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Culinary Tour to Northern India
No Upcoming Tour
“Embark on a Tasting Adventure”
with Co-Leaders Joan Peterson and Susan Chwae
India is a study in contrasts. It is an historical backdrop for a modern-day industrial narrative, a traditional outlook co-existing with fresh, global lifestyles, an ensemble of ethnic disparities creating a cohesive, cultural identity. India is a sensory potpourri of colorful, exuberant scenes and folks, of tangible, delectable cuisines and flavors, of dialects and tongues exchanged like currency, and the ebb and flow of a billion people working through their daily routines!
The world of cuisine can offer something for everyone--it is an important slice of culture, is often artistic, resonates with a rich historical legacy, and offers palate-teasing adventures. The Indian subcontinent with its diverse geography offers a bounty of ingredients for the pot, from spices that have lured empires and colonies to our shores to farm fare that has cultivated holistic diets.
Indian cuisine is so much more than Chicken Tikka Masala. It is a narrative of spices that are subtly blended to create different textures on your palate, of recipes that have been handed down for generations, and of techniques and ingredients that change every few miles.
This tour is more than just about eating, however, We visit classic historical sites on route to help you digest…. and stop here and there to shop and relax. Join us on this spectacular tour of Northern India!
The world of cuisine can offer something for everyone--it is an important slice of culture, is often artistic, resonates with a rich historical legacy, and offers palate-teasing adventures. The Indian subcontinent with its diverse geography offers a bounty of ingredients for the pot, from spices that have lured empires and colonies to our shores to farm fare that has cultivated holistic diets.
Indian cuisine is so much more than Chicken Tikka Masala. It is a narrative of spices that are subtly blended to create different textures on your palate, of recipes that have been handed down for generations, and of techniques and ingredients that change every few miles.
This tour is more than just about eating, however, We visit classic historical sites on route to help you digest…. and stop here and there to shop and relax. Join us on this spectacular tour of Northern India!
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Day 1
Depart for Delhi Day 2 ARRIVE IN DELHI - Namaste and welcome to India! On arrival at Indira Gandhi International airport terminal you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day at rest. Overnight at hotel. Day 3 - DELHI (B, L) If trees and streets could talk, the stories that would pour out of Delhi would keep listeners mesmerized for years. Delhi has seen the tides of several rulers from those that people the pages of the epic poem, Mahabharata, to the Tughlaq and Mughal empires from Persia, from the imperial colonial armies to the present-day government. Looted, plundered, and resurrected over the years, Delhi emerged from the ashes of her past to take her place in the world as a global capital—politically, culturally and commercially. This morning after breakfast proceed on a colonial walk of New Delhi, a city that largely owes its present-day avatar to a man named Edwin Lutyens, a man best known for adapting traditional architecture to contemporary styles. Head towards the India Gate, a monument commemorating the deaths of over 70,000 Indian soldiers in the British Forces during World War I. Older British buildings that were used as power hubs house today’s Parliament and Secretariat. Afterwards we begin our exploration of Old Delhi—the fabled city of Shahjahanabad, where its colorful streets continue to enchant visitors to this day. Old Delhi is just not a cultural hub but is also home to some of the world’s exquisite spices and street food. Heading down Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi, partly on foot, partly by cycle-rickshaw, one can palpably experience the sacred yet secular way of life that is so typical of India. Interestingly, apart from the assortment of stores selling everything from jewelry to saris, numerous eateries have also been established along these bylanes that add flavor (literally!) to the old market—and tangibly evoke a sense of history. From the delectable jalebis, sweets resembling pretzels steeped in sugar syrup that are popular as zulbias in the Middle East and Africa, to the rabri falooda, a traditional cold beverage made of rose syrup, vermicelli, basil seeds, tapioca pearls, and pieces of gelatin with milk or water, that can trace its roots to Persia—the walk down Chandni Chowk is a sensory overload. We end our morning visit at Khari Baoli, Asia’s largest wholesale spice market. Today Lunch at Haveli Dharampura, located in the heart of the old city offering traditional Mughlai cuisine. After lunch we will drive to Humayun’s Tomb and step back into time, as we visit this 16th Century tomb built for the second Mughal emperor, Humayun. