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Itineraries

AUSTRALIAN LANDSCAPE CONFERENCE TOURS

INDIA AND KASHMIR

Jewels in the Crown

1. INDIA 18 MARCH – 2 APRIL, 2017

2. THE VALE OF KASHMIR 2 APRIL – 6 APRIL, 2017

These exclusive tours provide outstanding introductions to the complex cultures of India and Kashmir.

With a special interest in landscapes and gardens, we experience many highlights of India.

These are journeys of the mind - rich in layers of history and cultural interest.

We visit properties, designers and gardens, many are unique - and exclusive to these tours.

For information: phone (03) 9804 8915 warwick@bloomings.com.au

www.landscapeconference.com/alctours

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SUMMARY

OUR TOURS PROVIDE AN INTRODUCTION TO OUTSTANDING HIGHLIGHTS OF INDIA -

surely, the most diverse, intriguing, beautiful, maddening, colourful, charming and bewildering

country on earth! Travel in India can be challenging. We aim to make it as comfortable and

seamless as possible.

The India Tour includes the capital Dehli with ‘Lutyens India’, the Mughal Humayun Mausoleum, the Chandi Chowk bazaars and Ahmedabad where we visit Mahatma Ghandi’s Ashram, and are welcomed by leading landscape architect Aniket Bhagwat. We visit his

exciting modern homes and gardens. Then to Jaipur – capital of colourful Rajasthan with its

forts and palaces, Agra – former capital of the Mughal Empire and home to the mighty Red Fort, remnants of Emperor Babur’s earliest Mughal Ram Bagh garden and the mausoleum

garden Taj Mahal which Aniket says should be seen by moonlight. We invited him to invoke

the Gods to arrange this, but should they fail, we will be there at first light when the earliest

morning rays bring out the soft ineffable hues of this incomparable jewel of the Mughal Shah

Jahan – an exquisite memorial to his beloved Mumtaz Mahal.

From Agra, to Khajuraho, for a night with its unique temple sculptures (the ‘naughty

temples’) before our visit to Varanasi – which stands at the peak of all religious sites in the

Hindu world. We glimpse something of the soul of India and despite thousands of pilgrims,

aim to make this a comfortable visit. The dancing, chants and music can be pure joy.

Those taking the Vale of Kashmir Tour will fly to Srinagar and sample surviving examples

of the Paradise Gardens of Kashmir – especially surrounding Dal Lake. It has been written

that there were some 500 gardens around the lake but another report says 700! The Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Gardens remain two of the most arresting and beautiful gardens you can

find anywhere. Other surviving gardens provide contrast and we enjoy colonial remnants of

the Raj who like the Mughals, went to Kashmir for its beauty and romance. It was the ultimate

hill-station retreat with its landscapes, gardens and wildflowers. It can be achingly beautiful

with its mountains, lakes and valleys, and a wonderful respite from the heat of the plains.

Our tours aim to provide a cultural introduction to India and Kashmir

within a short period. We also provide varied themes of gardens and

design – especially of the great Mughal gardens with their wonderful

architecture.

And we visit brilliant modern examples such as those introduced to us by

Aniket Bhagwat, principal of Landscape India.

Warwick and Sue Forge

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LEADERS, DESIGNERS AND GUIDES

Tour leader Warwick Forge LL.B., M.B.A. fell in love with

India aged about 12 reading Rudyard Kipling and this led

to his three monthS visit to India and Kashmir in 1966

from whence he drove overland to Scotland. He has

been involved with other visits including a study tour of

Mughal Gardens with Erica Hunnigher and Penelope

Hobhouse. Warwick has been a publisher of gardening

books for nearly two decades and in former lives was a

lawyer, retailer, and executive with the National Trust and

Trust for Nature. In 2000 He was awarded the Centenary

Medal for his contribution to the environment. This will

be his fifth journey to India.

Sue and Warwick partying in Sicily

Co-tour leader Susanne Forge Dip. Bus. (Accounting)

company director, accomplished gardener, with multiple

managerial skills evident while on tour – has a love of the

decorative arts which make for great shopping

expeditions. Sue and Warwick have pioneered garden

themed tours to five countries in South America and since

2002, convened the Australian Landscape Conferences

biennially in Melbourne which attract leading garden

designers from around the world.

Our India tours have their genesis in the 2013 Australian Landscape Conference when Aniket Bhagwat provided

two brilliant presentations on the gardens and landscapes

of India. Professor Jim Sinatra pronounced them the

finest presentations he had ever heard.

These two tours follow Aniket’s recommendations

closely and he will provide a wonderful introduction to

modern architecture and gardens of India when we visit

him in Ahmedabad. Aniket is principal of the leading firm

Landscape India.

