"This is no place for man, this must be where the Gods live" - said Rudyard Kipling “frustratingly disappointing and breathtakingly wonderful!”

THEME TOURS
The experience that is India invokes images of a devotee, waist deep in water - offering it to a rising sun at dawn - or the aroma of burning incense wafting in serene marble palace, translating into a riot of colours…. shapes…. feelings and sensations.

So we at Theme Tours India rediscover this land and let our guests choose a theme - unique and personal or take one from ours and remodel it.

In our package one can trek, ski, water-ski or mountain cycle and then even visit holy ‘spots’.

With Themes we give direction to travelling - even if it is `wandering about'……… and to the guest a feeling of being taken care of, inconspicuously …… and well served!

Indicative Theme Tours India packages are:

1. Majestic Himalayas.
2. Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan.
3. Educational Excursions.
4. Ecotourism
5. Belief Sects: Hindu, Sikh and Buddhists.

'The Best thing about Theme Tours India' says Mrs. Deshpande - a tourist - 'is that they are passionate about what they are doing and bring a fresh approach to travel.'

The Majestic Himalayas

Himalayas - Earth's highest and longest mountain range gave birth not only to the mighty rivers and large plains but also a mysteriously simple civilisation. In fact, latest scientific study says that humanity itself originated with mighty Himalayas.

Popular Tourists Destinations in Himalayas are states of Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttaranchal and Sikkim. West Bengal with Darjeeling boasts to be the only state offering the Sea and Mountains. Our focus is on the recently created Uttaranchal.

Under Majestic Himalayas we have the following tours:

1. Mystical Himalayas
2. Sikh Shrines in Himalayas.
3. On Pandava Trail (in Himalayas).
4. Nanda Devi Biosphere.

Top

Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan.
Nowhere in the world does one find desert people as lively and colourful, as in the Land of Royalty – Rajasthan. Its majestic forts and magnificent palaces are astounding in size, architectural grandeur and sheer numbers. Most several centuries old palaces are being converted into hotels and resorts providing luxury, style and a class of services reminiscent of the age of Rajas and Maharajas.

Along with famous Agra Jaipur Udaipur ‘round’ Theme Tours India could take the guests to other enchanting places like Mandwa, Bikaner, Jaiselmer, etc. Of special importance will be visit to Mount-Abu, a town of intricately carved temples.

To those that wish to see a magnificent fair, a visit Pushkar annual fair may even be rewarded with possible ‘sighting’ of the likes of Goldie Hawn, Shirley MacLean, and others!

Top

Top

Educational Excursions.

Arts:
Includes drawing, painting, sculptures, handicrafts etc from Classical to Modern. Facilitated by alumni from institutes like Sir J. J. College Arts - Mumbai, M.S. University Vadodara, etc. the Tour will cover visits to various institutions and monuments. To give first hand exposure, it may invite artists, art collectors, etc. and even schedule workshops for 4 or more.

Herbs and Ayurveda:
Especially designed for those keen to know more of the ancient science in modern context. Workshops may include visit to traditional and modern factories and meetings with Vaidyacharyas (Practicing Scholars) from Himalayas - and other parts of the country.
Theme Tours India may offer to help members with gaining useful information for personal and/ or commercial interest.

In a typical 10 days "In Search of the Herbs" in Himalayas one has the choice to get 2 to 3 days at Corbett National park with possible sighting of a tiger or a wild elephant. The trip may be on back of an elephant or by jeep.

Visiting the Roots:
Recommended for Persons of Indian Origin, it has the flexibility to cover all aspects mentioned earlier, and may help the guest discover and meet long lost kins.

Our guides may help play a role in case visiting Cinematographers intend to make a Hollywood / Bollywood / Tollywood or Lollywood type movies!

Note:- Whereas the first has world famous cinema studios, the second is for Nationalistic Non Resident Indians, the third (named after Tollygunj Studios in Kolkata) for those of Bengali origin and the last (from Lahore studios) for those from Pakistan!

