breathe books
810 W 36th Street
Baltimore, MD 21211
www.breathebooks.com
410-235-READ (7323)
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Friday, July 10, 2009
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Vol 1, Issue 1 |
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travel with breathe books to South India!
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Sacred Sites, Sounds, Scents, Spices and a Taste of Ayurveda in South India
October 31 - November 14, 2009
+ 3 day optional excursion to Aurangabad
Hi Everyone,
I'm so excited to present the details for our next trip! This will be my third trip to India is as many years. I am so in love with this country and the people and I love sharing these discoveries with you.
A land known for its silks, spices and sandalwood, the Karnataka/Kerala region is India's only tropical paradise. The attractions and glorious history are so varied that people flock to this state from all over the world. I've done my best to give us a taste of this beautiful region, without rushing through, enough time to savor the beauty, but also to see as much as we can in two weeks. And plan on delighting your taste buds with Southern Indian food -- some of the finest in the country.
The first part of the trip takes us to various sacred sites in the South, including Bangalore, Mysore, Wyanad (an Eco Resort!) and Cochin, on our way to Kovalam and the Ayurvedic Center.
We will spend three full days at an Ayurvedic Resort for rejuvenation and authentic Ayurvedic treatments. Full Panchakarma (Ayurvedic detox program) cannot be accomplished in the time we have, so I've designed a package to give us powerful Ayurveda therapies as well as some education. The resort serves Ayurvedic cuisine, offers daily yoga, and a place to rest deeply while we take in the treatments. We will have an individual consult with a Vaidya -- an Ayurvedic physician -- upon arrival, who will design our treatment plan. This promises to be a truly unique and transformative experience.
As time allows, we will incorporate meditation and yoga into the daily schedule. One of our purposes for these trips is to create harmony and balance within ourselves and the planet. We will find time to seek out these energies and be with the land.
At the end of the itinerary you will see information on an extension to the main trip. These extra days offer a chance to experience even more of this amazingly diverse region of India.
Links to hotel and all the logistical information is at the bottom of the page. We are taking signups for the trip now. We have both a minimum (10) and a maximum (20) so please do your best to sign up as soon as possible to ensure your spot. You'll find all the details at the end of the page.
This will be the fourth trip we've taken in our quest to align ourselves with sacred sites on the planet. Previous trips were to England, Northern India, and Peru. South India will give us a chance to delve deeper into the ancient sites of Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism, while visiting cultural heritage sites and the paradise that makes up this tropical region.
Each group has been a dynamic and unique experience in which we created our own synergy and energy. It's exciting to see who gathers for each trip, as we all hold something special for each other.
I am so excited about this trip. Temples, caves, forests, spice plantations, backwaters, incredible architecture, Ayurveda, and more and more and more! Please take your time to read this extensive itinerary. Call me with your thoughts and questions. I look forward to hearing from you.
Namaste!
Susan Weis
proprietress, breathe books In Jaipur, India, Sept. 2008
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South India Sacred Sites and Ayurveda
Tour, arranged by Royal India Voyages
our travel partner in India
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Sat 31 Oct DEPART USA
Sun 01 Nov ARRIVE BANGALORE - BANGALORE/HASSAN
Arrive Bangalore. Meeting on arrival & transfer to hotel Jai Mahal Palace
After a short rest, drive to Hassan visiting Sravanabelagola, an important Jain centre. A tour to Shravanabelagola Karnataka takes you through magnificent temples, shrines, marvelous statues and monuments. The rich heritage and culture of the city is reflected in its art and architecture, the sculptural works, and shrines. The town below the hill has the Jain matha whose walls have very old paintings. Indragiri has the Gommata monolith, 58 feet tall, in addition to the Siddhara basadi, Odegal basadi, Chennanna basadi and Chauvvisa Tirthankara basadi, and also the finely engraved pillar called Tyagada Brahma Pillar, which has excellent floral designs. We will also visit the famous pond Kalyani.