Aniket Bhagwat

In Delhi we are indebted to support and advice from

landscape architect Brij Geeta and we will also take a

tour with Pradip Krishen, leading authority on the trees

of India who is actively involved with rehabilitating native

landscapes.

We also plan to meet with other experts in Agra and

Srinagar who will greatly enhance our understanding and

enjoyment.

With advice from Aniket Bhagwat and other experts,

we have developed these tours in conjunction with our

specialist In-Gound agents and leading guide Vineet Kumar Sharma who is reserved for our tours.

Vineet Kumar Sharma

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THE ITINERARIES

1. INDIA TOUR, 18 MARCH – 2 APRIL, 2017

Sat 18 March. The Claridges Hotel, Delhi

You are met on arrival at Delhi Airport by a travel representative and transferred to our lovely hotel.

Sun 19 March. The Claridges Hotel.

Following a morning ‘meet, greet and introduction’, we depart for some sightseeing of Old & New Delhi

including a drive around ‘Lutyen’s Delhi’ and India Gate, and a trip around the narrow lanes and streets of

Chandi Chowk (Old Delhi), to be explored by bicycle rickshaw.

Lutyens' Delhi is an area named after British architect Edwin Lutyens (1869–1944), who was responsible

for much architectural design and building when India was part of the British Empire in the 1920s - 1930s. The

area includes the Lutyens Bungalow Zone. Construction followed after1911 when the British capital moved

to Delhi from Calcutta.

This central area still consists of many large avenues and bungalows and central features comprise the

enormous Presidential Palace, parliament buildings and India Gate. As a largely protected area it is one of the

few parts of Delhi that has not suffered too much change in the past 100 years. Most of this area can be

happily observed through driving along its broad avenues. Many of the ‘bungalows’ are now embassies or

belong to diplomats.

The Presidential Palace (1913-30) (Rashtrapati Bhavan) provides limited access however, visits can be

taxing and we will head instead for the attached monumental gardens which are usually open at this time.

Described as ‘Mughal’ they are recreations in fact.

Mon 20 March The Claridges Hotel.

It is refreshing to explore the Lodhi Gardens early morning

and we plan to visit with Pradip Krishen, author of a book

on the Trees of Delhi. From there we can visit the Sanskriti Kendra Museums and garden in South Delhi. We will also

pay our respects to the massive Humayun Mausoleum

which is next door to the Sunder Nursery which is strongly

recommended by Aniket Bhagwat.

Tue-Wed-Thur 21, 22 & 23, March

Grand deluxe rooms, House of MG, Ahmedabad, Gujarat

We fly to Ahmedabad and Aniket Bhagwat – which will be The Safdarjung Mausoleum Garden, Delhi immensely stimulating. We will pay our respects to

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Gandhi’s Ashram and walk around the old streets and ‘pols’ of the city. In 2012 The Times of India voted

Ahmedabad ‘the best city to live in India’ and in 2010, it was ‘ranked third in Forbes’s list of fastest growing cities of the decade’. As Aniket observes, it is a city of much design creativity. For about twelve years, Mahatma Gandhi, lived at the Gandhi Ashram, (Sabarmati Ashram) located on the

banks of the River Sabarmati. It was from this base that heled the famous rebellious Dandi or ‘Salt March’ (Satyagraha) across India in 1930. In recognition of the significant influence of this march on the Indian

independence movement, the Indian government established the ashram as a national monument.

HALF WAY RETREAT, Ahmedabad Courtesy, Aniket Bhagwat

But it is the architecture and gardens of Aniket Bhagwat that will most direct our thoughts now and he has

planned visits to three exciting residences – the Half Way Retreat, the Drum House and the Bridge House. (See www.landscapeindia.net)

A fourth opportunity is the Aakash Party Plot about which Aniket was most excited. At his suggestion, we

plan to hold a dinner here though the venue was conceived for weddings capable of seating over 10,000

guests! Note – Aniket has various other fascinating activities in mind for us not covered by these notes! And we will also visit architect Le Corbusier’s Mill Owners Building in Ahmedabad.

The bad news? Only that Ahmedabad is in Gujarat - an alcohol free state.

Fri-Sat-Sun 24, 25 & 26 Mar Jaipur, Rajasthan Deluxe suite, Samode Haveli Our morning flight returns to Delhi and we drive by coach to the extensively renovated Neemrana Fort Palace for lunch en route to Jaipur and our historic Samodi Haveli. Jaipur is a place of wild contrasts, bombarding the senses at every turn. Jaipur’s old city, its rich colours

deepening and fading according to the light, is lined with long, twinkling bazaars. (It) ..is today among the most tumultuous and polluted places in Rajasthan. ..But its energy and vibrancy, coupled with imposing historical and cultural wealth, are seductive.