Top

Ecotourism.
It is defined as one that is ‘Nature-based’, ecologically sustainable with education and interpretation as its major component and must benefit local people.
Theme Tours India can offer you over a week's stay with a family, In the Himalayas, at a habitable altitude of your choice. A typical 10-day Eco Tours Package to the Himalayas will include total of 60 to 90 kms Trek in altitudes ranging from 1500 to 5000 MSL. For a close-up view of their life and culture, and contribute to their welfare you may offer to participate in family’s routine activities such as cattle grazing, collecting firewood, helping in fields, etc.



Belief Sects: Sikhism, Buddhism and Hindu.
Unique to the sub-continent, these faiths evolve from the same spiritual roots, and remain entwined in their respective journeys. Naturally enough, they also continue to share several places. To a ‘spiritual tourists, it make the realisation not only convenient but also easy on the pocket! Before going any further, let’s trace the path – as did Kim - Rudyard Kipling’s spiritual lad.

Buddhist - Buddhism
Sikhism
Hinduism - Hindu






Buddhism
The Enlightened One, The Jewel in the Lotus, Buddha – Siddhartha Gautama was born near Kapilvastu, in Himalayan foothills. He achieved enlightenment at Sarnath in Kashi, now called Benaras. Of the two major branches, Himalayas offer several sites sacred to Mahayana followers. Most of the deities in this sect are bear uncanny resemblance to Shiva and Shakti traditions.

The Living Buddha, His Holiness, The 14^th Dalai Lama lives in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.

A Buddhist trip – expert facilitated - may include Kapilavastu, Benaras, Sanchi, Dharamshala, etc.

Back to Belief Sects
Top

Sikhism
The Sikh religion is remarkable for absence of complicated rituals and celebrating life in keeping with the Guru's teachings of service and social integration. Brave, strong and extremely warm-hearted- are the traits of a typical Sikh. Other aspects of Sikhs, which are equally endearing is their strong sense of community and adherence to faith.

Worship for Sikhs is a way of life, and their pilgrimage sites are places associated with various Gurus. In totality, these combine the best of spiritual and the human world-prayers with a sense of brotherhood and fellowship.


Golden Temple
Anandpur Sahib
Damdama Sahib
Fatehgarh Sahib
Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib
Paonta Sahib
Manikaran
Rewalsar
Gurudwara Patna Sahib (Har Mandir)
Pilgrimage Centres in Delhi

Back to Belief Sects

Golden Temple
Surrounded by a holy tank, the most sacred shrine in Amritsar was founded by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru and built by Guru Arjun Dev. A square building with walls of inlaid marble and a domed roof, it was Sikh ruler Ranjit Singh who covered it with gold. What is all prevailing in the temple is the air of sublime tranquillity.
Within the same precinct is Akal Takht (The Immortal Throne) from where the Gurus held court. This is the place where decisions concerning the religious and social life of the community continue to be taken.



Anandpur Sahib
The place where from tenth Guru, Gobind Singh Ji created the 'Khalsa' throbs with life and vigour at Holla Mohalla finale, coinciding with the last day of Holi.
Whereas feast to the eyes is men in bright turbans and women in brilliant salwar kameez it is the sumptuous meal that brings to body and the soul!



Damdama Sahib
In Bhatinda district is the place where the guru sought rest and refuge during his battles with the Mughals. A major fair is held here during Baisakhi festival (13 to 15 April). Guru Gobind Singh Ji stayed here for nine months and worked on the Adi Granth.



Fatehgarh Sahib
Sirhind's Fatehgarh Sahib Gurudwara is built on the site where 300 years ago, the Mughals entombed Guru Gobind Singh ji’s two young sons alive. Sikhs congregate to remember their martyrdom and pay homage. During the annual Jor Mela of cold December the Gurudwara resounds with Punjab's boisterous Bhangra and the Giddha dances. Needless to say, Guru’s voluntary servant army is always delighted to offer second helping during the meals.



Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib
In the Garhwal region a small Gurudwara was built at the spot where Guru Gobind Singh Ji is believed to have meditated before being born as the warrior saint. Over the years, a large Gurudwara has replaced a small temple of early 1900s. As the route is closed due to heavy snowfall during the winter, time to visit is usually June to October.