Mon 02 Nov HASSAN/MYSORE
After breakfast take an excursion to Belur & Halebid
Belur is a small town located on the banks of River Yagachi, in the Hassan district of Karnataka.
 Belur was the early capital of the Hoysala Empire. Belur is considered the Banaras (Varnasi) of South and is thus also known as Dakshina Varnasi. The main attraction in Belur is the Chennakeshava temple complex dedicated to Lord "Chennakeshava" (handsome Vishnu) temple. It was built by King Vishnuvardhana of Hoysala Dynasty in the Dravidian Style. It is about one hundred feet high and has a magnificent gateway tower.
There are many subsidiary shrines around the main temple. Belur is one of the well known pilgrimage sites of the Hindu community. Belur is home to a number of temples, monuments and religious shrines. Some of the temples date back centuries and are known for their beautiful carvings and brilliant architectural patterns.
Halebid was the capital city of the Hoysalas in the 12th century.
 Thousands of travelers from all over the world frequent this city to get an insight about the cultural richness of the country. Halebid is known for Hoysala architecture, which are superb, and for two architectural splendors: Hoysaleshawara and Kedareshwara. Two Jain basadi are also the major attractions. You can find two huge pools in front of the temples. It is from these lakes that the temples have been named. The Hoysaleshwara temple has two nandi bull figures built of monolithic rock.
 The temples of Halebid are rich in wealth and beautiful sculptural arts. You can find depictions from mythology engraved in the walls of the temples and mythological creatures of Shilabalikas or dancing figures, animals and birds carved in the temples. The bulls that are placed at the entrance of the temples are said to guard the temple from evil forces. The Hoysaleshawara temple has been proposed to be included among the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It took 105 years to complete. One can see the hills opposite and two big bulls facing the temple and Ganesha figure on the south. Later drive to Mysore. On arrival check-in at the hotel and visit the Vrindavan Gardens. Overnight in Mysore.
Tue 03 Nov IN MYSORE
After breakfast take an excursion to Somnathpur, this place boasts of one of the last and the grandest of Hoysala monuments, the Kesava Temple built 740 years ago. The riches and splendour of the Hoysala court were already evident in their grand temples at Belur and Dvarasamudra (present day, Halebid). Mysore offers an opportunity to look into the lifestyle, traditions and cultures of its erstwhile royalty. Tourist attractions in Mysore include many wonders of architecture from its history, with many important historical, modern and religious monuments.
PM: City tour of Mysore visiting the Palace of the Maharaja built in 1911-12.
 The Palace represents harmonious syntheses of the Hindu and saracenic style of architecture with archways, dome turrets, colonnades and sculptures. Visit the Art Gallery, drive up to Chamundi Hill to see the Chamundeshwari Temple and a panoramic view of Mysore. On your way back, see the Nandi Bull. Overnight in Mysore.
Wed 04 Nov MYSORE/WYANAD
After breakfast, drive to Wyanad (150 kms) and check-in at the Eco Resort in the Wyanad Forest. One of the most important and popularly visited hill stations in India. We'll explore Wyanad by taking a walk into the forests, seeing the Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, also known as Soochippara, with the background of a deep forest will simply take your breath away. The sub tropical savannah and the paddy fields add to the charming beauty of this destination. The idyllic and serene atmosphere of Wayanad in Kerala is known for the stretches of spice plantations. 
The fresh water Pookkot Lake, set amidst the forested hills is an amazing sight to behold. Absolute serenity and quietude rules this lake side. Dinner and overnight at the Resort.