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Jaipur is our favourite city in Rajasthan, and with Amber, affords wonderful sightseeing including visits to

the Amber Palace (can be reached by elephant back), the City Palace, Jantar Mantar Observatory and the

Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). This five storey building has an ingenious network of windows to provide

ladies of the royal household with views of daily life and processions. With its colour, architecture, rich

culture, textiles and jewellery, Jaipur provides a very varied experience.

The Rajputs were always proud and fierce warriors and a problem for their Mughal masters. Their honour

led them to fight without fear often leading to jauhar (mass suicide) rather than surrender. This involved the

women and children plunging to their deaths in a vast funeral pyre after which, the men rode out to battle

and certain death against impossible odds.

The Hawa Mahal, Jaipur Mon-Tue, 27 & 28 Mar, Jaipur–Fatehpur Sikri–Agra. Taj Gateways, with Taj views from our window. We depart Jaipur and drive to Agra (approx 4-5 hours), stopping en route at Abhaneri to see the Chand Baoli recommended to us by Aniket Bhagwat, The Chand Baori has 3,500 narrow steps with 13 storeys to a depth

of about 30m making it one of the deepest and largest stepwells in India as well as one of Rajasthan’s oldest

and most attractive landmarks. It was built by King Chanda of the Nikumbha Dynasty between 800 and 900

AD and dedicated to Hashat Mata, Goddess of Joy and Happiness. Rajasthan is very arid, and the stepwells

were intended to store as much water as possible. The distinctive feature of stepwells is that people can

easily reach the ground water and maintain the well.

At the bottom of the well, the air remains 5-6 degrees cooler and it was used as a community gathering

centre during periods of intense heat. One side of the well has a pavilion and resting room for the royals.

Chand Baori has been used for film locations e.g. The Fall and Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.

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We drive to Fatehpur Sikri, which became the capital of the Emperor Akbar’s Mughal Empire from 1571-

85. It is recorded that Akbar was desperate for a son and that he annually visited Sheik Salim a saintly figure

who belonged to the Chishti Sufi order. The saint predicted that Akbar would be delivered of three sons and

in 1572 a third son was born. Akbar responded by building the new city, Fatehpur Sikri, adjacent to Sheik

Salim’s residence.

Fatehpur Sikri was Akbar’s principal place of residence and because of his involvement, it became a

cultural, artistic and intellectual centre. The emperor’s interest in spiritual matters also grew and regular

extraordinary discussions and debates took place involving Muslims, Hindus, Zoroastrians and Jesuits.

However, the city suffered from water shortages and on his death in 1585, it was abruptly deserted.

The Palace and Jama Masjid have been well restored by the Archeological Survey of India but the city itself

remains a ghost town.

We plan to arrive at Mehtab Bagh in Agra in time to enjoy the romantic sunset view of the Taj Mahal at

sunset across the Yamuna River —

On Tuesday we rise early to greet the dawn and the Taj Mahal -

With the warmth of the sunrise the garden mists rose high, drifting away in turquois wreaths .. [and there] ..shone the Taj, a miracle revealed. The magic lasted but a moment, but in that moment I had seen the vision as its builders saw and planned it long ago.. It is Mumtaz Mahal herself, radiant in her youthful beauty, who still lingers on the banks of the shining Jumna, at early morn, the glowing midday sun, or in the silver moonlight. Or rather.. it is India’s noble

tribute to the grace of Indian Womanhood — the ‘Venus de Milo of the East’.

The Taj is the one triumph of Indian art in which Moslem and Hindu, official Anglo-Indian and passing English tourist all join to reverence and admire. .. nothing is more striking, in a land of great ruins and tawdry modern buildings, than its absolute bloom of perfection’.

— Constance Villiers-Stuart, Gardens of the Great Mughals, 1913

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After breakfast we visit the magnificent Agra Fort which spreads along the right bank of the Yamuna

River and which still today, as in Mughal times, continues to dominate the city. We visit the Itmad-ud-daulah Tomb and the Rambagh (Arum Bagh) Gardens, on the site of the oldest Mughal garden in

India created by the first emperor Babur. However, the remnants are now believed to belong to a

later property created by Nur Jahan. Nevertheless, these garden resorts and funerary monuments date

back to the earliest of Mughal char-baghs which once made up a splendid collection on both sides of

the Yamuna River.