Paonta Sahib
Paonta Sahib: This is the main centre of Sikh pilgrimage in Himachal. The Gurudwara picturesquely located on the banks of the River Yamuna in district Sirmour, is venerated due to its association with Guru Gobind Singh. In March, an important fair is held and the holy Granth Sahib is taken out in procession. Guru Gobind Singh Ji came to the Shivalik Hills in Himachal Pradesh in 1695 to help the ruler of Sirmaur fight the Mughals. He then settled in Paonta Sahib in the foothills.



Manikaran
The serene location and the seemingly mysterious hot springs made Manikaran (Kullu) a place of pilgrimage in earlier times. Guru Nanak, the first Guru of the Sikhs, visited this place to spend time in meditation. A Gurudwara that was built to commemorate his visit is now a place of pilgrimage for the Sikhs.

Rewalsar
The Gurudwara at Rewalsar, near Mandi, is located on the periphery of a lake sacred to both the Hindus and Buddhists as well..



Gurudwara Patna Sahib (Har Mandir)
In Patna – Bihar - is Gurudwara Patna Sahib or Har Mandir, Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s birthplace. Today, it is one of the most important pilgrimage centres for Sikhs and at least once in their lifetime, they try to visit this holy place.



Pilgrimage Centres in Delhi
Gurudwara Sisganj marks the spot where guru Teg Bahadur was beheaded. Others are Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, and the Rakabganj Gurudwara.

Click here for the Itinerary for the Sikh Pilgrimage Tour



Hinduism:
Its antiquity is now pushed by over 10,000 years with advancement in technology used to verify geological evidences proving Rigvedic River Saraswati to be a reality. The Indus Valley civilisation, considered as earliest evidence in British Texts, has been upgraded by half a century of other findings. Indologists in coming years are expected to shake off the Max Muller - 19th century born Sanskrit scholar – legacy!

However, Hinduism continues to be religion that in all reality is a faith, nearly unbroken in rites and rituals for thousands of years. Over millenniums it evolved into branches with deities, paths such as the Eight of Yoga, numerous Acharyas, etc.

Amongst them, major Hindu Themes are:


Vishnu
The tall, dark and handsome deity, is favourite of all – and the most practical one too! Adi Shankara was the first to unite the country –2300 BC or 8th century AD (here comes another dispute) – with Shrines in Badrinath/ Joshimath (North), Dwarka in West, Shringeri in South and Jugannath (Lord of the Universe) at Puri in East.

For ‘seekers’ visiting India June – July tour the opportunity to pull Lord Jugannatha Rath (large wooden chariot) on His annual ‘outing’ could give two ‘bonuses. Whereas one is possible reward in afterlife, the second would could be discovery of how the word Juggernaut came into English!
Recommended areas may include Mathura-Vrindavan, Ayodhya, Nashik, etc.

Shiva
One so very easy to be pleased – by taking one to the 12 or more Jyotirlinga in 18 or so shrines (okay, okay, let’s get our sums right, there are some disputed shrines thrown in to please all). In Majestic Himalayas, Kedarnath in Uttaranchal and Pashupatinath in Kathmandu – Nepal are prominent.

Others would include Ujjain, Somnath, Varanasi, Rameshwaram, etc.

Shakti
The benevolent mother goddess, fearsome – only to evil, was daughter of the Himalayas. Shakti Excursion therefore forms an integral part of Mystical Himalayas as it starts from Hardwar where Sati as Shakti incarnate immolated herself to avenge her consort Shiva’s slight! It then covers
Sriyantra Darshan at Sri Nagar, Shakti Sthala in Uttarakashi, Ukhimath, and Trijuginarayan where the eternal flame – witness to divine matrimony between Shiva and Shakti occurred in ages unknown. Choices may be offered to cover Surkanda Devi, Kalingka, Chandrabadani, etc.
In other states, Mata Viashno Devi in Jammu; Meenakshi, Sri Kanchi, Kanya Kumari, etc. in Magnificent South, Vindavasani, Kalika of Kolkata and the Kamakhya peeth in Guwahati form major points for Tantra followers.