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, an older tomb of Inayat Khan, and a functioning masjid (mosque), Humayun’s tomb is a lovely relic from the past. This afternoon will be at your leisure for shopping. With its delightful bazaars and markets that range from pavement shops to multi-brand malls, India is a shoppers haven. Not only is the country famous for its range of traditional arts, jewelry, and handicrafts, you will also find great deals in branded luxury goods. Welcome Dinner at hotel. Overnight at hotel. Day 4 - DELHI –AGRA (B, L, D) This morning after breakfast drive to Agra and on arrival check into your hotel. AGRA The origins of the city of Agra can be traced back to the days of the Mahabharata, the epic poem of Great India when it was called Agrevana, meaning ‘the edge of the forest’. Agra served as capital for the Mughal Empire during the 16th and 17th centuries, and flourished as a center of art, drawing inspiration from Persian, Islamic, Turkish, Byzantine, and Indian styles. It has been immortalized ever since by the Taj Mahal—a magnificent marble mausoleum that epitomizes love, yet Agra has so many more monuments that tell a rich narrative of the tides and times of Man. Lunch at our hotel. This afternoon visit Agra Fort. On the right bank of the Yamuna river, it is one of the most important and robustly built strongholds of the Mughals, embellished with a number of richly decorated buildings—the Agra Fort. Our guide will discuss the rich, evocative Mughal history of Agra Fort, where emperors like Babar, Humayun, Akbar, among other historic characters, take center stage. Afterwards we will visit the Mehtab Bagh garden for sunset views of the Taj from across the Yamuna river. Legend claims this was to be site of a Black Taj that the emperor Shah Jahan wished to build for himself, facing the monument he had built for his love. Instead, the Mehtab Bagh is a four garden layout, typical of Mughal constructions worldwide, with beautiful flowering plants, pools, and fountains. This evening dine at the Peshawari restaurant at ITC Mughal, and enjoy cuisine from the North-West Frontier region known for its sizzling yet delicately flavored meats and breads. It involves the use of mild aromatic spices and relatively little oil! Overnight at hotel. Day 5 - AGRA –SAMODE (B, L, D) Agra has been immortalized by the Taj Mahal—the magnificent mausoleum, which the emperor Shahjahan had built for his queen, Mumtaz, and India’s own jewel in the list of 7 Wonders of the Modern World. After breakfast this morning we will visit the Taj Mahal! Let our storyteller guide weave tales of Agra and the mausoleum, and also the romance between Shahjahan and Mumtaz. Late morning drive to Samode with a packed lunch to eat on the way. On arrival check into your accommodations, Samode Bagh. Driving through the rural green you will see a wall beside you and wonder what lies behind. On entering the wide gates, a palatial marble facade will rise up in panoramic magnificence in front of your eyes. You could then do nothing in the natural bliss of this retreat, or imagine yourself in another era. The accommodation at Samode Bagh consists of luxurious tents spread around the periphery of the garden. Each tent has a private patio. Rest of day at leisure. Dine tonight at Samode Bagh. Overnight at hotel. Day 6 - SAMODE –JAIPUR (B, L, D) This morning after a leisurely breakfast explore the countryside by Jeep safari through farms and villages around Samode. This is a chance to see rural and small-town Indian life up close. See farmers tending their fields, camels carting agricultural produce, and village women in bright saris collecting water for domestic chores. Afterwards drive to Jaipur and on arrival check into your hotel. JAIPUR Erected during the 18th Century by the ruler of Amer as a “city of victory,” Jaipur was north India’s first planned city. Jaipur is often known as the “pink city.” Some say it is because of the distinctive rosy sandstone used in its construction, others claim it was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales. Either way, the city is a beautiful symphony of the history with the present; well expressed in the planned, gridded network of streets juxtaposed with a bustling maze of by-lanes and bazaars, and traditional artisanal crafts offset against contemporary arts. This afternoon, you can take in Jaipur’s most famous landmark: the Amber Fort, the citadel of the Kachhawaha clan who later became the rulers of Jaipur. With its sprawling apartments, pleasure gardens, and temples, Amer is one of the most intricate and beautiful Rajput fortresses in all of India. Time permitting, we will also visit the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, which is located in a magnificently restored haveli or mansion. The Museum of Hand Printing displays a selection of block printed textiles alongside images, tools and related objects, all chosen to provide an in-depth look into the complexity of this ancient tradition. Lunch and Dinner at Khas Bagh, a heritage homestay. Overnight at homestay. Day 7 - JAIPUR (B, L, D) This morning stop at the ornate Hawa Mahal, or the Palace of the