10-21Sep Sikkim Dzongri Trek

10-21 Sep 2013
Sikkim Dzongri Trek

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Updated - 01Apr
Book by 20Apr, and pay ONLY $2,350
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10-21May 12D Nepal & Bhutan

Grading - Easy / Moderate
Duration - 10 Days,
Trek - 4D3N
Accommodation - 7 Nights Hotel, 3 Nights Camping

About Darjeeling: Nestled between the rolling mountains with the glistening Mt Kanchenjunga towering over the azure sky, Darjeeling fondly called "Queen of the Hills" provides a perfect gateway for those seeking to be in harmony with nature. This is the land of the muscatel flavored Darjeeling tea revered by connoisseurs across the globe. This is the land of the world heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway where the century old miniature steam engine still chugs uphill vying for space with the fast disappearing Land Rovers.

 

"The one land that all men desire to see, and having seen once-by even a glimpse would not give that glimpse for the shows of the rest of the world combined" - Mark Twain.

 

"Flowers are everywhere. The days are cold and the sun almost seems to play hide and seek with us". - Rabindranath Tagore.

 

About Sikkim: Small but beautiful, Sikkim is situated in the eastern Himalayas. The state is spreaded below the Mount Khanchendzonga (8534 mts), the third highest mountain in the world, and revered by the Sikkimese as their protective deity. With an area of 7,300 sq kms and measuring approx. 114 kms from the north to south and 64 kms from east to west, the elevation ranges from 300 meters to over 8540 meters above sea level. Amidst the grandeur of the mountain peaks, lush valleys, fast flowing rivers, hills, Sikkim offers her visitors a rare and singular experience. Within a matter of hours one can move from the sub tropical heat of the lower valleys to the cold of the rugged mountain slopes that reach up to the area of perpetual snow.

 

The modern history of Sikkim begins from 1642 A.D. with the coronation of Phuntsog Namgyal as the first Chogyal or king of Sikkim in a tranquil pine covered hill in Yuksom Norbugang in West Sikkim.The Namgyals were scions of the Mi-nyak House in Kham in Eastern Tibet. It is said that there were three brothers, chiefs of Kham Mi-nyak. A letter dropped from heaven directed the middle brother to go south towards Sikkim where his descendents were fated to rule. It was in Sakya that his eldest son single-handedly raised the pillars of the Sakya monastery and earned himself the sobriquet of 'Khye Bumsa'( the strength of a lakh of men). Khye Bumsa also earned himself the hand of the daughter of the Sakya hierarch and settled in Chumbi Valley, which remained, for a long time, the epicenter of the later kingdom of Sikkim.

 

Bottled Water and Drinks: Every day 1000 ml of bottled water is provided by your throughout your stay in towns and boiled water during trekking.  We request all our guests to use bottled/boiled water especially when brushing teeth to make sure they stay healthy during their stay in India.  Beside bottled water all other drinks provided includes all the drinks provided during breakfast at your hotel.  Extra soft or hard drinks, bottled water ordered in Restaurants or at your hotel are not included in the cost and need to be paid by the guest.  

 

 

I T I N E R A R Y

 

10 Sep: Arrive Kolkata

Arrive Kolkata airport.  On arrival met by our representative and transfer to Hotel.

 

11 Sep: Fly to Bagdogra and drive to Darjeeling.

After breakfast, transfer to airport to board on your domestic flight to Bagdogra.  On arrival meet and greet by your Odyssey Manager and start your journey through picturesque tea gardens to the world renowned hill station, Darjeeling. Perched on an altitude of 2134m, Darjeeling is set amidst a majestic backdrop of the great Himalayan peak of Kanchenjunga (3rd highest peak in the world at 8586m) and is regarded as the Queen of East India. After dinner, free at leisure to visit the local bazaar.

 

12 Sep: Darjeeling

Depart hotel at about 4am for Tiger Hill (2585m) for sun rising view and a panoramic view of the spectacular snow-clad mountain peaks of the Himalayan Range. After which, back to hotel for your breakfast and then visit the Himalayan Zoological Park. The zoo serves as a breeding center for snow leopards and red pandas, as well as a home for mountain yaks, Himalayan black bears and Siberian Tigers. Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, located within this zoo, which was founded in 1954 to commemorate history's first successful conquest of Mt. Everest in 1953 by 'Darjeeling's son', Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary. Then after, visit to the Ghoom Monastery, built in 1850 by Lama Sharb, which enshrines a 15ft. Statue of Maitreya Buddha. Then proceed to Tibetan Refugee Center.

