INDIA'S SOUTHERN HERITAGE w/DECCAN ODYSSEY
A cultural tour of India

This unique journey uncovers both Southern and Western India's rich cultural heritage, evokes unforgettable images from past centuries and leaves a lasting spell in our soul. Covering some 8 of the 27 World Heritage Sites in India.. Welcome aboard! The Deccan Odyssey is much more than a mere luxury train cruise. It's a 'classical odyssey' of time beyond the realms of the present. Itinerary has been thoughtfully tailored to include the best of the sites that make up the Southern Heritage of India. This journey provides an experience to cherish for a lifetime. Combine this with our India's Northern Heritage tour and one will have covered the best India has to offer.

Tour Summary

Map

Day Place 01-02 Chennai (Madras) 03 Chennai / Madurai 04 Madurai / Tanjore 05 Tanjore / Pondicherry 06 Pondicherry / Mahabalipuram 07 Mahabalipuram 08 Mahabalipuram / Chennai & Chennai / Goa 09 Goa 10 Goa / Badami 11 Badami / Pattakadal / Hospet 12 Hospet / Hampi / Hospet 13 Hospet / Goa & Board Deccan Odyssey 14 Kolhapur, Pune 15 Aurangabad 16 Ajanta & Nashik 17 Mumbai (Bombay) 18 Mumbai / Departure

Incredible !ndia

Day 01: Monday: Arrival Chennai (Madras)
Namaste! We are welcomed the traditional Indian way with hands clapped together. After immigration and custom formalities, we are met and driven to our hotel.
Overnight: Hotel in Chennai (2 Nights) (D)

Day 02: Tuesday: Chennai
Madras or Chennai, as it is now officially known, is the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu and is the cultural Gateway to Southern India. Chennai, in many respects, is unlike other Indian cities. It is the fourth-largest city in India and has a long history of attracting and nurturing the region's finest thinkers, artists, and crafts people. It is also the focal point for India's 2000 year of Christian history. Christ's Apostle Thomas is said to have preached, died and buried in Chennai. The little mount, St. Thomas' Mount and Santhome Cathedral commemorate these epochal events. In the north, near the harbor, is George Town. Its narrow streets contain shipping agencies, bazaars and the main post office. Today we tour Chennai start first with The National Art Gallery & Museum. The museum was established in 1857 and contains one of the best collections of bronzes in the country, including the famous icon of Natraja. Our Next stop is at St. Mary's Church-built in 1680. This was first English Church in Chennai and is India's oldest surviving British church. In the church there are reminders of Clive, who was married here in 1753, and Elihu Yale, the early governor of Madras. We end our tour with a visit to Peoples Park and the beautiful Marina Beach, the second longest beach in the world, and the clock towers.In the evening we enjoy diiner with classical South Indian dances. (B, D)

Day 03: Wednesday: Chennai / Madurai (Flight)
Today we are transferred to airport for our flight to Madurai. Madurai, situated in southern Tamil Nadu is the second largest city in Tamil Nadu, is an important cultural and commercial centre. The main city area revolves around Meenakshi Temple, with its baroque example of Dravidian architecture and the four tall gopurams (pillars) with multicolored gods, goddesses, demons and deities. Madurai is famous for the imposing Meenakshi Temple, a structure in the Dravidian style of architecture. The history of the city dates back over 2,000 years when it was the capital of the Pandyas. The most interesting feature of the temple is its Hall of a thousand pillars some of which sound like metal when hit with an object. The metal stone or musical pillar, although made of stone, produces sounds of different metals.
Overnight: Hotel in Madurai (1 Night) (B, D)

Day 04: Thursday: Madurai / Tanjore
In the morning we drive to Tanjore. In the afternoon we visit Thanjavur, popularly known as Tanjore. The town is famous also for its distinctive style, "Krishna" is the most popular deity depicted, and in the Tanjore school his skin is white, rather than the traditional blue-black. Tanjore was the ancient capital of the Chola Kings whose origins go back to the beginning of the Christian era. Our afternoon tour of World Heritage Site of Tanjore includes in the Shri Brihadishwara temple built by "Raja-Raja" in 1010, which is the crowning glory of Chola temple architecture. The temple, set in spacious grounds, has several pillared halls and shrines. Inscriptions record the names of dancers, musicians and poets a reminder of the significance of this area to the development of the arts. We end our tour of Tanjore with a visit to the Tanjore Palace & Museum which has an eclectic collection of regal memorabilia most of it dating from the early 19th century.
Overnight: Hotel in Tanjore (1 Night) (B, D)