Winds, Jaipur’s most distinctive landmark. Its construction was started by Man Singh I in 1592, and was completed by his descendent Jai Singh I. Towering over the city, the Hawa Mahal was built to resemble Krishna’s crown and its purpose was to allow ladies of the court to remain unseen as they watched the goings-on in the streets below. Its forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise where beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds its ultimate expression. Afterwards visit the City Palace complex, the seat of the Maharajah of Jaipur, which consists of an impressive array of courtyards, gardens, and buildings. Proceed to Dera Mandawa and meet your host Thakur Durga Singh, for a culinary exploration of Rajasthani cuisine. Lunch at Dera Mandawa. Thakur Durga Singh is an exceptional narrator and host. He is a scion of the former aristocratic family of Mandawa and he brings his culture and country vibrantly alive. A rare renaissance man with interests as diverse as philosophy, religion, contemporary politics, to farming, tribal culture, music, and poetry, Durga sports not only a grand moustache but also a wonderful sense of humour. This afternoon explore the colorful, chaotic bazaars of the city. Jaipur is a city of vibrant colors and the colorful bazaars offer great opportunity for shopping. It is known for its handicrafts, textiles, leather ware, antiques, gems, and jewelry. Jaipur is one of the largest ornament making centers in India and its “enamel” and “inlay” work with gems are the two traditional techniques for which it is most famous. This evening dinner is on your own—if you have room! Day 8 - JAIPUR –ROHET (B, L, D) This morning after an early breakfast drive to Rohet (located in the outskirts of Jodhpur). Packed lunch to eat on the way. On arrival check into your hotel. Late this afternoon enjoy a cooking session on Rajasthani cuisine with the chef at Rohet Garh, located on the outskirts of Jodhpur where they offer the best of rustic luxury and local culinary traditions. Sample your cooking efforts at dinner tonight! Overnight at hotel. Day 9 - JODHPUR (B, L, D) Optional Jeep Safari in Rohet This morning after breakfast drive through Bishnoi settlements Set off on a jeep safari through the villages of the Bishnois, a sect found in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan, which follows the tenets of a saint who preached that destroying nature is like harming mankind. Along the route, you will be welcomed into the houses of the Bishnoi elders, to partake in a quintessential ritual—drinking an infusion of poppy seeds grown on local farms! This is a great chance to learn about the Bishnoi tribe, a community of staunch vegetarians that has been pivotal in saving the black buck antelope species from the brink of extinction. From late August to early April, the dusty Bishnoi villages host huge migratory flocks of the elegant Demoiselle crane en route to their wintering ground further south, a fascinating spectacle that draws photographers, birdwatchers, and tourists from around the world! Afterwards drive to Jodhpur JODHPUR Epitomizing the romance and feudal splendor of Rajasthan with the majestic Mehrangarh Fort towering over it, the city of Jodhpur was once a flourishing trade center for opium, silk, and copper. Painted a brilliant shade of blue, Jodhpur is the last bastion of fort ramparts, colorful bazaars, and animated people with their storytelling traditions before the desert sands and dunes stretch away towards the horizon. Today visit Mehrangarh Fort, one of the most majestic of Rajasthan’s forts, described by author Rudyard Kipling as “the creation of angels, fairies and giants.” Its forbidding ramparts are in sharp contrast to the flamboyantly decorated palaces within. Founded in 1459, the sandstone fort was added to by later rulers between 17th and 19th centuries. Explore the massive fort complex and the exquisite museum collection. From coronation thrones to pleasure palaces and sunken gardens, the Mehrangarh Fort houses a citadel of immense grandeur. Today lunch at The Step Well Café. This 3-tiered café hovers above the step well with balconies opening onto the square. Afterwards walk through the Blue City, the historic district that surrounds the foot of Mehrangarh Fort. Step back in time with our Old City Walk of Jodhpur, as you explore the older quartiers of the “blue city.” Stroll through the bazaars of the old city where you can find everything from traditional handicrafts to copper pots and pans! Sardar Bazaar, as it is known, has several beautiful havelis (mansions) primarily made of red sandstone. Follow this with a visit to the vegetable market, where the colors and varieties of local produce from gourds to beans, from leafy greens to tubers will showcase tropical produce at its best. Dinner tonight at Rohet Garh. Overnight at hotel. Day 10 - ROHET –RANAKPUR –UDAIPUR (B, L, D) This morning after a leisurely breakfast drive to Udaipur with enroute stop at Ranakpur Temples set in a secluded, wooded valley of the Aravalli Hills. The 15th-century Ranakpur Temple’s grand scale, architectural complexity and