 

13 Sep: Darjeeling - Yuksum (123 kms - 6 hours)

Early morning drive to Tiger hill (2590 mt) for the breath taking Sunrise over eastern Himalayas Mt Kanchenzonga and Mt Everest. Visit oldest Yigacholing Monastery built in 1857, belonging to the Gelukpa sect has the beautiful statue of Maitera (the future Buddha). After lunch drive to Yuksum. The base of our trek. Dinner and overnight stay in Hotel Tashigang.

 

14 Sep:  Yuksum - Tsokha (3000 mts) 14 km, 6-7 hour

Today we start trek to the small Tibetan settlement known as Tshoka through the trail passing through the forest of Rhododendrons, magnolias and oaks. There are a number of suspension bridges and streams of crystal clear water. After the last bridge is crossed a comparatively steep climb of 60 minute brings us to the campsite for the day. Over night at Tshoka .

 

15 Sep: Tshoka - Dzongri (4000m) 10 km, 5-6 hours

After breakfast, trek to Dzongri through one of the most beautiful Rhododendron forest in the Himalayas. There are different varieties of Rhododendrons, ranging from the Rhododendron Grande to The rhododendron Nivale. After lunch ascend to Deorali top from where the mountains can be seen at a closer range. The trail from here is flat and a little descending till Dzongri. Overnight camp at Dzongri.

 

16 Sep: Dzongri

Dzonri offers the picture perfect spectacular views surrounded by snow capped mountains with towering Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world and the guardian deity of Sikkim. Very early morning climb to Dzongri top ( 4270 Mt) to watch the stunning panoramic view of Sunrise on Mt. Kanchenjunga and its surrounding peaks like  Kabru (7353 m), Ratong (6678 m), Kanchenjunga (8534 m), Koktang (6147 m), Pandim (6691 m) and Narsing (5825 m). On the West the Singalila Range , which separates India from Nepal can be viewed. Interestingly Dzongri top is higher than most of the peaks of Alps. From the top awesome presence of Kanchenjunga massif and other renowned peaks are simply mesmerizing. Spend the day just by watching the beauty and enjoy the serenity.

 

17 Sep: Dzongri – Tshoka (10 kms / 4-5 hrs)

After breakfast, trek back to Tshoka (3000 m). Hot lunch or pack lunch on the way to Tshoka. Over night stay at Tshoka.

 

18 Sep:  Tshoka  - Yuksom (14 kms / 5-6 hours)

After breakfast early morning trek to Yuksom. On arrival transfer to Hotel.  Free evening to walk around the town or relax at your hotel.

 

19 Sep: Yuksom – Kalimpong by car (110 km, 4  hours)

After breakfast, we drive to Kalimpong (1,780m),. On arrival check in your hotel and Visit Tharpa Choling Monastery and famous Pradhan Nurseries where great varieties of cactus, orchids and other exotic plants can be found here.

 

20 Sep: Kalimpong – Bagdogra – Kolkata – Fly Home

After breakfast, drive to Bagdogra.  On arrival transfer to airport to board on your scheduled flight to Kolkata.  On arrival visit around Kolkata for last minute shopping and own activities.  If time permit we shall be visiting Victoria Memorial.  After dinner transfer to International airport to board on your scheduled flight to Singapore.

 

21 Sep: Arrive in Singapore.

HOTELS ENVISAGED

Kolkatta                                : Pride Hotel

Darjeeing             : Hotel Seven Seventeen / Hotel Dekling

Yuksom                                : Hotel Tashigang

Kalimpong          : Holumba Haven

 

 

MINIMUM GROUP SIZE : 8

Group Size: Max 15
PRICE Per Person :
$2,420 (Twin Sharing)
 

Deposit - $1000
CHEQUE PAYABLE -
EU HOLIDAYS PTE LTD

Cost Includes :

 

1.   Singapore - Kolkata International Return, ,Kolkata - Bagdogra Return

2.       Airport transfers and all transport costs in chartered transport from airport to airport including transport for all sightseeing as indicated in itinerary. 

