional Rajasthani royal costumes. Late afternoon women will have Heena painting and men will learn the art of Rajasthani Turban

tying. The rest of the evening is free to explore and indulge in shopping at the colourful bazaars of Jaipur.

B Day 09: Jaipur – Bikaner Today we leave for Bikaner bolstered by imposing walls which have a 16th century fort housing an old palace, temples and a mosque. En-route visit the Junagadh Fort, constructed between 1588 and 1593. Stay overnight at The Gajner Palace.

B Day 10: Bikaner – Jaisalmer Travel to Jaisalmer the ancient capital of the Yadav in the heart of the Thar Desert. Later in the evening, we take a small excursion to village SAM, which has a cluster of Sand Dunes and enjoy a camel ride in the evening and witness the Sun Set with Changing Colours of the desert. Stay two nights at Surgarh Palace in Jaisalmer.

B Day 11: Jaisalmer Enjoy a city tour of Jaisalmer visiting the fort built in 1156 AD. Life within the citadel conjures up images of medieval times with magnificent palaces, Havelis, temples and of course skilled artisans and ubiquitous camels.

B Day 12: Jaisalmer – Jodhpur Today we leave for Jodhpur. The blue city, a crazed mass of indigo angles, spreads, along the edge of the Great Thar Desert. On arrival in Jodhpur, we check in at our Grand Palace hotel “The Umaid Bhawan Palace”. A unique feature of this palace is how the handchiselled sandstone blocks have been put together in an interlocking pattern

without any mortar binding. The rest of the day is free for relaxation. Stay two nights at The Ummaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur.

B Day 13: Jodhpur Our experience of Jodhpur starts with a visit to Mehrangarh fort, built-in 1459 A.D by Rao Jodha, which rises steeply from a rocky scrap wind- up to the massive gateway. The fort house a museum, with a splendid collection of the trappings of Indian royalty. Later we visit Jaswant Thada a white marble memorial, built in 1899. Evening will be in leisure.

B Day 14: Jodhpur – Udaipur Today we leave for Lake City Udaipur.

On arrival check-in at the Taj Lake Palace, this exquisite white marble palace seems to float majestically on the still waters of Lake Pichola. Set amid awe-inspiring fairy-tale gardens, this 250-year old palace brims with princely details including marble pillars, ornate glasswork and intricate paintings. Evening enjoy a leisurely boat ride at Lake Pichola. Stay two nights at Taj Lake Palace.

B Day 15: Udaipur After breakfast, we start our experience of Udaipur by visiting the City Palace for its several architectural and artistic highlights. Later visit the Jagdish Temple and Fateh Sagar Lake. The afternoon is free to relax and enjoy the hospitality of this luxury at leisure.

B Day 16: Udaipur Departure After a leisurely breakfast tour finishes with a direct transfer to Udaipur Airport.

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 31

Special Interest Group Journeys

North India Culinary Tour 11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS EASY-PACED

(Tour Code: NICTGJ)

2,743 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

“Indian Cuisine is a reflection of the heritage of its people. It represents its historical developments, religious beliefs, cultural practices and above all, its geographical attributes”. The major culinary influences on Indian cuisine resulted from significant historical invasions, including the Greeks, Mughal, Portuguese and British. On this tour, the culinary journey of just five cities will bring to the fore the variety and complexity of the cuisine but more importantly, you will get an in-depth view of the culture of the people who are inseparable from the food they eat.

On this culinary journey, discover not just the food of India but the culture behind the food.

Tour notes: Itinerary Can be tailormade Tour Type: Bespoke Special Interest Group Journey Group size: Minimum 07 and above Departs daily: Choose your dates Best Time to Travel: Sept to April Accommodation: Various Category Available Added Value: Travelling during one of the festival or Fair

Delhi 2

2

Jaipur

2

Agra 2

Lucknow

2 Varanasi

Day 01: Delhi Arrival On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist with the transfer to the hotel for two night stay in Delhi.

B D Day 02: Delhi Sightseeing Enjoy breakfast and an introduction to the tour by the Tour Manager before, starting full day sightseeing of Delhi. Visit the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride past the several busy bazaars and Asia’s largest spice market which has existed since the 17th-century. Finally, visit Qutub Minar a World Heritage site, this is the tallest brick minaret in the world, completed in the 14th century with beautiful terra cotta embellishments and balconies.

Evening enjoy a welcome dinner.

What’s included: 10 Nights deluxe accommodation

B D Day 03: Delhi – Varanasi Transfer to board the morning train to Varanasi. Known for its cultural experience and being one of the oldest living cities in the world, Varanasi abounds in the art of silk weaving. Be guided to the Dashashwamedh Ghat and witness the breath-taking evening Ganga Aarti ceremony (oil lamp prayer). Stay two nights in Varanasi.

B D Day 04: Varanasi An early morning start for a heritage walk and sunrise boat ride on the Ganges to witness the perpetual movement of the pilgrims on the steps.

After breakfast enjoy an excursion to Sarnath where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon at the deer park after his enlightenment. Later we explore the weaving village observing the art

Travel, sightseeing and transfers by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified Accompanied Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Local English speaking guide Monument entrance fees Rickshaw ride in Delhi Jeep ride at Jaipur Walking food tour in Lucknow Train ticket in air-conditioned class Boat ride at Varanasi Bottled water while travelling and current collectable taxes.

32 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

of silk weaving and shop for beautiful souvenirs. Dinner tasty Vegetarian Thali meal.

B D Day 05: Varanasi – Lucknow Travel to Lucknow, known as ’The City of Nawabs’, this bustling city is home to exceptional Islamic and British Rajera architecture, some fascinating bazaars and amazing food, and is truly a unique mix of the ancient and the modern. In the evening enjoy a walking food tour which allows you to hop in and hop out of the worldfamous traditional roadside eateries.

Stay two nights in Lucknow.

B D Day 06: Lucknow Morning guided city sightseeing tour of Lucknow and visit Bada Imambara, a famous monument of Lucknow, Government Museum. In the afternoon visit a chikan workshop that will mesmerise you as you watch skilled workers delicately working in unique styles and stitches on very light cotton cloths. In Dinner enjoy Awadhi cuisine the cooking pattern of Lucknow.

B D Day 07: Lucknow – Agra After breakfast travel to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. Afternoon visit a marble inlay workshop and later enjoy live music with dinner at restaurant offering varieties of cuisine cooked in their unique style. Stay two nights in Agra.

B D Day 08: Agra Early morning visit the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love and devotion with its superb craftsmanship of semi-precious stones inlaid into the marble in beautiful patterns. After breakfast visit the impressive 16th century Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site, admired for its splendour, architectural beauty and magnificent halls, ItmadUd-Daulah mausoleum will stun you with ‘Pietra Dura’ inlay and lattice marble screens. Dinner at an Indian Specialty Restaurant.

B D Day 09: Agra – Jaipur After breakfast travel to Jaipur, the first

planned city of India, a treasure trove of culture, art and history, famous for its colour, lifestyle and Rajasthani cuisine.

Evening we will learn the art of Indian cooking as you watch popular dishes being cooked. Choose to participate or watch later enjoy a home-cooked dinner. Stay two nights in Jaipur.

Day 10: Sightseeing & Bazaar B D Start the day’s sightseeing with a visit to Amber Fort. Later continue to City Palace and the Observatory and take a photo stop at Hawa Mahal, the Palace of the Winds, built in the 17th Century. Jaipur is famous for colourful markets filled with textiles, jewellery and fantastic souvenirs so you’ll enjoy exploring the local bazaar in the evening. Dinner tasty Rajasthani Meal with a variety of popular dishes found only in Rajasthan.

Day 11: Jaipur – Delhi Departure B After breakfast travel to Delhi and the tour finishes by late afternoon with a direct transfer to the Delhi international airport.

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 33

Special Interest Group Journeys

South India Culinary Tour 10 DAYS / 09 NIGHTS EASY-PACED

(Tour Code: SICTGJ)

3,053 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

The food of India is as varied as the country, not only does it vary from state to state, but it also varies greatly within each state itself. In this culinary journey through Karnataka and Kerala, we showcase how different cultures, religions and the topography of a destination have all influenced the food of Kerala. You will discover how Syrian Christian cuisine varies from that of the Mopilah (Muslim) cuisine from that of the Kodava Cuisine. You will learn about the influences that the British, Portuguese and Dutch had on the food of the region. You will see how different spices are grown, discover their medicinal qualities as well as which ones are used in different types of dishes and why all the while, you will learn about this region, visit its temples, sights and have some time to relax and digest all you have discovered with a last few days on the backwaters and beach.

Tour notes: Itinerary Can be tailormade Tour Type: Bespoke Special Interest Group Journey Group size: Minimum 07 and above Departs daily: Choose your dates Best Time to Travel: Sept to April Accommodation: Various Category Available Added Value: Travelling during one of the festival or Fair

2 Munnar

Cochin 2 Marari 2

1 2 Thekkady

Day 01: Arrive Cochin On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist with the transfer to the hotel for two-night stay in Cochin.

B L D Day 02: Cochin Cochin’s sightseeing includes Cochin Harbour terminus where the Chinese fishing nets present a wonderful sight; the local fish market, Mattancherry Dutch Palace; The Jewish Synagogue and St. Francis Church. Later visit the Hill Palace which was built in the 19th century. Visit a local family for lunch who will teach you about the local seafood specialities and how they cook it with local ingredients such as pepper and coconut. Later in the evening enjoy a Kathakali Dance Show at the theatre.

B D Day 03: Cochin – Munnar Enjoy a beautiful drive to Munnar, famous for its scenic beauty, marvellous waterfalls and Tea Plantations. Check into the hotel and then explore the local market for spices, a fresh cup of tea and local snacks. Stay two nights in Munnar.

B D Day 04: Munnar We spent the day driving around the tea plantations, first visiting the local women who pick the tea leaves and then learning about how the tea is processed at the local factory.

B D Day 05: Munnar – Thekkady Morning after breakfast travel to Thekkady, on the way witness natural beauty adorned with green pastures

What’s included: 9 Nights deluxe accommodation Travel, sightseeing and transfers by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified Accompanied Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Local English-speaking guide Monument entrance fees Overnight backwater cruise Kathakali dance show Boat ride at Periyar Spice plantation visit Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes.

34 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

of spice plantations, beautiful rivulets, cascading waterfalls and dense forests.

Evening enjoy a boat ride on the expansive waters of the Periyar dam.

The two hours of boating will give you a myriad of opportunities to observe wild animals grazing, drinking water and coming down from the dense forest that fence the lake. Spend two nights in Thekkady.

B D Day 06: Thekkady Morning visit to a Spice Plantation.

Explore these to find out how each different spice grows and the medicinal properties that each has as well as uses in cooking. On our way back we visit the spice market, you will be surprised to see the variety and volume of fresh spices.

Stop to buy some for your personal use.

Evening visit a local family for a cooking class followed by home-cooked dinner.

Day 07: Backwater Cruise B L D Morning travel to Kumarakom and enjoy a cruise through canals and lakes.

Observe the daily life of locals residing on the banks. Your meals are prepared by the boatmen locally. This means food with lots of fresh flavours and a minimum of frills, cooked with tangy spices and plenty of coconuts. Needless to say, fish is the mainstay of this menu. Accompaniments can include lentils, greens and gourd cooked with fresh pepper and mustard seeds, and steaming bowls of rice. Overnight onboard houseboat.

B D Day 08: Alleppey – Marari On disembarking from your houseboat, drive through the scenic Keralan countryside to the village of Mararikulam. After check-in relaxes by the beachfront or visit the village and gain an insight into village life, explore local village temples and coir factories.

Stay two nights in Marari.

B D Day 09: Marari Day at leisure for your activity. Kerala is famous for Ayurveda massage so make a booking and pay direct to the hotel if you wish to experience one.

B Day 10: Cochin Departure After a leisurely breakfast, the tour finishes with a transfer to Cochin airport.

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 35

Special Interest Group Journeys

Gujarat & Lucknow Textile Tour 12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS EASY-PACED

(Tour Code: GALTTGJ)

3,887 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

The northern states of Gujarat are home to remote villages where tribal communities have been living for centuries and are still practising an ancient way of life. In Gujarat, you will meet people from the Kutch, Rabari, Meghwal and Muthwa communities and see first-hand how they produce their renowned intricate and delicate textiles. Other highlights in Gujarat include a visit to Gandhi’s former residence and the salt marshland of the Rann of Kutch. Take a guided tour of the historic cities of Bhuj and Ahmedabad, enjoying ancient sights and beautiful textile displays. Visit the amazingly jewelled Taj Mahal and delight in the spectacular sights. The tour also takes you to Lucknow to discover some fascinating historical sights and see exquisite embroideries being worked by the local women. This wonderful tour takes you off the well-worn tourist path to discover the hidden gems and beautiful fabric treasures of India.

Tour notes: Itinerary Can be tailormade Tour Type: Bespoke Special Interest Group Journey Group size: Minimum 07 and above Departs daily: Choose your dates Best Time to Travel: Sept to April Accommodation: Various Category Available Added Value: Travelling during one of the festival or Fair

Delhi Agra 1 Lucknow 2 Bhuj 2

Bajana 1 3

Ahmedabad

2 Mumbai

Day 01: Arrive Mumbai On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist with the transfer to the hotel for two night stay in Mumbai.

B D Day 02: Mumbai Morning explore India’s city of superlatives on a full-day sightseeing tour of Mumbai. Cross the Gateway of India, overlooking Mumbai’s busy Harbour. See the Prince of Wales Museum, Marine Drive, and the extraordinary Dhobi Ghat, Mumbai’s unique and outdoor laundry. Afternoon you may choose to stroll across Fashion Street, a stretch famous for its export clothing and accessories. Later drive past Marine Drive also known as the Queen’s Necklace.

B D Day 03: Mumbai - Bhuj Morning with a packed breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for an

What’s included: 11 Nights deluxe accommodation

early morning flight to Bhuj. Later in the day, visit the Kutch Museum and Bhuj market area. The craftsmen in and around Bhuj have good handson Khadi work, block print, tie and dye, colourful thread work and embroidery work. Also, the handloom products of Bhuj are famous all over because of their finished intricate mirror work and brilliant colour combinations. Stay two nights in Bhuj.

Day 04: Nirona, Bhindriya & B D Dhordo Excursion After breakfast, go on an excursion to Nirona village, home to 300-year old crafts. The women here create an extremely fine style of embroidery that is patterned around a tiny mirror.

Continue onwards to the Great Rann of Kutch, which is one of the largest salt deserts in the world with an approx. area of around 10,000 km sq.

Travel, sightseeing and transfers by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified Accompanied Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Monument entrance fees Walking food tour in Lucknow Airfare Mumbai – Bhuj and Ahmedabad – Lucknow in economy class Bottled water while travelling and current collectable taxes.

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B D Day 05: Bhuj – Bajana Travel to Bajana, en-route visiting Bhujodi and Ajrakhpur village (nomadic Rabari tribe who weave camel wool), a village skilled in traditional Bandhani (tie & dye), blockprinting, Piltoom weaving, Mewada Embroidery & Wood Carving. Here you can view live demonstrations and buy anything from shawls to blankets from the artisans directly. Stay overnight in Bajana.

Day 06: Bajana – Ahmedabad B D Drive to Ahmedabad, en-route visit Sarkhej Roza, a mosque and tomb complex located in Markaba. Later visit the Gandhi Ashram and the Law Garden market. Enjoy a special Gujarati Thali meal for dinner. Stay three nights in Ahmedabad.

B L Day 07: Ahmedabad Today you will be taken on a heritage walk of the Old City of Ahmedabad, seeing sites like the Sabarmati Ashram, Hutheesing Jain Temples, Jama Mosque and the Dada Hari step

well. After the walk, visit the Calico Museum and see a type of art called Mata Ni Pachedi.

B D Day 08: Patan Excursion Morning an excursion to Patan to see the Patola weaving of double Ikat (by the Salvi family who is a national award winner and the only ones in India to do this work). Patola very appearance lures the connoisseur of fine textiles. It has no reverse side, both sides have equal intensity of colour and design.

Day 09: Ahmedabad – Lucknow B D Morning transfer to board a short flight to Lucknow. Known as ’The City of Nawabs’, this bustling city is home to some fascinating bazaars and amazing food. In the evening enjoy a walking food tour which allows you to hop in and hop out of the worldfamous traditional roadside eateries.

Stay two nights in Lucknow.

B D Day 10: Lucknow Enjoy a city sightseeing tour of Lucknow and visit Bada Imambara and a chikan

(traditional embroidery) workshop as you watch skilled workers delicately working in unique styles and stitches on very light cotton cloths. Conclude your day by relishing Awadhi Cuisine the cooking pattern of Lucknow.

B D Day 11: Lucknow – Agra Travel to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal.

Afternoon visit the impressive 16th century Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy dinner at the local restaurant offering varieties of cuisine cooked in their unique style. Stay overnight in Agra.

B Day 12: Agra – Delhi Departure Early morning visit the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love and devotion with its superb craftsmanship of semi-precious stones inlaid into the marble in beautiful patterns. After breakfast travel to Delhi. The tour finishes with a direct transfer to the international airport.

Tour notes: Economy airfare included: NZ $200pp

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 37

Special Interest Group Journeys

East & South India Textile Tour 13 DAYS / 12 NIGHTS EASY-PACED

(Tour Code: EASITTGJ)

3,470 PP

DELUXE/UNIQUE BOUTIQUE FROM NZ $

Silk has a long and rich history in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, traditionally worn by the Mughal nobility.

On this tour, visit textile villages, local textile shops, outlets and weaver’s studios; meet, engage and learn from these craftspeople their traditional techniques and weaving methods. Along the way see Terracotta Temples, historical sites and museums, and farmers going about their everyday life. As this program is intended for textile enthusiasts, there are several long drives to reach real artisans and learn traditional techniques. Unique food and dining experiences add another layer to this tour. Your accommodation at each point presents the finest regional cuisine, while you have the opportunity during the days’ explorations to sample local specialities at small restaurants and street food stalls (with guidance from our guide, of course).

Tour notes: Itinerary Can be tailormade Tour Type: Bespoke Special Interest Group Journey Group size: Minimum 07 and above Departs daily: Choose your dates Best Time to Travel: Sept to April Accommodation: Various Category Available Added Value: Travelling during one of the festival or Fair

Berhampur Santiniketan Bishnupur 1

2

2 3

Kolkata

Chennai

2

2 Kanchipuram

Day 01: Arrive Kolkata On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist with the transfer to the hotel for two night stay in Kolkata.

B D Day 02: Kolkata After breakfast and a short intro by Tour Manager, start a sightseeing tour of Kolkata and visit the flower market, Victoria Memorial and Howrah bridge.

The evening is free to stroll around Park Street and conclude your day with an authentic Bengali Thali Meal dinner.

Day 03: Kolkata - Berhampur B D Today, we head north on our Muslin Trail into the rural areas of West Bengal.

Heading for Berhampur, we stop enroute and visit the villages of Shantipur, Phulia and Beldanga. These villages are famous to produce silk and cotton handwoven saris, jacquards, dhotis, and jamdani (muslin) of superfine texture. Stay two nights in Berhampur.

Day 04: Murshidabad Excursion B D This morning we visit a textile village to see the process of extraction, reeling and spinning of different kinds of silk and also locally crafted shell bangles.

Thereafter enjoy a historical tour of Murshidabad and visit Hazarduari Palace and Katra Mosque then walk around the local market.

Day 05: Berhampur – B D Santiniketan Travel to Santiniketan and visit Visva Bharati University, a vision of Rabindranath Tagore, the revered poet, writer, playwright, musician, painter and also the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize for Literature.

Craft demonstrations in and around Santiniketan may include Kantha embroidery, batik printing, Tussar silk weaving, embossed leather works and hand-made jewellery. Stay two nights in Santiniketan.

What’s included: 12 Nights Deluxe/Unique Boutique accommodation Travel, sightseeing and transfers by chartered airconditioned vehicle Group assistance Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified Accompanied Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Monument entrance fees Airfare Kolkata – Chennai in economy class Bottled water while travelling and current collectable taxes.

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B D Day 06: Santiniketan Morning explore textile villages around Shantiniketan. While on the visit, you will get detailed knowledge about batik work and Tussar silk weaving. Watch ladies doing conventional Kantha weaving on quilts, clothing and other household items. This work of art mixes botanical, creature and geometric string plans with pictures delineating the everyday life and culture of the rural ladies of West Bengal.

Day 07: Santiniketan - Bishnupur B D Travel to Bishnupur, stop en-route at Bikna, a village where we will see the ancient craft of non–ferrous metal casting using the lost wax process known as dokra. Afternoon visit the amazing terracotta temples that Bishnupur is famous for. Stay overnight Bishnupur.

Day 08: Bishnupur – Kolkata B D This morning includes a trip to a potter’s village that specialises in making terracotta horses known as Bankura. Also, see the handloom weaving of the prized Baluchari silk

sarees depicting detailed scenes from Indian mythology. In the afternoon, drive to Kolkata with a brief stop to see fine grass mat weaving done by the Mahishyas community of Midnapore.

Stay overnight in Kolkata.

B D Day 09: Kolkata – Chennai After breakfast transfer to the airport to board your connecting flight to Chennai. On arrival meet your Tour Manager who will assist you with transfer and stay overnight in Chennai.

Day 10: Chennai – Kanchipuram B D Morning travel to Kanchipuram enroute stops at Mahabalipuram to visit the magnificent 7th-century Shore Temple a UNESCO Site and also an excellent specimen of the architectural splendour of the medieval period.

Evening free to explore local shops popular to witness a range of Kanchipuram Silk and wonderfully spun material. Stay two nights in Kanchipuram.

B D Day 11: Excursion to Arani Morning visit the silk weaving handloom to experience the art of

making handloom and machinemade sarees including dying and designing. Kanchipuram silk sarees are woven in two parts. The pallu and border are woven as one unit and attached to the body of the sari which is woven separately. The motifs used are derived from traditional temple architectural forms. Afternoon free to relax or explore the town.

Day 12: Kanchipuram – Chennai B D After breakfast travel to Chennai.

In the afternoon go for a half-day city sightseeing tour visiting the Government Museum and Art Gallery, to see the art and bronze gallery (closed on Fridays and public holidays) Later drive past Fort St. George, Marina Beach and San Thome Cathedral.

Rest of the evening is free to relax or explore the nearby local markets for last moment souvenir shopping. Stay overnight in Chennai.

Day 13: Chennai Departure B After breakfast tour finishes with a direct transfer to International Airport.

Tour notes: Economy airfare included: NZ$145pp

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 39

Special Interest Group Journeys

Golf Tour of India

(Tour Code: GTOIGJ)

8,921 PP

16 DAYS / 15 NIGHTS EASY-PACED

LUXURY FROM NZ $

A melting pot for traditional culture and modern experiences, India is truly inspiring in its diversity and colourful energy. Travelling individually or with a group of like-minded golf travellers, our expert guides will enhance your sightseeing experience. Discover the best of India’s famous Golf Courses, must-see iconic sights, experience luxury accommodation, taste India’s culinary delights and witness the buzz of markets and bazaars.

Your journey starts in New Delhi, the national capital and here you will play India’s oldest and most prestigious golf club, the Delhi Golf Club. Discover the Taj Mahal, an iconic monument dedicated to love. Highlights abound with the pink palaces of Jaipur and a dazzling Bollywood spectacle before winding your way into Pune with Agha Khan Palace. You will finish your Indian adventure in Mumbai, home of Bollywood, colourful shopping and colonial landmarks. On tour, you will play India’s most exclusive private clubs as well as modern resort courses designed by golfing luminaries. These quality layouts are set in breathtaking locales bordered by a stimulating mix of iconic landmarks, colonial heritage and grandeur on a scale that is unprecedented.

Tour notes: Itinerary Can be tailormade Tour Type: Bespoke Special Interest Group Journey Group size: Minimum 07 and above Departs daily: Choose your dates Best Time to Travel: Sept to April Accommodation: Deluxe to 5* Premium available Added Value: Travelling during one of the festival or Fair

Day 01: Delhi Arrival On arrival at the airport meet your Tour Manager who will assist with transfer and check-in at the hotel. Stay five nights in Delhi.

B D Day 02: Delhi Golfing Meet your Tour Host and fellow travellers

Delhi 5 Jaipur 3

2 Agra

Mumbai 3 2 Pune

for a leisurely breakfast. Keen to discover India’s golfing gems, our first round is at the Delhi Golf Club – Delhi’s oldest and most prestigious golf club. Built amongst

the ruined tombs of a mighty empire, this championship 18-hole Lodhi Course is brimming with reminders of bygone times predating the Moghul Empire.

Whilst the golfers enjoy their round, non-golfers will visit a Sikh temple for a cultural experience. We conclude our day with a welcome dinner.

B Day 3: Delhi Sightseeing After breakfast guided sightseeing of Delhi. Enjoy a bicycle rickshaw ride through the old city’s busy, narrow lanes, and stop at a local spice market.

Then visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India and Qutub Minar a World Heritage site, this is the tallest brick minaret in the world.

What’s included: 15 Nights of luxury accommodation Assistance Travel, sightseeing and transfers by a by a private airconditioned vehicle with driver Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified Airfare Jaipur-Pune in economy class Englishspeaking local guide Monument entrance fees Accompanied Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Rickshaw ride at Old Delhi Jeep ride at Amber Fort Heena painting & Turban Tying Hi-Tea at Rambagh Palace Green fee with caddy/cart to the golf course (one round each) in Delhi, Jaipur, Pune & Mumbai Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes.

40 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

B Day 4: Delhi Golfing Today is another highlight with both golfers and non-golfers making their way to Jaypee Greens Golf Resort.

This sprawling, lush green course is India’s first 18-hole championship course designed by Australian golfing icon Greg Norman. It is India’s longest course with 14 shimmering lakes and 88 snow-white bunkers.

B Day 5: Delhi Golfing After a leisurely morning, your second round of golf takes you to Classic Golf & Country Club, a Jack Nicklaus signature course. Jack set out to produce a course that requires all types of shot-making, risk and rewards holes and strategically placed bunkers and water hazards to catch errant shots. The course has an abundance of green cover & peacocks – the two of them combine for a magnificent sight with the gently undulating hills of the Aravalli range as a magnificent backdrop. Non-golfers can enjoy optional activities or have a leisurely afternoon.