Wed 29 Mar Agra – Khajuraho Lalit Hotel, Khajuraho with temple views It’s a short flight to Khajuraho where you may find the world’s best temple carvings. Certainly their

unbridled and explicit eroticism – like the Karma Sutra – is rich in ingenuity and athleticism. They were

built by the Rajput Chandela from 950-1050 and survived five centuries of invading Mughals. Why

were they built here – in such a remote location? Nobody seems to know however, no doubt it was

their remoteness which saved them from wholesale Mughal destruction as idolatrous objects as

occurred elsewhere. There are two principal themes – stone figures of voluptuous, swaying asparus

(heavenly nymphs) and sex with all its possibilities. Don’t say you were not warned! If we are lucky,

our visit may coincide with the excellent Dance Festival in March or a son et lumiere (sound & light

show) at the temple complex.

Thur-Fri 30-31 Mar Khajuraho – Varanasi Taj Ganges – executive room

We return to the temples to see them in the early

light and then take a short flight to Varanasi and

arrive at our hotel. If time permits, we may enjoy a

gentle stroll or light sightseeing. On Friday we embark upon an early morning boat

ride on the most sacred of all rivers – the Ganges.

We return to our hotel for breakfast followed by a

day of sightseeing in Varanasi including a visit to the

Buddhist site at Sarnath, where it is said that Buddha

preached his first lessons on Nirvana.

Sat 1 Apr Varanasi - Delhi

A return flight brings us back to Delhi. Departures

homewards will depend on flight times and some of

us may require an additional night at The Claridges

(at our special group rate).

__________

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2. THE VALE OF KASHMIR 2 APRIL – 6 APRIL, 2017 However, I returned to [Kashmir] to see the sparkle of spring, when nature rushes to bedeck the land with blossom after blossom: almond, apple, cherry, peach and pear. Violets pansies, narcissi, crocuses and daisies burst into bloom. In the graveyards, the irises were an explosion of purple and white. This was the time I drove to the Wular Lake. There, rivulets lined with poplars, willows and mustard emptied into it. On the Dal Lake nothing was more restful than a ride in a shikari. The Kashmiri gondola. I was rowed through canals, past floating gardens and under Mughal bridges, where the white breasted Kingfishers plunged for their catch. I left the Vale through the Banihal road. From its height saw the ripening rice-fields spread out for miles. The land glowed with the opulence of an enormous emerald. - Jawarharlal Nehru (Kashmir: Garden of the Himalayas, 1983).

The romantic Shalimar Garden looking towards the main pavilion

Sun 2 April Delhi – Srinagar. Super De luxe Lalit Grand Palace We fly to Srinagar in the morning and settle in to our hotel before departing on a tour of historic Srinagar

which absorbed so many cultural influences. Afghans, Sikhs, Mughals and the British amongst many others,

often imposed very oppressive rule upon these impoverished peoples who have nevertheless retained much

of their cultural heritage into current times. Even the influence of Alexander the Great can still be seen in the

classical motifs and decoration in some of the old ruins.

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From high on the terraces of Nishat Bagh, sunset approaches Mon, Tue & Wed 3,4 & 5 Apr Srinagar Super De luxe Lalit Grand Palace From the time of our arrival we shall focus upon -

A. The suite of significant surviving Mughal gardens which mostly surround the Dal Lake numbering about

seven. The two truly fabulous gardens are Nishat Bagh and Shalimar. Warwick Forge is familiar with these

gardens and will provide detailed notes prior to departure.

B. Historic sites in and around Srinagar which include remnants of the British Raj, Mughal, Rajput and

religious buildings. Khanqah Shah-i-Hamadan for example, is a fascinating spired 1730’s Muslim meeting hall

in a Tibetan style. Note – Srinagar is north of Nepal and most of Tibet. It was constructed without nails and

both frontage and interiors are covered in papier-mâché reliefs and elaborately coloured khatamband

(faceted wood panelling). Non-Muslim visitors may peek through the door but may not enter. C. Our group can decide how we spend our time on Wednesday which is our last free day. There are many

options. A visit to Kashmir invariably includes shopping to explore local arts and crafts for which Kashmir is

famous. With conversion to Islam, strong links developed between Kashmir and Persia. When Zain-ul-Abidin

became king of Kashmir, Persian became the official language of the court and many artists and artisans

migrated from Persia to Kashmir. There was a flowering of the arts and crafts and we still find fine embroidery

(Chain-stitch remains one of Kashmir’s specialities) carpets, rugs, papier mâché and wood carving all richly

embellished with flowers and wildlife in the Persian style – and thus the Paisley pattern. Cashmere woollens,

(including pashmina) silks and other fabrics are always sought after.