Day 05: Friday: Tanjore / Pondicherry
Today we drive to Pondicherry. This former French Colonial city in Tamil Nadu didn’t come under Indian rule until 1954. Pondicherry otherwise known a Puducherry means a “New Hamlet” which is located on the Coromandal Coast. Here people speak 55 different languages reside and inspite of Linguistic plethola there is no restlessness but absolute harmony. Its main attraction is actually outside of town: the ashram at Auroville, built by followers of Sri Aurobindo, a philosopher/prophet born in 1870. The International town where people of different countries reside belongs to humanity as a whole. Matrimandir the famous monument is constructed by the Auroville Society which represents the flower Lotus. Also visit 400 years old Manakula Vinayagar Temple which has several fresco paintings on the walls telling the life story of half human and half animal lord. You shall also visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram named after Sri Aurobindo, who was a National Leader, famous for his integral Yoga and philosophical literary works. A French Lady, Madam Mirr Richard, followed his spiritual path and the Samadhi of both Sri Aurobindo and Mother are situated at main premises of the Ashram.
Overnight: Hotel in Pondicherry (1 Night) (B, D)

Day 06: Saturday: Pondicherry / Mahabalipuram
In the morning after breakfast we drive to Mahabalipuram. Arrive Mahabalipuram and check in Hotel. Rest of the day is free for personal activities.
Overnight: Hotel in Mahabalipuram (2 nights) (B, D)

Day 07: Sunday: Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram is best known for its shore temples. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Mahabalipuram was the second capital of Pallava King of Kanchipuram. The 7th century town is famous for its rock-hewn temples, sculptures and the world's largest stone bas-relief. We also visit the "Five Rathas", a group of monolithic monuments and animal figures carved out of solid rock, almost like an artist's experiment in variety of form. Mamallapuram is a sculptors delight. Among the noteworthy sites in the vicinity of the town are Arjuna's Penance, Krishna Mandapam, Varaha Mandapam, and Mahishasurmardhini Caves. Evening is a walking tour of the bazaars and narrow lanes to see the city’s activities at dusk time (B, D)

Day 08: Monday: Mahabalipuram / Chennai ( Drive) / Chennai / Goa (Flight)
Today are transferred to Chennai airport for our flight to Goa. Arrive Goa and check in Hotel. Rest of the day is free.
Overnight: Hotel in Goa (2 Nights) (B, D)

Day 09: Tuesday: Goa
Although best known for its 65 miles / 105 kms of magnificent, palm lined beaches along the Arabian Sea, Goa holds other more important attractions. The churches of Old Goa are so unique that they have, collectively, been recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. We will cover, amongst others, the Portuguese Catholic Church of Old Goa and the Basilica of Bom Jesus (most of the mummified body of St. Francis Xavier is exhibited there on some occasions). Old church is also known as The Basilica of Bom Jesus, built in the 16th century, where the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier are enshrined; the Se Cathedral, which is the most imposing of all churches at Old Goa. Its vaulted interior overwhelms the visitors by its sheer grandeur. The cathedral has five bells of which one is the famous Golden bell, the biggest in Goa and one of the best in the World.
(B, D)

Day 10: Wednesday: Goa / Badami
In the morning after breakfast we drive to Badami. The capital of the Early Chalukyas, Badami (also known as Vatapi), is situated at the mouth of a Ravine between two rocky hills. Rock-cut cave temples, gateways, forts, inscriptions, sculptures that seem to come alive in front of our eyes. Climb a flight of steps to reach the ancient caves all hewn out of sand stone on the precipice of a hill. Badami offers an interesting small town setting.
Overnight: Hotel in Badami (1 night) (B, D)