B Day 6: Delhi – Agra Travel to Agra and visit the impressive 16th century Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is admired for its splendour, architectural beauty and magnificent halls. Stay two nights in Agra.

B Day 7: Agra Sightseeing An early start to visit the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love and devotion with its superb craftsmanship of semi-precious stones inlaid in the marble. Afternoon visit a marble inlay workshop to see artisans creating a masterpiece in marble and precious gemstones.

B T Day 8: Agra – Jaipur After breakfast travel to Jaipur, the pink city of India. On arrival check into the Taj Rambagh Palace is Jaipur’s foremost Royal Palace residence spread over 47 acres of tranquil, landscaped gardens. After a brief rest get ready for a Hi-Tea at the and Savour the best teas of the world with an exquisite array of exotic canapés and pastries while watching the resident peacocks strut in the gardens.

Stay three nights in Jaipur.

B Day 9: Jaipur sightseeing Start the sightseeing tour with an excursion to the majestic Amber Fort, constructed from yellow and pink sandstone and gleaming white marble.

Photo Stop at Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds. At the City Palace Museum, witness the curated collection of miniature paintings, ancient weapons and traditional Rajasthani royal costumes. Late afternoon women will have Heena painting, and men will learn the art of Rajasthani Turban tying. The rest of the evening is free to explore and indulge in shopping at the colourful bazaars of Jaipur.

B D Day 10: Jaipur Golfing Today, you play at the Rambagh Golf Club, one of the oldest and most prestigious golf clubs in India. A game of golf here will transport you into a long-bygone era as you catch glimpses of the Palace Hotel, The Moti Doongari, Nahargarh Fort and the Birla Planetarium. Nongolfers will enjoy a private escorted shopping tour of Jaipur. Evening you will then take part in a traditional Indian cooking class during which you will discover some of the secrets of Indian cooking followed by dinner.

B Day 11: Jaipur – Pune After a leisurely breakfast transfer to Jaipur airport for our flight to Pune, a thriving, vibrant metropolis. Stay two nights at Oxford Golf Resort in Pune.

B Day 12: Pune Today you play the no.1 golf course in India and the top 10 in Asia, the Oxford Golf & Country Club. This prestigious club affords members a private world of beauty, recreation and fun. The valley and mountains of the Sahayadri range provide this imaginative course design. Non-golfers will enjoy a city tour and visit Shaniwar Wada, the remains of this fortressed palace and Agha Khan Palace, Built-in 1892.

B Day 13: Pune – Mumbai This morning we play a second round at Oxford Golf & Country Club.

Non-golfers can relax and enjoy the hospitality of the resort. On-time check out and travel to Mumbai, where we will stay at the magnificent Taj Mahal Palace overlooking the Gateway of India. Stay three nights in Mumbai.

B Day 14: Mumbai Sightseeing Enjoy a city sightseeing tour, visiting Prince of Whales Museum, Gateway of India, Dhobhi Ghat and concluding with a walk along the bustling Chowapatti Beach.

What makes golfing in India exciting is the diversity of its courses.

From the oldest golf club in the world (Royal Calcutta established in 1829) to the Golfcourse at the highest altitude at Gulmarg (altitude 2,700 metres), India offers over 250 world-class golf courses.

B D Day 15: Mumbai Golfing Today we play at the prestigious Willingdon Sports Club. It is the most exclusive and elusive club in Mumbai.

Non-golfers will enjoy a market tour.

Tonight, we gather for a farewell dinner for a celebration of our time in India.

We toast our champions and reflect on a tour that indulged our senses and enriched our souls.

B Day 16: Mumbai Departure After breakfast tour finishes with a direct transfer to the Mumbai airport.

Tour notes: Economy airfare included: NZ$135pp

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 41

Special Interest Group Journeys

India Photography Tour

(Tour Code: IPTGJ)

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS EASY-PACED

2,892 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

The India Photography tour is suitable for all kinds of photography enthusiasts. This very carefully planned photography tour takes you into the most vibrant places of Rajasthan. Every place provides a different perspective, light, shade, landscape and people dressed in colourful local costumes to capture that perfect shot that every photographer looks for. The tour will start in Delhi which allows us to witness and capture this historic city as well as the modern New Delhi. Our next stop is Agra for the unmissable Taj Mahal for sunrise and sunset shoots. We make our way to another exciting destination Jaipur, the Pink City with its chaotic, intoxicating bazaars and the stunning Amber Fort. Next to Jodhpur, also known as the Blue City of Rajasthan, offers an amazing mix of culture and colour before travelling to Narlai, a small town that will offer us the opportunity to meet the local tribe and indigenous Mewari horses. Conclude in the Lake city of Udaipur shooting the Iconic City Palace and Lake Pichola.

Tour notes: Itinerary Can be tailormade Tour Type: Bespoke Special Interest Group Journey Group size: Minimum 07 and above Departs daily: Choose your dates Best Time to Travel: Sept to April Accommodation: Deluxe to 5* Premium available Added Value: Travelling during one of the festival or Fair Delhi 2

Jodhpur

Jaipur 2

2

Agra

2

2 Udaipur

Day 01: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist with the transfer to the hotel for two night stay in Delhi.

visit Qutub Minar a World Heritage site, this is the tallest brick minaret in the world, with beautiful terra cotta embellishments and balconies.

B D Day 02: Arrive Delhi Set out on a photo tour of Old Delhi, a patchwork of eight different cities built by a succession of rulers, and a centre of Muslim India between the 13th and 19th centuries. Enjoy a bicycle rickshaw ride through the old city’s busy, narrow lanes, and stop at a local spice market to capture the colourful bustle. Frame the golden spiked minarets of Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Delve into Chandni Chowk Market, and fill your viewfinder with the bustle of local life. Finally,

B D Day 03: Delhi – Agra After breakfast, we head out to Agra while witnessing tooting lorries, camels, sacred cows, wandering pedestrians and holy men all claiming sole ownership of the highway. A quick freshen up and we’ll make our way to the Taj Mahal to shoot it inside, outside and at perfect sunset taking advantage of the long shadows. Stay two nights in Agra.

What’s included: 10 Nights deluxe accommodation

B D Day 04: Agra Rise early and cross the Yamuna River

Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Monument entrance fees Rickshaw ride in Delhi Narlai village Visit Bottled water while travelling and All current collectable taxes.

42 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

to photograph the Taj Mahal from the beautiful Mehtab Bagh gardens.

Next Stop impressive 16th century Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is admired for its splendour, architectural beauty and magnificent halls. Conclude the day with a visit to a marble inlay workshop to see artisans creating a masterpiece in marble and precious gemstones.

B D Day 05: Agra - Jaipur Travel to Jaipur known as the “Pink City” for its rose-coloured buildings.

Afternoon enjoy sightseeing and a bit of architectural photography at Hawa Mahal, the Palace of the Winds a stunning five-story sandstone building designed to allow ladies of the court to watch life on the streets below.

Zoom in on the delicate latticework and honeycombed windows. Evening experience some of Jaipur’s fabled bazaars, where you can shop, shoot or simply gasp at the amazing array of wares. Stay two nights in Jaipur.

B D Day 06: Jaipur Morning an excursion to Amber Fort, a 16th- and 17th-century hilltop complex that offers a treasure trove of photographic inspiration. Document its exquisite and well-preserved palaces, temples, gardens, and pavilions.

Later visit the City Palace Museum, and witness the curated collection

including miniature paintings, ancient weapons and traditional Rajasthani royal costumes.

B D Day 07: Jaipur – Jodhpur After breakfast, we hit the road to Jodhpur, a blue-hued old city that lies at the foot of the massive Mehrangarh Fort, perched on a rocky outcrop some 120 meters high. Visit the 15th-century fort and learn about its colourful history. Shoot sweeping panoramas of the city below, explore the museum that houses a spectacular collection of miniature paintings, ivory artefacts, and weapons. Stay two nights in Jodhpur.

B D Day 08: Rajasthani Village Today we head out to a rural Rajasthani village to experience and shoot the amazing world of the Bishnoi tribe.

We’ll arrive in time to capture their activity, as they start the day’s cooking, fetching water from the village well, while the men head out to graze their livestock. This is powerful, authentic, slice-of-life stuff, you’ll be fascinated by their amazing jewellery, their tattoos and accessories. Evening free to explore the Sadar Bazaar famous for glass bangles, rugged camel leather mojari slippers and incredible fabrics.

Day 09: Jodhpur - Narlai B D Udaipur Today we travel to Udaipur, en-route

visit Narlai to shoot the Marwari warrior horse, a very exclusive rare and photogenic breed of Marwari horses with its great story of existence and current bloodline. Drive to Udaipur and en-route visit Ranakpur, renowned for its Jain temples with intricately carved marble pillars and domes believed to have been built in 1439AD. The temple rests on 1444 elegantly carved pillars no two pillars are identical. Stay two nights in Udaipur.

B D Day 10: Udaipur This morning, a scenic boat ride on Lake Pichola provides an opportunity to capture the luminous white marble facade of Jag Niwas, now the Taj Lake Palace, and its shimmering reflection on the water. Incredible photographic opportunities abound at this palace complex, which blends medieval, European, and Chinese architecture and is richly decorated with inlaid mirror-work, mosaics, and frescoes.

Later, explore the narrow streets of the old city by rickshaw, and stop to photograph a local market.

B Day 11: Udaipur Departure After breakfast tour finishes with a direct transfer to Udaipur airport.

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 43

Special Interest Group Journeys

Agricultural & Farm Tour of India (Tour Code: AAFTOIGJ) 16 DAYS / 15 NIGHTS EASY-MODERATE

4,114 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

You experience Indian Agriculture during our visits to the milk collection stations, on the short ox cart ride to the farm village, spontaneous stops to see the mustard farm harvest, visit the flower seed farm, and rice harvesting on the farms. As we drive through the countryside you will see the farm tractor repair shops, trucks hauling the sugar cane from the farm, and the many cattle & goats roaming freely along the roadside. Enjoy the smiling faces of the colourful Indian people and the smell of the spices at the street vendors. Visit one of the 7 wonders of the world – The Taj Mahal, majestic forts, and opulent palaces. Embrace the chaos of the traffic and the sound of the horns honking Tour notes: Itinerary Can be tailormade Tour Type: Bespoke Special Interest Group Journey Group size: Minimum 10 and above Departs daily: Choose your dates Best Time to Travel: Sept to April Accommodation: Various Category available Added Value: Travelling during one of the festival or Fair Amritsar 4 Ludhiana 1 Hisar 2

Jaipur 2

1 Chandigarh 3 Delhi 2 Agra

What’s included:

Day 01: Delhi Arrival On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist with the transfer to the hotel for three nights stay in Delhi.

B D Day 02: Delhi Sightseeing Enjoy breakfast and an introduction to the tour by the Tour Manager before, starting full day sightseeing of Delhi. Visit the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride past the several busy bazaars and Asia’s largest spice market which has existed since the 17th-century. Later visit Qutub Minar a World Heritage site, this is the tallest brick minaret in the world.

Day 03: Amul Milk Farm B D Excursion This morning, a drive into the local countryside and visit the Amul Milk Plant, a state-of-the-art dairy factory that produces milk, curd, ice cream and cheese. Later, visit an organic and herbal farm, for cocktails and dinner. Later we visit the IARI National Agricultural Science Museum and Institute.

B D Day 04: Delhi – Agra Travel to Agra, afternoon visit impressive 16th century Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and evening free to relax. Stay two nights in Agra.

B D Day 05: Agra An early start to visit the Taj Mahal,

15 Nights deluxe accommodation Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Monument entrance fees Rickshaw ride in Delhi Jeep ride in Jaipur Village Visit Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes.

44 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

the world’s greatest monument of love and devotion with its superb craftsmanship of semi-precious stones inlaid in the marble. Afternoon visit to a marble inlay workshop to see artisans creating a masterpiece in marble and precious gemstones.

B T D Day 06: Agra - Jaipur After breakfast travel to Jaipur, the pink city of India. On arrival check into the hotel. After a brief rest get ready for a Hi-Tea at the Rambagh Palace, Savour the best teas of the world with an exquisite array of exotic canapés and pastries while watching the resident peacocks strut in the gardens. Stay two nights in Jaipur.

B D Day 07: Jaipur Start sightseeing tour with an excursion to the majestic Amber Fort, constructed from yellow and pink sandstone and gleaming white marble. Photo stop at Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds. At the City Palace Museum, witness the curated collection of miniature paintings, ancient weapons and traditional Rajasthani royal costumes. Late afternoon women will have Heena painting and men will learn the art of Rajasthani Turban tying. Rest of the evening is free to explore and indulge in shopping at the colourful bazaars of Jaipur.

B D Day 08: Jaipur – Hisar After breakfast travel to Hisar, afternoon visit Firoz Shah Palace Complex built in 1354 AD and Lat Ki Masjid. Evening free to explore the local bazaar and stay two nights in Hisar.

B D Day 09: Hisar After breakfast visit the Blue Bird Lake, Hisar is a resident and endangered migratory bird wetland habitat, and OP Jindal Gyan Kendra Haryana Agricultural University. Explore the farms where new farming methods are being evolved in the form of the transfer of technology from traditional farming techniques.

B D Day 10: Hisar – Ludhiana Travel to Ludhiana, a well-known textile and garments manufacturing hub of India. Evening we explore the wholesale textile market. Stay overnight in Ludhiana.

Day 11: Ludhiana - Amritsar B D After breakfast visit the Punjab Agriculture University to understand the researches that are carried in the agricultural field and dairy farming.

Later travel to Amritsar and evening visit Wagah Border for the famous Indo Pak parade ceremony. Conclude your evening with a Punjabi meal at a local restaurant. Stay Four nights in Amritsar.

B D Day 12: Amritsar Sightseeing Start your day with the most heartwarming cultural experience, visit the holiest Sikh temple known as Golden Temple. Witness one of the largest community kitchen, where at least 80,000 people are fed every day. Later visit Jallianwala Bagh and evening free to explore Hall Bazaar.

Day 13: Village Daburji B L D Excursion After breakfast, take an excursion to the Daburji Village, witness typical farming village life, hop on the tractor ride through the green fields and later meet a local family to enjoy homecooked lunch. Evening free to relax or explore a local bazaar.

Day 14: Gurdaspur Excursion B L D Today take an excursion to the Gurdaspur region, a rural town to experience and be hands-on with some of the daily activities of an Indian farmer or simply take a stroll in the village market.

Day 15: Amritsar – Chandigarh B D Morning travel to Chandigarh, Spend this afternoon sightseeing and visit the broad boulevards, Nek Chand’s Rock Garden. Stay overnight in Chandigarh.

B Day 16: Chandigarh Departure After breakfast tour finishes with a direct transfer to the Chandigarh airport.

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 45

Special Interest Group Journeys

Cycling Through Rajasthan 16 DAYS / 15 NIGHTS EASY-ADVENTUROUS

(Tour Code: CTRGJ)

5,841 PP

DELUXE/UNIQUE BOUTIQUE FROM NZ $

Our Rajasthan Cycling Tour is an elaborate cycling expedition that ticks off all the popular tourist hotspots of Rajasthan and veers deeper into the less explored countryside to give you an authentic experience of rural Rajasthan its villages, its rustic people and its unique culture. This contrast between the royal and the rural, the opulent and the impoverished is particularly fascinating for a biker pedalling up and down the cycling trails of Rajasthan, and the itinerary we’ve drawn up lets you do it at a relaxed, leisurely pace.

Tour notes: Itinerary Can be tailormade Tour Type: Bespoke Special Interest Group Journey Group size: Minimum 10 and above Departs daily: Choose your dates Best Time to Travel: Sept to April Accommodation: Various Category available Added Value: Travelling during one of the festival or Fair

2 Delhi

Jodhpur Bhenswara 2 1

Korta 1 1 Ranakpur

Jaipur 2

1 Agra 2

Ranthambhore NP 1 Kumbhalgarh 2

Udaipur

Day 01: Delhi Arrival On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist with the

transfer to the hotel for two night stay in Delhi.

B D Day 02: Delhi Sightseeing After breakfast guided sightseeing of Delhi. Enjoy a bicycle rickshaw ride through the old city’s busy, narrow lanes, and stop at a local spice market.

Then visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Later visit Qutub Minar a World Heritage site, this is the tallest brick minaret in the world.

B L D Day 03: Delhi - Udaipur (Approx 10 KMS of cycling to) After breakfast transfer to the airport to board your flight to Udaipur. Afternoon assembles at the lobby for a short briefing by your Tour Manager on the entire cycling trip ahead. Evening short cycling ride in Udaipur just to check your bikes and warm up for the next day. Stay two nights in Udaipur.

B D Day 04: Udaipur (Approx 40-45 KMS of cycling Ascend of 415 Meters) We hit the road after breakfast and cycle through crowded streets to the city’s outskirts to see a bird’s eye view of Udaipur, its lakes and hills.

Afternoon free to relax or explore the local bazaar.

Day 05: Udaipur – B L D Kumbhalgarh (Approx 55-58 KMS of cycling Ascend of 615 Meters) After an early breakfast, drive out of Udaipur to avoid highway traffic before we hit the road for 55km of an exciting ride to Kumbhalgarh Fort and witness the sights and sounds of rural Rajasthan.

Stay overnight in Kumbhalgarh Fort.

Day 06: Kumbhalgarh – Ranakpur

B

L

D

What’s included: 15 Nights boutique accommodation Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Trek Bikes Expert Cycle mechanic throughout the tour Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Back up AC vehicle for luggage and emergency travel Local guide for sightseeing at Agra Jaipur Jodhpur and Delhi Airfare in economy class from Delhi to Udaipur Fresh Fruits/Snacks (during comfort breaks) 2 Jeep Safari in Ranthambore National Park Meals as specified Monument entrance fees Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes.

46 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

(Approx 50KMS of cycling - Ascend of 475 Meters) A relatively moderate day of cycling as we leave Kumbhalgarh for Ranakpur and visit Jain Temple famous for elaborate marble carvings. The road is mostly metalled but has a few rough patches as well. Stay overnight in Ranakpur.

Day 07: Ranakpur – Korta B L D (Approx. 75KMS of Cycling) Today we have easy cycling with a 75 km ride from Ranakpur to Korta.

Cycling through this region, we find plenty of reasons to stop for an upclose look at rustic chores and the lives of people. In Korta we spend some quality time with Rabari villagers in the evening. Stay overnight in Korta.

Day 08: Korta – Bhenswara B L D (Approx. 55KMS of cycling) Today we cycle deeper into the heart of rural Rajasthan. The biking trail weaves through a pastoral landscape dotted with farms, mud huts, and small villages. We go off the beaten track and explore routes and visit villages.

These village folks though poor, are simple and friendly. Stay overnight at Bhenswara Village.

Day 09: Bhenswara B L D Bhadrajun - Jodhpur (Approx. 65KMS of cycling) After an early breakfast, we ride to the village of Bhadrajun. The biking trail winds through the Aravalli hillocks and there are a few uphill stretches that put your leg strength to the test.

We do a quick tour of the Bhadrajun fort and then load the cycles on our backup vehicle and travel to Jodhpur.

Stay two nights in Jodhpur.

B L D Day 10: Jodhpur (No Cycling) Jodhpur is a sprawling city with many tourist hotspots that needs a day’s break from cycling. After breakfast enjoy a guided tour of Jodhpur and explore the architectural and magnificent marvel of Mehrangarh Fort and the surrounding cenotaph of Jaswanth Thada. Evening visit the Sadar Bazaar famous for textiles, spices and souvenirs.

Day 11: Jodhpur - Jaipur B L D (Approx. 65KMS of cycling) We drive out of the city to avoid heavy traffic before start cycling toward Jaipur. The road here is mostly metalled and it takes us through a patchwork of villages and small towns.

After a satisfactory ride, we travel by coach. Stay two nights in Jaipur.

B D Day 12: Jaipur (No Cycling) We take a break from cycling today and visit some of the iconic landmarks of Jaipur. Start the day’s sightseeing with a visit to Amber Fort. Later continue to City Palace and the Observatory and take a photo stop at Hawa Mahal, the Palace of the Winds, built in the 17th Century.

Jaipur is famous for colourful markets filled with textile, jewellery and fantastic souvenirs so you’ll enjoy exploring the local bazaar in the evening.

Day 13: Jaipur B L D Ranthambore (Approx. 65KMS of cycling) We drive until the traffic thins out, then start the ride on a pleasant stretch of smooth road towards Ranthambore.

This route winds through a beautiful countryside marked with farmlands, villages and small towns. Later board our coach and travel drive to Ranthambore. Stay two nights in Ranthambhore.

B L D Day 14: Ranthambore (No Cycling) Enjoy a morning and afternoon canter safari around the game reserve with an estimated area of 400sq km. Spot various wildlife species of animals, birds and reptiles and if lucky, see a Royal Bengal Tiger.

Day 15: Ranthambore - Agra B L D (Approx. 35 KMS of cycling) We drive out to the countryside and begin cycling towards Agra. After a lunch break, we travel by coach to Agra, the home of the Taj Mahal. Stay overnight in Agra.

B Day 16: Agra – Delhi Departure (No Cycling) An early morning visit to the most impressive Taj Mahal, built by Shah Jahan for his beloved wife. After breakfast check out and visit the impressive 16th century Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later travel to Delhi and your tour finishes by late evening with a direct transfer to the Delhi international airport.

Tour notes: Economy airfare included: NZ$125pp

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 47

Special Interest Group Journeys

Cycling Tour of Kerala 13 DAYS / 12 NIGHTS EASY-PACED

(Tour Code: CTOKGJ)

5,342 PP

DELUXE/UNIQUE BOUTIQUE FROM NZ $

There is no better way to get an up-close glimpse into the heart of God’s Own Country, Kerala, than on a bicycle. Along the way, you will experience the unique culture, local arts, and different cuisines of Kerala. You will cycle through lush paddy fields, green meadows, pine forests and spice-rich villages. The itinerary has been planned to give you ample opportunity to do off-road cycling and high-altitude cycling through the undulating landscape that is dotted with tea estates, waterfalls and lakes. You will witness a whole range of flora and fauna. The itinerary we’ve drawn up lets you do it all at a relaxed and leisurely pace.

Tour notes: Itinerary Can be tailormade Tour Type: Bespoke Special Interest Group Journey Group size: Minimum 10 and above Departs daily: Choose your dates Best Time to Travel: Sept to April Accommodation: Various Category available Added Value: Travelling during one of the festival or Fair Thattekad

1 2 Munnar

Cochin 2

Marari 1 1 Kumarakom (houseboat)

Vagamon

1

2 Thekkady

1

Alleppey

Day 01: Arrive Cochin On arrival at the airport meet your Tour Executive who will assist with transfer and check-in at the hotel. Stay two nights in Fort Cochin.

B L D Day 02: Cochin (Approx. 35KMS of cycling) After breakfast assembles at the lobby for a short briefing by your Tour Manager on the entire cycling trip ahead. Take a short cycling ride around Fort Cochin just to check your bikes and warm up for the next day.

Enjoy sightseeing including Cochin Harbour terminus where the Chinese fishing nets present a wonderful sight; the local fish market, Mattancherry Dutch Palace; The Jewish Synagogue

What’s included: 12 Nights boutique and heritage accommodation

and St. Francis Church. Evening enjoy a cultural Dance Show at the theatre.

Day 03: Cochin – Thattekad B L D (Approx. 40 KMS of cycling) Leaving Fort Kochi early after breakfast, you will be doing approx. 40 kms of cycling. Once we hit the highway, most of the ride will be through the rural road till Thattekkad. We will pass rubber and fruits plantations and tranquil countryside to reach our destination.

Evening you can interact with resident naturalists and indulge in Bird watching in and around your hotel.

Day 04: Thattekad - Munnar B L D (Approx. 70 KMS of cycling) Early morning enjoy bird watching

Assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Trek Bikes Expert Cycle mechanic throughout the tour Back up AC vehicle for the complete tour English speaking Local Guide for sightseeing Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Fresh Fruits/Snacks (during comfort breaks) Boat ride Spice plantation Kathakali dance show Bottled water during cycling ride Meals as specified Monument entrance fees and all collectable taxes.

48 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

and witness migratory and beautiful resident birds in their elusive natural habitat. Later check out and travel to Munnar. The seemingly gentle ride takes the riders through Munnar known for its pristine tea estates, cool breeze and breath-taking views. For cyclists, Munnar offers some of the finest and thrilling biking trails as it winds its way through the shola forests, cardamom estates and tea gardens.

You get to see the countryside, the indigenous tribal and the tea estate workers who work these tea gardens.

Stay two nights in Munnar.

B L D Day 05: Munnar (Approx. 50 KMS of cycling) The day cycling programmes have been catered to give you a ringside view of the beautiful countryside, the indigenous tribal, tea plantations, the tea estate workers colony and then learn about how the tea is processed at the local factory.

Day 06: Munnar - Thekkady B L D (Approx. 80 KMS of cycling) After breakfast you will be doing approx. 60 kms of cycling with a guide and backup vehicle. On the way to Thekkady, you pass a beautiful hamlet called ‘Cherukunnam’. This little village is interspersed with canals in all directions. We bike along with one of these canal bund roads amid lush green paddy fields filled with coconut trees and villages. We visit the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and the Bhoothathankettu dam in Thekkady.

Day 07: Thekkady (No Cycling) Morning experience boat cruise on B

L

D

Lake Periyar, which showcases a kaleidoscope of activities that occur around the lake and jungle. Evergreen moist deciduous forests and savannah grasslands characterize Periyar.

Later visit a spice plantation growing cardamom, pepper and coffee. It is believed that the spice trade dates back three thousand years in Kerala and many spices find their home here.

The slanting slopes caress a variety of cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, ginger, turmeric and curry leaves. On the way back you could stop at the local market and purchase some fragrant spices.

Evening attend a cooking class and enjoy learning to cook Kerala dishes, one of the most intriguing cuisines of the world. The class will be held in a traditional home set on the grounds of a working bioorganic spice garden.

Day 08: Thekkady – B L D Vagamon (Drive & Approx. 55 KMS of cycling) Today after breakfast, we will proceed towards Vagamon, Still untouched by commercialisation; the sleepy town with its scenic valleys, beautiful green meadows, enchanting pine forests, mists, fogs, tea estates, and waterfalls with the overall greenery is striking. Travelling by the hill highway in this section is an exhilarating experience with deep valleys and views all around.