A trip to the snowfields and valleys of Gulmarg is always popular, especially when the wildflowers are out. If

the party is feeling adventurous they may choose to travel south on the main Srinagar – Jammu road along the

Vale of Kashmir. There are two delightful gardens at Achabel and Verinag which were once used as

encampments for the Mughal emperors and their court as they made their way to Srinagar for the summer.

Or of course, a quiet day returning to the Shalimar and Nishat Bagh gardens would be sheer joy and

perhaps, a cruise in a shikari for afternoon tea in one of the Shikaris (houseboats) which were the pride and joy

for the British Raj over the centuries! Indeed, one or two of us are considering ‘staying on’ for a couple of

extra days in this earthly paradise – now there’s a thought!

Thur 06 April SRINAGAR/DELHI There is an early return flight to Delhi which should enable an onward connection the same day for most of us.

HOTELS In selecting hotels we strive to provide a high standard of comfort, amenities, location, restaurants and service. Some are

wonderful and they are all four stars or more. Rankings listed are provided by Tripadvisor.

DELHI The Claridges Hotel- www.claridges.com 5 star – a

friendly, boutique hotel, great central location – attractive

garden, swimming pool and choice of restaurants.

AHMEDABAD House of MG – www.houseofmg.com – Aniket’s

recommendation, centrally located. Originally the home of

a wealthy textile magnet it is steeped in history and local culture. Excellent roof top restaurant serves traditional

Gujarat thalis. They have recently opened a very

interesting and well curated textile museum in house.

4.5 Stars and # 1 of 151 hotels in Ahmedabad.

JAIPUR Samode Haveli, Jaipur – www.samode.com 4.5 Stars –

The only heritage property remaining in the Old City

operating as a hotel. It has a fine reputation with good

facilities including a large pool and spa. It is described as,

..an oasis within the walled city of Jaipur and is a traditional Indian mansion set in a garden and intimate courtyards. Built 175 years ago, for the rulers of Samode, it is still occupied by their descendants, who have converted their home into a luxury hotel.

AGRA The Taj Gateways hotel is centrally located –

www.tajhotels.com and our rooms provide a distant view

of the Taj Mahal. 4 stars. Upgraded rooms available on

request.

KHAJURAHO Lalit Hotel – deluxe temple view, 4 to 4 and a half stars.

#2 of 22 Hotels in Khajuraho. Forested location with

mostly excellent reviews.

VARANASSI The Taj Gateways hotel – www.tajhotels.com – a good,

modern hotel in an expansive garden. Our choice is

subject to a potential opening of a restored heritage property. 4 star. #6 of 64 hotels in Varanassi.

SRINAGAR The Lalit Grand Palace Hotel (formerly, Gulab Bhavan) ‘.. built by Maharaja Pratap Singh in 1910 with the finest

furniture, ethnic carpets, handicrafts and works by local

artisans. Maharaja Hari Singh and his wife would often

invite guests to their Kashmir palace, cooking the meals

themselves. …such gatherings, were punctuated by

laughter, singing and marvellous Dogri and Rajasthani

cuisine.

Among the Maharaja’s many guests was Lord

Mountbatten, who in 1947 stayed in the Viceroy and

Vicereine Suites. The hotel’s courtyard still retains the

Chinar tree under which Gandhiji once had a conversation

with Maharaja Hari Singh. After India’s independence, ..The Gulab Bhavan was converted into The Grand Palace,

Srinagar’s only five-star hotel in 1956’. ‘Brilliantly located with views to Dal Lake. A sheer joy!

— Warwick Forge

NOTE: Room upgrades are sometimes available

upon request. Or perhaps, like the British Raj

and Penelope Hobhouse, you would prefer a

Shikari to spirit you away to a houseboat? Here

she is, on her way.

This option will be discussed with travellers in

due course.

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GENERAL TOUR INFORMATION

TOUR GROUP SIZE

These tours are limited to a maximum of twenty. A local

multilingual guide and our two tour leaders normally

accompany the group at all times.

Keep in mind the option to depart from the tour group

for a break, and many evenings are completely free.

TRAVELLER PROFILES We generally have a small number with professional

interests in gardens and design; many with a general love of

gardens and nature; and some who merely seek a general

cultural tour. They are usually, but not always, middle aged

and curious about a range of cultural matters and enjoy most

of the things we do – including good cuisine, hospitality and

the chance to meet people from varied backgrounds.

About half are couples and half singles.

Babur is here seen supervising construction of an early Mughal

garden with traditional elements. This extraordinary leader

established Mughal India and encouraged a wide range of arts and

religious and cultural tolerance.