Thu 05 Nov WYANAD/CALICUT/COCHIN
Morning after breakfast, depart by surface to Cochin en route visiting Calicut, the most important region of Malabar in yesteryears, this was the capital of the powerful Zamorins and also a prominent trade and commerce center. Calicut found a place in the World History with the discovery of Sea Route to India in 1498 by the Portuguese Navigator Vasco Da Gama. Vasco Da Gama landed at the Kappad sea shore with three vessels and 170 men. A monument is constucted here to commemorate the historical landing. Visit the Calicut Fort, Kappad Beach which is where Vasco De Gama landed and Later drive to Cochin enroute visiting Guruvayoor Elephant Camp and an authentic & traditional ayurveda centre. On arrival check-in at the hotel. Evening option walking tour to the Jewish Market and Jewish colony. Overnight in Cochin
Fri 06 Nov IN COCHIN
Have your breakfast & come with us to visit: Paradeshi Jewish Synagogue. (I've been wanting to see this synagogue for years!) Built in 1568, the oldest synagogue in the common wealth stands adorned by hundreds of exquisite hand painted Chinese tiles in blue & white. Today shops, warehouses and spice auction rooms can be found at the Jewish Synagogue. Visit to the Dutch Palace at Mattancherry.
 See the St. Francis' Church, built in the early 16th century, the pride of Fort Cochin. The exquisitely carved wooden panels and pulpit at the Santa Cruz Basilica make it another tourist spot in Cochin. The Santa Cruz Basilica dates back to 1557 when the Portuguese has built it. As you climb its stone steps you enter a different world of Palanquins and heraldy, and rich murals. On the shores on Cochin the Chinese fishing nets offer an awesome site. Roam about in the cobbled streets and soak up the richness of the varied culture in this magical town. In the evening we will go to a cultural show comprising of Kathakali, Mohiniattam & Kalarripayattu. Overnight in Cochin
Sat 07 Nov IN COCHIN
Breakfast at the hotel.
 Day at leisure for independent activities with no transport services. The dream destination of Cochin is dotted with many places worth seeing. Handicraft and antique emporia in Cochin are the best places to go shopping and pick up souvenirs from. The cultural traditions of Kerala are revealed in the museums and art schools. The beautiful Cherai Beach is an ideal retreat. Swimming is the best thing to do and there are chances of you spotting dolphins here too. Near by is a classic village of Kerala with paddy fields and coconut groves. We will just take a day to rest, write postcards, walk the streets of the beautiful place and be at ease. Overnight at the hotel.
Sun 08 Nov COCHIN/ALLEPPEY/HOUSEBOAT
After breakfast drive to Alleppey to embark the houseboat. Alleppey in Kerala, also called Alapuzha, is famous for its beautiful backwater destinations. Green waters, coconut groves, colors of rustic life and houseboat cruises make Alleppey the perfect backwater retreat. Scenic beauty, palm fringed shores and far away glimpses of the blue Arabian Sea. The shores are lined with colorful fishing boats and Chinese fishing nets. Popularly known as the Venice of the East, Alleppey is the place to taste the true flavors of Kerala's rustic life. 
The Houseboat cruise is the best way to explore the beauty of backwaters. Sit back and relax while the boat cruises through the narrow serene backwater canals. Lunch, Evening Tea/Coffee with snacks, dinner wi;; be served, and enjoy your evening on the sundeck away from polluted cities and maddening crowd. Only disturbance will be twinkle of a shining star or diving of a fish around you to say hello by waving its tail from the lake. Overnight onboard House Boat
Mon 09 Nov DISEMBARK AT KUMARAKOM / KOVALAM/AYURVEDIC EXPERIENCE
After breakfast disembark houseboat at Kumarakom jetty. On arrival drive to Kovalam and check-in at the hotel and consult with the resident Ayurvedic doctor (Vaidya). After consultation he/she will plan your program and will also suggest your diet and the therapy which will begin that day. Please remember that during this period you should not exert yourself and for best result no alcohol, no tobacco and strict vegetarian diet. The therapy involves various herbal massages, steam baths and yoga. If you follow the directions of the Vaidya we can assure you that you will come out totally relaxed and a great feeling of wellness. Remember to bring some of your favorite books to catch up on all the reading, journals for writing and your Ipod for soothing music (but the sound of the sea should be enough!). Overnight in Kovalam http://www.thetravancoreheritage.com/
Tue 10 Nov IN KOVALAM
Ayurvedic treatments
The full schedule will be announced, but we will have daily yoga, meditation and at least one talk with an Ayurvedic practitioner. As a certified teacher of Ayurveda, I will also offer talks on Ayurveda and how you can create a daily routine to implement what you have leanred once we arrive home. Overnight in Kovalam.
