THE. Ganges. Exploring India s Holiest River. January 9 to 25, a program of the stanford alumni association

Transcription

1 S T A N F O R D T R A V E L / S T U D Y THE Ganges Exploring India s Holiest River January 9 to 25, 2014 a program of the stanford alumni association

2 The majestic Ganges River, which begins in the snows of the lofty Himalayas, plays a vital role in Indian life as it crosses the plains on its way to the Bay of Bengal. Our cruise aboard the RV Bengal Ganga takes us on an 800-mile journey upon its waters. From the capital city of Delhi we fly to noisy, bustling Varanasi for a visit to India s holiest city before we board our river vessel to sail to Victorian Kolkata. As we navigate the river, we observe Hindu culture, colonial architecture, Muslim monuments and Buddhist temples and learn about the traditional agricultural life of the unspoiled countryside. From the ship s observation deck, watch exotic birds in flight, water buffaloes along the shore and freshwater dolphins at play. Join us to witness the daily rituals of farming, fishing and village life along India s most sacred river. Brett S. Thompson, 83, Director, Stanford Travel/Study Highlights WATCH freshwater dolphins frolic near our ship as we sail through West Bengal s Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary. LEARN about the yogic tradition with a visit to the Bihar School of Yoga, which is located in the 15th-century Munger Fort. VISIT the sacred temples of Sarnath where Buddha is said to have delivered his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. RIDE in a rickshaw through Varanasi s colorful street markets to the river s crowded edge where we witness the age-old Aarti ceremony.

3 Delhi T h e G a n g e NEPAL CHINA BHUTAN s Varanasi I NDIA Simaria Nalanda Bodhgaya Munger Raj Mahal Farakka Murshidabad Katwa Kalna Kolkata Puri Bhubaneswar Konark Bay of Bengal Itinerary Thursday TO Saturday, January 9 to 11 U.S. / Delhi, India Depart the U.S. on Thursday and lose a day crossing the international date line en route to India. Arrive in Delhi on Saturday and this evening enjoy a welcome reception and dinner at our hotel. TAJ MAHAL HOTEL (1/11: D) Sunday, January 12 Delhi Depart our hotel this morning for a full day of sightseeing in Delhi, the capital of modern India. In Old Delhi, visit Humayan s Tomb and the Kubal Minar, and in New Delhi view governmental buildings and the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. TAJ MAHAL HOTEL (B,L,D) Monday, January 13 Delhi / Varanasi This morning fly from Delhi to Varanasi, India s holiest city and one of the most interesting cities in the eastern world. Situated on the left bank of the Ganges River, the city is replete with religious buildings and ghats (riverbank terraces) and home to many fairs and festivals throughout the year. In the afternoon, join a cyclo-rickshaw caravan for a ride through the colorful open-air market to the river to observe the Aarti ceremony on one of the ghats. TAJ GATEWAY GANGES (B,L,D) Tuesday, January 14 Varanasi / Sarnath Enjoy an early-morning boat ride on the Ganges and watch the sun rise over the river. After breakfast take an excursion to Sarnath, where Gautama Buddha is said to have delivered his first sermon after receiving enlightenment. Explore the ruins of monasteries built more than 2,000 years ago the Dhamok Stupa and the Dharmaraji Ka Stupa. The famous Ashoka Pillar of polished sandstone, whose lion capital has been adopted by the Republic of India as its state emblem, stands at Sarnath. Return to Varanasi for a city tour, followed by a festive dinner at the Raja Ghat, located on the river s edge. TAJ GATEWAY GANGES (B,L,D) Wednesday, January 15 Varanasi / Bodhgaya Drive to Bodhgaya, where we explore the Maha Bodhi Temple in the afternoon. The entire courtyard is studded with votive stupas of all sizes that have been built over the past 2,500 years. Inside the temple s main sanctum, view the colossal black stone statue of the Buddha in sitting posture and touching the earth with his right hand; in this posture the Buddha is said to have attained supreme enlightenment. Drive by the Thai Temple, Wat Bodhgaya, built in 1956 by the Thai king and Indian prime minister as an initiative to strengthen relations between the two countries. Also pass by two Japanese temples, Daijokyo and Indosan Nipponji, each with simple designs and manicured gardens. ROYAL RESIDENCY (B,L,D) Thursday, January 16 Bodhgaya / Nalanda / Simaria / EMBARK RV BENGAL GANGA This morning drive from Bodhgaya to the famous Nalanda University, one of the oldest seats of learning in India. It has a rich spiritual heritage and contains extraordinary ruins of structures built in the 5th century by the Gupta kings. Continue to Simaria, where we embark the Bengal Ganga to begin our grand adventure, sailing on the Ganges River toward Munger. BENGAL GANGA (B,L,D) Friday, January 17 Munger / Sultanganj This morning we visit the Bihar School of Yoga, which lies within the 15th-century Munger Fort. Interact with teachers and students to learn about the yogic tradition. Along this stretch of the Ganges, take in the beautiful countryside, traditional monuments and magnificent shrines, and observe the spirited culture. Cruise this evening toward Sultanganj, consisting of two great rocks, one surmounted by a large temple, where our ship docks for the night. BENGAL GANGA (B,L,D) Saturday, January 18 Sultanganj / Bateshwarsthan This morning we cruise through the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary, established for the protection and conservation of the Ganges River s fresh-water dolphins. Watch these delightful creatures as they cavort and frolic in the water. In this area take note of the astounding variety of migratory and resident birds, otters and turtles. In the afternoon, disembark and drive to the ruins of Vikramshila University, established in the 9th century and once an important center of Buddhist learning. Visit its museum, which contains artifacts from the Pala dynasty. BENGAL GANGA (B,L,D) Sunday, January 19 Bateshwarsthan / Raj Mahal As we enter and explore the Bateshwarsthan area, rich in bird life, look for large flocks of water