Day 11: Thursday: Badami / Pattakadal / Hospet
At the riverside village of Pattakadal, 20 Kms from Badami, lie some of the most interesting temples which have been recognized as World heritage site. Pattadakal was the second capital of the Chalukyan Empire after Badami. It was also the ceremonial center where kings were crowned and commemorated. The earliest temples of Pattadakal are from the 4th century AD. The latest architecture is a Jain temple of the Rashtrakuta period (9th century). The temples of Pattadakal display the blending of the Rekha Nagara Prasada and the Dravida Vimana styles of architecture. Later we visit the famous caves at Badami. There are four caves here. The first three belong to the Vedic faith and the fourth cave is the only Jain temple in Badami. From here we drive to Hospet. Hospet is famous for caves, temples and shrines that bring back the memories of the 6th and the 7th century architecture and religious outlook. As we get to Hospet we see life of bygone days.
Overnight: Hotel in Hospet (2 nights) (B, D)

Day 12: Friday: Hospet / Hampi / Hospet
A full day excursion of Hampi - the magnificent city of ruins. A World Heritage Centre, Hampi is the most beautiful and evocative of all the ruins in Karnataka. This capital of the Vijaynagar Empire boasts some exquisite examples of temple architecture. The Vittala Temple, here is noted for its sculpted stone chariot and carved pillars that produce musical notes when struck. The Virupaksha Temple rises majestically and is the only temple at Hampi that is still used for worship. The Hazararama Temple, ornate with intricate carvings depicts scenes from the Ramayana. The other places of interest are Lotus Mahal: Elephant Stables is a huge stable and a beautiful example of Hindu-Muslim style of architecture, housing 11 elephants in separate compartments. Pushkarini Tank, Mahanavami Dibba, and Mustard Ganesh: In the evening we return to Hospet. (B, D)

Day 13: Saturday: Hospet / Goa (Drive) and Board Deccan Odyssey
Today we drive to Goa to board the Deccan Odyssey train from Madgaon railway station.
Overnight: On Board – Deccan Odyssey Train – 4 nights (B, D)

Day 14: Sunday: Kolhapur, Pune
Morning - Arrival at Kolhapur City, known as Karveer or Dakshin Kashi of Maharashtra. Situated on the banks of river Panchaganga. _Board the bus to visit; New Palace, a royal palace partly converted into museum, Bhawani Mandap (The Town Hall) witness traditional Martial Art locally known as "Mardani Khel", An exquisitely carved Mahalaxmi Temple a temple of goddess Ambabai visited by millions pilgrims, Shalini Palace built of intricately carved black stone & Italian Marble stands on the west side of lake Rankala, watch cultural programme and visit to handicraft stalls for perfect memorabilia. At noon board the train at Kolhapur station to depart for Pune. at Pune. Board the bus to visit Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum. Dinner onboard. (B, L, D)

Day 15: Monday: Aurangabad
Morning arrival at Aurangabad station. Then drive to fort Daulatabad, Ellora caves, a world Heritage site, having 34 cave temples dedicated to three different religions - Hinduism, Buddhism & Jainism. Lunch & Cultural programme at Hotel Taj. After lunch visit to; Shivaji Museum. Aurangabad Caves No. 7 & 8, Bibi-ka-Maqbara, a replica of Taj Mahal is a grand piece of Moghul architecture. Late in the evening board the train. (B, L, D)

Day 16: Tuesday: Ajanta & Nashik
Morning arrival at Jalgaon railway station. Then drive to Fardapur resort. After breakfast proceed to visit renowned Buddhist caves of Ajanta a World Heritage Site to witness some of the finest paintings and sculptures of the second century AD. At noon board the train at Bhusawal railway station. Arrival at Nashik railway station. Departure to visit Panchawati Ghat and Sula Winery Yard. Wine & dine at the winery yard. (B, L, D)

Day 17: Wednesday: Mumbai (Bombay)
Enjoy the breakfast on board as the sun rises over the commercial capital of India. On arrival in Bombay we are transferred to our Hotel. Later we take an excursion to the world famous Elephanta Caves. Little is known about their origins, but they are thought to have been created between AD 450 and 750, when the island was known as Gharapuri (Place of Caves). The Portuguese renamed it Elephanta because of a large stone elephant near the shore. In the afternoon we tour Bombay city. Highlights of our tour include the Gateway of India- Mumbai’s most famous monument. We also visit Hanging gardens, the bustling Crawford Market, Haji Ali Dargah - the tomb of a wealthy Muslim merchant who renounced all his worldly belongings before embarking on a pilgrimage to Mecca. The tomb itself is over 800 years old and throngs of worshippers paying respects to the remains that lie in an exquisite silver frame engraved with all the ninety-nine names of Allah. We then visit Dhobi Ghat – the world’s largest outdoor laundry & the Prince of Wales Museum followed by the Victoria Terminus – a recent addition to UNESCO's World Heritage Sites.
Overnight: Hotel in Mumbai (1 Night) (B, D)