sculptural ornamentation rank it among the finest examples of temple architecture. The main temple is dedicated to the founder of the Jainism and Ranakpur is one among five holy places for the Jain followers. Continue your drive and on arrival check into your hotel. Enjoy a tranquil ride on the Lake Pichola this evening listening to the lapping of the water alongside your boat, one of the most beautiful ways to take in the city of Udaipur. Overnight at hotel. Day 11 - UDAIPUR (B, L, D) UDAIPUR Udaipur is an oasis nestled in the lap of the Aravalli Mountain range. It has a tranquil serenity that belies its tumultuous past. Udaipur, originally a thriving caravanserai, later became a capital of local, royal clans. Udaipur’s serene lakes, beautiful gardens, and magnificent palaces lend a nostalgia to it that has often earned it the acclaim of being one of the most romantic places in the world. Apart from a place in history, Udaipur has been immortalized in contemporary culture in iconic films such as “Jewel in the Crown,” “Octopussy,” and “Gandhi.” This morning explore the City Palace, with its blend of stern Rajput military architecture and lavish Mughal inspired decorative art. This is the largest palace in Rajasthan, sprawled out over an area of 5 acres, built between the 16th and 20th centuries. Then continue on to the Jagdish Temple, a three-storied wonder of architecture comprised of an intricately sculpted spire, beautifully carved pillars, decorated ceilings, and painted walls dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the sustainer in Hindu mythology. Afterwards experience an “auto-rickshaw” ride through the narrow lanes of Udaipur’s old city to the restaurant for lunch. Lunch at Royal Repast (from the House of Bedla). This specialty restaurant set in a private home, attempts to link and reconcile food with history and heritage and offers a glimpse of traditional Mewar cuisine that is counted among the legends in Rajasthan. This afternoon walk through the old city to discover the various facets of markets, artists, and artisans at work. Udaipur is famous for its traditional miniature paintings, which are mural-like depicting incidents from Rajput or Mughal history, and legends or stories from Hindu mythology. Home cooking experience - world over, the most famous chefs with the most inimitable recipes have been inspired by their childhood, home-style favorites! In India, a home-cooking experience with hosts from different cultures can surely be the highlight of discovering a new city. From culinary demonstrations to hands-on cooking experiences, and ending with a home-style meal, partake in the culinary traditions of the country! Early this evening, take part in a cooking demonstration at the gracious home of Mr. Mahipal Singh, a member of Udaipur's royal Shivrati lineage, along with his wife, a scholar of English literature and a royal of the Kullu lineage of northern India. This unique experience is at once an immersion in local family life, a glimpse into the legacy of royals in modern-day India, and a hands-on introduction to the renowned culinary traditions of Rajasthan. Enjoy a participatory demonstration of traditional cooking techniques, employing the rich arrays of spices and contrasting tastes, textures, and temperatures for which Indian cuisine is justifiably famous. Dinner consisting of the dishes made in the cooking demo/class. Overnight at hotel. Day 12 - UDAIPUR –DELHI (B) This morning will be at your leisure. Late morning drive to Udaipur airport for flight to Delhi. Assistance will be provided by our representative with check-in formalities at the airport. |
FOR A MINIMUM OF 10 PARTICIPANTS; A Maximum of 14 participants
Prices per person in Double room $3,895.00. Single supplement $700.00.
Included Services:
• Accommodation sharing a double room for a total of 10 nights, as per the itinerary.
• Meals/Cooking Demos included as per the itinerary.
• Bottled water in the bus.
• Transportation in air-conditioned Mini Coach.
• Transfers between airports and hotels by air conditioned Mini Coach with assistance from a Travel Scope representative. (Note: Supplemental cost-$60 one way-for individual versus group transfer by air conditioned Toyota Innova car.)
• All sightseeing and excursions detailed in the itinerary with the services of an English-speaking guide.
• All applicable entrance fees and still camera charges at monuments and museums, as per itinerary.
• Domestic airfare Udaipur - Delhi in Economy class.
• Services of Joan Peterson, tour leader and Susan Chwae, assistant tour leader • Copy of culinary guidebook, Eat Smart in India, by Joan Peterson
• All applicable government taxes and levies, as on date. Any change in taxation or introduction of new taxes in future will be charged extra.
• Video camera fees at monuments
General Notes:
• On this tour there is moderate walking on uneven surfaces.
Services not included:
• Visa fees
• Beverages (other than water) at lunch and dinner
• Travel and Medical Insurance
• Medical emergencies
• Tips and gratuities
• All expenses arising out of voluntary or involuntary rerouting of the itinerary.