3.      Accommodation in Hotels as indicated in the itinerary with all meals.

4.      All entrance charges as per the itinerary above.

5.      All trekking arrangement including Kanchenjunga National Park fees, trekking hut and camping fees, carriage of up to 20 kg baggage of per trekker with all meals during Goechela Trek

6.      English speaking Guide from Bagdogra Airport to Bagdogra airport.

 

7.    All airport taxes, fuel surcharges

 

8.    India Visa

 

 

Cost Excludes :

1.       All expenses of personal nature like drinks, tips, telephone calls etc.

2.     Medical and evacuation expenses and any other expenses paid due to any change in itinerary.

 

Please contact Olevia Cheong (Organiser)

Email  - olevia@gmail.com

Mobile - (+65) 8112 8393

 

 

Lombok Photography Tour 23-26May

Join us to Lombok - a beautiful island in Indonesia, which boasts divine beaches, the majestic Mt Rinjani, and spectacular marine life!

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/indonesia/lombok

Led by a Photographer, and name to be advised.
...
23May SINGAPORE - LOMBOK MI128 1545 / 1830
26May LOMBOK - SINGAPORE MI123 1120 / 1400

http://www.facebook.com/events/200699036738304/

DAY 01 : Singapore - Lombok (D)
Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport for your flight to Lombok.
Upon arrival, transfer for dinner and then check in to hotel.




DAY 02 : GILI TRAWANGAN TOUR (B,L,D)

Breakfast at Hotel, first visit Malimbu Hill with the beautiful sea view from the top of the hill, then proceed to Bangsal Harbour to crossing to Gili Trawangan (Gili in Sasak Language is Keci Island) using the Speed Boat. Arrive in Gili Trawangan, a small beautiful island off Lombok,
which is famous for its spectacular reefs, and ominous dive sites. Enjoy the time to take shots of this tropical island with no cars, or motobikes around.
Have some free time if you like to go for snorkeling etc at own expense.
Optional Tour (Diving, Snorkeling, Glass Bottom Boat, etc)

Lunch serve at Juku Restaurant Gili Trawangan. On the way back to Hotel, you may stop at Pusuk Pass Hill, a green tropical rain forest offering beautiful panorama of the green hill and valey.
Here, wild monkeys await you for peanuts and bananas.
Proceed for dinner before your transfer back to the hotel.




DAY 03 : BUMI GORA/SASAK TOUR (B,L,D)

Breakfast at Hotel, this cultural tour will take you to visit: Banyumulek Village, famous for its traditional pottery, Suklarare Village, renowed for its traditional hand weaving of brightly pattern songket, ikat and sarong cloth, next, Tanjung Aan Kuta Beach as one of the most scenic and un-spoilt beaches in this part of the island.
Lunch serve at Local Restaurant.
In the evening, enjoy your dinner before the
transfer back to Hotel and free program.




DAY 04 : In the morning, take your breakfast and enjoy some free time at leisure
before the transfer time to Selaparang International Airport. (B)




Rate Includes :
- Return economy airfare on SilkAir
- All fuel and taxes
- Accomodation at Sengigi Beach Hotel (Standart Room) include daily brakfast

- AC transportation

- Guide assistance

- Tour and meals as per above program

- Donation, entrance fee, parking fee for tourism object

- mineral water during tour program
- Pre Tour photography lesson (2 hours, 4 hours practical)

Group size - 16
PRICE - $980
Deposit - $500
Payable to EU Holidays Pte Ltd

Deadline for booking - 10Mar 2013

Any other enquiry, please email Olevia Cheong
olevia@euholidays.com.sg
Mobile - 8112 8393

Bali trip 2013

Thanks for dropping by.

05-15Jun 11D Ladakh Overland

I will be bringing my 8 -year-old boy on this trip to Bali, and Ubud. And below is the outline of what we are going to do.

17Mar Arrive DPS, evening . Stay overnight Jimbaran
18Mar, Jimbaran seafood lunch, and then proceed to Uluwatu - visit temple, and enjoy sunset. Overnight at the Anantara Uluwatu Resort
19Mar, stay Uluwatu... relax (can consider joining other trip)
20 Mar Transfer to Eco Lodge - on slope of Mt Batukaru (trek to rainforest - 2-3hr, or even do trek to the summit of this second highest mountain in Bali, 2,600m
21Mar - Trek full day Batukaru or proceed to Kintamani, beautiful views of Jetulawih rice terrace,
22Mar - Trek to summit of Batur for sunrise (early morning) , 2 hours
23Mar - relax day,, do spa, just walk around in Ubud
24Mar - more walking, or relax.