Reaching Vagamon itself involves traversing a meandering road that is cut in solid rock and lined with pine forests.

Day 09: Vagamon – Alleppey B L D (Approx. 70 KMS of cycling) What a treat is in store for you today! Your destination leads to the famed backwater town of Alleppey.

The ride through the plains passes through settlements of rubber plantations, farmlands, fruit yards, and market places. Afternoon board the houseboat, to witness life in the backwater countryside villages.

Overnight onboard houseboat.

Day 10: Alleppey B L D Kumarakom Disembark in the morning from the Houseboat, get picked up by the driver from the Jetty and travel to Kumarakom, a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, is an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with white lilies. The Kumarakom bird sanctuary here, spread across 14 acres, is a favourite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist’s paradise.

Day 11: Kumarakom B L D Marari (Approx. 30 KMS of cycling) The route passes through country roads and small villages where you will see coconut husk being processed and made into coir ropes and mats.

Travel along the beach road and Reach Marari beach resort. Afternoon at leisure. Stay two nights in Marari.

B D Day 12: Beach Resort (No Cycling) Enjoy leisurely breakfast as the day is free to relax and enjoy beach activities.

Day 13: Marari - Cochin Departure B After breakfast, the tour finishes with a direct transfer to Kochi International Airport.

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 49

Special Interest Group Journeys

Walking Holiday in Rajasthan 16 DAYS / 15 NIGHTS EASY-ADVENTUROUS

(Tour Code: WHIRGJ)

4,299 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

India’s streets are among the most fascinating places in the country. By exploring them on foot, you will be able to get in touch with daily life, rich culture and natural splendours. Visit majestic forts, opulent palaces and exquisitely carved temples. Immerse yourself in the vibrant street life on carefully planned heritage walks and encounter rural life up close.

Please wear comfortable shoes as you may need to remove them at some sights and places of worship.

Tour notes: Itinerary Can be tailormade Tour Type: Bespoke Special Interest Group Journey Group size: Minimum 07 and above Departs daily: Choose your dates Best Time to Travel: Sept to April Accommodation: Various Category available Added Value: Travelling during one of the festival or Fair

Delhi 3 Jaipur 2

2

Jodhpur 2

Udaipur

Agra 2 2

Lucknow

2

Varanasi

Day 01: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist with the transfer to the hotel for three nights stay in Delhi.

Day 02: Old Delhi B L D Sightseeing (Approx 4 hrs Walking) After breakfast a tour briefing by your Tour Manager before we start the walking tour of Old Delhi. This tour will lead you through Dariba Kalan (silver market), Kinari Bazaar (wedding market), Spice Market and Paranthewali Galli. You’ll also see Ganj Sahib Gurdwara, Jama Masjid (Delhi’s famous mosque), Temples, all mingled in together. Lunch relish Mughlai cuisine in a local restaurant.

Evening free to relax.

Day 03: New Delhi B L D Sightseeing (Approx 5 hrs walking) Today we join a Delhi City Walk run by Salaam Baalak Trust. Not only will you be learning about Delhi street life on this tour, but you will also be helping a good cause. The tour, through the streets of the inner city of Paharganj and the area around New Delhi railway station,

is led by underprivileged children who have trained as guides. We later visit the historic village of Mehrauli, built around a Sufi shrine. Each monument in the area has a story to tell. Finally, visit Qutub Minar a World Heritage site, this is the tallest brick minaret in the world.

B L D Day 04: Delhi – Varanasi (Approx 3.5 to 4 hrs walking) Transfer to board the morning train to Varanasi. Known for its cultural experience and one of the oldest living cities in the world. Evening walks through the local bazaar to witness the breathtaking evening Ganga Aarti ceremony. Stay two nights in Varanasi.

B L D Day 05: Varanasi (Approx. 3 hrs walking) An early morning start with a heritage walk immerse yourself in the city’s hidden temples, lanes, ghats, bazaars.

Enjoy a Sunrise boat ride on the Ganges to witness the perpetual movement of the pilgrims on the steps.

After breakfast take an excursion to

What’s included: 15 Nights deluxe accommodation Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Train ticket in air-conditioned class Monument entrance fees Rickshaw ride in Delhi Jeep ride at Jaipur Walking food tour in Lucknow Walking tour of Old Delhi Boat ride at Varanasi & Udaipur Bottled water while travelling and current collectable taxes.

50 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Sarnath where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon. Later we explore the weaving village observing the art of silk weaving and shop for beautiful souvenirs. Vegetarian Thali meal will be our dinner.

Day 06: Varanasi – Lucknow B L D (Approx. 3 hrs walking) Travel to Lucknow, known as ‘The City of Nawabs’ and home to exceptional Islamic and British Rajera architecture, some fascinating bazaars and amazing food. Evening enjoy Culinary Walk and make you hop in, hop out of the traditional roadside eateries, making you try the best that is on the menu. Stay two nights in Lucknow.

B L D Day 07: Lucknow (Approx. 3 hrs walking) Morning enjoy a heritage walk through the old city and visit Teele Wali Masjid and the landmark Bara Imambara.

In the afternoon we will explore the traditional bazaar area on foot and visit craft workshops for zardosi and chikan embroidery. Awadhi cuisine will be your dinner today.

B L D Day 08: Lucknow – Agra (Approx. 3 hrs walking) An early start to visit the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love and devotion with its superb craftsmanship of semi-precious stones inlaid into the marble in beautiful patterns. Afternoon discovers narrow lanes of Kinari Bazaar, Lohar Gali and spice’s street.

B L D Day 09: Agra (Approx. 3.5 hrs walking) Early morning visit the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love and devotion with its superb craftsmanship of semi-precious stones inlaid into the marble in beautiful patterns. After breakfast discovers Agra by foot, the journey winds its way through the narrow lanes of Agra, where people can see the grand old havelies, the oriental markets of Kinari Bazaar, Lohar Gali and spice’s street.

B L D Day 10: Agra – Jaipur (Approx. 2.5 hrs walking) This morning head for the city of Jaipur, popularly known as the Pink City. Enjoy heritage walk of hold city, designed to reveal some of this walled city’s hidden architectural gems as well as its street life. Stay two nights in Jaipur.

Day 11: Sightseeing & B L D Bazaar (Approx 3.5 hrs walking) Start the day with a photo stop at Hawa Mahal before we reach the Amber Fort.

Later visit the splendid City Palace and 18th Century observatory of Jantar Mantar.

Day 12: Jaipur – Jodhpur B L D (Approx.3 hrs walking) Travel to Jodhpur also known as Blue city. Afternoon enjoy a walk to the Bustling Bazar of Old Jodhpur from a wholesale market to the local bazaar selling fresh vegitable and fruits. Stay two nights in Jodhpur.

B L D Day 13: Jodhpur (Approx. 4.5 hrs Walking) Morning visit Mehrangarh Fort, founded in 1459 AD situated on a low sandstone Hill and Jaswant Thada, an imposing Marble Memoriam built in 1899.

Afternoon excursion to a Mewari Village to visit the Banjara community, where the men earn their living by livestock farming and women work in the fields.

Day 14: Jodhpur – Udaipur B L D (Approx. 3 hrs walking) Moring, we travel to Udaipur. Evening join a guided heritage walk of the city and discover the hidden alleyways, meet locals and various artisans engaged in jewellery making, pottery and bamboo craft. learn about popular legends, living heritage and religious beliefs of this charming town. Stay two nights in Udaipur.

Day 15: Udaipur Sightseeing B L D (Approx. 4 hrs Walking) After breakfast visit Udaipur most iconic attraction “City Palace Complex “ with its marble and granite walls laden with miniature paintings, and decorated with tiles, glasswork and mirrors. Later visit the famous Jagdish Temple and on our way, we stop and meet various locals artisans engaged in jewellery pottery and bamboo craft.

Concluded the day with a boat ride at Lake Pichola.

B Day 16: Udaipur After breakfast tour finishes with the direct transfer to the Udaipur airport.

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 51

Special Interest Group Journeys

Royal Rajasthan Motorcycle Tour 13 DAYS / 12 NIGHTS EASY-ADVENTUROUS

(Tour Code: RRMTGJ)

4,973 PP

DELUXE/BOUTIQUE FROM NZ $

The Land of the Maharajas is our mystical journey into the heart of Rajasthan but redesigned. A change of scenery is a sure bet on this beautiful tour! A great introduction to authentic Rajasthan, the new itinerary covers almost 1120 miles and gives you the chance to discover a fascinating mixture of traditional villages, secret tracks, majestic palaces and forts, enriching experiences with locals and unforgettable scenes of everyday life. We’ll explore Pushkar, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Bundi, Jaipur.... cities that will blow you away with their rich history and culture. This is more than your average motorcycle tour, it’s an intense Indian experience guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

Tour notes: Itinerary Can be tailormade Tour Type: Bespoke Special Interest Group Journey Group size: Minimum 10 and above Departs daily: Choose your dates Best Time to Travel: Sept to April Accommodation: Various Category available Added Value: Travelling during one of the festival or Fair Mandawa 1

Jodhpur 1

1 1

Ghanerao 1 Pushkar

1 Delhi

1 Agra Jaipur 1 Ranthambhore NP 1 Bundi

Udaipur 2

Day 01: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport meet your Tour Manager who will assist with transfer and check-in at the hotel. After a short briefing, we shall be doing a “familiarisation” ride in an effort to know our bike better, to get familiar with its controls and the riding conditions in India. Stay overnight in Delhi.

B D Day 02: Delhi – Mandawa We begin our motorcycle journey in the direction of Shekhawati, a region famous for its majestic Haveli. We enter the “Land of Kings” by small country roads, offering us great sights of rural nature. Later proceed for city sightseeing which has beautiful

What’s included: 12 Nights accommodation

paintings, murals and frescoes mostly based on mythological themes, depicting local legends, animals, portraits, hunting and wrestling scenes and a glimpse of everyday life.

Day 03: Mandawa – Pushkar B D We cross the heart of Shekhawati during the first hour and stop at Nawalgarh. We then head south along a string of ancient forts, towards the salt lake of Sambhar, and take small countryside roads to reach the holy city of Pushkar. Later in the afternoon, we visit Pushkar Lake and Brahma temple; the only one of its kind in the world.

B D Day 04: Pushkar – Jodhpur We ride through the slight hills

Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Royal Enfield Motorbike 350cc & above with the gear shift on the left THO Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Expert motorcycle mechanic throughout the tour Basic spare parts (Tyres -Tubes, Clutch & Accelerator wire, chain lock etc.) are included Fuel and engine oil for Motorbike during the tour Support vehicle to carry luggage All Essential and Emergency Travel Equipment Accompanied Road captain Technical assistance for the entire trip on a separate bike First Aid kit English speaking Local Guide for sightseeing Fresh Fruits/Snacks during comfort break Meals as specified, Monument entrance fees Bottled water while travelling and all collectable taxes.

52 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

surrounding us via quiet country roads, leading us to the Marwar. We finally reach the enchanting region of the Bishnoi and Jat tribes. We get to one of the most mythical cities in the region, Jodhpur.

Day 05: Jodhpur – Ghanerao B D In the morning, we cross Jodhpur’ hustling and bustling old town, dominated by the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, an eagle’s nest overlooking the city. Then, we go south towards the ancient Mewar kingdom. After lunch, we make our way on pretty, rural roads, passing several hamlets and villages, home to the photogenic Rabari tribe.

Day 06: Ghanerao – Udaipur B D Today we tackle the winding roads of the Aravallis range. We visit the fortress of Kumbhalgarh, which has the second-longest wall in the world (33 miles) after the Great Wall of China. We arrive in Udaipur, the former Rajput capital of Mewar, built around several lakes.

B D Day 07: Udaipur Today we have the opportunity to explore Udaipur by walking. Late afternoon, take a short and easy ride to Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace).

B D Day 08: Udaipur - Bundi Today we ride to Bundi, a small off-the-beaten-track town with a charming Indian atmosphere. Its fort and palace are famous for their murals, considered the finest in Rajasthan. We set off on a perfect highway; beautiful, smooth and clean roads, without traffic.

Day 09: Bundi – Ranthambore B D We set off on our motorcycles towards Ranthambore National Park. In the late afternoon, enjoy a wildlife safari and spot various wildlife species of animals, birds and reptiles and if lucky, see a Royal Bengal Tiger.

Day 10: Ranthambore - Jaipur B D We leave Ranthambore in the morning and head to the mythical “pink city”: Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Here you need a little time to wander and eventually, do a little shopping (the city is known for its many forms of crafts).

We ride today mainly on “highways”, fast, in pretty good condition, without too much traffic, to reach Jaipur by the mid-afternoon.

B D Day 11: Jaipur – Agra Morning proceed for an excursion to Amber Fort. En-route photo stop at Hawa Mahal (Wind Palace). Later travel to Agra, home to India’s most famous landmark, the Taj Mahal. A poem of white marble, the Taj isdescribed as the most extravagant monument ever built for love.

B D Day 12: Agra - Delhi Early morning visit India’s mosticonic landmark, the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World; a fantastic way to end this tour! After breakfast, continue your ride back to Delhi and hand over the motorbike to the team. Enjoy the farewell dinner and share your travel experience of the Indian roads.

B Day 13: Delhi After breakfast, the tour finishes with a direct transfer to the Delhi airport.

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 53

Special Interest Group Journeys

South India Motorcycle Road Trip Tour (Tour Code: SIMRTGJ)

13 DAYS / 12 NIGHTS EASY-PACED

5,241 PP

DELUXE/BOUTIQUE FROM NZ $

Kerala, an exporter of spices since 3000 BC, will captivate you with its relaxing atmosphere, beaches and stunning tea plantations. Ride roads that twist through tea plantations, explore wildlife in national parks and enjoy the cool air of the Nilgiri Mountains. Kerala will charm you with its spicy cuisine; its lagoons, its magical backwaters and relaxing massages. A motorcycle trip through Southern India for all nature lovers seeking a complete change of scenery and an easy-paced introduction to India’s diversity.

Tour notes: Itinerary Can be tailormade Tour Type: Bespoke Special Interest Group Journey Group size: Minimum 10 and above Departs daily: Choose your dates Best Time to Travel: Sept to April Accommodation: Various Category available Added Value: Travelling during one of the festival or Fair

Ooty 2

1

Palakkad

Vypin Island 2 Cochin 1 Kumarakom (houseboat) 1

1 Kodaikanal 2

Munnar 2 kumily

Day 01: Arrive Cochin On arrival at the airport meet your Tour Manager who will assist with transfer and check-in at the hotel. After a short briefing, we shall be doing a “familiarisation” ride in an effort to know your bike better, to get familiar with its controls and the riding conditions in India. Stay overnight in Cochin.

Day 02: Cochin - Backwaters B D We start gently with an easy leg to get used to our bikes and the Indian way of the road. What a treat is in store for you today! Your destination leads to the famed backwater town of Kumarakom. The ride through the plains passes through settlements of rubber plantations, farmlands, fruit

yards, and market places. Overnight stay in the backwaters.

Day 03: Backwaters - Kumily B D Leaving for Kumily early after breakfast we will be covering approx. 93 miles with the guide and backup vehicle.

On the way to Kumily, you pass a beautiful hamlet called ‘Cherukunnam’.

This little village is interspersed with canals in all directions. We travel along with one of these canal bund roads amid lush green paddy fields filled with coconut trees and villages.

We visit the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and the Bhoothathankettu dam in Thekkady. Stay two nights in Kumily.

Day 04: Periyar National Park B D We wake up early to enjoy a boat ride in

What’s included: 12 Nights accommodation Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Royal Enfield Motorbike 350cc and above with the gear shift on the left THO Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Expert motorcycle mechanic throughout the tour Basic spare parts (Tyres -Tubes, Clutch & Accelerator wire, chain lock etc.) Fuel and engine oil for Motorbike Support vehicle to carry luggage All Essential and Emergency Travel Equipment Accompanied Road captain Technical assistance for the entire trip on a separate bike First Aid kit English speaking Local Guide for sightseeing Fresh Fruits/Snacks during comfort break Meals as specified Monument entrance fees Bottled water while travelling and all collectable taxes.

54 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

the National Park. Periyar Tiger Reserve keeps the magnificence of flora, fauna and wildlife lively. After breakfast visit a Spice Plantation and learn about the different spice grown here and their use in medicine and cooking. On our way back we visit the spice market and if you wish to buy some for your personal use this is the best place. Evening visit a local family for a cooking class followed by home-cooked dinner.

B D Day 05: Kumily - Munnar We take a windy road to Munnar. We find ourselves on the highest mountain in south India, which stands at an impressive 2,700 m altitude (Anamudi, Kannan Devan hills). The seemingly gentle ride takes the riders through pristine tea estates, cool breeze and breath-taking view. For riders, Munnar offers some of the finest and most thrilling trails as it winds its way through the shola forests, cardamom estates and tea gardens. You get to see the countryside, the indigenous tribal and the tea estate workers who work these tea gardens. Stay two nights in Munnar.

B D Day 06: Munnar Today’s bike programmes have been catered to give you a ringside view of the beautiful countryside, the indigenous tribal, tea plantations, the tea estate workers colony and then learn about how the tea is processed at the local factory.

Day 07: Munnar - Kodaikanal B D We enjoy many more mountain roads with views over spectacular bodies of water. We briefly drop back down to the warm Tamil plains, only to climb back up to the Kodaikanal region, with the welcome fresh mountain air of the Palani hills. An English hill town, popular for its large cedar and eucalyptus forests. Stay overnight in Kodaikanal.

Day 08: Kodaikanal – Palakkad B D Heading north back down the Palani hills we enjoy some wonderful views, especially overlooking Palar dam. We pass through Palani, a small holy town, where scenes of religious fervour are commonplace. We take another series of beautiful mountainous roads, passing remote villages on our way as we push on through the Tamil Nadu plains north of the mountain range surrounded by lush, peaceful countryside. Stay overnight Palakkad.

B D Day 09: Palakkad – Ooty We continue our adventure through farmlands and skirt around Elivai Malai.

Dense forests and tea plantations surround us once more as we climb towards Ooty, another ancient hill station much-loved by the English, set at the foot of the Doddabetta, the highest peak in the Nilgiri range (2,637 m). We make a crazily steep ascent on

a series of 35 hairpin bends over only 12 miles. Stay two nights Ooty.

B D Day 10: Ooty Today you will visit tea gardens and various scenic spots. Experience the most enchanting Toy Train ride from Coonoor to Ooty. The ride continues to inspire weaving its way through rocky terrain, ravines, tea plantations, and thickly forested hills. The picturesque Nilgi ri Mountains and the journey is worth the time spending in the train.

Enjoy the mountains and the beautiful scenery that whisks pass you in the train.

B D Day 11: Ooty – Vypin Island We head towards the coast and Guruvayur, a spiritual Hindu town, which abounds with religious paraphernalia shops and thousands of Hindu pilgrims visiting each day.

Lunch in the area, then we take the coastal road to Vypin Island and its numerous beaches that have only just gained popularity among tourists. On arrival say goodbye to your bike crew and stay two nights in Vypin Island.

B D Day 12: Vypin Island Enjoy leisurely breakfast and relax at the beach as the day is free for your own activities.

Day 13: Vypin Island – B D Cochin Departure After breakfast tour finishes with a direct transfer to the Cochin airport for your journey.

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room.

www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 55

Special Interest Group Journeys

Beyond The Markha-Valley Trek (Ladakh) (Tour Code: BTMVTGJ) 14 DAYS / 13 NIGHTS EASY-ADVENTUROUS

5,725 PP

DELUXE/ TENTED FROM NZ $

Trekking in the Himalayas is often considered the pinnacle of peak hiking holidays. The trekking within the Indian region of Ladakh certainly enabling travellers to make the most of the mountains and the cultural traditions of the High Himalaya. As this trekking leads through the Markha Valley you’ll find yourself flanked by the mountain ranges of Stok, Matho and Zanskar with the meandering twists and turns of the Markha River making for an excellent trekking trail along the river’s banks. Many small Ladakhi villages and hillside monasteries, including Tache Gompa and Hemis, align the valley slopes and are overlooked by high altitude passes, such as Gongmaru La, where stunning views stretch to Tibet making trekking in the Himalayas a truly magical experience.

Tour notes: Itinerary Can be tailormade Tour Type: Bespoke Special Interest Group Journey Group size: Minimum 10 and above Departs daily: Choose your dates Best Time to Travel: May to September Accommodation: Comfort accommodation & Tent Added Value: Travelling during one of the festival or Fair

Leh 4

Zinchen to Chokodo trekking

Delhi 2

7

Day 01: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport meet your Tour Manager who will assist with transfer and check-in at the hotel. Stay two nights in Delhi.

B D Day 02: Delhi Sightseeing After breakfast stat our city tour of Delhi. Enjoy a bicycle rickshaw ride through the old city’s busy, narrow lanes, and stop at a local spice market.

Then visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India Stop by Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, the city’s largest Sikh Temple. Later visit Qutub Minar a World Heritage site, this is the tallest brick minaret in the world.

B L D Day 03: Delhi – Leh Early start to board a scenic flight over the Himalayas to Leh. Rest of the day is free to relax and acclimatise to the altitude (3,500m) and evening explore the town and its bazaars. Stay three nights in Leh.

What’s included: 6 Nights in the hotel and 7 nights in tents

B L D Day 04: Leh Start our sightseeing with a visit to a former Royal Palace of the Ladakh kings and monastery - perched on top of a hill - its red and white buildings can be seen for miles.

B L D Day 05: Leh Today we will have an acclimatisation walk around the Leh Valley, visit Tsemo Monastery and enjoy a magnificent view of Leh and its surrounding villages.

Day 06: Leh – Zinchen and B L D Trek to Rumbak (1 hr Drive & 3 Hrs Trek) We drive via Stakna village and alongside the Indus River to reach the tiny settlement of Zinchen (3380m). It will not take long for our packhorses to be loaded before commence our trek that gradually ascends a spectacular gorge to the village of Rumbak (3960m). Our camp (3850m) is located just below the village.

Overnight: Tented camp

Group assistance and transfers Airfare Delhi – Leh in economy class Sightseeing as specified Trekking guide Porters, Cook Trekking Equipment Trekking permits Meals as specified Backup vehicle for luggage and carrying equipment Bottled water while travelling and All collectable taxes.

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Day 07: Zinchen – B L D Ganda La A short day as we head up the main valley past a watermill and to a bridge, which we cross. In the afternoon there will be an acclimatisation walk on the hills around camp. *Full-service Camping *(sleeping altitude 4,539m).

B L D Day 08: Ganda La – Skiu A long day today as we cross our first pass and reach the top of the Ganda La (4,970m) decked. Ahead is the Zanskar Range and behind are the Stok Mountains. As we descend the trail takes us through a spectacular gorge to the small hamlet of Skiu. We camp around Skiu overnight. *Full-service Camping *(sleeping altitude 3,360m).

B L D Day 09: Skiu - Markha The trail gradually ascends the Markha Valley passing a few small settlements en route to Markha (3770m) the largest village in the valley where we will visit the derelict fort above the village zand the gompa. Witness the imposing peak of Kangyaze (6400m)

before reaching Hankar (3980m), the highest village in the Markha Valley. *Full-service Camping * Day 10: Markha B L D Thachungtse Just beyond Markha, the trail meets the Chacham Valley. We will have one or two river crossings this morning and visit the most important monastery. We walk through Umlung village to Hankar and stop for lunch.

Climbing more we now follow the Nimaling stream to Thachungtse where we camp. *Full-service Camping *(sleeping altitude 4,250m) Day 11: Thachungtse B L D Nimaling A short but quite tough walk today to Nimaling and We should get to Nimaling by lunchtime and in the afternoon. The trail climbs steeply to a plateau where the valley opens out.

Ahead are spectacular views of Kang Yangtse, at 6,400m, the highest peak in the valley. *Full-service Camping *(sleeping altitude 4,854m)

Day 12: Nimaling - Chokodo B L D Our trail begins today by climbing to the Gongmaru La. It is a fairly long, steep ascent zigzagging to the top of the pass at 5,286m, but the views from the top are worth the effort. Passing through Chuskurmo we continue our long descent crossing the river several times to the village of Chokodo and camp overnight.*Full-service Camping *(sleeping altitude 3,980m B L D Day 13: Chokodo - Leh This morning we drive to Hemis Monastery. This was once the largest and richest of all the Ladakhi monasteries take you back hundreds of years in time. By lunch, we reach Leh and remaining day free to explore the local bazaar. Stay overnight in Leh. B Day 14: Leh Departure After the early breakfast tour finishes with a direct transfer to Leh airport.

Tour notes: Economy airfare included: NZ$145pp

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 57

Special Interest Group Journeys

Geochala Trek in Sikkim

(Tour Code: GTISGJ)

4,764PP

13 DAYS / 12 NIGHTS EASY-PACED EASY-ADVENTUROUS UNIQUE BOUTIQUE/TENTED FROM NZ $

The Goechala trek in Sikkim is one of the most romantic trails the Indian Himalayas has to offer the enchanting walk through the Tshoka, rhododendron forests, the vast Dzongri and Thansing meadows, the startling blue waters of Samiti lake, the looming presence of Kanchenjunga and Pandim and the icy trail to Goechala all come together to make this trek truly amazing. You get to trek to the lap of the mighty Kanchenjunga. For the best views of Kanchenjunga, we trek Goecha La (4940 m) from the final stop at Samiti Lake. Dzongri in West Sikkim also offers the trekker a most fascinating close-up view of Kanchenjunga and Mt. Pandim. To the west rises the long outline of the Kyangla ridge. Dzongri is a trekker’s paradise. The Goecha La trek follows an incredibly picturesque route past lush vegetation and offers wonderful mountain views like none other.

Tour notes: Itinerary Can be tailormade Tour Type: Bespoke Special Interest Group Journey Group size: Minimum 10 and above Departs daily: Choose your dates Best Time to Travel: April, May, Sep, Oct & Nov Accommodation: Comfort accommodation & Tent Added Value: Travelling during one of the festival or Fair

Yuksom Drive to Yuksum 9 Dzongri Yuksom Darjeeling 2

Lamune Thangsing

1

Kolkata

Day 01: Arrive Kolkata On arrival at the airport meet your Tour Manager who will assist with transfer and check-in at the hotel.