Our tour guides can help one find the ‘spot’ of interest and may get legitimate help for seekers.

Back to Belief Sects

Top

Top

Mystical Himalayas
Mystical Himalayas involves the guests in 'interactive' tourism. This may start or end with an Elephant ride, have over 40 miles of trekking, optional river rafting, etc. with experts for ongoing discussions! All along, taking you to some of the most enchanting places that also have holiest Hindu shrines. ATOL protected, it is from Kohli Travel.

Local non-governmental organisations (NGOs) will help with local customs and cuisines.

This is a HiTeiSHee Market and Management Services Private Limited (India) managed project, dedicated to Shri Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Trusts, for its Chairman.

Uttaranchal
Created 9 November 2000 [longest non-violent agitation for separate statehood], is spread over 20,650 sq mile (53,483 sq km), touches Tibet and Nepal in North, East and South East and Indian states of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh in South West, West and North West. Many of its peaks top 20,000 ft (6,096 m) with Nanda Devi at 25,645 ft (7,817 m) as the tallest.

The region's astounding beauty has made it a place for meditation and repose. Ganga and Yamuna, two of India's holiest rivers come from its glacial and other streams.

Legend associates the region with :
"Guru Govind Singh Ji - the Sikh warrior Saint - who meditated in the region in his earlier incarnation.

Mystical History :
Older than Ramayana and Mahabharata, Kedar Khand is accepted as the cradle of civilisation in Skandapurana and Mahabharata and recommended as the place for spiritual attainment in Mahabharata.

Hindu texts say that it is here that :

Medieval History:
Kalidas, the great Sanskrit poet of unknown antiquity lived and created his works in the region. In AD 620 Huen Tsang, China's pilgrim traveller passed through the state. The place got its name Garhwal from 52 forts (Garh) of warrior chiefs that offered refuge to others from persecution and conversion.

Modern Times:
Post independence, the region had longest non-violent agitation for separate statehood. On 9th November 2000 it became Uttaranchal.

Social Customs and Culture :

Primarily Hindu monogamy, 60% of its 9 million people are upper cast Hindus, about 25% tribal and 15% Sikhs, Muslims and Tibetan Buddhists.

However, a polyandrous sect still follows the Pandava tradition giving its women a degree of freedom unparalleled in India. Their region also has a temple dedicated to Mahabharata arch villain Duryodhana – but an efficient administrator - who built a wax palace to incinerate the Pandava princes.

The tradition of folksongs is often accompanied by rhythmic dances performed in groups, representing a union of real and surreal in rural life. In this, based on Mahabharata is 'Pandava' and is played to the rhythm of 'Dhol & Damoun' in open grounds. 'Thadiya', 'Chauffulla' are generally danced in a semi-circular arc in fairs.

Musical instruments 'Dhol & Damoun', 'Daunr & Thali', 'Turhri', 'Bhankora' etc. are played on the basis of 'Dhol-Sagar', an ancient 'Swar-Sagar' 'granth' (technical book on music).


contact us



Mystical Himalayas Package tour

The 'hassles free `Mystical Himalayas' package in the Garhwal Himalayas is for the young-at-heart seekers of quite adventure.

Created to involve the guest in 'interactive' tourism, it may start or end with an Elephant ride in Rajaji Wild life Sanctuary or Chila Wildlife Santuary - has over 40 miles of trekking, includes river rafting and ongoing discussions with experts!

Created around thousands of years old and highly popular Char Dham Yatra, the package will all along take you to some of the most enchanting places, including some of holiest Hindu shrines. Closer to many shrines – short treks away – one may opt to go for treks to other equally enchanting places, available as choices.

It is in this region that The Beatles without going through yellow pages found Sri Mahesh Yogi. …and the rest - as they say - is the history.

Whereas the mornings will start with a round of Yoga, the evenings may have meditation and expert discussions on subjects like Ayurveda, Astrology, Yoga, Hindu Scriptures etc. or a Short trek.