Mount Batur Sunrise Trek

Am I fit enough? The Mt Batur Sunrise trek is moderately challenging and requires moderate fitness. The route up involves 5 km of walking and up to 900 meters in elevation change. We have taken guests as young as 4 years old as well as hikers in their seventies. In general, if you can walk 20kms in flat terrain comfortably, you should be able to take on this challenge.

Can I go in sandals? No. Due to the rocky and sandy nature of parts of the trek, shoes are essential. We recommend shoes that cover your ankles.

How cold is it? Pre-dawn temperatures at the top of Mt Batur can be as low as 12 Celcius, although they are normally 18 to 20 Celcius. You are, however, likely to be wet with perspiration from the climb, and windy mornings may feel very cold. We recommend bringing at least a win...d-breaker/jacket and a spare T-shirt as an extra layer should you need them.



A note of warning: we start early on the trek, the 3AM wake up call may mean you’ll be sleepy at the start of the trek. We’ll do our best to wake you up. We’ve got excellent coffee!

 

Contact me should you be keen to join me on this trip.

 

Olevia Cheong

(65) 8112 8393

Komodo & Lombok Photography Tour

CALENDAR 2013

6D KOMODO & LOMBOK PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR
23-28May 2013

Also check out our 4D3N Lombok Photography Tour
Led by Wilson Wong.
23-26May (MI)
$980 (All inclusive)
 

DAY 01 Singapore - Lombok
LOMBOK ARRIVAL - SENGGIGI BEACH
Upon arrival at Lombok airport meeting service then transfer to Aero wisata hotel.*5 at Senggigi beach area. Dinner will be served at hotel or local restaurant.

DAY 02 = FULL DAY GILLI TRAWANGAN, GILLI MENO
After breakfast, we drive to the pier to take the boat ( 1 hour) to Gili Meno. Time will be given to take your pictures. Lunch will be served on the island. Afternoon move to Gili Trawangan for other picture. Then, we take a boat to Bangsal then transfer to hotel. (B/L/D)

DAY 03
LOMBOK - LABUAN BAJO VIA DENPASAR BALI
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Labuan bajo west part of Flores island, via Denpasar Bali. Upon arrival at Komodo Labuan bajo airport drive to Jayakarta hotel *4. Lunch will be served at local restaurant or at hotel. Afternoon drive to Puncak Waringin and Bukit Cinta for taking photo with the beautiful landscape and sunset. Back to hotel and have dinner. (B/L/D)

DAY 04
FULL DAY TOUR TO RINCA ISLAND
After breakfast, we drive to the pier to take the boat ride(2 hours) to Rinca island. Arrive at Loh Buaya, and then enjoy the walk to Komodo national park's office for check in. We then proceed to trek to the hill to find Komodo Dragons and wild life around the area. Back to the boat for our lunch. After lunch, enjoy snorkeling or continue to take more picture. Afternoon depart to Kalong island to see thousand of Flying Foxes coming out from Mangrove trees and flying to Flores island. Picture will be taken from your boat. After picture depart to Labuan Bajo. Arrive at harbor drive to hotel. Dinner will served at hotel. (B/L/D)

DAY 05
FULL DAY TOUR TO KOMODO ISLAND
After breakfast, drive to the pier for the boat 2.30 minutes to Komodo island. Arrive at Loh Liang Komodo island, check in then start your picture from ranger station and on the way of trekking. Find Komodo Dragons and wild life. After trekking go back to the boat for the 15 mintues ride to Pink beach. Snorkeling and enjoy taking photo of corals and colorful of fishes. Lunch will be served on the boat. Afternoon depart to Labuan Bajo. Then drive to hotel. Dinner will be served at hotel. (B/L/D)DAY 06
LABUAN BAJO - DENPASAR
After breakfast the drive to Batu Cermin cave. Explore with your picture at the cave to see stalactites, stalagmites and dried corals . Departure from Denpasar. (B/L)

PRICE PER PERSON - $1,880

Price included in our service
- Land transportation with air condition on each destiantion
- Hotel based on *4-*5 star on twin sharing basis
- Meals on the tour program
- Boat charter in Lombok and Flores
- English speaking guide
- Land entrance fee Lombok and Flores
- Entrance fee, snorkeling fee, contribution fee and ranger fee in Komodo national park
- Mineral water, coffee and tea on the boat trip
- Snorkeling equipments
- Return flight ticket from Lombok - Labuan bajo and Labuan bajo - Bali