Wed 11 Nov IN KOVALAM
Ayurvedic Treatments 
Overnight in Kovalam.
Thu 12 Nov IN KOVALAM
Ayurvedic Treatments
Overnight in Kovalam.
Fri 13 Nov KOVALAM/TRIVANDRUM/MUMBAI
Transfer to Trivandrum airport to board flight to Mumbai. Overnight in Mumbai
Sat 14 Nov MUMBAI - DEPART MUMBAI
AM: Rested and rejuvenated from our Ayurvedic experience, we will take an excursion to Elephanta Caves - The Elephanta Caves are a great tourist attraction in the vicinity of the large Mumbai meteropolis. Elephanta Island is located 10 km away from the Gateway of India at Mumbai.
 These caves house rock cut temples dating back to the 5th century CE. The Elephanta Island was so named by the Portuguese, after the statue of an elephant near the landing area of the island. These rock cut temples dedicated to Shiva Mahadeva are rich in sculptural content. Motorboats take passengers from Appollo Bunder near the Gateway of India. In the evening we'll take a city tour of Mumbai visiting Prince of Wales Museum, Fish Aquarium, Jain Temples, Hanging Gardens on the slopes of Malabar Hills offering nice view of Marine Lines and Chowpatty Beach, Kamla Nehru Park and Marine drive. Evening: Dinner at a specialty restaurant. Later transfer to International airport to board onward flight for those leaving for the US.
OPTIONAL EXTENSION:
Sat 14 Nov MUMBAI - AURANGABAD
Transfer to airport to board flight to Aurangabad. Leave Mumbai for Aurangabad in the early evening. Aurangabad is a historical city located in the west central part of Maharashtra State. Overnight in Aurangabad. 
Sun 15 Nov IN AURANGABAD
Take a full day excursion to Ajanta Caves. Ajanta caves are located 99-km away from Aurangabad district in the state of Maharashtra. Ajanta caves were carved out from the 2nd century BC to 6th century AD.
 They were hidden in the midst of a lonely glen with a streamlet flowing down below. They were scooped out into the heart of the rock so that the pious Buddhist monk could dwell and pray. We'll tour a series of caves 30 caves with 24 monasteries and 5 temples which have incredible wall paintings and sculptures depicting the life and teachings of Buddha. The Ajanta caves are lit with natural lighting that shines in the caves at different times of the day, creating beautiful illumination. These are the caves of the followers of Lord Buddha, images of Buddha interpreting his different life stories and several types of human and animal figures carved out of rock in-situ.
 Overnight in Aurangabad
Mon 16 Nov AURANGABAD/MUMBAI
AM: Excursion to Ellora caves in the lap of the Chamadari hills extending over a mile and a quarter in the north-south direction and are situated 18 miles northwest of Aurangabad. Ellora represents the epitome of Indian rock-cut architecture.
The 34 "caves" - actually structures excavated out of the vertical face of the Charanandri hills -- being Buddhist, Hindu and Jain cave temples and monasteries -- were built between the 5th century and 10th century. The 12 Buddhist caves, 17 Hindu, and 5 Jain caves, built in proximity, demonstrate the religious harmony prevalent during this period of Indian history. Ellora represents hundreds of years of great faiths with their very different iconography and structural compulsions. The awe-inspiring, mammoth Kailash Temple is carved out of solid rock.