Stay overnight in Kolkata.

Day 02: Kolkata – Darjeeling B L D (6712 ft) Morning in time transfer to the airport to board flight for Bagdogra. On arrival meet the Local Executive and drive towards Darjeeling. Evening sightseeing and acclimatization. Stay two nights in Darjeeling.

Day 03: Darjeeling B L D Sightseeing We have a very early start this morning to visit Tiger Hill and enjoy a spectacular view of the Kanchenjunga with Darjeeling in the foreground.

(Depends on the weather condition).

After breakfast enjoy a joy ride on the Toy Train of Darjeeling. This train was commissioned in 1881 and still is a big attraction for tourists besides ferrying local people. Evening free to stroll around the local markets.

Day 04: Darjeeling – B L D Yuksom Drive Today we will drive to a, West Sikkim which is the base of our trek. The Route to Yuksom is through the beautiful Darjeeling Tukvar Tea Garden entering Jorethang. Overnight stay in tent.

Day 05: Yuksom – Tshoka B L D (9840 ft/14 kms) The trail from Yuksom starts at the local market and follows the main road towards the north. The trail climbs gently out of the valley and embraces the right bank of the Rathong Chu River, which can be heard thundering through the gorge below. The trail crosses over four bridges and climbs steeply towards the northwest to the small settlement of Bakhim. Continue for another 3 km through the forest of magnolia and rhododendron to reach Tshokha. Overnight stay in tent.

Day 06: Tshoka – Dzongri B L D (13218 ft/10 kms) On this day the trail passes through the village of Tshoka and continues to climb north through the forest of

What’s included: 4 Nights in the hotel 8 Nights in tents Group assistance and transfers Airfare Kolkata – Bagdogra in economy class Sightseeing as specified Trekking guide Porters Cook Trekking Equipment Trekking permits Sikkim inner line permit Meals as specified Back up AC vehicle for the complete tour Bottled water while travelling and all collectable taxes.

58 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

rhododendron to the alp of Phedang (3650 m) taking around 3 hrs to complete the ascent. Continue further towards Dzongri. Stay two nights.

Day 07: Rest day & B L D Acclimatise at Dzongri The day is for rest and acclimatization.

On this day one can savour views of the mountain peaks by climbing up to Dzongri Top. From here you get a panoramic view of Kabru (7353 m), Ratong (6678 m), Kanchenjunga (8534 m), Koktang (6147 m), Pandim (6691 m) and Narsing (5825 m).

Day 08: Dzongri – B L D Thangsing (12464 ft/08 km) The trail from Dzongri continues along the right bank of the river towards the east. After cresting the hill the path drops into the valley and then crosses the bridge over the Prek Chu river. It’s an hour climb from the bridge to Thangsing (3800 m) located on the slopes of Mt Pandim. Overnight stay in tent.

Day 09: Thangsing – B L D Lamune (13693 ft/07 kms) The trail from Thangsing climbs gently north and follows a stream and alpine meadows, Today’s trek is a gradual ascend through one of the most picturesque areas. The walk is through a glade between mighty mountains.

As the trek today is short, one can explore the picturesque surroundings in the afternoon or rest to conserve energy to cope with the long day tomorrow. Overnight stay in tent.

Day 10: Lamune – Goecha B L D La Thangsing (16200 ft/12 km) An early start for the hike up to the Goecha La (4,940m/16,200ft) and back. The walk takes about 08 hours roundtrip and it is challenging and strenuous. The terrain is also more challenging than the previous days of the trek. Returning down the valley, there will be a welcome meal and a short rest before setting off to walk gently downhill for 1½ to 2 hours to reach Thangsing. Overnight stay in tent.

Day 11: Thangsing – Tshoka B L D (14 kms) It’s worth getting up early to make the short hike to the ridge behind camp.

From here we can see fantastic views of Kangchenjunga and look back to Goecha La. Leaving Thangsing, we will take a different route back to Tshoka.

Overnight stay in tent.

Day 12: Tshoka – Yuksom B L D Darjeeling (14 kms / 5-6 hrs & drive 123 kms) Retrace our steps towards Yuksom on the final day of the trek. The going is easier as the path is mainly downhill.

After Reaching Yuksom we will rest for some time and then drive to Darjeeling.

Dinner and overnight stay in hotel.

Day 13: Darjeeling – Bagdogra B Departure After breakfast, we drive for about 4 hrs to reach Bagdogra from where you can catch a flight for your onward destination. Trip and services end here.

Tour notes: Economy airfare included: NZ$135pp

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 59

Bespoke, Private Escorted Tours DEPARTS DAILY

60 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Private Escorted Tours

Jama Masjid

Golden Triangle

(Tour Code: GTPT)

EASY PACED DEPARTS DAILY

6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

1,439 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

1,632 PP PREMIUM FROM NZ $2,704 PP

LUXURY FROM NZ $

It might not be justifiable to say that Delhi, Agra and Jaipur can in any way be a showpiece of what India truly is.

However, this combination of three enchanting destinations beautifully displays the richness of India’s history, heritage and culture in the shortest time possible.

2 Delhi

Jaipur 2

1 Agra

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two night stay in Delhi.

B D Day 2: Delhi Mesmerise yourself in a splendid sightseeing tour of Delhi. Visit Qutub Minar, Jama Masjid, Spice market, the Gandhi Memorial and the India Gate.

Witness the legacy of the past that survives in the many monuments left behind by the regents.

B D Day 3: Delhi - Jaipur Travel to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, founded by warrior astronomer Maharaja Jai Singh II. Explore the colourful bazaar of this pink city and stay overnight at your hotel.

B D Day 4: Jaipur Start your full day tour with a visit to Amber Fort. On your return drive past the old part of the city and visit City Palace Museum, Observatory, and Hawa Mahal known as Wind Palace.

Evening free to explore famous local

bazaar of old Jaipur. Stay overnight at the hotel.

B D Day 5: Jaipur - Agra Today we travel to Agra, en-route visiting the abandoned city of Mughals, called Fatehpur Sikri. Enjoy this sightseeing tour with its interesting birth story of Fatehpur Sikri. Free to relax in the evening and stay overnight at the hotel.

B Day 6: Agra - Delhi Departure Pay a visit to the immortal Taj Mahal and visit Agra Fort before travelling back to Delhi. The tour finishes by late afternoon with a transfer to Delhi international airport.

What’s included: 5 Nights accommodation

Assistance Travel, transfers and sightseeing by a private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified Private English speaking local guide Entry fees and monument charges Jeep ride in Jaipur Rickshaw ride in Delhi Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room.

www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 61

Private Escorted Tours

Top r Selle

Golden Triangle, Varanasi & Lucknow (Tour Code: GTVALPT) EASY PACED DEPARTS DAILY

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

3,554 PP LUXURY FROM NZ $3,825 PP PREMIUM FROM NZ $5,560 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

Delving into centuries of history, the tour uncovers ornate temples, magnificent Islamic architecture and marbled palaces. Experience the spiritual aspect of India’s age-old beliefs and enjoy a unique culinary experience in the metropolis of Nawab known as Lucknow.

Delhi 2

2

Jaipur

2

Agra 2

Lucknow

2 Varanasi

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel in Delhi for two night’s stay.

B D Day 2: Delhi Enjoy breakfast and a brief introduction to the city before starting a full day tour of Delhi. Visit Qutub Minar, India gate, Spice market, Gandhi memorial and Chandni Chowk bazaar.

B D Day 3: Delhi - Varanasi After breakfast, transfer to board the train to Varanasi. In the evening witness a grand prayer ceremony at the Ghats. Stay two nights in Varanasi.

B D Day 4: Varanasi Early morning start with a heritage walk and sunrise boat ride on the river Ganges. After breakfast enjoy a city

tour and an excursion to Sarnath where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon after his enlightenment. Later in the afternoon visit a silk-weaving village to witness the unique art of weaving silk and shop for souvenirs.

B D Day 5: Varanasi - Lucknow Travel to Lucknow, known as ‘The City of Nawabs’ and is an intriguing blend of old-world charm, beautiful architecture, warm hospitality, and rich heritage. In the evening enjoy a walking food tour which allows you to hop in and hop out of the world-famous traditional roadside eateries.

B D Day 6: Lucknow Enjoy a city sightseeing tour and visit Bada Imambara and Museum. In the afternoon visit a chikan workshop, a unique style of embroidery only found in this city. Afternoon take a leisure walk in Hazrat Ganj and Aminabad local bazaar.

or explore the local bazaar. Stay two nights in Agra.

B D Day 8: Agra Enjoy morning visit to the Taj Mahal.

After breakfast visit the impressive 16th century Agra Fort, Itmad-UdDaulah and a marble workshop to meet and witness remaining artisans.

B D Day 9: Agra - Jaipur After breakfast travel to Jaipur. Enroute visit the abandoned city of Mughals, Fatehpur Sikri. Evening free to explore the markets. Stay two nights in Jaipur.

B D Day 10: Jaipur Start a full day sightseeing tour with a visit to Amber Fort, Maharaja’s City Palace, the Observatory and a photo stop at the Hawa Mahal as we drive past the old part of the magnificent Pink City.

Day 11: Jaipur - Delhi Departure B After breakfast travel back to Delhi and the tour finishes by late evening with a direct transfer to Delhi airport.

B D Day 7: Lucknow - Agra After breakfast travel to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. Evening free to relax

What’s included: 10 Nights accommodation Assistance Travel, transfers and sightseeing by a private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified Private English speaking local guide Entry fees and monument charges Rickshaw ride in Delhi Walking food tour in Lucknow Jeep ride in Jaipur Train ticket in air-conditioned class Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room.

62 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Private Escorted Tours

Top r Selle

Spice of Kerala 12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS

(Tour Code: SOKPT)

EASY PACED DEPARTS DAILY

3,059 PP LUXURY FROM NZ $3,169 PP PREMIUM FROM NZ $4,130 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

On this 12-day tour, you will be transported back in time at the spice trading port of Cochin, with its melting pot of cultural influences, lulled by the serene beauty of Kerala’s backwaters and nature walk in the jungles of Periyar. Munnar will introduce you to a century-old culture, the fragrant tea plantations and hill forests are sure to enchant you as you discover the Spice of Kerala.

2 Munnar

Cochin 2 2 Thekkady Alleppey 1 2 Kollam Trivandrum

2

Kovalam

Day 1: Arrive Cochin On arrival at the airport meet your Tour Executive who will assist you with the transfer to the hotel. Stay two nights in Cochin.

B D Day 2: Cochin Cochin’s sightseeing includes Cochin Harbour terminus where the Chinese fishing nets present a wonderful sight; Mattancherry Dutch Palace; the Jewish Synagogue and St. Francis Church (built in 1510 and where Vasco Da Gama was originally buried). Also visit the Hill Palace which was built in the 19th century. Later you will be collected for a Kathakali Dance Show.

B D Day 3: Cochin – Munnar Enjoy a beautiful drive to Munnar, famous for its scenic beauty, marvellous waterfalls and high mountains. The remainder of the day

is free for your own activities. Stay two nights at Munnar.

B D Day 4: Munnar Explore a town that is difficult to describe and witness tea gardens spread like a green carpet over hundreds of kilometres. Munnar has lush green hills with a sparse population.

B D Day 5: Munnar – Thekkady Travel to Thekkady, known for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. In the afternoon, take a walk, explore this spice town, and stay two nights at Thekkady.

B D Day 6: Thekkady Enjoy a boat ride on the lake to spot wildlife, and later visit a spice plantation farm growing cardamom, pepper, coffee, and tea. On your way back you could stop at the local market and purchase their fragrant spices.

B L D Day 7: Backwaters Cruise Transfer for embarkation on your private houseboat at Alleppey and cruise through the beautiful backwaters of Kerala. Witness the lifestyle of the locals and travel the

vast network of lagoons, lakes, rivers and canals. Enjoy onboard meals and stay overnight on the houseboat.

B D Day 8: Alleppey – Kollam Disembark after breakfast and travel to Kollam, the centre of the country’s cashew trading and processing industry.

Take an afternoon walk in this beautiful small town. Stay two nights at Kollam.

B D Day 9: Kollam Interact with the locals and experience their day-to-day life or relax at the resort offering options for various Ayurvedic treatments.

B D Day 10: Kollam – Kovalam Travel to Kovalam, a beautiful fishing and beach town in Kerala. The day is free to relax and stay two nights in Kovalam.

B D Day 11: Kovalam Have a leisurely breakfast, enjoy an Ayurveda massage and relax at the beach.

B Day 12: Trivandrum Departure After breakfast tour finishes with transfers to Trivandrum airport.

What’s included: 11 Nights accommodation

Assistance Travel, transfers and sightseeing by a private air-conditioned car with driver Private English speaking local guide Meals as specified Entry fees and monument charges 01 Night on board private houseboat Kathakali dance show Spice plantation tour in Periyar Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes.

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 63

Private Escorted Tours

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Land of Maharajas

(Tour Code: LOMPT)

EASY PACED DEPARTS DAILY

16 DAYS / 15 NIGHTS

3,839 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

4,808 PP PREMIUM FROM NZ $7,363 PP

LUXURY FROM NZ $

This tour leads you through some of the exciting cities of Rajasthan, as well as unlocking a few hidden gems which lie slightly off the well-known route. The Thar Desert and Aravalli Hills combine to create a stunning visual backdrop for this journey.

Bikaner 1 2

Mandawa 1

Jaisalmer 2

Jodhpur

2 1

2

Jaipur

Delhi 2 Agra

Pushkar

2 Udaipur

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two night stay.

B D Day 2: Delhi Full day sightseeing tour of the city.

Visit Jama Masjid and enjoy a rickshaw ride at Chandni Chowk. Finally, visit Qutub Minar a World Heritage site, this is the tallest brick minaret in the world, with beautiful terra cotta embellishments and balconies.

B D Day 3: Delhi – Mandawa Journey by road to Mandawa, named “The Open-Air Art Gallery of Rajasthan”. In the afternoon visit Mandawa Fort and the intricately carved and elegantly painted Havelis.

Stay overnight at Mandawa.

B D Day 4: Mandawa – Bikaner Travel to Bikaner, the centre of art and culture of medieval India. In the afternoon visit the well-preserved 16th century Junagarh Fort and Lallgarh Palace. Stay overnight at Bikaner.

B D Day 5: Bikaner – Jaisalmer Travel to Jaisalmer, located deep in

the heart of the Thar Desert. Witness exquisitely carved houses dating back to the 12th century and experience a medieval township caught in a time warp. Stay two nights at Jaisalmer.

B D Day 6: Jaisalmer Full day sightseeing tour. Visit 15th century Jaisalmer Fort and well preserved palaces, elegantly carved Patwon Ki Haveli and Salim Singh Haveli. Conclude your day with a camel ride over the sand dunes.

B D Day 7: Jaisalmer – Jodhpur Travel to Jodhpur and explore the rustic rural life of the locals wearing colourful multi-hued turbans and special mirror-jaded costumes. Stay two nights at Jodhpur.

B D Day 8: Jodhpur Visit an old city surrounded by a 10km wall and its winding colourful street markets., blue houses, and the beauty and grandeur of the numerous palaces within Mehrangarh Fort.

B D Day 9: Jodhpur – Udaipur Drive to Udaipur and stop midway to visit the Ranakpur temples, famous for their 1,444 elegantly carved pillars, with no two identical. Stay two nights at Udaipur.

B D Day 10: Udaipur Enjoy a full day sightseeing tour of this romantic city, visiting City Palace, Jagdish Temple, the Museum, Jag Mandir and Saheliyon Ki Bari. In the evening take a sunset boat ride on

Lake Pichola and explore the shops along the narrow winding streets.

B D Day 11: Udaipur – Pushkar Journey through rural areas to Pushkar, a city famous for its annual camel fair. Explore Pushkar Lake and the bazaars of this small town. Stay overnight at Pushkar.

B D Day 12: Pushkar – Jaipur Travel to Jaipur, known as the Pink City and famous for its colour, lifestyle and Rajasthani cuisine. In the afternoon witness the royal heritage of the city.

Stay two nights in Jaipur.

B D Day 13: Jaipur Full day city tour to visit the City Palace which houses costumes and antiques.

Visit the Observatory, then take a photo stop at Hawa Mahal.

B D Day 14: Jaipur – Agra Travel to Agra. En-route stop to visit Fatehpur Sikri, built by Emperor Akbar and now known as a ghost town. The afternoon is yours free to explore the world-renowned city of the Taj. Stay two nights at Agra.

B D Day 15: Agra Start your day with a visit to the Taj Mahal, most loved for its eternal beauty, then to the 16th Century Agra Fort, and Itmad-Ud-Daulah which was built by Mughal Empress Noor Jahan in memory of her father.

B Day 16: Agra – Delhi Departure After a leisurely breakfast travel back to Delhi and the tour finishes with a direct transfer to the Delhi airport.

What’s included: 15 Nights accommodation

Assistance Travel, transfers and sightseeing by a private air-conditioned car with a driver Private English-speaking local guide Meals as specified Entry fees and monument charges Jeep ride in Jaipur Rickshaw ride in Delhi Boat ride in Udaipur Camel ride in Jaisalmer Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room.

64 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Private Escorted Tours

Essence of Kerala

(Tour Code: EOKPT)

EASY-PACED DEPARTS DAILY

7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS

1,781 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

2,241 PP

LUXURY FROM NZ $

2,897 PP

PREMIUM FROM NZ $

This tour covers culture, lush tropical scenery, the scent of spices, tea and flowers, colonial buildings that jostle for space with churches, synagogues, mosques and temples, golden beaches, quiet inland waterways and a backdrop of jungle-covered slopes.

Cochin 2 1 Kumarakom Mararikulam 2 1

Alleppey

Day 1: Arrive Cochin On arrival at the airport meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two night stay in Cochin.

B D Day 2: Cochin Visit Mattancherry Palace (built by the Portuguese in 1555 AD), a Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church and

Santa Cruz Basilica. Conclude your evening by watching a theatrical Kathakali dance drama unfold.

B D Day 3: Kumarakom Transfer to Kumarakom and check in to the hotel. Afternoon enjoy a nature walk and explore this small village.

Stay overnight in Kumarakom.

B L D Day 4: Private Houseboat Early morning visit to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary to spot rare and endangered species of birds and reptiles. Today embark on a traditional houseboat at Kumarakom. Experience serenity while cruising on backwaters

winding through the vast stretch of paddy fields and the neat tiny hamlets lining both sides of the canals. Enjoy onboard meals with an overnight stay on the houseboat.

B D Day 5 & 6: Mararikulam Disembark after breakfast and enjoy a scenic drive to Mararikulam. Stay two nights at the beach resort.

Day 7: Mararikulam – Kochi After a leisurely breakfast, the tour will finish with a direct transfer to Kochi airport.

What’s included: 6 Nights accommodation Assistance Travel, transfers and sightseeing by a private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified English speaking local guide Entry fees and monument charges 1 Night onboard private houseboat Kathakali dance show 01 Standard Ayurvedic massage Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 65

Private Escorted Tours

time First-ellers Trav ice Cho

Forts & Palaces 12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS

(Tour Code: FAPPT)

EASY-PACED DEPARTS DAILY

3,394 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

4,010 PP

LUXURY FROM NZ $

6,041 PP

PREMIUM FROM NZ $

After exploring the sights of Delhi as well as the spectacular Taj Mahal, journey through the princely state of Rajasthan to take a closer look at the region’s magnificent forts and explore cities that are full of atmosphere and character, set against the stunning desert scenery. colourful markets and cheerful people.

Stay two nights in Jaipur.

2 Delhi

Jaipur 2

B D Day 5: Jaipur Witness the wonderful combination of Mughal and Rajput architecture during your sightseeing. Visit Amber Fort, the City Palace, Jantar Mantar and enjoy a photo stop at Hawa Mahal.

1 Agra

Jodhpur 2 1 Khejarla 3 Udaipur

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two night stay in Delhi.

B D Day 2: Delhi Enjoy a city sightseeing tour of Delhi, visit Jama Masjid, the Lotus Temple and Qutub Minar a World Heritage site, this is the tallest brick minaret in the world, with beautiful terra cotta embellishments and balconies.

Day 3: Delhi – Agra Travel to Agra, visit Agra Fort and conclude your day with a sunset visit to the incomparable monument of love, the Taj Mahal. Stay overnight at Agra.

B

D

B D Day 4: Agra – Jaipur Travel to Jaipur, en-route visit Fatehpur Sikri, known as the abandoned city of Mughals, built in 1569 by Emperor Akbar. The afternoon is free to explore the bazaar trails and the appeal of its

B D Day 6: Jaipur – Khejarla After breakfast, we travel to Khejarla and evening free to explore the village.

The 400-year-old fort now converted to a heritage hotel offers picturesque settings, latticework friezes and intricate Jharokas that will transport you back in time to experience the majesty of a long-gone era of valour and chivalry.

Stay overnight at a heritage hotel.

communities and witness the lifestyle of locals. Lunch is served at the scenic spot before exploring the villages.

B D Day 9: Jodhpur – Udaipur Travel to Udaipur, formerly the capital of the Mewar Kingdom, set around a series of artificial lakes and is known for its lavish royal residences. Evening free to walk around the local bazaar. Stay two nights.

B D Day 10: Udaipur Enjoy a city sightseeing tour and visit the City Palace Museum which houses a remarkable collection of ancient sculptures and inscriptions of the bygone era, the Jagdish temple for its Indo-Aryan style of architecture, Saheliyon Ki Bari, Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandir and Jag Mandir.

B D Day 7: Khejarla – Jodhpur Travel to Jodhpur a city founded in 1459 AD that seems like an oasis in the vast desert. Afternoon visit Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Tada. Evening free to explore local famous Sadar Bazaar.

Stay two nights in Jodhpur.

B L D Day 11: Udaipur Today enjoy an early morning walk to witness the daily life and culture of Bhil Tribes. This is an exclusive activity to experience non-touristic sites and unspoiled rural culture. Evening free for your activity.

B L D Day 8: Rural Experience After breakfast start your rural experience. Travel through the dry riverbed and off the beaten road to reach a small village. Meet the different

B Day 12: Udaipur Departure After a leisurely breakfast, the tour finishes with a transfer to Udaipur airport where you board your onward flight.

What’s included: 11 Nights accommodation Assistance Travel, transfers and sightseeing by a private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified Private English speaking local guide Entry fees and monument charges Village visit & rural experience Boat ride in Udaipur Jeep ride in Jaipur Rickshaw ride in Delhi Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room.

66 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Private Escorted Tours

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Scenic South 16 DAYS / 15 NIGHTS

(Tour Code: SSPT)

EASY-PACED DEPARTS DAILY

4,714 PP LUXURY FROM NZ $5,445 PP PREMIUM FROM NZ $6,075 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

Experience the culture as we cross two States (Kerala and Tamil Nadu), each with distinctive cultural traditions, exquisite architecture, rich, delicately scented cuisine and an endlessly varied spiced feast for the senses.

Mahabalipuram 2 Thekkady Cochin

2 2 1

Alleppey

2 Chennai

1 Pondicherry

Trichy 1

2 Thanjavar

2 Madurai Periyar Kumarakom

Day 1: Arrive Chennai On arrival at the airport meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two night stay in Chennai.

B D Day 2: Chennai Visit Kalakshetra; a school that teaches local art, music, weaving and design, St. Mary’s Church, Sri Parthasarathy Temple and San Thomas Cathedral Basilica, which was rebuilt in 1606.

B D Day 3: Mahabalipuram Drive to Mahabalipuram, en-route visit 2nd century Kanchipuram, a city with a thousand temples and famous for its silk weavers, who settled around 400 years ago. Stay two nights in Mahabalipuram.

B D Day 4: Mahabalipuram Go on a sightseeing tour and visit marvellous monuments with sculptured panels, caves and temples built during the Pallava Dynasty. In the evening enjoy a walk and witness the life of locals living in the town.

Day 5: Pondicherry Travel by road to Pondicherry and B

D

enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city ruled by the French before independence. Stay overnight in Pondicherry.

architecture. The sculpted pillars tell the story of the beautiful princess of Madurai and her marriage to Lord Shiva.

B D Day 6: Thanjavur Drive to Thanjavur, en-route visit Chidambaram, noted for its dancing Shiva Natraja sculptures that illustrate 108 forms of dance. Also, visit Gangaikonda Cholapuram with its richly carved temples from the Chola Dynasty. Stay two nights in Thanjavur.

Day 11: Madurai – Thekkady B D After breakfast travel to Thekkady and visit the spice plantation growing cardamom, pepper, coffee, and tea.

Later stop at the local market and purchase some fresh spices as souvenirs. Stay two nights at Thekkady.

B D Day 7: Thanjavur We proceed for a sightseeing tour of the city also known as the “Rice Bowl”, famous for the ancient handicraft making of bronze icons.

Visit intricately carved temples dating back to the 10th century and shop for souvenirs.

B D Day 8: Thanjavur – Trichy Enjoy a short drive to Trichy, claimed to be one of the oldest towns established several centuries before the birth of Christ. Visit Rock Fort and ancient temples and walk around to witness the culture left behind by many rulers. Stay overnight at Trichy.

B D Day 12: Thekkady This morning we enjoy a boat ride and walk at the Periyar National Park. The remainder of the day is free to relax.

Day 13: Backwater Cruise B L D Drive to Alleppey and embark on your private houseboat. Cruise through the narrow canals and backwaters of Kerala and experience unforgettable panoramic sights. All meals and overnight on board.

Day 14: Kumarakom – Cochin B D Disembark after breakfast and travel to Cochin, set on a cluster of peninsulas and islands in the Indian Ocean. Evening free to explore and stay two nights in Cochin.

B D Day 9: Trichy – Madurai Travel to Madurai and relax at the hotel or explore the town, famous for silk weaving. Stay two nights at Madurai.

B D Day 15: Cochin Enjoy a sightseeing tour, explore Fort Cochin and conclude your evening with a Kathakali dance show at the local theatre.

B D Day 10: Madurai Visit the magnificent Meenakshi Temple and experience the stunning

B Day 16: Cochin Departure After breakfast, the tour finishes with a transfer to Cochin airport.