One of them leads to famous Valley of Flowers that blossom for nearly 4 months a year - being snow covered fro the rest. Here, reads the marble slab in memory Margaret Legge, an Edinburgh botanist, "I will lift mine eyes unto the Hills from whence cometh my strength"

Subject to availability and weather conditions, Hang-gliding, water skiing, white water rafting, mountain biking, high altitude trekking may be arranged within the itinerary or beyond, as ‘Post Package Tours’ options.

Altogether, the package for a family with members aged 8 to 80+, one may be spoilt for choices!

Click here for the Itinerary of the Tour

Click here for the Post Package Tours for "MYSTICAL HIMALAYAS"

Click here for the SERVICES offered and TERMS AND CONDITIONS.

Top

ITINERARY

Itinerary in India.

Total Distance covered by motor transport - 1955 Kms. Trekking 60 Kms.

Tour price On Request varies from £ 2495 to £ 1995 including UK retrun ticket. Enquire for details
Click here for the Post Package Tours for "MYSTICAL HIMALAYAS" tour

Top

Sikh Shrines in Himalayas.
The most palpable feelings at most Sikh pilgrimage sites are the strong sense of community and service. In fact, one of the biggest features of this religion is the community building which also reflects in excellent food served to visitors!

Hemkund Sahib:
In the Garhwal region a small Gurudwara was built at the spot where Guru Gobind Singh Ji is believed to have meditated before being born as the warrior saint. Over the years, a large Gurudwara has replaced a small temple of early 1900s. As the route is closed due to heavy snowfall during the winter, time to visit is usually June to October.

Paonta Sahib:
This is the main centre of Sikh pilgrimage in Himachal Pradesh. The Gurudwara picturesquely located on the banks of the River Yamuna in district Sirmour, is venerated due to its association with Guru Gobind Singh. In March, an important fair is held and the holy Granth Sahib is taken out in procession. Guru Gobind Singh Ji came to the Shivalik Hills in Himachal Pradesh in 1695 to help the ruler of Sirmaur fight the Mughals. He then settled in Paonta Sahib in the foothills.

Manikaran:
The serene location and the seemingly mysterious hot springs made Manikaran (Kullu) a place of pilgrimage in earlier times. Guru Nanak, the first Guru of the Sikhs, visited this place to spend time in meditation. A Gurudwara that was built to commemorate his visit is now a place of pilgrimage for the Sikhs.

Rewalsar:
The Gurudwara is located on the periphery of a lake sacred to both the Hindus and Buddhists as well.



On Pandava Trail (in the Himalayas).
Covers Dronanagari, modern day state capital Dehradun, Lakhamandal, etcetera.
The region is dotted with sites linked with the five brothers of Mahabharata – the greatest epic ever written. Of them, Lakhamandal region is specially known for its magnificently craved temples. The people their venerate Mahabharata’s archvillain Raja Duryodhana – as a superb administrator.

Exotic feast of local fish, roasted mutton, chicken, and brews! Only while not in ‘pilgrimage’ routes. After all, the Pandava royalty was also used to sumptuous food, drinks and entertainment!

Pandava dance sessions, dhol sagar, etc. Weather permitting, in open-air.

Top

Nanda Devi Biosphere.
Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, it covers over 630 sq km with altitude from 2100 to 7817 meters above sea level. Named after second highest peak in India, it is also considered to be one of the world's toughest peaks to climb.

The reserve has unique high altitude Flora and Fauna. Amongst over 80 species of regional birds spotted - delight to avid Ornithologists - are Warblers, grosbeaks, rose finches, and ruby throat. Animal species that one may come across are bharal, Himalayan tahr, serow, goral, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, brown bear, leopard, common langur, Himalayan musk deer, and brown beer.

In vicinity of the park are sites like Valley of Flowers, Badrinath Temple, Hemkund Sahib, etc. These are by covered by the Mystical Himalayas Tour.

Top

Char Dham Yatra Pilgrimage Tour ( 15 days package )

Specially designed as 15 day tour for Budget Tourists.

Package costs including UK return air fare £ 1995 to £ 2495.
Enquire for details

contact us

Back to The Mystical Himalayas Package Tour

Back to Theme Tours