19 Days
Bangalore * Mysore * Mudumalai * Ooty * Kerala Backwater Cruise * Cochin * Madurai * Mahabalipuram * Chennai

Experience the cultural diversity, dense tropical foliage and spice plantations of the Western Ghats and the Nilgiri Plateau, home to numerous tribes that are quickly disappearing. Tour the upbeat city of Bangalore, India's silicone valley and continue to Mysore - a city of silk and sandalwood, of fantasy gardens and fairy tale palaces, and ladies, look out for the best markets ever! Visit the Mudumalai Game Sanctuary, part of the largest elephant habitat in India - home to the Irula tribe who live here and maintain a delicate balance between preservation of the animals' habitat and their own livelihood. Walk along the rolling hills amongst the spirited Badagas. See an age-old signal communication system in Conoor and take a mountain train past quaint hill towns and Eucalyptus plantations. Meet the intriguing Todas, an endangered ethnic group whose linguistic and cultural origins are still debated.

Relax in Kerala, seemingly a world away in a landscape of rice fields and coconut groves. Explore an ancient temple with its own elephants that are beautifully decorated during the festivals. Rejuvenate in your lovely resort with Ayurvedic massages, yoga and meditation. Cruise along the backwaters and observe daily life from your private rice barge. Visit an active Jewish Quarter, the aromatic spice market, scenic Chinese fishing nets, and enjoy classical dance and martial art performances in Cochin. View the ornate Meenakshi Temple in Madurai and visit the fort and museum in bustling Chennai. End at the splendorous 5th to 9th century temples of Mahabalipuram and the ancient silk capital of Kanchipuram. Each departure includes a joyous festival featuring extravagant processions of highly decorated elephants, gods and goddesses and royal pageants.

TOUR CODE: ASI
TOUR DATES:
2010: Feb 18 - Mar 8, Oct 13 - 31
2011: Similar dates

2010 TOUR PRICES:
Land Package: $5090 (6+ members)
+$250 (4-5 members)
+$390 (2-3 members with local guides)
Single Supplement: $1740

Approx. International Air: $1605 (Los Angeles/ Bangalore, Chennai / Los Angeles)
Approx. Internal Air: $990

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