What’s included: 15 nights accommodation, Assistance travel, transfers and sightseeing by a private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified English speaking local guide Entry fees and monument charges Private backwater cruise Kathakali dance show 1 night onboard private houseboat Spice plantation visit boat ride in Periyar Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 67

Private Escorted Tours

lar Poputer Win ay w Geta

Himalayan Valley 11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

(Tour Code: HVPT)

EASY – MODERATE DEPARTS DAILY

3,334 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

3,994 PP PREMIUM FROM NZ $4,817 PP

LUXURY FROM NZ $

Originally Himachal Pradesh, the Himalayan region has now been divided into two states; Himachal Pradesh and Uttaranchal. Blessed with some of the most spectacular and beautiful landscapes in the world, it is a traveller’s paradise – lofty snow peaks, deep gorges, lush green valleys, fast flowing rivers, enchanting mountain lakes, flower bedecked meadows, beautiful temples and monasteries steeped in time. Explore the region on this journey and make memories to stay with you forever.

Dharamshala

2 Manali

2

Amritsar 2

2 Shimla

Delhi 2

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two night in Delhi.

B D Day 2: Delhi Visit Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, Gandhi Memorial and the India Gate and enjoy a rickshaw ride in the narrow street of the famous Chandni Chowk bazaar.

B D Day 3: Delhi - Shimla Start our day with a train journey to Kalka to board the Himalayan Queen train for an unforgettable journey.

Registered in The Guinness Book of World Records as the greatest narrow gauge engineering achievement in

India from Kalka to Shimla, this track passes through the breath-taking landscapes of the majestic Himalayas, with 103 tunnels, 969 bridges and more than 20 railway stations. Transfer on arrival and stay two nights at Shimla.

B D Day 4: Shimla Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and explore the Mall, the Ridge and the beautiful town covered with pine forests, boasting scenic views and a legacy of the bygone British era.

B D Day 5: Shimla - Manali Travel to Manali and enjoy the scenic ride and breath-taking beauty of this hill station. Stay two nights in Manali.

B D Day 6: Manali Go for an excursion to Rohtang Pass for panoramic views of the mighty Himalayas.

Day 7: Manali - Dharamshala B D Travel to Dharamshala and enjoy another scenic ride through many small villages in the Himachal Valley.

Stay two nights in Dharamshala.

B D Day 8: Dharamshala Explore the home of Noble Laureate the Dalai Lama and enjoy a panoramic view of the tea gardens, beautiful hills, colourful bazaar and colonial lifestyle.

Day 9: Dharamshala - Amritsar B D Travel to Amritsar to see the most sacred shrine and important holy place of the Sikh religion. In the afternoon explore this holy city and visit the famous Golden Temple. Stay two nights in Amritsar.

B D Day 10: Amritsar Relax in the morning and visit the Jallianwala Bagh, a garden and memorial of national importance.

Evening experience a retreat ceremony at Wagha Border.

B Day 11: Amritsar - Delhi After breakfast, transfer to the railway station to board the Delhi-bound train. Assistance on arrival and the tour finishes with a direct transfer to Delhi Airport.

What’s included: 10 Nights accommodation Assistance Travel, sightseeing and transfers by a private air-conditioned car with driver Private English-speaking local guide Meals as specified Entry fees and monument charges Rickshaw ride in Delhi Toy train ride Kalka-Shimla Train ticket in airconditioned class Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room.

68 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Private Escorted Tours

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Enchanting South 17 DAYS / 16 NIGHTS

(Tour Code: ESPT)

EASY PACED DEPARTS DAILY

6,121 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

7,253 PP

LUXURY FROM NZ $

8,195 PP

PREMIUM FROM NZ $

This tour will take you to hidden places in south India, covering the Karnataka and Kerala regions. Experience the culture, rituals, villages and colonial buildings that jostle for space with churches, synagogues and mosques; golden beaches, quiet inland waterways and a backdrop of jungle-covered slopes.

Wayanad Bekal 2

2

Kozhikode 2

1 Bangalore

2 Mysore

Madhumalai 2 Ooty

Cochin 2 Alleppey 1 Trivandrum

2 Kovalam

Day 1: Arrive Bangalore On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay at Bangalore.

B D Day 2: Bangalore – Mysore In the morning visit the Bull Temple, carved out of a single granite rock. Visit Bangalore Palace, built in the Tudor style, and the summer palace of Tipu Sultan. In the afternoon drive to Mysore and stay two nights.

B D Day 3: Mysore Visit Mysore Palace, and Chamundi Hill to see panoramic views of the city. In the evening visit Brindavan Gardens, famous for their spectacular musical fountains.

Day 4: Wildlife & Tea Gardens B D Journey to Ooty, en-route visit Madumalai Wildlife Sanctuary and spot many species of birds and reptiles.

Continue to Ooty and the afternoon is free to relax. Stay two nights in Ooty.

B D Day 5: Tribe & Toy Train Go for sightseeing tour and visit

Botanical Gardens, Lake, and tribal Village. Afternoon enjoy the famous toy train ride from Connor to Ooty on the historical Nilgiri Mountain Railway established in 1899.

B L D Day 6: Ooty – Wayanad Travel to Wayanad, the green paradise nestled among the mountains of the Western Ghats. Afternoon free to explore. Stay two nights in Wayanad.

B L D Day 7: Wayanad Morning enjoy fun packed jungle safari at the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and Kuruwa Island before visiting Edakkal Caves.

B D Day 8: Wayanad – Bekal Today drive to Bekal and to Pallikare village which is in a very attractive region situated on the shoreline of the Arabian Sea. The rest of the day is free to explore. Stay two nights.

B D Day 9: Bekal Enjoy a sightseeing tour and visit Bekal Fort, known to be one of the largest and best preserved forts.

B D Day 10: Bekal – Kozhikode Travel to Kozhikode, stopping en-route at Azhikode to visit Handloom weaving village and Thalassery. Stay two nights.

B D Day 11: Kozhikode Visit Beypore, a prominent port and fishing harbour of ancient Kerala.

Afternoon explore the famous Mithai

Theruvu or SM (Sweet Meat) Street for handicrafts and textiles and the wholesale spice market at Big Bazaar Road.

B D Day 12: Kozhikode – Cochin Travel to Cochin and en-route brief stop at the holy town to witness ques of devotees waiting to enter Guruvayoor Temple. Evening free to explore Fort Cochin and stay two nights.

B D Day 13: Cochin Visit the synagogue built in 1568, spice trade centres, a Dutch Palace, and St. Francis Church, which contains the burial place of Vasco-de-Gama.

Explore Fort Cochin and end your day at the theatre with a Kathakali Dance show.

Day 14: Backwater Cruise B L D Transfer to board your private Kerala houseboat. Cruise through the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey to observe the lifestyle of locals living alongside the banks. All meals and overnight on board.

Day 15 & 16: Kovalam Beach B D Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Kovalam. Enjoy a traditional Ayurveda oil massage. Stay two nights, exploring this beach resort.

B Day 17: Trivandrum Departure After a leisurely breakfast tour finishes with a transfer to Trivandrum airport.

What’s included: 16 Nights accommodation Assistance Travel, sightseeing and transfers by a private air-conditioned car with driver English-speaking local guide Meals as specified Entry fees and monument charges 01 night on board private houseboat 01 standard Ayurveda oil massage 02 game drive, Kathakali dance show Toy train ride Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 69

Private Escorted Tours

Classic India

(Tour Code: CIPT)

EASY-PACED DEPARTS DAILY

16 DAYS / 15 NIGHTS

5,718 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

6,866 PP PREMIUM FROM NZ $9,082 PP

LUXURY FROM NZ $

This extraordinary tour is packed with memorable experiences, culture and history as you go beyond the Golden Triangle. Explore the local bazaar Stay in comfortable accommodations, visit major landmarks with a local guide who’ll fill you in on their histories and a host of tours and excursions that will bring your surroundings thrillingly to life, this is India at its finest.

B D Day 5: Maheshwar – Bhopal Today travel to Bhopal, the remaining day is free to relax or explore the local bazaar. Stay two nights in Bhopal.

Delhi 2 Jaipur 2

1 Agra 2 Gwalior

1

Bandhavgarh

Khejarla Bhopal 2

1

2

Umaria

2 Maheshwar

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist with the transfer to the hotel for two nights stay in Delhi.

B D Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing Visit the Jama masjid, Spice market, Qutub Minar and enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride past the several busy bazaars.

B D Day 3: Delhi - Maheshwar After an early breakfast, transfer to board the flight to Indore then travel to Maheshwar, situated on the banks of the sacred Narmada River. Stay two nights in Maheshwar.

B D Day 4: Maheshwar Enjoy full day city tour. Jahaz Mahal, Hindola Mahal, Baz Bahadura’s Palace are some of the worth visiting sights at Mandu. Thereafter continue your journey to Maheshwar, known for its distinctive hand-woven sarees called Maheshwari. Evening enjoy a boat ride before returning to your hotel.

B D Day 6: Excursion Take a full-day excursion to Sanchi, Udaigiri and Vidisha to see its 3rd century BC to the 12th century AD stupas, monasteries and some remarkable antiquates that throw light on the considerable architectural development of the period.

B D Day 7: Umaria After breakfast checkout and visit Bhimbetka where over 500 caves depict the life of the pre-historic cavedwellers. Evening board overnight train for Umaria.

B L D Day 8: Bandhavgarh NP On arrival at Umariya Railway Station, you will be met, assisted and transferred to Bandhavgarh. Rest of the day is free to relax or explore town.

Stay two nights in Bandhavgarh.

B L D Day 09: Bandhavgarh NP Enjoy a morning and afternoon Jeep safari in well known Tiger Reserve.

Spot various wildlife species of animals, birds and reptiles and if lucky, see a Royal Bengal Tiger.

B D Day 10: Khajuraho Travel to Khajuraho, afternoon visit Khajuraho temples a UNESCO World Heritage site. The timeless temples we see today have unity of structure. The

temples are clustered in groups in the west, east and south.

D B Day 11: Khajuraho - Gwalior Travel to Gwalior, en-route visit the Orchha Palace and Fort. Evening free to relax or go shopping, Gwalior is famous for its Chanderi, Maheshwari Silks and Handicraft. Stay for two nights in Gwalior.

B D Day 12: Gwalior Sightseeing Morning visit Jai Vilas Palace and afternoon explore the bazaar to experience the buzz of the local market.

B D Day 13: Gwalior – Agra Travel to Agra, later visit the impressive Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stay overnight in Agra.

B T D Day 14: Agra - Jaipur An early start to visit the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love.

After breakfast travel to Jaipur, the pink city of India and Hi-Tea at the Rambagh Palace. Stay two nights in Jaipur.

B D Day 15: Jaipur Take an excursion to the majestic Amber Fort, Photo Stop at Hawa Mahal and later visit the City Palace Museum.

The evening is free to explore the colourful bazaars of Jaipur.

Day 16: Jaipur Departure After breakfast tour concludes with a direct transfer to Jaipur airport to board your onward flight home.

Tour notes: Economy airfare included: NZ$110pp

What’s included: 14 Nights accommodation 1 Night onboard train in air conditions sleeper class Travel, transfer and sightseeing by air-conditioned vehicle with driver Sightseeing as specified 2 Wildlife safari by jeep Meals as specified Hi-Tea at Palace Local English Speaking guide Entrance fees Rickshaw ride in Delhi Jeep ride in delhi Economy class airfare Delhi-Indore Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room.

70 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Private Escorted Tours

Family Fun in India 13 DAYS / 12 NIGHTS

(Tour Code: FFIIPT)

EASY-PACED DEPARTS DAILY

9,160

11,843 PF

DELUXE

15,253 PF

FROM NZ $ PF FROM NZ $

FROM NZ $

Family of 3 (1 triple room) (2 ADT + 1 CHD)

Family of 05 (2 room) (2 ADT + 3 CHD)

Family of 04 (1 family room) (2 ADT + 2 CHD)

Our family holidays are designed to be fun, with time to bond as a family and create great memories. We have included plenty of activities for both children and parents. This journey introduces you to some of the most impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the Taj Mahal and museums. Search for the elusive tiger in the Ranthambore National Park and end your holiday with a beach stay in beautiful Kerala.

Delhi 2 1 2 Agra

Jaipur 2

Ranthambhore NP

Cochin

2

3 Kumarakom

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two night stay in Delhi.

B D Day 2: Delhi Enjoy a short briefing on your tour before starting the city tour of Delhi.

Visit Raj Ghat, Jama Masjid, India Gate, Qutub Minar, explore Chandni Chowk on a rickshaw and witness the history and evolution of Indian Railways at the National Rail Museum.

B D Day 3: Delhi – Jaipur Travel to Jaipur, a treasure-trove of culture, art and history, famous for its

colour, lifestyle and Rajasthani cuisine.

Evening enjoy a tuk-tuk ride and arrive at the famous Raj Mandir Theatre to have a Bollywood movie experience.

Stay two nights in Jaipur.

B D Day 4: Jaipur After breakfast take an excursion to the majestic Amber Fort with a photo stop at Hawa Mahal. Enjoy a jeep ride while ascending the fort and visit City Palace Museum and Jantar Mantar.

Afternoon free to relax or explore the local bazaar.

Day 5: Jaipur – Ranthambore B L D Travel to Ranthambore wildlife sanctuary. Enjoy lunch at the hotel as the day is free to relax or enjoy a village walk. Stay two nights in Ranthambore.

B L D Day 6: Ranthambore Enjoy morning and afternoon safaris at the Ranthambore National Park majorly famous for its tigers in its natural habitat amongst many other reptiles, birds and wild animals.

B D Day 7: Ranthambore – Agra Travel to Agra, home to the famous Taj Mahal. Afternoon visit Itmad-UdDaulah also known as baby Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Evening free to relax and overnight in Agra.

B D Day 8: Agra – Cochin Early morning visit Taj Mahal, the epitome of love, built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. After breakfast travel to Delhi to board a flight to Cochin. Stay two nights in Cochin.

B D Day 9: Cochin Visit St. Francis Church, the first church to be built in India by Vasco de Gama; the Jewish Synagogue, Chinese fishing nets and take a ferry ride. Evening enjoy a Kathakali Dance performance in local theatre.

Day 10-12: Cochin – B D Kumarakom Travel a short distance to Kumarakom, a small village famous for backwaters, lakes and beach resorts offering a good selections of water activities.

No activities are planned so relax and enjoy three nights in Kumarakom.

B Day 13: Cochin Departure After a leisurely breakfast tour finishes by midday with a direct transfer to the Cochin airport.

Tour notes: Economy airfare included: NZ$185pp

What’s included: 12 Nights accommodation Assistance Travel, sightseeing and transfers by a private air-conditioned car with driver, Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified Monument entrance fees, Wildlife safari at Ranthambore Tuk Tuk ride & Bollywood movie experience Airfare Delhi-Cochin in economy class Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes. *Package prices displayed are low season, per family travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 71

Private Escorted Tours

Golden Triangle & Wellness Tour of India (Tour Code: GTAWPT) 14 DAYS / 13 NIGHTS

4,861 PP

EASY-PACED DEPARTS DAILY

LUXURY FROM NZ $

This tour is designed for those who have limited time but want to visit the “must-dos” of India, the Golden Triangle and also want to rejuvenate body, mind and soul in a pristine coastal area. Highlights include Agra with its ultimate symbol of love, the Taj Mahal and Fort; Jaipur, the Pink City famous for its colour, culture and palaces, and Delhi, the capital of India, where we witness the living history of the Mughals and the British Raj. Stay at a resort for seven nights to rejuvenate your senses with the goodness of yoga, Ayurveda therapy and specially prepared meals made with fresh local produce.

Delhi 2 Jaipur 2

2

Agra

B D Day 3: Delhi – Jaipur Travel to Jaipur the Pink City of India. The afternoon is free to explore the bazaar trails and witness the timeless appeal of its colourful markets and cheerful people. Stay two nights in Jaipur.

B D Day 4: Jaipur Start full day sightseeing tour with a visit to Amber Fort. Also visit Maharaja’s City Palace, the Observatory, and Hawa Mahal and drive past the old part of Jaipur city.

7

Goa

7 Cochin

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel in Delhi for two night’s stay.

B D Day 2: Delhi Enjoy breakfast and a brief introduction to the city before starting full day tour of Delhi. Visit Qutub Minar, India Gate, Gandhi Memorial and Chandni Chowk bazaar.

B D Day 5: Jaipur – Agra After breakfast drive towards Jaipur en-route visiting Fatehpur Sikri, an outstanding example of Mughal architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stay two nights in Agra.

B D Day 6: Agra Morning visit to the immortal Taj Mahal built by Emperor Shahjahan for his queen Mumtaz Mahal. After breakfast continue with the sightseeing tour, visiting the impressive 16th century Agra Fort, Itmad-Ud-Daulah also known as ‘Baby Taj’, and conclude with a visit to a marble-inlay workshop for an understanding of the beautiful calligraphy done on the Taj Mahal with precious stones.

Day 7: Agra – Wellness Resort B D After breakfast travel to Delhi to board a flight and transfer by road to your Wellness Resort located away from the hustle and bustle in a pristine beach and peaceful environment.

Rejuvenate and heal your body, mind and soul with the goodness of ancient yoga and Ayurveda Therapy. Stay seven nights at the Wellness Resort.

Day 8-13: Wellness Resort B L D The Retreat’s daily programme includes yoga and meditation sessions or you can spend lazy days on the beach or at the pool. There are a range of daily ayurvedic therapy sessions, and fantastic fresh food and great service. Enjoy an introduction to Yoga kriyas, asanas, Yoga Nidra, meditations and Pranayama, relaxing Abhyanga Ayurveda massages and special focus yoga sessions.

B Day 14: Cochin/Goa Departure After breakfast check out from the resort and the tour finishes with a direct transfer to the airport.

Tour notes: Economy airfare included: NZ$185pp

What’s included: 13 Nights accommodation Assistance Travel, sightseeing and transfers by a private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified Private English-speaking local guide Entry fees and monument charges Rickshaw ride in Delhi Airfare Delhi-Cochin/Goa in economy class Jeep ride in Jaipur Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes.

At the Wellness Resort: Ayurveda doctor consultation Yoga

Meditation and detox session Special meal while at the resort

Special yoga session Massage and therapy. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room.

72 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Private Escorted Tours

Kerala Backwater & Wellness Tour (Tour Code: KBAWPT) 11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

EASY-PACED DEPARTS DAILY

3,389 PP

LUXURY FROM NZ $

Kerala state in South India is famous for Backwaters and Ayurveda. A great ambience to experience both backwaters and Ayurveda health care. With our wellness trips to India, you are allowed to do a little sightseeing before you arrived at the yoga and wellness retreat. This is the perfect way to relax and find balance in your life, as well as to see some of the famous sights.

Cochin 2

Alleppey 1

Trivandrum 7 Kovalam

Day 1: Arrive Cochin On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist with the transfer to the hotel for two night’s stay in Cochin.

B D Day 2: Cochin Cochin’s sightseeing includes Cochin Harbour terminus where the Chinese fishing nets present a wonderful sight; local fish market, Mattancherry Dutch Palace; The Jewish Synagogue and St. Francis Church. Later visit the Hill Palace which was built in the 19th century. Later in the evening enjoy a Kathakali Dance Show at the theatre.

Day 3: Onboard Backwater B L D Cruise Travel to Alleppey and enjoy a cruise through canals and lakes. Observe the daily life of locals residing on the banks.

Your meals are locally prepared by the boatmen. This means food with lots of

fresh flavours and a minimum of frills, cooked with tangy spices and plenty of coconuts. Overnight on houseboat.

of the body will move to the stomach and then with appropriate orifices, the toxins removed.

B D Day 4: Alleppey – Kovalam After breakfast disembarks the houseboat and drives through the scenic countryside toward Kovalam Beach to check-in at The Ayurveda Retreat. Evening Ayurveda doctor’s consultation and stay seven nights at the Ayurveda Retreat.

Phase 2: The next six days are considered asase 2, In this period mostly the client may get Kayasekam and Siro dhara, this kind of treatment is also usually to bring the toxins out of the body or in some cases it will act as the main treatment to digest the toxins within the body itself.

Day 05 – 10: Ayurveda B L D Treatment After a doctor’s consultation, appropriate treatment is suggested depending on the health condition of the client, such as Abyangam with kizhi or Powder massage, or kadeevasthy or snehapanam etc.

Phase 1: Is to prepare the body for purification. So why do we have to prepare the body for purification?

Because the toxins are situated in the different parts of the body or deep inside the tissues, so with those treatments like Abyangam and Kizhi (oiletaion and fomentation) the toxins which are situated in different parts

Phase 3: The next three days are considered asase 3, in this period after cleansing the body we have to rejuvenate the body with different treatments like Shastika panda sweda and all.

Last day of Treatment: The main Panchakarma therapy will be done, which depends on the dosha or depends on the condition of the body.

It can be purgation with different medicines or different types of Vasthi.

During this day, you are allowed to take only very light and warm food dedependingn doshas.

B Day 11: Trivandrum Departure After a leisurely breakfast, the tour finishes with a direct transfer to Trivandrum airport to board your onward flight.

What’s included: 2 Nights in hotel 7 Nights in Wellness Resort 1 night onboard Backwater Cruise Travel, transfers and sightseeing by a private air-conditioned car Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified Local English-speaking tour guide in Cochin Monument entrance fees Kathakali dance show Ayurvedic wellness treatment with meals and medicins as per plan Yoga sessions Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 73

Private Escorted Tours

Honeymoon in India 13 DAYS / 12 NIGHTS

(Tour Code: HIIPT)

EASY-PACED DEPARTS DAILY

3,635 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

4,008 PP

LUXURY FROM NZ $

This tour of devotion is specially designed to transport you to a time of romance and with the grandeur of a dignified era, ensuring you enjoy not only a must-see and do of the region but also enough time to explore and enjoy your time along the way. Every destination has delights to inspire, Live like royalty staying at the Alsisar Mahal Palace and the splendid Umaid Lake Palace as well as a visit to one of the world’s most enduring symbols of love the Taj Mahal, spot Tigers in the wild and some of the Royal Palaces adding memories of a lifetime.

Delhi Alsisar 2 Jaipur 2

history of Alsisar with its magnificent Havelis and cenotaphs. Remaining day free to enjoy the grandeur of the Palace.

2

2 2

2 Agra Kalakho

Ranthambhore NP

01: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two night in Delhi.

B D Day 02: Delhi Mesmerise yourself in a splendid sightseeing tour of Delhi. Visit Qutub Minar, Jama Masjid, the Gandhi Memorial and the India Gate. Explore Chandni Chowk Bazaar by rickshaw and witness the legacy of the past in the many monuments left behind by the regents.

Day 03: Delhi – Alsisar Palace B D Travel to Alsisar, an 18th-century Caravan Trade route now known as an open art gallery. Here you will see a magnificent and breath-taking 17th century battle-hardened Alsisar Mahal.

This will be a highlight of your tour.

Stay two nights in this Palace hotel.

B D Day 04: Alsisar Palace Enjoy a heritage walk to discover the

B D Day 05: Alsisar – Jaipur Travel to Jaipur, later visit a renowned jewellery shop to witness how precious stones are cut, as well as a textile factory producing unique block printing famous to this region. Evening free to relax and stay two nights.

B D Day 06: Jaipur Full-day sightseeing tour with a visit to Amber Fort, Maharaja’s City Palace, the Observatory and a photo stop at the Hawa Mahal.

Day 07: Jaipur – Ranthambhore B D Travel to Ranthambhore National Park; one of the biggest and most renowned National Parks in Northern India. Evening free to relax or explore the village. Stay for two nights.

Day 08: Ranthambhore B L D National Park Enjoy a morning and afternoon safari around the game reserve. Spot various species of animals, birds and reptiles and if lucky, see a Royal Bengal Tiger.

Day 09: Ranthambhore – B D Kalakho Travel to Kalakho, a small village

brimming with culture and history.

Afternoon get a henna tattoo from the village ladies as the day is free to explore. Stay two nights at Ummaid Lake Palace.

Day 10: Ummaid Lake Palace – B L D Kalakho Morning enjoy a farm-fresh breakfast and visit an authentic Rajasthani village by Juggad ride, the way locals do and to get an insight in real rural India. Afternoon is free to relax or enjoy participating in various activities organised by the palace.

B D Day 11: Kalakho – Agra This morning we travel to Agra, home to India’s most famous landmark, the Taj Mahal. Afternoon free to relax or go for a walk in the local bazaar. Stay two nights in Agra.

B D Day 12: Agra Early this morning we visit the Taj Mahal and after breakfast visit a marble inlay workshop followed by Agra Fort and Itmad-Ud-Daulah Tomb also known as Baby Taj. B Day 13: Agra – Delhi Departure After breakfast travel back to Delhi and the tour finishes by late afternoon with a direct transfer to Delhi airport.

What’s included: 12 Nights accommodation Assistance Travel, sightseeing and transfers by air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified Monument entrance fees Private English-speaking local guide Heena art on two hands Rural experience with juggad ride 02 Shared wildlife safaris Jeep ride Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room.

74 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Private Escorted Tours

Honeymoon Tour of Kerala 10 DAYS / 9 NIGHTS

(Tour Code: HTOKPT)

EASY-PACED DEPARTS DAILY

2,764 PP

3,133 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

LUXURY FROM NZ $

Your honeymoon is a trip you need to get ‘just right. So we craft every honeymoon trip to your Wishlist to make it memorable. This introductory tour encompasses all the highlights of Kerala. Travelling first to the fascinating port city of Kochi, waking up to a misty morning in Munnar, then into the hills and spice growing areas in Thekkady. Journeying back towards the coast enjoy an unhurried overnight stay at the houseboat on the backwaters. Indulge in an authentic Ayurvedic massage session at Marari.

Cochin 2 Marari 2

2 Munnar 2 Thekkady 1

Alleppey (houseboat)

Day 1: Arrive Cochin On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist with the transfer to the hotel for two night stay in Cochin.

B D Day 2: Cochin Cochin’s sightseeing includes Cochin Harbour terminus where the Chinese fishing nets present a wonderful sight; the local fish market, Mattancherry Dutch Palace; The Jewish Synagogue and St. Francis Church. Later visit the Hill Palace which was built in the 19th century. Later in the evening enjoy a Kathakali Dance Show at the theatre.