Pirce not included in our service:
- Airport tax
- Personal expenses, laundry and tipping
- Soft and alcoholic drinking
- Travel insurance
- Camera fee in Komodo national park. Camera charged average from Rupiah: 50.000,-...IDR per camera to Rupiah: 250.000,-...IDR per camera. it is depending of your size and typical of your camera. All your camera will be checked directly by authority of park on check in time.
- Other expenses tha mentioned on our service above.Please contact Olevia Cheong
olevia@euholidays.com.sg
Tel - (65) 8112 8393

Calendar 2013

Halong Bay Package

Calendar 2013

Hanoi and Sapa Discovery

FRIDAY DEPARTURE

Organised By Olevia Cheong

Mobile - (65)8112 8393

EU HOLIDAYS PTE LTD

Min - 4 pax
Friday departure if you like to visit the Love Market at Sapa.

DAY 1: HA NOI ARRIVAL – night train to Lao Cai 

On arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you will be met and transferred to Ha Noi Center. Free for your leisure. Later in the evening, you’ll be driven to Hanoi Railway Station to board your overnight train to Lao Cai.

DAY 2: LAO CAI – SAPA ( B, L, D,)

Arrive in Lao Cai in early morning, have breakfast in Lao Cai. Transfer to “the town of fog” of Sapa by minibus. Then, take trekking tour to Cat Cat village, 3km south of Sapa which is a steep and very beautiful hike down like everywhere in this area. Back to town for lunch in the restaurant.

In the afternoon, continue to trek  local village, then  discover Ta Van village where H’Mong people live. Return to the hotel for relax. Have dinner in the restaurant. In the evening, free time to discover typical “Love Market” and taste grilled eggs, sugarcanes, sweet potatoes … Overnight on hotel in Sapa.

Please note that “Love Market” is only in the evening on Saturday

DAY 3: SAPA – LAO CAI  -  HA NOI ( B, L, D)

In the morning, after breakfast, free time to visit Ham Rong Mountain with scenic spots: Gate of Heaven, Garden of Orchid. You can take photos of  green mountainous view, beauty of waterfall or colorful flowers. On the way back to Lao Cai City, you can visit Ta Phin village where have lifestyle and habits of Dao and H’Mong people Then have dinner in the restaurant near Lao Cai Station and get on night train to Hanoi. Dinner at a local restaurant in Lao Cai. Overnight on train back to Hanoi

DAY 4: HA NOI CITY TOUR – MAI CHAU ( B, L, D)

In the morning, pick up at Hanoi station and have breakfast transfer to Ba Dinh Square. Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, which was built in the 11th century in the shape of a lotus according to the legend of the King’s dream. Tour continued with the Temple Of Literature, the first university in Vietnam, dedicated to Confucius and Vietnamese most successful scholars. Study about Vietnamese craft at Craftlink. Have dinner and relax for minutes.

In the afternoon, transfer to Mai Chau in Hoa Binh province. Arrive Mai Chau, you have our road trip to Mai Chau to visit Thai minority in Lac village (Ban Lac) and have dinner in the local family.In the evening, you will have chance to participate in the folklore festival with typical dances, songs, and taste “can” wine, an ethnic specialty. Overnight in a stilt house of Thai family’s in Lac village .

DAY 5 : MAI CHAU – HA LONG (B, L, D)

In the morning, after breakfast, we will visit Xa Linh village, 30km from Lac village, home to the H’mong minority. There is a local market here every Sunday morning. Stopover on the way to take photos at a beautiful forest. Take a trek to Hang Kia village to discover the daily life of local inhabitants is also worthwhile. Have lunch before transfer to Ha Long Bay in Quang Ninhprovince. Have dinner in the restaurant on the way to Ha Long Bay and overnigh at the hotel in Ha Long City.

 <BR><BR>

DAY 6: HA  NOI – HA LONG ( B, L, D)<BR><BR>

Breakfast, leave hotel and get on the board of our traditional sailing junk. While cruising the exquisite waters, sample the local fresh seafood. Start a fantastic cruise in Halong bay and sightseeing Dog Island, Incense Urn Island, Fighting Coq Island, and explore the mystery of Thien Cung Cave (Heaven Cave). Back to the harbor to transfer Hanoi city. Have dinner in Hanoi, then you can have free shopping for a while in round of old quarter and overnigh at the hotel in Hanoi.