PAYMENT TERMS
We require a deposit of $500 per person at the time of the booking. Balance payment to be made 60 days prior to arrival.
CANCELLATION TERMS
10% retention of total tour costs, if cancelled 90-60 days prior to arrival date.
50% retention of total tour costs, if cancelled 59-45 days prior to arrival date.
75% retention of total tour costs, if cancelled 44-30 days prior to arrival date.
No refund, if cancelled less than 30 days prior to arrival date.
RATE OF EXCHANGE
The tour has been quoted in US$ on the basis of the current rate of exchange. In the event there is a major swing in the exchange rate, the price may come up for review.
TRIP INSURANCE: It is highly recommended that all participants purchase travel insurance. Assistant tour leader Susan Chwae (based in US) can help you obtain international flights. Travel insurance (recommended) can be obtained through Travelex Insurance Services.
Prices per person in Double room $3,895.00. Single supplement $700.00.
Included Services:
• Accommodation sharing a double room for a total of 10 nights, as per the itinerary.
• Meals/Cooking Demos included as per the itinerary.
• Bottled water in the bus.
• Transportation in air-conditioned Mini Coach.
• Transfers between airports and hotels by air conditioned Mini Coach with assistance from a Travel Scope representative. (Note: Supplemental cost-$60 one way-for individual versus group transfer by air conditioned Toyota Innova car.)
• All sightseeing and excursions detailed in the itinerary with the services of an English-speaking guide.
• All applicable entrance fees and still camera charges at monuments and museums, as per itinerary.
• Domestic airfare Udaipur - Delhi in Economy class.
• Services of Joan Peterson, tour leader and Susan Chwae, assistant tour leader • Copy of culinary guidebook, Eat Smart in India, by Joan Peterson
• All applicable government taxes and levies, as on date. Any change in taxation or introduction of new taxes in future will be charged extra.
• Video camera fees at monuments
General Notes:
• On this tour there is moderate walking on uneven surfaces.
Services not included:
• Visa fees
• Beverages (other than water) at lunch and dinner
• Travel and Medical Insurance
• Medical emergencies
• Tips and gratuities
• All expenses arising out of voluntary or involuntary rerouting of the itinerary.
PAYMENT TERMS
We require a deposit of $500 per person at the time of the booking. Balance payment to be made 60 days prior to arrival.
CANCELLATION TERMS
10% retention of total tour costs, if cancelled 90-60 days prior to arrival date.
50% retention of total tour costs, if cancelled 59-45 days prior to arrival date.
75% retention of total tour costs, if cancelled 44-30 days prior to arrival date.
No refund, if cancelled less than 30 days prior to arrival date.
RATE OF EXCHANGE
The tour has been quoted in US$ on the basis of the current rate of exchange. In the event there is a major swing in the exchange rate, the price may come up for review.
TRIP INSURANCE: It is highly recommended that all participants purchase travel insurance. Assistant tour leader Susan Chwae (based in US) can help you obtain international flights. Travel insurance (recommended) can be obtained through Travelex Insurance Services.
Joan Peterson received her Ph.D. in
Cell Biology/Electron Microscopy from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In 1993 she began a second career. She started a publishing company, Ginkgo Press, and created the EAT SMART series of guidebooks designed for travelers and cookbook lovers. To date she has written or co-written 11 of the 14 available culinary guidebooks (Brazil, Turkey, Indonesia, Mexico, Poland, Morocco, Sicily, India, Peru, Norway, and Portugal). She has traveled extensively for many years, and leads culinary tours to Turkey, India, Indonesia, Jordan, Morocco, Norway, Peru, Portugal, and Sicily.
Cell Biology/Electron Microscopy from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In 1993 she began a second career. She started a publishing company, Ginkgo Press, and created the EAT SMART series of guidebooks designed for travelers and cookbook lovers. To date she has written or co-written 11 of the 14 available culinary guidebooks (Brazil, Turkey, Indonesia, Mexico, Poland, Morocco, Sicily, India, Peru, Norway, and Portugal). She has traveled extensively for many years, and leads culinary tours to Turkey, India, Indonesia, Jordan, Morocco, Norway, Peru, Portugal, and Sicily.
Susan Chwae, Joan Peterson's daughter, has a degree in Graphic Arts from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She is the Marketing Director and technical advisor for Ginkgo Press and the EAT SMART series. Since 1997 she has provided all creative and marketing support for the EAT SMART guidebooks and the website. She has been assisting Joan or leading her own Culinary Tours since 2005.