PHYSICAL CHALLENGES This is not a strenuous tour however, people will be

expected to travel across various outdoor surfaces, stairs,

standing time, etc. The Indian plains can sometimes be hot

at this time of year and Kashmir can be cold. Some of the

gardens are very large but there are no requirements to

cover all the terrain. Anyone in reasonable health will not

experience difficulties and travellers in their eighties can be

quite at ease. However, the group must move at the

speed of the slowest, and time spent at locations may be

reduced if some people are not able to keep up with

reasonable speeds.

Applicants must inform ALC of any medical conditions,

which may be relevant to their travel experience.

ALC requires that Tour Leaders reserve the right to take

steps to modify traveller movements where they feel it is a

potential health risk or where travel experiences of others

are unduly impaired.

PRIVACY OF PROPERTIES Some properties are privately owned and their location

and other details must be strictly respected by everyone.

SECURITY Every effort is made to ensure safe and secure travel at

all times. We should be thoughtful and aware, and in most

public areas, not display jewellery, expensive cameras, etc.

We should also check, prior to walking out at night.

Secure taxi travel is normally easy to arrange (from hotel

or restaurant) and is inexpensive.

The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

(DEFAT) recommends that, for India overall, exercise a high degree of caution. Kashmir has had a bad press for

many years but things are much improved and nearly one

million tourists visit annually. The UK High Commission website says, There has been an overall decline in violence in recent years and an increase in the numbers of Indian and western tourists. There have been no recent reported attacks on visitors in the cities of Srinagar or Jammu. (15-10-2015).

We offer the Kashmir tour as a separate tour so that no

one feels under the slightest pressure to go. All advice

from our travel consultants and other advisors has

encouraged us to proceed. Aniket Bhagwat says, it would be a nonsense to come to India and not go to Kashmir to see the Nishat Bagh…. We take every care but responsibility for travel is a

decision for each person.

Further information on security is available on request

and will be forwarded to all travellers.

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TRAVEL INSURANCE It is essential to have travel insurance to protect your

position and it is a condition of travel that you have

comprehensive cover for Medical (including repatriation),

lost luggage, tour cancellations and other losses. This helps

ensure that any problems will be rapidly resolved. For Kashmir, while companies provide cover for medical

expenses in the normal way, expenses for cancelled tours

are not normally covered. We have therefore made

arrangements with our Srinagar hotel that, in the

extremely unlikely event that our tour is cancelled due to

‘extreme weather or civil unrest’, they will sympathetically

consider reimbursement of our costs 24 hours prior to

arrival. An alternative tour will then be offered and we can

retain our international return flights.

BACKGROUND READING Extensive information will be provided for travellers in

due course including a Reading Guide and background

reading materials.

WEATHER For our India Tour (the plains of India), gardens are at their

best normally from mid-Feb to mid-March. In late March

temperatures rise to low thirties but will be cool in the

evenings.

It will be early Spring and very refreshing in Kashmir with

melting snows. We have spent inordinate time trying to

choose optimal dates to best suit both climates.

MEALS Both tours include daily breakfasts plus one substantial

meal daily on average. Wine is not included since it is

imported, expensive and often indifferent. However, beer,

soft drink and bottled water are provided. Quality beers

are popular and refreshing in this climate.

TYPE OF TOURING • Moderate coach travel between cities and for day tours

• Minivans may be used in 1-2 locations and in Kashmir.

• Various internal flights as listed.

VISAS, VACCINATIONS AND HEALTH Passports must have at least 6 months validity from the

date of return to Australia. Please provide a clear copy of

your identity page as soon as possible.

At time of writing, Australians do require a valid visa for

entry into India.

You should confirm requirements in due course and for

further information visit: www.visalink.com.au

You will also need to confirm requirements for

vaccinations and we will provide further information in due

course.

We will also provide information concerning potential

health issues, precautions, etc. We strongly recommend

you see your physician or travel health clinic some eight

weeks before departure.

Baori Haveli Stepwell FURTHER INFORMATION

Further information will be provided well before

departure concerning itinerary details, visa requirements,

currency issues, arrival and departure taxes, electrical

appliances, health, photography, clothing, what to pack,

entrance taxes, food, etc. And see: www.smartraveller.gov.au

Shah Jahan and his beloved Mumtaz. Garden settings were

used for public meetings, political and business sessions,

for domestic life and for the women’s quarters (the Zenana)

which would include the Emperor’s wives and concubines.

The Zenana was kept very separate from all other sectors of

the encampment. The Mughals retained their nomadic traditions

and travelled a great deal and thus the need for extensive gardens

in which to camp with requisite staff and equipment.