B D Day 3: Cochin – Munnar Enjoy a beautiful drive to Munnar, famous for its scenic beauty,

marvellous waterfalls and Tea Plantations. Check into the hotel and then explore the local market for spices, a fresh cup of tea and local snacks. Stay two nights in Munnar.

B D Day 4: Munnar Enjoy and explore tea plantations and learn how the tea is processed at the local factory. Overnight stay in Munnar.

B D Day 05: Munnar – Thekkady After breakfast travel to Thekkady, evening enjoy a boat ride on the Periyar dam giving you a myriad of opportunities to observe wild animals grazing and drinking in the forest that fence the lake. Stay two nights in Thekkady.

Day 6: Thekkady Morning visit to a Spice Plantation to see and explore how different spice grows and the medicinal properties that each has as well as uses in cooking. Evening visit a local family for a cooking class followed by homecooked dinner.

B

D

Day 7: Onboard Backwater B L D Cruise Morning travel to Alleppey, enjoy a cruise through canals and lakes to observe the daily life of locals residing on the banks. Your meals are freshly prepared with lots of fresh flavours and a minimum of frills. Overnight onboard houseboat.

B D Day 8: Alleppey – Marari After breakfast disembark the houseboat and travel through the scenic Keralan countryside to the village of Mararikulam. Relax by the beachfront or explore the village to gain an insight into the life of locals.

Stay two nights in Marari Beach resort.

B D Day 9: Beach Resort Marari Day at leisure for your activity. Kerala is famous for Ayurveda massage 01 standard massage is included so book a time with the hotel and experience.

B Day 10: Cochin Departure After a leisurely breakfast, the tour finishes with a direct transfer to Cochin airport.

What’s included: 08 nights accommodation 01 night onboard a private houseboat Travel, sightseeing and transfers by a private air-conditioned vehicle with driver Meals as specified Cooking class with home cooked dinner English-speaking local guide Monument entrance fees 01 standard Ayurveda massage Kathakali dance show Boat ride at Periyar lake Tea and Spice plantation visit Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 75

Private Escorted Tours

Wildlife of India 10 DAYS / 9 NIGHTS

(Tour Code: WOIPT)

EASY-PACED DEPARTS DAILY BETWEEN 1 Oct – 30 June every year

4,746 PP

5,690 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

LUXURY FROM NZ $

This tour is specially designed to not only offer a great chance to see the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger in its natural habitats but also spot a vast range of unique wildlife including birds and reptiles along with lush greenery and an abundance of flora and fauna. It is home to more than a dozen cat species alone and India remains the only country in the world where both the tiger and lion can be found in the wild. area. Topography varies between steep ridges, undulating forests and open meadows. After the game drive, you are free to explore the local village.

1 Delhi

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel in Delhi for an overnight stay.

B L D Day 4: Kanha NP Travel to Kanha National Park, the largest National Park in Central India stretches over an area of 940 sq km and is known for its significant population of Bengal tiger, Indian leopards, the sloth bear, antelopes and Indian wild dogs. The Jungle Book is said to be based on the jungles of this reserve. The remaining day is free to explore the surrounding village and stay two nights in Kanha.

B D Day 2: Bandhavgarh NP After breakfast transfer to board the flight to Jabalpur. Assistance on arrival transfer to Bandhavgarh National Park for two night stay.

B L D Day 5: Wildlife Safari Enjoy morning and afternoon Jeep safari at the reserve to spot tigers amongst many other wild animals, reptiles and birds.

B L D Day 3: Wildlife Safari Enjoy the morning and afternoon Jeep safari at Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. This National Park is spread at vindhya hills in Madhya Pradesh and consists of 105 sq km core area and approximately 400 sq km buffer

B L D Day 6: Pench NP After breakfast travel to Pench National Park, which covers 758 sq km and drives its name from the Pench River that flows through the park from north to south. Afternoon free to explore nearby villages and stay two nights in Pench.

Jabalpur Pench NP 2 Nagpur

2 Bandhavgarh NP 2 Kanha NP 2 Tadoba NP

B L D Day 7: Wildlife Safari Enjoy morning and afternoon Jeep safari at the reserve to spot tigers amongst many other wild animals, reptiles and birds.

B L D Day 8: Tadoba NP Travel to Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, notable as the oldest and largest national park in Maharashtra state.

Named after God “Tadoba” or “Taru”, is praised by the tribal people who live in the dense forests and the Andhari river that meanders through the forest.

B L D Day 9: Wildlife Safari Enjoy morning and afternoon Jeep safari at the reserve to spot tigers amongst many other wild animals, reptiles and birds.

B Day 10: Nagpur Departure After a leisurely breakfast tour finishes with a transfer to Nagpur Airport.

Tour notes: Economy airfare included: NZ$185pp

Every year 1 July – 30 Sep Most National Parks are closed due to monsoon and breeding season.

What’s included: 9 Nights accommodation Assistance Travel, sightseeing and transfers by a private air-conditioned car with driver Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified Monument entrance fees Wildlife safaris (02 at Bandhavgarh, 02 at Kanha, 02 at Pench, 02 at Tadoba) Airfare Delhi to Jabalpur in economy class Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room.

76 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Private Escorted Tours

Top r Selle

The “Big 5” & Tigers 11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

(Tour Code: B5TPT)

EASY-PACED DEPARTS DAILY BETWEEN 1 Oct – 30 June every year

6,907 PP

8,548 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

LUXURY FROM NZ $

When it comes to wildlife, people commonly think of Africa and often forget that India has some of the most biodiverse regions of the world. This tour is focused on the “Big 5”: the Asiatic lion, the Asiatic elephant, the endangered one-horned rhino, wild buffalo and leopard, and includes the most popular amongst wildlife lovers, the Royal Bengal Tiger.

Rajkot 3

2 Pench NP

1

Nagpur

Kolkata

Gir 1 NP Mumbai

3

Kaziranga

Guwahati

Day 1: Arrive Mumbai On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you with transfer to the hotel in Mumbai for an overnight stay.

B D Day 2: Pench National Park Transfer to board flight to Nagpur, then transfer to Pench National Park.

Though there are many species of wild animals, reptiles and birds, the main predatory attractions in Pench are Royal Bengal tiger, leopard, wild dog and wolf. If you’re lucky you may also spot sloth bears, antelopes, Chinkara, barking deer, jackal, fox, palm civets, small Indian civets, jungle cats, hyenas and porcupines to name a few. Stay two nights in Pench.

B L D Day 3: Tiger & Leopard Morning and afternoon safaris will provide you with more chances to spot the shy animals in their natural habitat. Remaining day is free to explore surrounding villages.

B D Day 4: Pench – Gir After breakfast transfer to Nagpur airport to board a flight to Rajkot, then drive to Gir National Park located in the small town of Sasangir, the only home of Asiatic Lions. The remainder of the evening is free to relax. Stay three nights at the resort.

B L D Day 5: Asiatic Lion Enjoy morning and afternoon jeep safaris at Gir National Park to see beautiful Asiatic lions and other wildlife species. In the evening explore this small village town known for its unique culture and welcoming people.

B L D Day 6: Asiatic Lion Another day of morning and afternoon Jeep safaris at Gir National Park, providing further opportunities to see Asiatic lions close up. Evening free to explore the village.

B D Day 7: Sasangir – Kolkata Transfer to Rajkot airport to board a flight to Kolkata. On arrival transfer to hotel for an overnight stay in Kolkata.

B D Day 8: Kolkata – Kaziranga Transfer to board flight to Guwahati, on arrival transfer to Kaziranga National Park, famous for the endangered onehorned rhino. Other species of animals here are hog deer, swamp deer, wild

buffalo, elephants and the Royal Bengal Tiger. Evening free to relax or explore surrounding areas and stay three nights at Kaziranga.

B L D Day 9: Rhino & Buffalo Early morning and afternoon safari into the national park mainly to spot one-horned rhino and many other wildlife, reptiles and birds. Evening free to relax or go walking.

Day 10: Rhino & Gibbons B L D The geographical location of Kaziranga National Park makes it an ideal home for various wildlife species.

Early morning travel to a nearby region where we will have a chance to see Gibbons. Afternoon enjoy a game drive into the national park and have another chance to spot the onehorned Rhino.

B Day 11: Guwahati Departure After breakfast tour finishes with a transfer to Guwahati airport by late afternoon where you board a flight to Kolkata, Mumbai or Delhi to connect with your onward flight.

Tour notes: Economy airfare included: NZ$575pp

(1 July – 30 Sep Most National Parks are closed due to monsoon and breeding season.

What’s included: 10 Nights accommodation Assistance Travel sightseeing and transfers by a private air-conditioned car with driver Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified Monument entrance fees Jeep safaris with naturalist (04 at Gir, 02 at Pench, 03 at Kaziranga) Airfare Mumbai-Nagpur-Rajkot-Kolkata-Guwahati in economy class Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes.

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 77

Private Escorted Tours

Top r Selle

India by Rail 14 DAYS / 13 NIGHTS

(Tour Code: IBRPT)

EASY-PACED DEPARTS DAILY

4,379 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

5,039 PP

LUXURY FROM NZ $

From old steam engines to modern diesel and electric locomotives, this tour by rail covers four Indian states in 14 days unfolding the scenic topography, culture, cuisine and must-see monuments of India.

2 Shimla 1 Delhi

Darjeeling

Agra 1

3 1 1

Varanasi

1 1

Kolkata 2

Day 1: Arrive Kolkata On arrival at the airport meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two nights stay in Kolkata.

B D Day 2: Kolkata After breakfast, we start our sightseeing tour of this sprawling metropolis home of five Nobel laureates. Visit Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, drive past Eden Garden and explore the first capital city during British rule.

B Day 3: Kolkata – Darjeeling Relax at the hotel or prearrange a visit to Mother Teresa’s Ashram. Board the overnight train to New Jalpaiguri in an air-conditioned sleeper class.

Overnight onboard a train.

B D Day 4: Darjeeling Arrive in the morning and if weather permits, enjoy the narrow gauge toy train pulled by a small steam locomotive, or transfer by car to

Darjeeling. Experience an unforgettable scenic ride through the hills and stay three nights at Darjeeling.

and enjoy your journey in an airconditioned sleeper class. Overnight onboard a train.

B D Day 5: Darjeeling Go for a long walk. Enjoy low clouds touching your feet and view the famous lush green Darjeeling tea gardens.

B D Day 10: Agra Transfer on arrival. In the afternoon visit Agra Fort built by Emperor Akbar, Itimadud- Daulah; known as the mini Taj Mahal and finish your sightseeing tour at the Taj Mahal, the most perfect marble building in the world. Stay overnight at Agra.

B D Day 6: Darjeeling Go on an early morning excursion to witness the sunrise over Tiger Hill and visit the famous Ghoom Monastery and institute. In the afternoon visit the bazaar and experience the daily life of the locals.

B Day 7: Darjeeling – Varanasi Travel to the railway station to board the overnight train to Varanasi. Enjoy a scenic journey in an air-conditioned sleeper class and stay overnight onboard a train.

B D Day 11: Agra – Delhi Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before travelling to Delhi. Evening free to relax or explore the local bazaar and stay overnight at Delhi.

B D Day 8: Varanasi Transfer on arrival and in the afternoon explore the spiritual capital of India and witness grand prayer at the temple. Stay overnight at Varanasi.

B D Day 12 & 13: Delhi – Shimla Early morning transfer to board the express train to Kalka where you will board the Toy Train to Shimla. As the journey begins, one is taken by the change in vegetation, and the majestic glory of the railway stations and Gothic-style bridges en-route. Enjoy the charm of the former summer capital of British, The Mall area. Stay two nights at Shimla.

B Day 9: Varanasi – Agra An early start to experience a sunrise boat ride on the river Ganges and an excursion to Sarnath. In the afternoon board the overnight train to Agra

Day 14: Shimla – Delhi Departure B After a leisurely breakfast tour finishes with a direct transfer to Chandigarh airport where you board a flight to Delhi which connect to your onward flight.

What’s included: 10 Nights hotel accommodation

3 Nights Onboard Train Travel and Sightseeing by Private air-conditioned vehicle Local Tour Guide Assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified Monument entrance fees Boat ride in Varanasi Toy Train Ride in Darjeeling Delhi - Shimla Train tickets in air-conditioned class Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room.

78 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Luxury Train Journeys (Maharaja Express) Indian Panorama (Tour Code: IPMELTJ) 7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS

13,563 PP

FROM NZ $

DEPARTS SUNDAY

Relish royalty, spirituality and wilderness. Embark on an unforgettable escapade that starts off with the capital city of Delhi.

Make your way through the sacred city of Varanasi and cruise on the River Ganges to observe ancient spiritual rites. Witness the immortal beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra, the sensuous moods of the temples of Khajuraho, and the wilderness of the Ranthambhore National Park.

Places covered: Delhi Fatehpur Sikri Jaipur Ranthambore NP

Agra

Varanasi

Day 1 (Sun). . . . . Delhi

Day 4 (Wed). . . . Agra

Day 2 (Mon). . . . Jaipur

Day 5 (Thu). . . . . Orchha & Khajuraho

Day 3 (Tue). . . . . Ranthambhore, & Fatehpur Sikri

Day 6 (Fri) . . . . . . Varanasi

Orchha

Day 7 (Sat) . . . . . Delhi by 1500hrs

What’s included: 06 Night’s twin accommodation

Khajuraho

sightseeing Entrance fees Monument charges High tea Boat ride at Varanasi.

All meals Conducted Wildlife safari at Ranthambhore

The Heritage of India (Tour Code: HOIMELTJ) 7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS

14,233 PP

FROM NZ $

DEPARTS SUNDAY

Discover the bustling commercial city of Mumbai and the national Capital Visit the shimmering Lake City of Udaipur and the majestic fort at Jodhpur and enjoy sundowns on the sand dunes at Bikaner. Soak in the colourful Pink City of Jaipur. See from close quarters the legendry tigers at Ranthambhore and the Taj Mahal in all its luxury at Agra.

Places covered: Jaipur Bikaner Jodhpur Udaipur

Delhi Agra & Fatehpur Sikri Ranthambore NP

Day 1 (Sun). . . Mumbai

Day 5 (Thu). . . Jaipur

Day 2 (Mon). . Udaipur

Day 6 (Fri) . . . . Ranthambhore & Fatehpur Sikri

Day 3 (Tue). . . Jodhpur Day 4 (Wed). . Bikaner

Day 7 (Sat) . . . Agra & Delhi by 1530hrs

What’s included: 06 Night’s twin accommodation Mumbai

sightseeing Entrance fees Boat ride at Udaipur.

Monument charges

All meals Conducted Wildlife safari at Ranthambhore

www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 79

Unique Experiences & Short Tours Private Escorted Tours

80 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Tea, Tribe, Rhino & Island of Assam 7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS EASY PACED DEPARTS DAILY

(Tour Code: TTRAAUPT)

2,908 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

In this North East region, Assam is a land of unspoiled natural beauty, teeming wildlife, immaculate tea gardens, and beautiful people of various ethnic, religious, linguistic backgrounds making it a mosaic of culture. Assam is an unexplored paradise, said to be a miniature version of India.

Dibrugarh

Majuli Island 1 1 Sivasagar 1 Guwahati 1 2 Kaziranga NP

Day 1: Arrive Guwahati On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist with transfer and check in. Afternoon explore the town and visit the historical temple.

Stay overnight in Guwahati.

B D Day 2: Rhinos & Wildlife Travel to Kaziranga National Park, a World Nature Heritage site famous for its one-horned Rhinos and unique wildlife. Afternoon explore the surrounding area on your own and stay two nights in Kaziranga.

B L D Day 3: Wildlife Safari Enjoy morning and afternoon jeep safari into the national park to spot one-horned Rhinos and many other wildlife, reptiles and birds. Evening free for your own activity.

B D Day 5: Majuli – Sivasagar Take the local ferry to Nimatighat and travel to Sivsagar. Afternoon visit the Gargaon Raj Palace, the royal observatory, Talatal Ghar and Sivasagar Tank. Stay overnight at Sivasagar.

B D Day 4: Majuli Island & Tribes After breakfast travel to Nimati Ghat to take a local ferry to cross Brahmaputra River to the Majuli Island, the largest fresh water midriver deltoid island in the world. It has a small population, the majority being tribal and is endowed with rich heritage and rare species of flora and fauna. Afternoon explore the island and visit Satras, Missing tribal village, Mask making village and Pottery village. Stay overnight at Majuli.

B D Day 6: Assam Tea Gardens Today travel to Dibrugarh, one of India’s tea cities, and the gateway to the three districts which produce almost 50% of Assam tea. Afternoon explore the world famous Assam Tea gardens and stay overnight at Dibrugarh.

B Day 7: Dibrugarh Departure After a leisurely breakfast your tour finishes with direct transfer to the Dibrugarh airport where you board flight to Kolkata the closest international airport.

What’s included: 6 Nights accommodation Private air-conditioned car with driver Local English-speaking tour guide Meals as specified Entry fees and monument charges 02 Wildlife safaris in Kaziranga Return ferry tickets to Majuli Island Visit to a tea garden Bottled water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 81

Private Escorted Tours

Palace Trail of Central India

(Tour Code: PTOCIUPT)

9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS EASY-PACED DEPARTS DAILY

DELUXE FROM NZ $

3,919 PP

Steeped in heritage, history and culture, this popular tour allows you to step back in time, and adventure through the historical heart of India. Here your journey will zig-zag across vast regions which bear witness to the major influences that contribute to India’s diverse culture, in the greatest cultural triangle with the largest concentration of tribal people. Enjoy exploring it all, staying in some of the finest heritage and palace hotels of the region.

Bhojpur Sanchi Bhopal 3 Maheshwar 1 Bhimbhetka Dhar 3 1 Indore Mandu

Day 1: Arrive Bhopal On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you with transfer to the hotel in Bhopal for three nights stay.

B D Day 2: Sanchi Excursion Proceed on a half day excursion to UNESCO heritage site Sanchi, known for its stupas, monasteries, temples and pillars dated from the 3rd century BC. It is the oldest Buddhist sanctuary in existence. Afternoon return to the city and visit Moti Masjid, the second largest mosque in India, Lakshmi Narayan Temple and Tribal museum.

Day 3: Bhimbhetka & Bhojpur B D Enjoy full day excursion tour to UNESCO

world heritage site of Rock Shelters of Bhimbhetka, the site of south Asia’s richest collection of prehistoric cave paintings and the uncompleted 11th Century Bhojeshwar temple.

B D Day 4: Bhopal – Dhar Today travel to Dhar and stay two nights at Jhirabagh Palace heritage hotel built in 1865 by the Puar Kings.

B D Day 5: Dhar Morning explore the rich heritage of the city of Dhar. Surrounded by lakes, hills and old buildings, the city contains immense historical importance. The remaining day is free to explore the town on you own.

B D Day 6: Dhar - Maheshwar Travel to Maheshwar, situated on the banks of the sacred Narmada River.

Stay two nights in Maheshwar.

B D Day 7: Mandu & Maheshwar Today enjoy an excursion to the beautiful ancient city of Mandu, once known as the ‘City of Joy’, and noted for

its fine Hindu and Muslim architecture.

Visit Jahaz Mahal; situated between two lakes, it looks like a ship floating in the water; Hindola Mahal and Baz Bahadur’s Palace before continuing your journey to Maheshwar to visit the Maheshwari textile weaver’s village.

Enjoy a boat ride at River Narmada and return to Dhar.

B D Day 8: Maheshwar – Indore Travel to Indore, an ancient now buzzing metropolis and the largest city in state of Madhya Pradesh.

Afternoon visit 200 year old Rajwada palace, mirror temple known for its beautiful interiors of multicoloured glass mosaic, Central Museum and the neo classical wonder Lal Bagh palace. Stay overnight in Indore.

B Day 9: Indore Departure Tour finishes after breakfast with direct transfer to the Indore airport where you board your flight to Mumbai or Delhi to connect with your onward flight.

What’s included: 8 nights accommodation guide

Entry fees and monument charges

Private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified Local English-speaking Bottled water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room.

82 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Private Escorted Tours

Treasure of Kolkata & Orissa 9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS EASY PACED DEPARTS DAILY

(Tour Code: TOKAOUPT)

2,908 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

This unusual but fascinating tour offers a glimpse of a part of India that is often neglected by visitors. East India combined covers a vast and uneven terrain along the Indo-China border. Sloping down from the lower heights of the Himalayan peaks, this area is dotted with dense forests and blessed with differing climate zones, making this region an eco-tourism paradise, with lush flora and fauna. This short tour covers two states of East India; West Bengal to witness its glorious past and present unique culture; and Orissa, a large, verdant state clinging to the Bay of Bengal coast with its tribal villages, sandy beaches, extraordinary temples and mighty monuments.

Kolkata 2 Bhubaneshwar 2 Chandragiri & Taptapani

2

2 Puri Chilika Lake Gopalpur

Day 1: Arrive Kolkata On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you with transfer to the hotel in Kolkata for two night stay.

B D Day 2: Kolkata After a short tour briefing proceed for sightseeing tour of this multicultural historical city. Visit Victoria memorial, Town Hall, St. John’s Church, one of Asia’s largest flower market, Kumar Tuli and conclude your day walking through Chowringhee lane to witness colonial-style cafes.

Day 3: Kolkata – Bhubaneswar B D An early morning transfer to board express train to Bhubaneswar, the lively capital of Orissa. The ancient ‘Kalinga’ empire boasts settlements stretching back 2000 years. Transfer on arrival and remaining afternoon free to explore. Stay two nights at hotel.

B D Day 4: Bhubaneswar Enjoy a city sightseeing tour of this ancient city and visit Lingaraja, Parasurameswara, Mukteshwar, Rajarani temples, great examples of Orissa’s 7th to 10th Century architecture, and Dhauli Giri where king Ashoka renounced violence and embraced Buddhism. Afternoon enjoy an excursion to the remarkable sites of Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves historically the ancient seat of Jainism.

B D Day 5: Bhubaneswar – Puri Today we travel via some historical villages and towns to the ancient coastal settlement of Puri. En-route visit the Bell Metal Workers’ village, then stop at the appliqué-work village at Pipli, Brahmin village at Birpratappur and Artisans’ village at Raghurajpur now declared a UNESCO World Heritage village. Stay two nights at hotel.

B D Day 6: Konark Excursion Morning excursion to Konark, a UNESCO world heritage site. Enroute visit Stone Carvers village at Chhaitana. In the evening explore the town by foot and rickshaw.

B D Day 7: Chilika & Gopalpur Travel to Gopalpur, en-route stop at Chilika Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon. Nestled in the heart of coastal Odisha (Orissa) this lagoon is home to thousands of migratory birds including Siberian Crane, grey legged geese, flamingos, purple moorhens, jacana and herons. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake before continuing your journey to Gopalpur, famous for its beaches. Evening is free to explore the beautiful beaches. Stay two nights at hotel.

Day 8: Chandragiri & B D Taptapani Excursion Enjoy an excursion to Chandragiri, home to Tibetan settlers. Also visit Saora tribal village to experience new world tucked in to natural forest.

Later visit Taptapani famous for hot sulphur springs believed to have medicinal powers. Return to Gopalpur in the evening.

B Day 9: Bhubaneswar Departure After breakfast tour finishes with transfer to Bhubaneswar airport where you can fly to Kolkata, Bangalore, Mumbai, Hyderabad to board your international connection.

What’s included: 8 Nights accommodation

Private air-conditioned car with driver Local English-speaking tour guide Meals as specified Entry fees and monument charges Train ticket in air-conditioned class Boat ride at Chilka Lake Bottled water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 83

Private Escorted Tours

Ladakh

Panoramic Leh & Ladakh

(Tour Code: PLALUPT)

9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS ADVENTUROUS DEPARTS DAILY

3,101 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

Bounded by two of the world’s mightiest mountain ranges, the Great Himalaya and the Karakoram, Ladakh is situated towards the eastern parts of Jammu and Kashmir. It lies on the crossroads of the historic ‘Silk Route’ from Sinkiang to West Asia and to the plains of India. This tour offers the historical, cultural and scenic sights of the region perfect for those who love the mountain peaks and adventure.

1 Nubra Valley

Leh Likir & Alchi

6

Shey 1 Pangong

D Day 1: Arrive Leh Leh is a land of beautiful landscapes and gorgeous never-ending vistas.

Often described as moonscape, this desolate high altitude desert is a kingdom of mysticism and mystery.

On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you with transfer to the hotel in Leh. As your flight arrives in morning you have full day to explore local bazaar, narrow streets and to acclimatise to the high altitude. Stay two nights in Leh. B L D Day 2: Leh & Shey Start today with an excursion to Shey, home to the Ladakh Royalty. Visit Shey Palace built by King Deldan Namgyal in 1655 AD as a centre of Buddhism, which houses Shey Monastery with its largest golden Buddha statue towering 39 feet. Explore the largest Gompa at Thiksey Monastery belonging to Yellow Hat sect of Tibetan Buddhism; which strikingly resembles the Potala Palace of Tibet.

Day 3: Khardungla – Nubra Travel to Nubra valley,

B

L

D

passing

through the highest motorable road of the world, Khardungla pass. As you descend through the pass, you will get to see the picturesque Sunoor area and Samstanling Gompa, which offers you scenic views of the Dikshit valley.

Nubra is also a home of humped back camel and offers you an insight into the ways of life of the local people, living in harsh climatic conditions.

Stay overnight at camp offering basic accommodation.

B L D Day 4: Nubra – Leh After breakfast explore Deskit and Hundar, the two most important villages of Nubra Valley. Visit one of the oldest monasteries, a local school and witness the simple lifestyle of the locals. Enjoy a camel ride on sand dunes before travelling back to Leh for overnight stay.

B L D Day 5: Leh – Pangong Today enjoy a scenic ride and explore one of the most beautiful lakes in the Himalayas, the Pangong Lake spread over 604 sq kms of area between India and Tibet. Visit small villages en-route and stay overnight at a camp offering basic facilities.

B L D Day 6: Pangong – Leh Enjoy breakfast at the camp amidst the naturally calm environments,

you might have rarely experienced such quiet and peaceful mornings where even the birds do not chirp, the only sound you hear is that of the wind blowing. While returning to Leh visit Darbuk Village near Tangtse Valley, where stands a chain of war memorials in commemoration of the soldiers who lost their lives during the Indo-China war of 1962. You may see the villagers with their large herds of Pashmina sheep and long-tailed yaks.