4 caption birds, including the common crane. In Raj Mahal, founded by Emperor Akbar as the capital of Bengal in 1592, stroll through the site and explore ruins of palaces and mosques. BENGAL GANGA (B,L,D) Monday, January 20 Raj Mahal / Farakka This morning join a walk through the countryside with our naturalist, looking for many species of birds. Back onboard our river vessel, cross the historic Farakka Lock Gate and enter the Feeder Canal, where we join the Bhagirathi River, a long distributary of the Ganges in West Bengal and where we begin the most spectacular portion of our journey as we approach the Mother Ganga River. Here, watch for more varieties of birdlife, as well as more tropical vegetation, such as mango and lichee orchards. Upon entering West Bengal note the dramatic change in scenery as the landscape becomes lush and semitropical. Vast and impressive panoramas unfold as the Ganges expands to a width of 1-1/4 miles. Here the river hums with the activity of fishermen and country boats. Enjoy excursions ashore to explore this little-known area, home to mosques and ancient palaces. This afternoon, visit a small village, typical of the region. Continue on to the lovely miniature temples of Baranagar and Jangipur. The temple complex, constructed from 1714 to 1793 by Rani Bhabani, is considered to be among the best examples of Bengal terra cotta art. BENGAL GANGA (B,L,D) Tuesday, January 21 Murshidabad / Katwa The vast Hazarduari Palace, built by an English architect in 1837, dominates the waterfront at Murshidabad. Explore this impressive site and, inside the palace, view its extensive collection of paintings, china, weapons and other objects. Continue cruising down the river and observe the various activities ashore as we pass by villages and farms. Anchor overnight at Katwa. BENGAL GANGA (B,L,D) Wednesday, January 22 Katwa / Kalna / Matiari Sail past Mayapur, a religious town whose skyline is now dominated by the vast new ISKCON temple. The temple is the headquarters of the Krishna Consciousness Movement, which was founded in the 16th century. At Kalna, tour by cycle-rickshaw through the enchanting Bengali Rajbari complex of terra cotta temples. This afternoon visit Matiari, a village of artists who work with brass. BENGAL GANGA (B,L,D) Thursday, January 23 Kalna / Kolkata Sail from Kalna to Kolkata on our last day of river travel. Many Europeans came to this part of India to establish their East Indian companies, leaving their mark in the architecture of the area. Stop for a look at Chandannagar, which was a French colony until 1950 and has a charming 18th-century church. This evening we reach the outskirts of Kolkata, where our ship moors overnight. Tonight enjoy our farewell reception and dinner. BENGAL GANGA (B,L,D) Friday & Saturday, January 24 & 25 Kolkata / U.S. Disembark our river vessel in Kolkata on Friday morning for an orientation tour of the colonial part of this large and important city, once the capital of British India by the name of Calcutta. Our tour includes the Writer s Building, built for the administrative staff of the British East India Company. Continue to the General Post Office; the Race Course, which hosts the country s most prestigious racing events; Raj Bhavan, once the seat of British imperial power; and Dalhousie Square. This evening transfer to the Kolkata airport for flights home, arriving back in the U.S. on Saturday. (1/24: B,L) Optional Post-trip Extension to Orissa January 25 to 28 Located on India s northeastern coast along the Bay of Bengal, Orissa, now called Odisha, is a region of ancient monuments, master craftspeople and artists, wildlife sanctuaries and stunning landscapes. The extension includes three nights accommodations at the Trident Oberoi in Bhubaneswar and a visit to the Sun Temple, a World Heritage site. Additional details and rates will be sent to confirmed participants.