 The Hindu caves were constructed between 500 CE and 1000 CE and represent a different style of creative vision and execution skills. Some were of such complexity that they required several generations of planning and co-ordination to complete. Thirty-four shrines synthesize Indian religion and Indian passion for sculpture. The Ramayana and Mahabharata are also depicted here in carvings.
In the evening we transfer to the airport to fly to Mumbai. Meeting on arrival & transfer to International airport
Tue 17 Nov DEPART MUMBAI for US
HOTELS FORESEEN - MAIN TOUR
Bangalore Jayamahal Palace www.jayamahalpalace.com
Hassan The Ashhok www.hassanashok.com
Mysore Regaalis hotel www.ushalexushotel.com
Wyanad Vythiri Resorts www.vythiriresort.com
Cochin The Arches www.hotelarches.com
Houseboat AC Deluxe
Kovalam Travancore Heritage
www.thetravancoreheritage.com
Mumbai The Ambassador
www.ambassadorindia.com
HOTEL FORESEEN - AURANGABAD EXTENSION
Aurangabad The Ajanta Ambassador www.ambassadorindia.com
MAIN TOUR COST INCLUDES:
· Accommodation on twin sharing bed and breakfast basis for total of 14 nights at the hotels foreseen above or similar, except 1 overnight on board House Boat and 4 nights at Kovalam, which are inclusive of buffet breakfast, lunch & Dinner.
· Assistance on arrival/departure at airport/hotels by our representatives.
· Airfare on Domestic Sectors
· All transportation using air-conditioned deluxe bus.
· Services of a locally appointed English-speaking guides for sightseeing tours.
· All currently applicable entrance fees to the monuments covered in the itinerary.
· Cultural Dance Performance in Cochin.
· Motor Launch to Elephanta Caves.
· Visit to Elephant Camp at Guruvayoor.
· One Farewell Dinner in Mumbai.
· All currently applicable taxes including Service Tax.
AURANGABAD EXTENSION TOUR INCLUDES:
· Accommodation on twin sharing bed and breakfast basis for 2 nights at the hotel foreseen above or similar.
· Assistance on arrival/departure at airport/hotels by our representatives.
· All transportation using one air-conditioned deluxe bus.
· Services of a locally appointed English-Speaking guide for sightseeing tours.
· All currently applicable entrance fees to the monuments covered in the tour.
COSTS DO NOT INCLUDE:
· Meals other than specified above.
· Camera fees at the monuments.
· Tips and gratuities.
· Any accommodation in Mumbai on 14 Nov for Main Tour and 16th Nov for Aurangabad Extension.
· Medical & Travel Insurance
· International airfare to reach India and back.
· Visa Fees.
· Any transport or guide services in Cochin on 07 Nov.
· Services of any accompanying escort (supplement quoted separately).
· Expenses of any personal nature such as laundry, beverages, telephone calls etc.
· Any Extra Ayurveda Treatment or Activities, which is quoted as supplement.
· Any Extra Yoga Classes
· Any other expenses not mentioned above.
Cost: Main tour $3330 (includes all listed above as well as flights within the country)
Trip Extension: $580 (includes flight from Mumbai - Aurangabad - Mumbai). Depending on the amount of people who sign up for the extension, the price could be reduced by approximately $100.
Single Supplement main tour: $1050.
For tour extension: $90
Down-payment of $500 is due at sign-up. Balance must be paid within 45 days of travel (September 16).
Please see website, breathebooks.com for details on refunds, deadlines, cancellations and other logistical information.
A Visa is needed for India. We can help you arrange this through Travisa.com.
Vaccinations are also recommended for India. Please contact a local Travel Clinic to determine what you may need.
Airfare to Mumbai is approximately $1000 round trip. More information will be provided.
I will be giving an informational talk on this trip in late August.
please contact Susan Weis at breathe books to make trip arrangements. 410-235-7323 or susan@breathebooks.com.
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