Stay three nights at Leh. B L D Day 7: Likir & Alchi Today we discover the rich Buddhist heritage of Ladakh, by travelling to one of the oldest monasteries established in 10th century housing 11th & 12th century wall paintings, all of Indo Himalayan style. En-route visit Likir monastery which was established in 1065 AD and is situated alongside the Valley of Indus River.

B L D Day 8: Leh Enjoy your leisurely breakfast as the day is kept free for you to explore city and local colourful bazaar handicrafts.

B Day 9: Leh Departure After breakfast tour finishes with direct transfer to Leh airport where you board flight to Delhi for your onward journey home.

What’s included: 8 Nights accommodation 2 Nights at standard camp Transfers Travel and sightseeing by a private air-conditioned car with driver Assistance Meals as specified Ladakh permit Entry fees and monument charges Bottled water while travelling All current collectable taxes. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room.

84 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Private Escorted Tours

Hampi

Diamond & Dynasty of Deccan 10 DAYS / 9 NIGHTS EASY PACED DEPARTS DAILY

(Tour Code: DADODUPT)

4,077 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

This historic tour begins in the former princely city of Hyderabad to witness a legacy of the decadent Nizams is the trade of pearls, gold, fabric and of course diamonds. Travel from this Islamic pocket in southern India to the intrinsically Hindu collection of UNESCO World Heritage temples at Badami, Aihole, Pattadakal and on to Hampi and the ancient Vijayanagar Empire to see some of India’s most intricate historical stone carvings.

Hyderabad

Gulbarga 2 Bijapur 1 1 Badami 1 2 Hospet & Hampi Aihole & Pattadakal 2 Goa Dandeli NP

Day 1: Arrive Hyderabad On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you with transfer to the hotel in Hyderabad for two nights stay.

B D Day 2: Hyderabad Proceed for a guided sightseeing tour of this 400-year-old metropolis.

Visit Charminar, Mecca Masjid with its bricks brought from Mecca, Salar Jung Museum that housing magnificent exhibits of European and Indian paintings and statues, and Tank Bund and Hussain Sagar Lake.

B D Day 3: Bidar – Gulbarga Travel to Gulbarga, en-route visit Bidar, a tiny district rich in history. The fort, cannons, palaces in ruins, magnificent tombs and massive monuments all combine to make this a must-visit.

Evening free to explore the town and stay overnight at Gulbarga.

B D Day 4: Gulbarga – Bijapur Enjoy city tour of Gulbarga and

experience unique synthesis of two cultures. Visit the Gulbarga Fort and the tomb of the great Sufi saint for Sufi experience before travelling to Bijapur.

Evening free to explore the town and stay overnight at Bijapur.

B D Day 5: Aihole & Badami Visit Gol Gumbaz, the tomb of Mohammed Adil Shah and Jumma Masjid before travelling to Badami.

En-route visit Aihole, the “cradle of Indian architecture”, housing over 100 temples scattered around the village. Continue your drive to Badami, picturesquely situated on two rocky hills. Afternoon visit the Cave temples.

Stay overnight at Badami.

B D Day 6: Pattadakal & Hospet Morning visit North Fort and Mahakuta temple before travelling to Hospet.

En-route visit Pattadakal with its ten major temples representing early Chalukyan architecture. If time permits visit The Tungabhadra Dam or explore local village markets and stay two nights at Hospet.

B D Day 7: Hampi Excursion Enjoy an excursion to Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site and ancient capital of Vijayanagara, a vast site of monuments and ruins, a silent

witness to a glorious era of triumphs and tragedies. The majestic, imposing ruins leave the visitor awestruck.

Visit the Virupaksha Temple, rising majestically at the western end of a 670m-long street and the Vitthala Temple complex, of which 56 pillars in the main hall produce musical notes when struck.

B L D Day 8: Hospet – Dandeli Travel to Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary abounding in rich flora and fauna. The sanctuary is undulating with steep slopes, picturesque deep river valleys and rich hilly forest terrain. Afternoon free to relax or explore surrounding area and stay two nights at Dandeli.

B L D Day 9: Wildlife Safari Morning and afternoon safari at Dandeli National Park. Wild animals to keep a look out for are the Black Panther, bison, elephants and if you’re lucky you may even catch a glimpse of the tiger.

Day 10: Dandeli – Goa Departure B After breakfast tour finishes with direct transfer to Goa Airport where you board your flight to Mumbai or Delhi to connect with your onward flight home.

What’s included: 9 Nights accommodation

Private air-conditioned car with driver Local English-speaking tour guide Meals as specified Entry fees and monument charges 2 wildlife safari at Dandeli Bottled water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 85

Private Escorted Tours

ed

mend

m Reco

Highlights of Gujarat

(Tour Code: (HOGUPT)

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS EASY – MODERATE DEPARTS DAILY

5,257 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

Gujarat is located in the western part of India and is very popular for its age-old forts and palaces, its beaches and also its lip-smacking cuisine. Besides the aforesaid, the state is also a hot favourite amongst tourists for its distinct flora and fauna collection, easily seen in abundance across its numerous wildlife sanctuaries. Through the 11 days Highlights of Gujarat tour, we offer you the very best of its heritage and its culture.

2 Ahmedabad

Gondal 1

1 Vilavadar 2 Bhavnagar

2 Gir NP

2 Mumbai

Day 1: Arrive Mumbai On arrival, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you with transfer to the hotel. Stay two nights in Mumbai.

B D Day 2: Mumbai Start your day with the sightseeing tour of the Bollywood city with an excursion to the 600 AD rockcarved Elephanta caves, Prince of Wales museum (closed on Monday), Gateway of India, and drive through Marine Drive, Hanging Gardens and Dhobi Ghat.

B D Day 3: Mumbai – Gondal Transfer for your morning flight to Rajkot then travel by road to Gondal, known for its beadwork, silver jewellery and brassware. Afternoon visit the cottage weavers’ community and the famous Naulakha Palace.

B D Day 4: Gondal – Gir Travel to Gir National Park, world-

famous as the only haven of the majestic Asiatic Lion. En-route stop at Junagadh to visit Uparkot Fort, a magnificent Gothic palace and beautiful tomb built by the Nawabs.

Stay two nights at Gir National Park.

Day 8: Bhavnagar – Vilavadar B D Journey to Vilavadar and in the afternoon visit National Park, famous for blackbucks amongst other migratory birds. Evening free to explore this small town and stay overnight in hotel.

B L D Day 5: Gir National Park Enjoy a wildlife safari to spot vast numbers of wild animals, birds, reptiles, endangered Asiatic Lions and the thriving leopard population.

Day 9: Vilavadar – Ahmedabad B D Travel to Ahmedabad, en-route stop in Utelia, founded by the chieftain of the Vaghela Rajput clan in the 18th century. Stop at Lothal, a city planned during the Indus Valley Civilization.

Rest of the evening free for shopping.

Stay two nights in Ahmedabad.

B D Day 6: Gir – Bhavnagar Travel to Bhavnagar, a coastal city, and former princely state Sihor founded

by Bhavsinhji Gohil in 1723AD. Afternoon enjoy a city tour and visit Gandhi Smriti, Takhteshwar Temple, Barton Library and the museum of old books, manuscripts, rare coins, arms and armour belonging to the rulers of Bhavnagar. Stay two nights at Bhavnagar.

B D Day 7: Palitana Excursion Enjoy an excursion to Palitana where you will need to be physically fit to climb the stone steps leading to the top of the hill to see the enormous compound of approximately 863 fascinating Jain temples built over 900 years.

B D Day 10: Ahmedabad Visit the Calico Museum, famous for its rich collection of textiles, Sabarmati Ashram started by Mahatma Gandhi in 1915, Hridaya Kunj, a 15th-century Adalaj step-well and Dada Hari Wav. Evening free to explore local bazaar for handicrafts or textiles.

B Day 11: Ahmedabad Departure After a leisurely breakfast, the tour finishes with a transfer to the Ahmedabad airport.

Tour notes: Economy airfare included: NZ$135pp

What’s included: 10 nights accommodation

Assistance Travel sightseeing and transfers by a private air-conditioned car with driver English-speaking local guide Meals as specified Entry fees and monument charges Airfare Mumbai-Rajkot in economy class Wildlife safari in Gir National Park Visit Vilavadar Black Buck Sanctuary Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room.

86 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Goa 7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS

Private Escorted Tours

Fly & Flop & Short Tours 1,151 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

Goa, a tiny emerald land on the West Coast of India, with its natural scenic beauty, abundant greenery, its long history as a Portuguese colony before 1961 is evident in its preserved 17th-century churches, attractive beaches and temples. This beach destination is popular for its luxurious beach resorts, pleasant weather, happening nightlife, delectable seafood, thrilling water activities, and more. B

What’s included: 6 Nights accommodation 6 Breakfasts Meet and greet at the airport Return transfers Current collectable taxes. Current collectable taxes.

Andamans Island 7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS

1,507 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

We call the Andaman Islands a hidden Gem of the Indian archipelago, located in the Bay of Bengal and known to have approx 572 islands, of which 38 are inhabited. Islands are known for their white-sand beaches, mangroves and tropical rainforests. Pristine and Water and Coral reefs support many colourful marine species make these islands a popular diving and snorkelling destination.

Historical significance, as well as being unexplored by the most tourist makes B these Islands a MUST VISIT breach destinations.

What’s included: 6 Nights accommodation 6 Breakfasts Meet and greet at the airport Return transfers Current collectable taxes Return transfers Current collectable taxes Current collectable taxes.

Mahabalipuram 7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS

1,242 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

South of Chennai, there lies a spectacular beach of Mahabalipuram or locally referred to as Mamallapuram. From the 8th century Shore Temple on the seashore to rock-cut sculptures and monuments like Monolithic Rathas and Caves, is a perfect blend of historical significance and nature resplendence. The pristine and golden sand beach of this destination is perfect for sunbath and B offer various water sports activities.

What’s included: 6 Nights accommodation 6 Breakfasts Meet and greet at the airport Return transfers Current collectable taxes.

Holy Varanasi 3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS

582 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

Varanasi is probably one of the most ancient living cities in the world and has been a great religious centre for Hindus. On your second day experience a sunrise boat ride on the holy river Ganges and an excursion to Sarnath where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Evening witness Maha Pooja at one of the B temples before concluding your evening.

What’s included: 2 Nights accommodation

2 Breakfasts, Meet and greet at the airport Return transfers One full day sightseeing by private car with driver Local english speaking guide Monument charges Boat ride and current collectable taxes.

*Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 87

Private Escorted Tours

Fly & Flop & Short Tours Marari

738 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS

Marari Beach, a secluded little known beach destination in Kerala with easy access to Kochi airport. It’s a secluded and peaceful beach destination but the fisherfolk of Mararikulam and their gentle ways of life can be are some of the areas that can be explored in your leisure time. An early morning visit to a fishing village is recommended where one can get to see the fishermen bring back their catch of the day to be auctioned as is the practice. It makes for quite a spectacle B and experience in itself.

What’s included: 6 Nights accommodation 6 Breakfasts Meet and greet at the airport Return transfers Current collectable taxes.

Kovalam

761 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

Quite popular for its calm and scenic beaches, Kovalam is among the most pristine in India. It is also one of the oldest beach destinations known amongst the tourist communities. Services by Thiruvanthapuram airport, the Capital city of Kerala state and its shallow waters, low tidal waves, luxurious beach resorts, pleasant weather, delectable seafood make this a popular beach destination. B

What’s included: 5 Nights accommodation

5 Breakfasts Meet and greet at the airport Return transfers Current collectable taxes.

Kolkata 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

837 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

Kolkata is the cultural hub of West Bengal and the capital of India during British rule and offering a great mix of colonial and local culture. Enjoy a sighting tour and visit Howrah Bridge, flower market, Kumar Tuli, Victoria Memorial, Tagore, B Mother Teresa House and take a boat ride to visit Belur Math.

What’s included: 3 Nights accommodation 3 Breakfasts Meet and greet at the airport return transfers and one full day sightseeing by a private car with driver Boat ride on Hugli River Current collectable taxes.

Mumbai 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

1,185 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

We assist you to transfer from the airport to the hotel. Touch, feel and experience Mumbai, the bubblegum glamour of Bollywood cinema, shopping malls full of designer labels and red double-decker buses queuing in grinding traffic jams. This pungent drama is played out against a Victorian townscape more reminiscent of a prosperous 19th century English industrial city than anything you would expect to find on the edge of the Arabian Sea. Enjoy a city sightseeing tour and an excursion trip to the 5th century Elephanta Cave provided boats are B running on the day.

What’s included:

3 Nights accommodation 3 Breakfasts Meet and greet at the airport Return transfers One full day sightseeing by private car with driver Entry fees and monument charges Local English-speaking tour guide and Boat ride. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room.

88 | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Amritsar 3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS

Private Escorted Tours

Fly & Flop & Short Tours 472 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

Arrive Amritsar either by train or flight. Our representative will assist you to transfer to the hotel. The next day start your city tour with the Golden Temple, historical Jallianwala Bagh and the Summer Palace Museum. In the evening witness a Flag Retreat ceremony at Wagah Border before concluding your sightseeing tour. On your last day, you will be transferred to the airport or railway B station for your onward journey.

What’s included: 2 Nights accommodation

2 Breakfasts Meet and greet at the airport Return transfers one full day sightseeing by private car with driver Entry fees and monument charges Local English-speaking tour guide and Boat ride.

Darjeeling & Sikkim 5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS

1,214 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

B Day 1&2: Bagdogra – Darjeeling Arrive Bagdogra from Kolkata or Delhi and transfer to Darjeeling. Enjoy full day sightseeing with a sunrise visit to Tiger Hill, Ghoom Monastery and Batashia Loop War Memorial. In the evening explore colourful bazaars, the famous Darjeeling tea plantation and if weather is good, than a toy train ride. Stay two nights at hotel.

B Day 3&4: Darjeeling – Gangtok Travel to Gangtok which offers breathtaking views, colourful lifestyles, Buddhist Shrines, adventure and exquisite flora and fauna. Enjoy full day city sightseeing tour and stay two nights at hotel.

Day 5: Gangtok – Bagdogra After breakfast the tour finishes with a transfer to Bagdogra Airport.

B

What’s included:

4 Nights accommodation 4 Breakfasts Meet and greet at the airport Return transfers Sightseeing by private car with driver Entry fees and monument charges Local English-speaking tour guide and Toy train ride.

Ajanta & Ellora Cave 5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS

1,166 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

Day 1: Arrive Aurangabad Assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel for four nights stay.

Day 2: Aurangabad Enjoy city sightseeing and visit Daulatabad Fort, Panchakki; a flourmill run by water built in 1695, Bibi ka Maqbara built in 1678 by Sultan Azam Shah in an intentional bid to copy and rival the world famous Taj Mahal.

B Day 3: Ellora Caves Go for a day excursion to visit Ellora Caves, one of the highly visited World Heritage sites of India. It houses 34 monasteries and temples with some exclusive uninterrupted sequence of monuments that date back from 600 to 1000 AD. B Day 4: Ajanta Caves Today enjoy an excursion to the Ajanta Caves recognised as World Heritage Site. Its location within the Sahyadri Hills above the Waghora, depicts the story of Buddhism that prevailed during 200 BC to 650 AD. Etched and painted in mineral dyes, the paintings have a languorous stylised beauty and magical eloquence.

Day 5: Aurangabad Departure After breakfast the tour finishes with a transfer to the airport

B

What’s included: 4 Nights accommodation 4 Breakfasts Meet and greet at the airport Return transfers Sightseeing by private car with driver Entry fees and monument charges and Local English-speaking tour guide. *Package prices displayed are low season, per person, based on two people travelling together and sharing a base category room. www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 89

Destination Wedding India D estination Weddings can be as lavish, intimate or low-key as you are. Your guests will always remember your wedding because it was also their holiday. Imagine the photographs and video locations are of historic Palaces, Palm trees, blue waters, mountain ranges, family photos with traditional costumes it will be a lifelong memory.

Why not adopt a fun custom from the destination you are in? Your wedding destination could be your honeymoon destination because hotels often offer discounted rates for the extra nights for your honeymoon.

We have a dedicated wedding planner who will help plan your special day down to the very last detail and ensure everything is just perfect, from the venue and floral decor to the music and menu creation. Our wedding packages offer unique touches be it the location, bride’s hair and makeup, intimate dinner or perfect entertainment options like folk dance and music shows, shopping trips, desert safaris etc giving your guests a taste of the local flavour.

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Outstanding Wedding Destinations in India to Suit Your Wedding Theme

Royal Wedding - Rajasthan Rajasthan is known for its abundant forts and palaces that make way for a Royal Wedding. Major cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur are popular but small towns not only offer exclusive Palaces and Boutique Havilies but also gives the perfect setting for a great photoshoot.

Beach Wedding – Kerala & Goa There can be no better place than this for your wedding that will happen amidst nature or at the beach offering ancient forts and churches, there is no shortage of wedding venues in Kerala or Goa. You can either hold a private wedding ceremony at a church or organise an absolute fun-filled wedding on the beaches, backwaters and even sprawling tea plantations.

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Hill Station Imagine celebrating the biggest day of your life in a place that has stunning views of the valley, rolling hills, attractive sunset views and clear skies. India offers many popular hill stations from Shimla, Mussoorie, Darjeeling, Ooty to Munnar giving a perfectly picturesque location for Hill Station Wedding.

Traditional Wedding India is home to many religious communities and everyone has their customs and traditions. We employ and work with people of different faith and religion and this allows us to offer traditional weddings. Traditional can be combined with any wedding destination.

At TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS, we customise every aspect of your wedding to reflect your taste, style and personality, in simply stunning locations. If you’re dreaming of a Palace, Traditional, Beach, Garden or Hill Country Wedding, we will take care of all the details, ensuring privacy and perfection for your celebration.

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Our Guarantee • A dedicated Wedding Planner • Event Manager should you need any help or advice while you’re with us.

• Personal attention from arrival to departure.

• A vast variety of destinations, Hotels, Resorts and Palaces to select from offering the best service and price because of our volume business.

• No hidden cost.

• Well maintained small to large vehicles with amenities.

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Ceremony Arrangements (inclusions) • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

•

A traditionally decorated platform is called the “Mandap” on which the ceremony will be conducted.

A Shopping guide to assist with wedding shopping.

Flower bouquet for the bride and the boutonniere for the bridegroom.

Floral decor for the ceremony area.

Girls dressed in traditional costumes to accompany the couple.

A civil celebrant to bless the couple.

Traditional music and dancers.

Wedding cake.

Wedding album consisting of 20 photographs – five by seven inches.

Sparkling wine to toast during the ceremony.

Sparkling honeymoon brunch will be served in the room for the couple.

A basket of fruits and flowers in the couples room.

Manicure and pedicure at the wellness centre/spa for 45 minutes for the bride.

For dining, three exotic menus to choose from, or you are welcome to dine at the main restaurant – a bottle of house wine to be served during dinner on the wedding night. A table reservation will be made with the menu chosen and the name cards of the couple placed on the table.

Your personalised master of ceremonies will coordinate your ceremony.

Tour Type: India A Wedding Destination Group size: minimum 20 - 50 and above People Duration: As per requirements Accommodation: As per the client’s Request

Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing & Events TOTAL MICE is the event management arm of TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS India and is specialises in organizing Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Events. Lead by over four decades of industry experts, we provide bespoke services in the MICE segment with comprehensive planning, execution and work in complete collaboration with our MIICE Partners and Clients. Our quality, service assurance and strong governance standards have made us one of India’s most trusted names in the MICE industry. For us, no budget is too small, and no event is too big as we have previously delivered the most successful events from as96small as 20 to as big as above 3000 people. | www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

Meetings Our team of experts at TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS India provides you with itineraries and experiences tailored to your requirements. Our in-house MICE Team provide support in choosing the best-suited venue based on location, space, budget and other essential factors. Our services also include end-to-end management of your complete travel itineraries and specialised staff assistance for group airline bookings, hotel reservations and spouse programs.

Incentives Our Incentive Team starts by understanding your requirement so that we can plan the event down to the last detail, design and optimise a programme schedule to boost your team’s motivation. Our services also include venue selection, professional onsite staffing, vendor negotiations, billing and most importantly, complete budget management to assist with cost control.

Our Incentive Department has successfully organised several motivational and team-building programmes.

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Conventions With over three decades of experience and expertise in organising globally acclaimed conferences and seminars, we are well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of an organiser. Over the years, we have conducted conferences with a participation strength of 30 to 2000 delegates.

We provide right from venue selection, booking hotel rooms, airlines seats, services of an interpreter and translator, to ensure a world-class and hassle-free environment to conduct your business. Our other services include but are not limited to the printing of registration brochures, data compiling, finalisation of quality vendors for audio-visuals, signage, transport, manpower and other ancillary services requirements. Our widespread India office network is a significant advantage in providing consistent and reliable support to delegates.

Events Whatever be your reason to organise an Event or Exhibition TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS India can assist with travel-related & ancillary services. Right from ticketing, accommodation, on-ground transportation, facilities for delegates, exhibitors and visitors, every step of the reservation process is made simple and efficient.

Incentive Tour Our Incentive Team starts by understanding your requirement enabling us to plan the event down to the last detail, design and optimise a programme schedule to boost your team’s motivation. We have an unmatched ability to carefully craft and creates a bespoke incentive travel programs providing unique experiences for incentive travellers in the Indian subcontinent.

Our services also include venue selection, professional onsite staffing, vendor negotiations, billing and most importantly, complete budget management to assist with cost control.

We provide unique activities like travelling in a hot air balloon, taking in the magic of a moonlit desert safari; Dinner at Palaces, Incentives by us to help you motivate and reward your best and brightest with exceptional experiences that create a lasting bond. Teambuilding, the conceptualisation of theme-based parties and gala theme dinners like Maharaja theme, Jungle theme or Village theme to name a few can be offered at exotic locations. Unique Corporate Social Responsibility Programs (CSR) which allows participants to contribute sustainably back to nature also can customize in the incentive package.

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Suggested Team Incentive Activities Safari to a National Park A memorable wildlife safari is followed by a hearty BBQ meal around the campfire. As per your requirements, we either come back the following day or stay another night.

Wellness Trip: Do your employees work and play hard? Maybe they need a retreat away from all of that, and a way to learn how to get balance into their lives. A wellness incentive trip could be the answer. Imagine a week-long spa vacation near the beach, where your employees can detox their minds and bodies and have them return to work feeling like a new person.

Or how about a yoga retreat in the desert, where they’ll find their centre and enhance their focus.

See a Wonder of the World: Have any of your employees ever dreamed of seeing the Taj Mahal in India? You could offer a creative incentive trip that makes their dream come true.

Go on a Food Tour: If your office is full of foodies, consider an incentive trip that’s based around food. Select few cities of India and try out their regional hits like Delhi - Mughlai Food, Lucknow - Awadhi Cuisine, Kerala - traditional dishes. Want to be adventurous and exotic? Consider India and ensure to line up some events that delve into the local culture and history behind the cuisine. Your employees will have the chance to eat delicious food also, allowing them to explore another culture and see new ways of doing things that they might then be able to integrate into their workplace.

Our seamless processes ensure that you can leave everything in our hands, and simply let it unfold before you. Contact our Incentive Department for a tailor-made motivational programme to suit your specific requirements, as per your interest/budget/travel period etc.

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Our Guarantee • A dedicated Event Manager should you need any help or advice while you’re with us.

• Guaranteed Personal attention from arrival to departure.

• Dedicated 24 x 7 Operational assistance.

• Value for the package because all the must-see, must do, meals, quality accommodation and transport included with no hidden cost.

• Our excellent value comes because, as India specialists, we directly sell and ground handle all our tours ourselves from our India – Delhi office and are supported by over 36 regional offices.

• Well maintained vehicles with amenities.

• Duly registered Indian locally owned Destination Management Company

Tour Type: Incentive Tour Group size: 20-50 and above people Duration: Tailor-made as per requirements Accommodation: A vast variety of accommodation to choose Event/Tour Manager: Multilingual available www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz | 101

Nepal & Bhutan Private Escorted Tours

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Private Escorted Tours

Kathmandu & Wildlife

(Tour Code: (KAWPT)

6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS EASY – MODERATE DEPARTS DAILY Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu Meet and assistance provided on arrival at the airport by your Tour Executive and transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 2: Kathmandu – Chitwan B D After breakfast travel to Chitwan and explore the village. Stay two nights at Chitwan.

Day 3: Chitwan National Park B D Morning enjoy a wildlife safari and

2,143 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

in the afternoon walk around the nearby village to observe the daily life of locals.

Day 4: Chitwan – Kathmandu B D After breakfast travel to Kathmandu enjoying the panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges. Stay two nights in Kathmandu.

architecture and arts. Visit the 5th Century Pashupatinath temple, one of the largest Baudhanath stupas and Durbar Square. Overnight in Kathmandu.

B Day 6: Kathmandu Departure After breakfast tour finishes with a transfer to the airport.

B D Day 5: Kathmandu Enjoy an excursion to Patan and Bhaktapur to see ancient Newari

What’s included: 5 Nights accommodation Private car with driver Local English-speaking tour guide Meals as specified Entry fees and monument charges Wildlife safari Bottled water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

Kathmandu & Hiking

(Tour Code: (KAHPT)

5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS EASY – ADVENTUROUS DEPARTS DAILY Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu Meet and assistance provided on arrival at the airport by your Tour Executive and transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay.

B D Day 2: Bhaktapur Excursion Enjoy a city sightseeing tour, visit Boudhanath, Pashupatinath and Bhaktapur, the ancient city housing unique culture, tradition, arts and craftsmanship.

B D Day 3: Nagarkot Visit Stupa of Swayambhunath before travelling to Nagarkot. Enjoy a scenic drive and savour the breathtaking view of the mountains. Experience a magnificent sunset and stay overnight at Nagarkot.

B D Day 4: Hike to Sankhu Wake up early in the morning to enjoy a magnificent sunrise over the Himalayan ranges. After breakfast set

2,143 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

off hiking in Sankhu and enjoy the rich culture and heart-stopping scenery.

Later return back to Kathmandu for an overnight stay.

B Day 5: Kathmandu Departure After breakfast the tour will finish with a transfer to the airport.