5 st. andrews RV Island Bengal Sky Ganga island sky Originally built in 1992 and refurbished and redecorated in 2010, Island Sky accommodates all guests in 57 outside suites, each affording sea views and elegantly furnished with a sitting room area, flat-screen TV, safe, mini-refrigerator and an The RV Bengal Ganga has 28 outside staterooms on two decks, each stateroom measuring 170 square feet and finished with brass en suite bathroom with robe, slippers, hairdryer and fine toiletries. Several suites have and private teak. balconies. All rooms Spacious are air-conditioned and finely decorated with individual public areas controls include a large lounge and elegant have twin bar beds and a and library. fitted The windows dining room with accommodates insect screens. everyone at one The seating bathrooms where house are spacious wine, beer for and a soft ship drinks of this are size, included with granite at lunch and dinner. countertops Wi-fi access is and available finished, throughout like the the staterooms, vessel (at additional in rich brass cost and teak. dependent Amenities upon satellite include reception). a writing The desk, ship also a kimono, includes slippers, a hairdresser, and onboard personal clinic and deck doctor, space elevator with serving rattan all chairs passenger and a decks, table top for relaxing deck with while Jacuzzi, enjoying gym and rear views sun deck of the with passing a bar. Island scenery. Sky is The served spacious by 75 experienced upper deck officers provides and a crew. pleasant vantage point from which to observe the passing parade of river traffic and shoreline activities. The ship s executive chefs have developed a fusion cuisine combining the best of Asian and Western traditions. There s a choice of Indian, European or vegetarian cuisine, and, wherever possible, produce is obtained locally. Program Cost * Rates are per person, based on double or single occupancy, as specified. Category Rate Main Deck Double Occupancy $11,295 Single Occupancy** $13,030 Deck Plan Upper Deck Double Occupancy $12,495 Single Occupancy** $14,320 *Association nonmembers add $200 per person **Single accommodations are limited at this rate