Day 18: Mumbai / Departure
Today we bid farewell to India after what will have been a fascinating study of Southern India’s Heritage. We are transferred to airport for our flight to onward destination. (B)

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Departure Dates

2008 English Speaking Departures Jan 21, Feb 18, Mar 17, Apr 14, May 19, Jun 16, Jul 21, Aug 18, Sep 22, Oct 20, Nov 17 & Dec 22 2009 English Speaking Departures Jan 19, Feb 16, Mar 16 & Apr 20

Inclusions

Tour Price Includes Tour Price Does Not Include Accommodation on twin-share basis in hotels as selected. International airfare & Airport tax Daily buffet breakfast as per the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner) Insurance Domestic / Regional Flights Included: Chennai/Madurai and Chennai/Goa Visas 4 Nights – Deccan Odyssey with all meals. Beverages & Gratuities Transport in air-conditioned vehicle for all sightseeing tours, arrival and departure transfers as per the itinerary.   Assistance on arrival / departure and Porter's fee at the airport and railway station only   Entrance Fees to museums and other sites   Local English speaking guides at each destination   All currently applicable taxes

Tour Price

We accept payment in US $ (US Dollars), CA $ (Canadian Dollars) or equivalent EURO (for clients outside North America). Bestway Tours & Safaris offers conversion rate protection. Once full payment has been received, and no modification has been made to the tour itinerary, we will honour that rate. For complete payment procedures, please download Bestway_Payment_Info.pdf Note: to read this file you must have Adobe Acrobat.

Hotel Category Double Occupancy Single Room Supplement First Class US $ 5195 • CA $ 5195 US $ 1880 • CA $ 1880 Superior US $ 6165 • CA $ 6165 US $ 2530 • CA $ 2530 Deluxe US $ 6380 • CA $ 6380 US $ 2555 • CA $ 2555 Hotels City First Class Superior Deluxe Chennai Savera Hotel (Standard Room) Trident Hilton (Superior Room) Taj Connemara Hotel (Superior Room) Madurai Hotel Sangam (Standard Room) Taj Garden Retreat (Superior Room) Taj Garden Retreat (Superior Room) Tanjore Hotel Sangam (Standard Room) Hotel Sangam (Standard Room) Hotel Sangam (Standard Room) Pondicherry The Promenade (Deluxe Non Sea Facing Room) Le-Dupleix (Deluxe Suite) Le-Dupleix (Deluxe Suite) Mahabalipuram Fortune Chariot Beach Resort (Standard Room) Fishermans Cove (Standard Room) Fishermans Cove (Standard Room) Goa Cidade De Goa Beach Resort (Premium Room) Fort Aguada Beach Resort (Superior With Sitouts) Taj Exotica (Garden Villa) Badami Badami Court (Standard Room) Badami Court (Standard Room) Badami Court (Standard Room) Hospet Hotel Malligi (Standard Room) Hotel Malligi (Standard Room) Hotel Malligi (Standard Room) Deccan Oddyssey Deccan Oddyssey Deccan Oddyssey Deccan Oddyssey Mumbai The Ambassador (Executive Room) Taj President (Executive Room) Taj President (Executive Room)

Estimated International Airfare - International airfare is NOT included in this tour

Canada - West Coast CA $ 1600 USA - West Coast US $ 1400 Canada - East Coast CA $ 1400 USA - East Coast US $ 1200

Participants

This tour operates on a minimum of 02 and a maximum of 15 participants.

Notes

Customised Itinerary If you would like to have a tour on dates other than the above ones or with a customised itinerary, please contact us and we will be happy to work out an exclusive program for you. Foreign Language Departures Please contact us for information on French, German, Italian and Spanish speaking departures. You may e-mail us at bestway@bestway.com or call us at 604.264.7378. Residents of U.S.A./Canada may call us toll free at 1.800.663.0844.