DAY 7: HA LONG - DEPART HA NOI CITY (B, G)

In the morning, free for your own leisure by making stroll along the streets or shopping. Lunch on your own expense. Check out and transfer to Noi Bai airport for flight to your country. Tour ends.

PRICE per person - $1,380
Inclusive of Return flight on SQ/MI, Train ticket from Hanoi-Lai Cai,
All fuel surcharge,
All accommodation,
All meals,
English speaking guide,
All transfers

Deposit - $500 Payable to EU Holidays Pte Ltd
Balance Payment  - one month before departure

CALENDAR 2013
Year 2013

FEB
08 - 19Feb Nepal & Bhutan (CONFIRMED)

MAR
South Africa

APR
09Apr - Best of Kashmir, $2,150 (ALL INCLUSIVE)</a>
** 09-17APR (last 6 seats)

MAY
23-26May 4D3N Lombok Photography Tour $1,050 (All inclusive)
*** LED BY WILSON WONG (Photographer)
23-28May Komodo Island & Lombok Photo Tour $1,880 (All inclusive)

JUN
05-22Jun Brazil & Peru Photography Tour (Look out for details)
08-17Jun Greece & Santorini Romance (Honeymoon tour)
11-25Jun 15D Central Asia (CONFIRMED, last 6 seats)
** $4,850
INDIA - Overland to Ladakh (The Moon Land)

JUL
Look out for Mongolia & Nadaam Festival Photography Tour
India Trekking - Valley of the Flowers

AUG
South Africa Namaqualand Photo Tour

SEP
10-21Sep Sikkim & Bhutan Festival Photography Tour - $4,350
** LED by Wilson Wong (Photographer)
PERU

OCT
Bhutan Jambhay Lakhang Festival Photo Tour
Mt Everest Base Camp Trek

NOV
7D Myanmar

DEC
Cambodia
PERU
 

12-26Jun Central Asia Journey

Year 2013

FEB
08 - 19Feb Nepal & Bhutan  (CONFIRMED)

MAR
17-24Mar Bali & Ubud (confirmed)
20-24Mar Bali Como Shambhala Rejuvenation Escapade $2,380 (2-to-go)
South Africa

APR
9D Best of Kashmir 09-17Apr
09Apr - Best of Kashmir, $2,150 (ALL INCLUSIVE)
 ** 09-17APR (last 6 seats)
11-16Apr Sri Lanka Discovery Tour (confirmed)
22-27Apr - 6D Nepal Photography Tour
South Africa

MAY
17-23May Northern Vietnam, Hanoi & Sapa  $1,380
23-26May 4D3N Lombok Photography Tour $1,050 (All inclusive)
 *** LED BY WILSON WONG (Photographer)
23-28May  Komodo Island & Lombok Photo Tour $1,880 (All inclusive)

JUN
05-22Jun Brazil & Peru Photography Tour (Look out for details)
08-17Jun Greece & Santorini Romance (Honeymoon tour)
11-25Jun 15D Central Asia  (CONFIRMED, last 6 seats)
 ** $4,850
INDIA - Overland to Ladakh (The Moon Land)

JUL
04-12Jul Mongolia & Nadaam Festival Photography Tour $3,950
India Trekking - Valley of the Flowers

AUG
South Africa Namaqualand Photo Tour

SEP
10-21Sep Sikkim & Bhutan Festival Photography Tour - $4,350
 ** LED by Wilson Wong (Photographer)
PERU

OCT
Bhutan Jambhay Lakhang Festival Photo Tour
Mt Everest Base Camp Trek

NOV
7D Myanmar

DEC
Cambodia
PERU

CONFIRMED DEPARTURE ( Do join us for 12-19Jun 8D Uzbekistan Trip)
15D Central Asia ( 12Jun-26Jun)

(Uzbekistan – Tajikistan – Kazakhstan – Kyrgyzstan)

Uzbekistan is a premier cultural heritage destination sought out each year by more and more travellers wishing to immerse themselves in the magic of Central Asia’s Great Silk Road.

Samarkand
(http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/603)

The historic town of Samarkand is a crossroad and melting pot of the world's cultures. Founded in the 7th century B.C. as ancient Afrasiab, Samarkand had its most significant development in the Timurid period from the 14th to the 15th centuries. The major monuments include the Registan Mosque and madrasas, Bibi-Khanum Mosque, the Shakhi-Zinda compound and the Gur-Emir ensemble, as well as Ulugh-Beg's Observatory.

