Journey to Eastern India with Banyan Tours and Travels
February 13, 2023 by Hidden Doorways
Venture from Rajasthan to the less-trodden eastern corners of India with Banyan Tours and Travels to experience an India that many travelers have not seen. Explore storied places such as Kolkata (Calcutta) and West Bengal, stay in beautifully re-imagined mansions, meet with silk weavers, celebrate Holi, visit Terracotta Temples, and more.
Moving away from the well-trodden Rajasthan circle and moving East to the City of Kolkata and its surroundings, you begin the journey in Kolkata (Calcutta) at the stunning Glenburn Penthouse, a discreet elegant private residence of sophisticated luxury in the very heart of the city. With just nine (9) spacious suites with large sleeping areas and antique four poster beds and enough desk and seating space for two people to live and work comfortably.
Explore the city through our curated walks, taking you to see the confluence of cultures that created this city – From the Jewish Synagogue, to the Armenian Cemetery and a Chinese breakfast; and on our Bringing the Goddess to Earth walk explore the flower market and the clay makers conclave where images of gods and goddesses are created through the year.
Move away from the City into rural West Bengal, home to a landed gentry who built themselves palatial mansions blending local and European architectural styles. In recent years, they have returned to reclaim their heritage, and to open up previously untouched areas of Bengal which are rich in culture and craft. Bari Kothi is one such mansion, restored by the family who are your hosts during your stay, bringing a personal touch to the visit. Restored with great sensitivity, keeping in mind heritage, history and sustainability, you explore a forgotten and very authentic area.
During your stay you will enjoy a range of cultural experiences including spending time with a storyteller and walking in the lanes around Bari Kothi, visiting Murshidabad to see the beautiful Terracotta Temples, and visiting the famous silk weavers who make the much coveted Murshidabad Silk. The tour is done by boat with lunch served on board. You can end or start the day with yoga on the banks of the river.
Come and celebrate Holi in the traditional way of Bengal – you will play with colored powder and rose water, dance to the sound of drums, indulge in Thandai and mithai (Indian sweets), and later have a musical evening followed by a delicious five-course meal.
Assam, the tea bowl of India, is remote, undeveloped and stunningly beautiful, and is best explored on a river cruise. From dancing monks to one-horned rhinos, colonial vestiges to terracotta temples, remote villages to bustling cities, traveling by boat opens up a treasure trove of history, culture, wildlife and religion. You can either travel on a small private single cabin boat that allows us to create a bespoke itinerary, or on the river boats with 12 to 24 cabins.
Reach out to Shonali Datta to create a bespoke itinerary for client’s next journey to India.
Contact:
Banyan Tours and Travels
Email: shonali@banyantours.com
Website: www.banyantours.com