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TOUR BOOKINGS – TERMS AND CONDITIONS 1. Legal ‘ALC Garden Tours’ (ALC) is a registered business name owned by Bloomings Books Pty Ltd, a company owned by Warwick and Sue Forge. We work closely with Specialist In-Ground agents and for international flights, with Connelly & Turner Travel Associates (C&T). 2. International Flights to and from India Flight dates, times and costs are provided by us for your convenience and subject to airline changes and human error. Once you have considered your options, we suggest you contact C&T and obtain professional advice. We recommend you book through C&T who often obtain fare savings and assist with coordination and advice on routes, prices and conditions. They enable use of frequent flyer points, provide valuable advice regarding routes, carriers and costs and if they cannot match a price you may book elsewhere. Flights booked via C&T ensures that flight arrivals to and from India are coordinated with arranged gratis hotel transfers and where possible, with other group members. Our travellers arrive from various cities and flights are sometimes cancelled so that it is a huge advantage to have a single agent coordinate our flights. It helps avoid errors and we gain from opportunities. In challenging environments we aim for comfortable, seamless and cost effective experiences. We encourage you to consider arriving early for relaxation, shopping and orientation. Hotel bookings are available through our special rates and C&T can arrange an earlier flight for you. You may also choose to stay on at the end of your tour and visit other destinations although the weather will be heating up for most of India. 3. Internal flights in India Tour flights are included in the tour cost. 4. Extension Tours Terms and conditions may be arranged separately. 5. Tour Inclusions • Accommodation in a double or twin-share room or single supplement in 4 to 5 star hotels. • Both tours include daily breakfasts and one substantial meal daily on average. • Generally, water, beer and soft drink are available for our meals. Special drinks such as wine can be ordered and paid for by travellers if desired. Details are confirmed. • All tips for coach drivers, guides, designers, restaurants, hotels, etc. for tour listed activities. These are significant costs. However, we do provide an opportunity for you to contribute to some outstanding guides where you wish. • Flights as listed below. • Transport via air-conditioned coaches and smaller mini-coaches as appropriate with bottled water.

• Airport-hotel transfers (preferably via C&T bookings) • Hotel porterage • Lectures and site presentations • Entrance fees to all scheduled museums, galleries and properties, etc.

5. Tour Exclusions • Flights not included in the tour (see below). • Personal spending money. • Any excess luggage charges. Luggage allowance is normally only 15kg for internal flights however, surplus items can be stored at our Delhi hotel. • Comprehensive travel insurance. • Visas, arrival and departure taxes where applicable. 6. Reservations Applications are made on our relevant Reservation Forms and sent with accompanying documents to Warwick Forge, ALC Garden Tours, 2 Kilsyth Ave., Toorak, Vic., 3142. On approval, you will receive booking confirmation with travel details. Payment details are prescribed below and in the Reservation Forms. Please provide good copies of scanned documents, use a black biro if possible and print in CAPITAL LETTERS. 7. Tour Prices (in Australian dollars) Prices are subject to variations below.

* INDIA TOUR 18 March –2 April, 2017 (16 days)

For shared room (twin or double) $8,250 Includes all coach transport and flights: Delhi-Ahmedabad; Ahmedabad-Delhi; Agra-Khajuraho; Khajuraho-Varanasi; Varanasi-Delhi.

* Single Supplement $1,900

* KASHMIR TOUR (Optional extension) 2 April – 6 April (5 days) $2,400 For shared room (twin or double) Includes all coach/Mini-bus transport and flights: Delhi-Srinagar; Srinagar-Delhi. * Single supplement $770 * Sub-total $ * Less, Early Bird India Tour booking before 1 July, 2016 $300 * Less, Extra Kashmir Tour, Booking discount $300 TOTAL $

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8. Tour Payments

(a) $300 deposit at the time of booking per person per tour. This is refunded if the tour is cancelled.

(b) Second payment by 1 July, 2016, for 25% of your tour costs to confirm your hotels, flights, etc.

(c) The balance is invoiced 1 September, 2016, payable on 1 October, 2016. We strongly recommend prompt payment since late payments can lead to room or flight cancellations. Indian hotels can be very strict with booking requirements. 9. Payments may be via - EFT: Australian Landscape Conference BSB 013 332 ACC 111093967 By cheque to ‘Australian Landscape Conference’, 2 Kilsyth Ave., Toorak, Vic. 3142. Mastercard and Visa incur a 2% surcharge.