Bukhara
(http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/602)

Bukhara, which is situated on the Silk Route, is more than 2,000 years old. It is the most complete example of a medieval city in Central Asia, with an urban fabric that has remained largely intact. Monuments of particular interest include the famous tomb of Ismail Samani, a masterpiece of 10th-century Muslim architecture, and a large number of 17th-century madrasas.

Shahrisabz is a city in southern Uzbekistan, near Samarkand as well as the border with Tajikistan. Shahrisabz means ‘green city’ in Persian, probably owing to the vineyard and orchards in the area. Shahrisabz is noted for being the birthplace of the great ruler of Central Asia named Timur, made famous in Western lore as Tamerlane by authors such as Shakespeare. Shahrisabz is an ancient city in Central Asia, having just celebrated its 2700th anniversary. It is near Shahrisabz that Alexander the Great spent winters and met his wife Roxanna and that the general Ptolemy defeated the Achaemenid Empire. Like many cities in Uzbekistan and Central Asia in general, Shahrisabz was a city along the famed Silk Road. Shahrisabz came under the rule of the city of Bukhara until Russian occupation in the 1800s.

Shahrisabz boasts so many historic monuments that its old city has been made part of the UNESCO World Heritage List. Visitors to Shahrisabz tour these amazing monuments, which include Aq-Saray Palace, Kok Gumbaz Mosque, Hazrat-i Imam Complex, and the Tomb of Timur. Aq-Saray Palace was the ruler Timur’s summer palace in the 1300s, and is also known as the White Palace. It was to be the grandest of Timur’s buildings, and its archway is the widest in Central Asia, but today only parts of the palace remain. Travelers to Shahrisabz can stare in awe at the ruins of the 200-foot gate towers, which are covered with white, gold, and blue mosaic tiles and an inscription that reads “If you challenge our power, look at our buildings!” Kok Gumbaz Mosque was built in Shahrisabz in the 1400s and is named for its blue dome. Right behind the mosque is the so-called House of Meditation. The Hazrat-i Imam Complex is a series of buildings that includes a mosque and impressive geometric mausoleum, where Timur’s oldest son is buried. Nearby is a recently-discovered underground chamber that was meant to be the tomb of Timur himself. However, Timur was buried in Samarkand instead of Shahrisabz, so the identities of the bodies in the chamber remain a mystery.

Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan, officially the Kyrgyz Republic, is a country located in Central Asia. Landlocked and mountainous, Kyrgyzstan is bordered by Kazakhstan to the north, Uzbekistan to the west, Tajikistan to the southwest and China to the east.

Issyl-Kul Lake ( Kyrgyzstan)
Issyk-Kul is one of less than 20 ancient lakes on earth and is estimated to be approximately 25 million years old. Beginning in about 500 BC the Great Silk Road developed as a trade route through Central Asia and passed nearby the lake. Issyk-Kul is the world’s second-largest high-altitude lake and a major biological and economic resource of the country. Slightly salty, the lake never freezes, which contributes to its importance as a stopover for migratory birds. Over the past few decades, the level of the lake has dropped some 2.5 meters as the result of water diversions. In the face of several serious threats to the lake, the Government of Kyrgyzstan has created the Issyk-Kul Biosphere Reserve, run by a Directorate General.

ITINERARY

Day 1 (June 12)Singapore – Tashkent
Arrive in Tashkent. Transfer to the hotel. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Tashkent Palace or similar (4 *)

Day 2 (June 13) Tashkent – Bukhara by flight
Enjoy a full day sightseeing tour in Tashkent. Evening transfer to the airport to take the flight to Bukhara. Asia Bukhara or similar (4 *)

Day 3 (June 14) Bukhara (B)
Full day sightseeing tour.

Day 4 (June 15) Bukhara – Samarkand.
Drive to Samarkand. Sightseeing tour. Asia Samarkand or similar (4*)


                                                 REGISTAN SQUARE, SAMARKAND

Day 5 (June 16) Samarkand (B)
Full day sightseeing .