What’s included: 4 Nights accommodation

Private car with driver Local English-speaking tour guide Meals as specified Entry fees and monument charges Bottled water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

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Private Escorted Tours

Nepal Delight

(Tour Code: (NDPT)

3,385 PP

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS EASY – MODERATE DEPARTS DAILY Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu Meet and assistance provided on arrival at the airport by your Tour Executive and transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay.

DELUXE FROM NZ $

B D Day 4: Chitwan – Pokhara Experience scenic ride to Pokhara and relax at the hotel or take a walk to the Lake. Stay two nights at Pokhara.

Day 2: Kathmandu – Chitwan B D Travel by road to Chitwan National Park famous for endangered onehorned rhinos, tigers and many wildlife species of birds, animals and reptiles.

Stay two nights at Chitwan.

Day 5: Pokhara Visit Mahendra Gupha Cave, The Devil’s Fall at the gorge of the Seti River, Tibetan refugee camp and enjoy boat a ride to witness the majestic sight of snow-capped mountain peaks and exquisite beauty.

Day 3: Chitwan National Park B L D Morning enjoy wildlife safari. Afternoon walk around the nearby village to observe the daily life of locals.

Day 6: Pokhara – Kathmandu B D Today travel back to Kathmandu and check into Hotel. Later proceed for sightseeing tour of Swoyambhunath

B

D

Stupa. Also visit Chobhar and Kirtipur.

After visit return to Kathmandu for overnight stay.

B D Day 7: Kathmandu After breakfast visit Patan Darbar square and Boudhanath stupa, After visit return to Kathmandu for overnight stay.

B Day 8: Kathmandu Departure After leisurely breakfast, tour finishes with transfer to the airport.

What’s included: 7 Nights accommodation fees and monument charges Wildlife safari collectable taxes

Private car with driver Local English-speaking tour guide Meals as specified Entry Boat ride at Pokhara Bottled water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current

Essential Kathmandu

(Tour Code: (EKPT)

3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS EASY-PACED DEPARTS DAILY D Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Execurive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon visit Pashupathinath Temple; the Temple of Lord Shiva situated on the banks of the Holy Bagmati River, and the Boudhanath Stupa, an ancient

colossal stupa and the world centre of Tibetan Buddhism (time permitting).

In the evening you will have a welcome dinner at a Nepali restaurant featuring a cultural program.

B D Day 2: Kathmandu Valley Today after breakfast, you have a full

What’s included: 2 Nights accommodation

1,109 PP

DELUXE FROM NZ $

day sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu Valley and Patan and Bhaktapur cities to witness medieval art and architecture.

B Day 3: Kathmandu After breakfast the tour finishes with a transfer to the airport.

Private car with driver Local English-speaking tour guide Meals as specified Entry fees and monument charges Bottled water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

*Price mentioned is based on lowest season and lead-in category room.

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Private Escorted Tours

Best of Bhutan 5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS

(Tour Code: (BOBPT)

EASY – ADVENTUROUS DEPARTS DAILY

D Day 1: Arrive Paro - Thimphu The flight into Bhutan offers dazzling scenic views of the Himalayas. On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist you to transfer to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, for two nights stay.

B L D Day 2: Thimphu Take a full day sightseeing tour of the valley and visit Changangkha

Monastery, Drupthob Nunnery Temple, Tashichho Dzong and the local market.

B L D Day 3: Thimphu – Paro Travel to Paro, the most extensive valley which is blessed with mesmerizing nature, fertile rice fields, and a crystalline river. The beautiful view of the mountains, & dense coniferous forest with chirping birds

3,811 PP

FROM NZ $

can make you fall in love with its first glimpse. Stay two nights at the hotel.

B L D Day 4: Paro Today visit Ta Dzong, the ruins of Drugyel Dzong, the courtyard of 7th century Kichu Lhakhang and famous tiger-nest monastry.

B Day 5: Paro Departure After breakfast the tour will finish with a transfer to the airport.

What’s included: 4 Nights accommodation Private car with driver Local English-speaking tour guide Meals as specified Entry fees and monument charges Bottled water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes Bhutan entry visa government royalty

Land of Dragons 8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

(Tour Code: (LODPT)

EASY – ADVENTUROUS DEPARTS DAILY

D Day 1: Arrive Paro - Thimphu The flight into Bhutan offers dazzling scenic views of Himalaya. On arrival at the airport, meet your tour manager who will assist you to transfer to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, for two nights stay.

B L D Day 2: Thimphu Take a full day sightseeing tour of the valley and visit Changangkha Monastery, Drupthob Nunnery Temple, Tashichho Dzong and the local market.

Day 3: Thimphu – Trongsa B L D After an early breakfast, take a scenic drive through streams, forests and

small villages before crossing the Pele la Pass. In the evening explore the town and stay overnight at Trongsa.

Day 4: Trongsa – Bumthang B L D Travel to Bumthang and visit Wangdicholing, Jakar Dzong, Kurjey and Tamshing monasteries. Enjoy refreshments at the Swiss Farm House famous for it’s cheese and beer factory. Stay overnight at Bumthang.

Day 5: Bumthang – Punakha B L D Explore the valley and travel to Punakha. Visit Punakha Dzong Fortress and Simtokha Dzong which now serves as a Buddhist university.

Stay overnight at the hotel.

4,116 PP

FROM NZ $

B L D Day 6: Punakha – Paro Enjoy sightseeing around the Paro Valley and visit Ta Dzong which houses the National Museum, the ruins of Drugyel Dzong, the courtyard of 7th century Kichu Lhakhang and famous tiger-nest monastry. Stay two nights at the hotel.

B L D Day 7: Paro Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and explore the town and valley.

B Day 8: Paro Departure After breakfast the tour finishes with a transfer to Paro Airport.

What’s included: 7 Nights accommodation fees and monument charges government royalty

Private car with driver Local English-speaking tour guide Meals as specified Entry Bottled water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes Bhutan entry visa

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Booking Conditions It is important that you read and understand the following conditions before making your booking.

The following Booking Conditions form the basis of your contract with TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS (PTY) Limited (“TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS”, “us” and “Company”). It is important that you read and understand the following conditions before making your booking. By asking us to confirm your booking, we are entitled to assume that you have had the opportunity to read these Booking Conditions and that you agree to them and that you agree to them applying to your holiday arrangements booked with us and which we agree to make, provide or perform (as applicable) as part of our contract with you.

References in these booking conditions to your ‘holiday package’ are references to any tour, excursion(s), short tour(s), accommodation and/any services you have booked with TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS. 1. Governing law: These booking conditions are governed by the law in force in New South Wales, Australia when booked and paid in Australia and New Zealand when booked and paid in New Zealand.

Any claim or legal action against overseas suppliers is likely to be subject to the terms of your contract with them and maybe governed by the laws of other countries.

2. Confirmation of Services: Your acceptance of a quotation or your booking request does not guarantee actual availability of the requested flights, tours, accommodation, or services until such time as you receive a confirmation invoice from TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS. 3. Booking, Deposit and Final Payments: A nonrefundable deposit of $400 per person is required within 7 days of confirmation of arrangements.

Passenger names must be provided exactly as per passport, including middle names, at the time of booking, as well as a valid passport copy. Some of the tours, ground arrangements and tickets may require a higher deposit of up to 50% or more. Deposit requirements may vary when booking a special offer.

TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS reserve the right to cancel any ticket or booking or, refuse to honour any price or carry any passenger where any payment has not been received by TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS within the specified time. Final payment will be due between 90 to 60 days prior to departure unless otherwise specified or by the payment deadline stated on the final invoice whichever is the earliest. Bookings made within 90 days of departure or at a value of less than $500 will only be processed if we hold full payment.

If TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS is unable to confirm your reservation, all monies will be refunded. Receipt of deposit will be taken as an understanding by us that you have checked your confirmed arrangements and have read and agree to abide by the terms and conditions set forth in this brochure.

4. Price Guarantee: Prices listed in this brochure are based on low season costs and exchange rates as of 01st July 2023 but are subject to change. They may be varied by advertising or special offers, or changed for any reason, including without limitation, to cover changes in government taxes and charges, exchange rate variations, fuel surcharges, airline charges, a force majeure event or other material increases by suppliers.

Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking and held during any applicable option period. Once the full payment is received by the TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS price will be guaranteed (except for any tax or levies imposed by any Government and their agencies and for any changes resulting from a force majeure event). The package prices are based on a cash or direct bank transfer only. Payment by Master Card, Visa card and American Express will incur an additional bank fee at the time of payment. Season described as low season depends on the country and the region you are visiting. The reason can differ from monsoon, heatwave, unpredicted weather patterns or anything which makes people uncomfortable and fewer tourists prefer to travel.

5. Amendments: If you want to change any part of your holiday arrangements after the invoice has been issued, we will do our best to make the change, but it may not be possible. Where possible amendments to confirmed and deposited itineraries outside will incur a fee of $50 per change in addition to any difference in price, penalties and fee of any supplier and airlines.

Special airfares that require early ticketing may be non-refundable and non-changeable.

6. Cancellations/Transfer of Booking: In the event of a cancellation, the following per person per booking cancellation fee applies. Departure is calculated from the first date of services booked with TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS: • 60 days or more prior to departure: Loss of deposit • Less than 60 days before departure: 50% of total tour cost

• Less than 45 days before departure: 75% of total tour cost • Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of total tour cost • No show due to any reason: 100% of the total tour cost • Services booked that is less than the minimum deposit, no refund is applicable.

If you wish to cancel your existing booking or transfer to a new departure date, the above cancellation fees will still apply. All cancellations must be received in writing by TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS and are not effective until this notification has been received. Cancellations fees for some products and services may vary from those stated above. If you are unsure, please check with TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS at the time of your booking. Regrettably, cancellation charges cannot be waived and there will be no exceptions. No refunds will apply on unused or omitted services due to any unforeseen circumstances. Please note that employees of any overseas suppliers are not authorised by TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS to make any undertakings to our Clients in respect of refunds or other matters.

7. Cancellation, Changes to Stopover and Ticketed Airfares: Cancellation and change fee of $30 per person applies for ticketed airfares, in addition to any airline cancellation fees and penalty that are applicable. Airfare cost included in the tour is clearly mentioned and are subject to flight and booking class availability. Airfares will be booked and ticketed upon receipt of your deposit to avoid price or tax increases. Airport taxes vary for each departure point and routing of the airline. Airline schedules are subject to change without notice. Once air tickets are issued, airline amendment and/or cancellation fees apply and, in some cases, are non-refundable.

Name changes and the voluntary date and schedule changes will incur fees. TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS is not liable for delays or disruptions of any air travel.

Once tickets are issued, TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS will have no other liability and will not be responsible for refunding the cost of any services booked in conjunction with the flights.

8. Passengers Needing Special Assistance: TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS welcomes passengers with disabilities or special needs however, some group journeys may not be suitable for passenger with a special need. We recommend you advise us the tour you prefer and your interest with all the important information relating to your health, mobility and fitness so we can tailormade tour accordingly. This information is crucial and required at the time of booking and any changes to health, mobility and fitness must also be reported as soon as possible and prior to departure. If you require special assistance or care or any type including pushing a wheelchair, assistance with walking or assistance with dressing, you must travel with a companion capable of providing the required assistance or care. TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the special needs of disabled passengers, it is not responsible for any denial of services by any third party entities it has travel arrangements with, such as carriers, hotels, trains, restaurants or other independent suppliers unless extra support person is available at the destination or tour and charges are paid in advance. Please note coaches, minibuses and trains are not equipped with wheelchair ramps. TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS reserved the right to deny services from the start till the end of the tour and TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS booking conditions will be enforced.

9. Not Included in the Tour Cost: Visa and passport costs, vaccination and medical expenses, any type of insurance, excess baggage, extra meals, mini bar, room service, additional excursions, laundry, beverages, souvenirs, tipping, postage, phone calls, internet, none collectable taxes, items of a personal nature and anything not mentioned in the Includes column of your tour quote.

10. Cancellation by TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS: Every tour is a guaranteed departure with a minimum of one person in private escorted tour and group journeys as mentioned in the tour itinerary. The Company reserve rights to cancel any tour due to any unforeseen circumstances and will advise you as soon as possible. We stress that this rarely occurs; however, in such an eventuality, the Company will make every endeavour to offer substitute arrangements of a similar nature, standard and cost. If the arrangements offered are not acceptable to you the Client, a full amount, except any penalty charged by airlines and any third party, will be refunded. TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS take no responsibility for any loss incurred due to the tour cancellation.

11. Special Deals and Multi Tour Discounts: The discount in the brochure is given on the lowest price tour package when multi tours are booked. One discount is applicable for one booking and cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. The Company reserves the right to withdraw or change these offers at any time.

12. Errors and Omissions: We reserve the right to correct any errors in prices quoted or calculated for any services and will notify you as soon as possible.

13. Hotel Descriptions, Maps and Photos: Hotel descriptions featured in this brochure are based on current hotel guides and contractual agreements provided by suppliers. Any facilities described are subject to change at any time. Maps and photographs are included for general information and may not necessarily reflect actual routes, locations, or services.

Hotel room photographs may not be specific to the actual room to be occupied.

14. Accommodations and Bedding Configuration: All accommodation quoted in the itinerary is considered lead-in or base category rooms unless otherwise requested. A double room is fitted with double or twin beds; the single room may be smaller than other rooms and this varies from hotel to hotel. Triple rooms usually offer a double bed with an additional rollaway mattress or fold-away bed for the third person in the same room which you may find over-crowding.

Due to the type of guest hotel serve (Honeymoon and couple) some hotel may only have double room though you requested for twin.

15. Special Requests: Where a special request (eg. diet, room location, twin or double bedded room, a particular facility at a hotel, flight seat requests and/or particular meals) is an important factor in your choice of holiday, you must advise us when your booking is made. TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS will pass your request on to the hotel, airline or other supplier but cannot guarantee that it will be accommodated. TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS will also pass on any dietary requests to the airline, but we strongly recommend that you check directly with the airline once your tickets have been issued. The provision of any special request does not constitute a term of your contract with us. Confirmation that a special request has been noted or passed on to the supplier or the inclusion of the special request on your confirmation invoice or any other documentation is not confirmation that the request will be met. Unless and until specifically confirmed, all special requests are subject to availability.

16. Health and Fitness Requirements: A good level of fitness and health is required to participate in all TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS holiday packages. In some destinations, there are extensive sightseeing excursions by foot which includes the climbing of stairs. Mobility is needed boarding or alighting coaches, boat, river cruise ships and trains. All customers are required to familiarise themselves with any health requirements specific to the countries being visited. Any pre-existing health conditions must be discussed with your doctor who can confirm your suitability to travel on your chosen tour. If you or any member of your party has any medical conditions or disability which may affect you while travelling, you must provide us with full details in writing prior to making your booking so that we can assist you in considering the suitability tour arrangements. You must also promptly advise us if there are any changes to your health that may affect your holiday after your booking has been confirmed.

In the best interests of yourself and of your tour group, TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS reserve the right to prevent you from further participation on a tour if a physical or psychological condition presents itself which significantly affects the enjoyment or wellbeing of yourself or the rest of your group.

TOTAL HOLODAY OPTIONS will not be liable to refund any part of the tour paid by you, or on your behalf, which you have not used. Reasonable assistance will be offered but you will be responsible for making alternative arrangements to accommodate any medical or dietary condition.

The information provided does not, under any circumstances, make TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS liable if your condition exacerbates or affects your ability to participate in any portion of the tour.

17. Travelling with Children: In hotels stating where a child stays free, this is generally a room paid for as two adults and the child is expected to share the parents’ bed. Hotels will not provide an extra bed, and additional charges may be levied for a child’s meal and extra bedding. An additional room is charged at an adult rate even if the child stays unaccompanied by an adult. Children’s fares are available on

application but please note that children under 16 are only permitted on private car tour and not permitted on any group journeys. TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS take no responsibility for the health, safety and security of their children.

18. Passport, Visa and Vaccinations: It is mandatory that you familiarise yourself with any visa and health requirements that may be applicable in the countries you are visiting. You are responsible for complying with all entry visas, healthlaws, regulations, orders, demands and requirements of countries visited or transited.

Please note that passport and visa requirements are not the responsibility of TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS or that of your travel agent and both these parties cannot be held liable for any loss or expense due to the failure to comply with the above.

19. Travel Insurance: Travel Insurance is not included in your holiday package. It is a condition of booking and you are required to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes (without limitation) coverage for the cost of your holiday package, medical expenses, loss of luggage, cruise and land content and airfare charges that may occur due to cancellation, the impossibility of performance or other frustration, disruption, loss of deposit and or Force Majeure. TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS cannot in any way be made liable for any cost incurred by the customer on any tour.

20. Local Laws: All participants in tours operated by the Company are expected to obey the laws and regulations of the countries visited and any failure to do so will relieve the Company of all obligations that it may otherwise have under this Contract.

21. Behaviour: It is every passenger’s responsibility to ensure that you and the members of your party do not behave in a manner which causes offence or danger to others, or which risks damage to property belonging to others. In such circumstances, all suppliers (e.g. hotel staff, guide, driver, airline staff etc.) and the Company have the right to terminate arrangements made on the passenger’s behalf, in which case the Company’s responsibility to the passenger ceases immediately. Therefore, the Company will not be liable for any refunds, payment of compensation or reimbursement of any cost or expenses incurred as a result. Further, the Client will be liable to reimburse the company for any expenses whatsoever that it incurs as a result of such behaviour.

22. Luggage Limits: Although we do not have any luggage limits on our tour but highly recommend carrying 1 piece up to 30kg per person which is easy to transport while travelling by coach or car.

When a flight is a part of your tour, standard luggage allowance may vary. We recommend you check the correct luggage allowance of your international and domestic flights at the time of booking. In some case, you can pre-purchase but since airlines are frequently changing their policy it is impossible for us to confirm luggage allowance until the flight is ticketed and paid. It’s passenger responsibility to familiarise airline’s luggage policies before departure.

If not comply with the rules, airlines may impose excess baggage fees at the time of check-in and TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS take no responsibility. All luggage is at “owner’s risk”.

23. Variations: Considerable care has been taken in preparing this brochure but circumstances not within TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS’ control may force changes for Itineraries, accommodation, activities, costs, in which case you will be informed as soon as possible. If necessary, due to circumstances beyond our control, TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS reserve the right to change hotels to a similar category.

TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS may update these terms and conditions at any time. Any changes to these terms and conditions made after booking will be advised to you as soon as possible.

24. Travel Documentation: Please ensure to make final payment on time according to the due date so we can process and finalise travel documents.

Documentation will be forwarded only two (2) weeks prior to departure. Requests for early documents are accepted but are not guaranteed unless full and final payment from every group tour member is received.

25. Travel Agent Responsibilities: It is the travel agent’s responsibility to ensure that their client is carrying the correct travelling documents and is aware of full booking the terms and conditions of TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS. 26. Passenger’s Responsibility: Although we take utmost care while selecting accommodation to ensure you enjoy a comfortable stay, it should be noted that the standard of accommodation varies quite drastically throughout the countries and various regions. Since most booking is made far in advance, it is the client’s responsibility to advise us at the time of confirmation should they have any concern or a

likelihood to want to change any accommodation included in the itinerary. Any changes made after confirmation may incur a penalty. Passengers are also advised to ensure that full payment of your booking is made on time by the travel agent where tours are booked.

27. Pre-departure information: We highly recommend all passengers read our pre-departure information to get a good insight into frequently asked questions. Do contact us if you still have any questions which are not covered relating to your specific tour.

28. Smoking: Smoking is allowed in the designated area only and not permitted inside hotel, coaches, car, trains, cruise, restaurants etc.

29. Air Tickets and Seat Allocation: Frequent flyer miles may not be accrued on some airfares. Preflight seat allocation is not included when quoted and may not be available. Schedule changes or flight cancellations are subject to the airline’s policy and are outside TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS control.

30. Refusal of Carriage: TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS reserve the right to remove passenger from our tours for reasons that impact on the enjoyment or safety of other tour members and or operation staff, such as, but not limited to, the physical, medical or mental inability of passenger to undertake the arrangements of the tour, unsocial or unruly behaviour, or the carriage of prohibited substances and materials.

31. Gratuity/Tipping: Tipping has always been difficult as it might not be a part of your culture or country, however, it is highly expected where we operate tours and is often the way some people supplement their earnings. Prepaid tipping options are given in each Group Tour and cover Tour Managers, Local Guide and Driver only. You are welcome to pay more if you wish as these guidelines are prepared to cover a reasonable amount. Our Tour Manager will guide you and we recommend you keep the small denomination of local currency if you wish to pay porter, waiter, rickshaw driver etc.

32. Personal Belongings and Lost Items: For security reasons, valuables should be kept to a minimum and packed in your hand luggage along with your medicines, camera, film, electrical or battery-operated appliances. It is passengers responsibility to look after your property at all times and you must ensure you are adequately covered by comprehensive travel insurance in the event of any loss.

33. Disruption to Itinerary Arrangements: Under normal operating conditions itineraries will be delivered as per the brochure. However, sometimes for reasons beyond our control, it may be necessary to make alterations to your itinerary. On occasion, roadblock, public holiday, flooding, low water levels or due to unforeseen circumstances.

We recommend you take out comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage of events such as these, as we will not be liable for any direct or indirect costs incurred as a result of such events or other factors beyond our control happening.

Published itineraries are indicative only and subject to alterations and delays at short notice, though every effort will be made to ensure that the published itinerary is followed as closely as possible. The Tour Manager and local guides are jointly responsible for passengers’ comfort and safety. Therefore passengers must accept their decisions and instructions. Additionally, you are not entitled to any refund for any alterations to your itinerary that are caused or contributed to by any such events which are beyond our control.

34. Shopping and Other Services: Local Bazaars and shopping can be fun and entertaining while on holiday. We do not patronise any shopping malls or emporiums, no staff and employees are neither qualified nor permitted to ensure or guarantee the quality or value of any goods purchased while on tour.

Leisure activities and services are undertaken during free time are at the customer’s own discretion, as suitability and standard of any recreational services outside of your booked arrangements cannot be monitored by us and therefore, is undertaken entirely at the passenger’s own risk.

35. Seatbelts and Baby Seats: Seat belts are available in all our transport and compulsory for our chauffeur drivers to wear. It is recommended that where seatbelts are available passenger must use them and remain seated at all times while the vehicle is moving. If you are travelling with children, baby seats are available in a few destinations and are offered on first come first basis. It’s your responsibility to request at the time of booking. Though we ensure baby seats are of high quality and offer what is available at the destination. If you wish to take your own baby seat, we do not guarantee to fit on the transport located to you. Passenger’s warrant that they shall not make

any claim arising from injury or damage due to any reason and hereby release TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS from all such claims.

36. Complaints and Claims: We strive to ensure your arrangements are delivered smoothly. However, there are times when problems arise while on tour.

If the passenger is not satisfied with any aspect of their arrangements, they must immediately bring it to the attention of the Tour Manager, or 24/7 local emergency helpline number provided in your travel documentation so that they may use their reasonable endeavours to rectify the situation. Should the problem remain unsolved during the journey you should send email to your agent or us detailing the nature of the complaint as well as the effort you made to resolve the problem while on tour. Failure to complain at the time will affect the passenger’s ability to claim compensation. No complaint or claim will be considered if described procedures are not followed and the complaint is made after 28 days of the completion of the tour.

37. Liability Disclaimer: TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS (herewith called ‘the Company’) advises that passengers should familiarise themselves with the services, quality, location, terms and conditions of our suppliers such as hotel, transporter, airlines before making a booking. TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS will not be held responsible and will be excluded from liability for any loss, damage, omission or acts being negligent or otherwise committed by the suppliers of transportation vehicles, hotels, restaurants or attractions used in connection with the tours. While the Company will use its best endeavours to operate all tours as advertised, reasonable changes in the itinerary or services may be made without notice where deemed necessary or advisable by the Company. No refund will be made for any unused services which are included in the tour price.

The information detailed in the Company brochure range, including pricing, is correct to the best of the Company’s knowledge at the time of print.

The Company, however, accepts no liability for innocent inaccuracies contained herein or loss incurs due to force majeure.

38. Privacy and Consent: Personal information is collected to process your booking and also to keep you up to date with other TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS product and information which may be of interest to you. You give us permission to use your tour picture and video in the brochure, advertising material or website to support the authenticity of the tours and services. You can email us not to use your image by advising us at the time of booking and also can opt-out of receiving information at any time if you choose to do so. Any personal information you provide will be managed in accordance with TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS’ privacy policy which can be viewed at our website.

39. Force Majeure: “Force Majeure” means any event which TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. This includes but is not limited to war or threat of war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, pandemic, disease or contamination of any type, natural disaster, industrial or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, high or low water level, fire, change in law, any jurisdiction or territory relevant to the booking contract, which includes changes in statute, regulation, determination, by-law, declaration, licence and the common law as applicable from time to time. including changes or amendments in regulations or access to services, sites or countries caused by declared epidemic or pandemic events.

If TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS, in its reasonable opinion, considers that any Force Majeure event prevents (whether directly or through its employees, supplier, contractors, subcontractors and agents) from lawfully or safely providing any products or services subject of the booking contract with you, TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS may immediately by the written notice terminate the booking contract (in whole or in part) or change your travel arrangements as reasonably practicable to ensure your safety. TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS will invoice you for any additional costs, offer a best possible solution under the circumstances including credit toward future travel or refund the customer for the Holiday Package less any reasonable losses incurred before cancellation. Losses may amount to a substantial proportion of the booking price. TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS will use reasonable endeavours to minimise losses incurred by customers.

Customers must take out travel insurance to protect themselves against loss in the circumstances.

40. Consular Advice: We strongly recommend that you familiarise yourself with the latest Government Consular advice and information before making a booking and prior to departure by calling or visiting websites of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Find what you seek..

Your Travel Agent

TRAVEL WHOLESALER DESTINATION MANAGEMENT COMPANY Approved by Ministry of Tourism Govt of India

Call: +64 (0) 9 4473601 or 0800 678 466 Email: mail@totalholidayoptions.co.nz Agent Brochure Orders: brochurenet.co.nz PO Box: 145 Albany Village, Auckland 0755 B7, 210-212 Dairy Flat Highway, Albany, Auckland 0632, New Zealand

www.totalholidayoptions.co.nz

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