10. Booking Conditions When we receive your Reservation form(s) and confirm a place(s) for you, a contract then exists in accordance with the terms and conditions in this and other documents sent to you. If a place is not available we will return your deposit in full. 11. Tour Cost Variations

1. Early Bird Offer of A$300 for the India Tour where the deposit and Second payment are made prior to 1 July, 2016. 2. Those taking both Tours, obtain an extra A$300 discount. 3. Single travellers may share a twin room and we can sometimes assist regarding a potential share arrangement. 4. Tour prices are based on ground costs, fuel prices, airfares, airport charges, ground operator fees and other assumptions. At all stages, we seek to fix prices and resist increases. However, we reserve the right to do so in cases where events occur outside our control including for significant exchange rate increases. We have recently been advised that internal flights may be subject to tax variations, however, they should be minimal. 5. Both tours are costed for a minimum group size of 14. Should the group be smaller, group price arrangements can be endangered and ALC Tours may contact participants and discuss whether a supplement should be payable or the tour cancelled. 6. For additional tour arrangements, variations, hotel bookings and luggage drop-offs, etc., an administrative fee of $50.00 is payable. 12. Cancellations Subject to the above, your deposit(s) will be refunded less $200 service fee per person if cancelled prior to 1 July, 2016 but is not refundable thereafter. Cancellation charges apply after the following dates: Date Cancellation fee 1 July 2016 Deposit not recoverable 10% of your tour payments 120 days prior to travel 30% of your tour payments 90 days prior to travel 75% of your tour payments 60 days prior to travel 100 % of your tour payments 30 days prior to travel

Cancellations must be in writing and the date of cancellation is the date of receipt.

13. Liability for Loss or Damage It is an express condition of travel for all tour participants that you accept and acknowledge that:- 1. ALC Garden Tours (ALC) in their own capacity and as agent for tour operators, land agents, airlines, hotels, coach companies, museums etc., will not be liable for any claim (provided they act bona fide), for loss due to accident, delay, personal injury, inadequate or failed accommodation, travel arrangements, baggage or other losses, illness, travel sickness, industrial or civil unrest, terrorist attack, military or political disturbances, hijacking, kidnapping, thefts, assaults, volcanic or other geological event, pain and suffering, loss of future earnings or any other injury to person or property of whatever kind. 2. It is a condition of travel that you take out adequate comprehensive insurance in order to cover all potential travel risks and this must include repatriation plus accompanying medical staff if required. A copy of the insurance certificate must be provided to ALC. 3. You must provide full disclosure of any relevant medical conditions as requested on the Reservation Form. 4. The Tour Leader has full discretion to request a participant to refrain or modify certain activities if in his/her opinion, such activities are disruptive or may cause discomfort to others. The Tour Leader shall have full discretion to cancel any person’s further involvement in the tour where he/she deems such action warranted. ALC’s responsibility for that person will then cease immediately and we will not be responsible for any claimed loss or damage. Where a Tour Leader is unavailable through illness or other cause, he/she may appoint a Deputy with complete power to act as the Tour Leader. _____________________________

Warwick and Sue Forge 27th March, 2016 E&OE (Errors and omisions excepted) FOR ALL TOUR ENQUIRIES: Warwick Forge Director ALC Garden Tours 2 Kilsyth Ave., Toorak Vic 3142 warwick@bloomings.com.au T: (03) 9804 8915 AH 043 818 2801 For any tour updates and further information, visit - www.landscapeconference.com/alctours

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT ENQUIRIES: Brigid Kelly Freecall 1800 655 368 T: 03 9948 4300 brigid_kelly@travel-associates.com.au Connelly & Turner Travel Associates 21 Claremont Avenue, Malvern VIC 3144

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The former Mughal pavilion which once stood at the entrance

to Nishat Bagh providing superb views across Dal Lake.

This watercolour was painted by Constance Villiers-Stuart, (Gardens of the Great Mughals, 1913), who described how

she would have loved to have sat there painting the

magic landscapes of mountains, lakes and gardens.

Ganga Aart, Benares

Glossary char-bagh: A garden (bagh) laid out into geometric plots.

jal mahal: water pavilion

Mughal: derived originally from Mongol or Moghul, it

came to apply to the Mughal Empire in India. The Empire

reigned from 1526 until finally expiring in the 1850’s.

Babur 1483–1530, descended from Genghis Khan and Timur

(Tamarlane), at age 14, conquered Samarkand. After repeated

struggles he conquered Kabul and then travelled east to India

and established the Mughal Empire. He had long imbibed

Persian culture and it now provided the basis for the new

empire. For nearly 200 years, ‘the court culture of the Mughals – painting, literature and landscape architecture as well as buildings – testifies to an aesthetic sensibility within

which they strove to harmonize all aspects of life’. A man of many talents, he left us the Babur-Nama – his

remarkable and extensive Memoirs.