Day 6 (June 17)Samarkand – Shahrisabz - Termez (B)
Drive to Shakhrisabz. Sightseeing tour, drive to Termez.
Meridian or similar (4 *)

Day 7 (Jun 18) Termez – Gissar – Dushanbe (B)
Transfer to Hissar. Visit the Hissar Fortress and museum. Transfer to Dushanbe. Visit the monument of Ismoili Somoni – the founder of the first Tajik Somonid dynasty in Central Asia. Walking in the Park named after Rudaki.
Taj Palace or similar (4*)

Day 8 (Jun 19)
Dushanbe – Penjikent (B)
Visit the museum of Antiquity in Tajikistan (where you can see the huge 14m Statue of Buddha in Nirvana) and the Museum of Ethnography. Transfer to Panjakent. Visiting ancient Panjakent, visiting the museum named after Rudaki.
Overnight at Hotel Durdob Homestay

Day 9 (Jun 20 )Penjikent – Khodjent – Tashkent
Transfer to Khodjent. Sightseeing tour in Khodjent. Transfer to Tajik – Uzbek border (130km). Crossing the border at check point Kanibadam. Meet guide and drive to Tashkent. (40km)
Tashkent Palace of similar (4*)

Day 10 (Jun 21)Tashkent – Almaty (B)
Transfer to the airport to take the flight to Almaty/ Sightseeing tour.
Otrar (4*)

Day 11 (Jun 22)Almaty – Bishkek (B)
Transfer to Bishkek (250km). Arrival in hotel.
Ak-Keme or similar (4 *)

Day 12 (Jun 23) Bishkek – Issyl Kul Lake (Cholpon Ata)( B )
Transfer to Issul Kul Lake (270km)/ En route visit Burana Tower on the site of the medieval city of Balasagun – the capital of Karakhanid State. Free time at leisure on the shore of the lake. Overnight in Cholpon Ata.
Karven or similar (4*)

Day 13 (Jun 24) Issyk – Kul Lake – Ala-Archa – Bishkek (B)
Transfer to Ala Archa Natural Park (40km off Bishkek). En route visit prehistoric petroglyphs near Cholpon Ata. Sightseeing tour in Ala Archa National Park. Transfer to Bishkek.

Day 14 (Jun 25) Bishkek – Tashkent.
Departure by flight from Tashkent.

Day 15 (Jun 26) Tashkent - Singapore
Departure by flight from Tashkent back to Singapore via Kuala Lumpur.

Sightseeing spots that will be visited during the excursions:
Tashkent: Kukeldash Madrassah, Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum, Barak Khan Madrassah, Mosque on Khasty Imam Street, Visit to Chor-Su ,Museum of Applied Arts. Alisher Navoi square. Amir Temur Monument and Square, Independence Square, Halqlar Do’stligi Square.

Bukhara: Visit to Ismael Samani mausoleum -vault of Bukhara rulers' dynasty, Chor-Minor, Chashma-Ayub Mausoleums (14 c), Visit to Old Bukhara: Poli-Kalon ensemble including Minaret , Mosque ,functioning Madrassah Miri-Arab , Amir-Alim-Khan Madrassah , Taqi (trading domes), Kukeldash Madrassah ,Lyab-i-Hauz , Nadir Divanbegi , Magoki Attari ,Ulug Beg ,Abdul Aziz Madrassahs. Visit to Registan Ensemble, Ark Fortress and Bolo-Hauz complex

Samarkand: Shahi-Zinda necropolis , “Stars above Samarkand” - Ulugbek observatory , “Ruines of Afrosiab” - the excavation and museum of the ancient town (6 BC-13 AD), Visit to medieval architectural monuments: Gur-Emir Mausoleum , Registan Ensemble (including Ulugbek , Shir Dor , Tillya-Kari Madrassahs ,Bibi Khanum Mosque, Ismael-Bukhari Mosque- Mausoleum of Imam Bukhari.

Shakhrisabz: Visit Ak Saray Palace, Kuk Gumbaz, Gumbazi Saidon, Khazrati Imam mosque, Mausoleum of Jahangir (Temur’s son).

Estimated Cost - $4200 ( subject to change, due to airfare booking class)

International Flight ,
Domestic flight - Tashkent-Bukhara
International Flight Tashkent - Almaty
International Flight Bishkek - Tashkent
All hotels accommodation with breakfast
All sightseeing as per itinerary
All transfers
English speaking guide

Exclude:
Taxes for the flight
Visa Fees ( not included)
All other meals ( estimate usd15 per meal)

Do send me an email if you are keen on this trip, please email me
olevia@gmail.com
8112 8393

The earlier you book the flight, the better it is.

Departures for Chinese New Year

Updated Departures for the Chinese New Year

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