6 Information Dates January 9 to 25, 2014 (17 days) Size Limited to 30 participants. We have secured block space on the RV Bengal Ganga. Included 5 nights of deluxe hotel accommodations 8-night cruise aboard the RV Bengal Ganga 13 breakfasts, 13 lunches and 13 dinners Welcome and farewell cocktail receptions Bottled water on excursions Gratuities to porters, guides, drivers and ship crew for all group activities Internal flight within India between Varanasi and Delhi All tours and shore excursions as described in the itinerary Transfers and baggage handling on program arrival and departure days Port fees and embarkation taxes Minimal medical, accident and evacuation insurance Educational program with lecture series and pre-departure materials, including recommended reading list, a selected book, map and travel information Services of our professional tour manager to assist you throughout the program Not Included International and U.S. domestic airfare Passport and visa fees Immunization costs Meals and beverages other than those specified as included Independent and private transfers Tripcancellation/interruption and baggage insurance Excess-baggage charges Personal items such as internet access, telephone and fax calls, laundry and gratuities for nongroup services Air Arrangements International and U.S. domestic airfare is not included in the program cost. Round-trip, economy-class airfare on United Airlines from San Francisco to Delhi and return from Kolkata is approximately $1,850 as of March 2013 and is subject to change without notice. Information on recommended flight itineraries will be sent by our designated agent. Fuel Costs In the uncertain, often volatile oil market of late, it is difficult to predict fuel costs over the long term and, more specifically, at the time of operation of this voyage. Our prices are based upon the prevailing fuel rates at the time of brochure printing. While we will do everything possible to maintain our prices, if the fuel rates increase significantly, it may be necessary to institute a fuel surcharge. WHAT TO EXPECT We consider this to be a moderately strenuous program that is at times physically demanding and busy. Daily programs involve one to three miles of walking, often on uneven terrain. Our busy days of daily shore excursions contrast with the relaxed pace aboard ship, time that is enhanced by lectures and leisure time. In some instances, such as ruins, we may encounter stairs without handrails, high thresholds and uneven terrain such as cobbled or dirt paths. We expect that participants will be a self-selecting group who are seeking a true adventure and whose interest in the places we visit far outweighs the need for creature comforts. Participants must be physically fit, active and in good health. We welcome travelers 15 years of age and older on this program. Terms & Conditions Deposit & Final Payment A $1,000-per-person deposit is required to hold space for this program. A $200-per-person deposit is required to hold space for the optional post-trip extension to Orissa. Complete and return the attached reservation form or sign up online. Final payment is due 120 days prior to departure. As a condition of participation, all confirmed participants are required to sign a Release of Liability. Cancellations & Refunds Deposits and any payments are refundable, less a $500-perperson cancellation fee, until 120 days prior to departure. After that date, refunds can be made only if the program is sold out and your place(s) can be resold, in which case a $1,000-per-person cancellation fee will apply. We recommend trip-cancellation insurance; applications will be sent to you. Insurance Stanford Travel/Study provides all travelers who are U.S. or Canadian citizens with minimal medical, accident and evacuation coverage under our group-travel insurance policy. Our group policy is intended to provide minimal levels of protection while you are traveling on this program. We strongly recommend that you subscribe to optional baggage and trip-cancellation insurance. A brochure offering such insurance will be mailed with your confirmation about one week after we receive your deposit. The product offered in this brochure includes special benefits if you postmark your insurance payment within a specified window: 15 days of the date listed on the confirmation letter for the Waiver of Pre-existing Conditions and coverage for Financial Insolvency; 21 days for the Cancel for Any Reason benefit. Eligibility We encourage membership in the Alumni Association as the program cost for nonmembers is $200 more than the members price. Parents and their children under 21 may travel on one membership. For more information or to purchase a membership, visit alumni.stanford.edu/goto/membership or call (650) Responsibility The Stanford Alumni Association, Stanford University and our operators act only as agents for the passenger with respect to transportation and ship arrangements and exercise every care possible in doing so. However, we can assume no liability for injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity in connection with the service of any automobile, motorcoach, launch or any other conveyance used in carrying out this program or for the acts or defaults of any company or person engaged in conveying the passenger or in carrying out the arrangements of the program. We cannot accept any responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delay or changes in air or other services, sickness, weather, strike, war, quarantine, force majeure or other causes beyond our control. All such losses or expenses will have to be borne by the passenger as tour rates provide arrangements only for the time stated. We reserve the right to make such alterations to this published itinerary as may be deemed necessary. The right is reserved to cancel any program prior to departure in which case the entire payment will be refunded without further obligation on our part. The right is also reserved to decline to accept or retain any person as a member of the program. No refund will be made for an unused portion of any tour unless arrangements are made in sufficient time to avoid penalties. It is understood that the ship s ticket, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the passenger and the cruise company. Baggage is carried at the owner s risk entirely. The airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time that passengers are not onboard their plane or conveyance. Neither the Alumni Association, Stanford University nor our operators accept liability for any carrier s cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable ticket in connection with the tour. Program price is based on rates in effect in March 2013 and is subject to change without notice to reflect fluctuations in exchange rates, tariffs or fuel charges. California Seller of Travel Program Registration # COPYRIGHT 2013 STANFORD ALUMNI ASSOCIATION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Printed on recycled, FSC-certified paper in the U.S.

7 We have visited India twice with Stanford; we love the country, its people and places. Stanford makes it easy for us to visit this complex and fascinating country and [makes it] more enjoyable, too. Jose Luis, MD 59, PhD 72, and Lourdes Aburto, Southern India College, 2009 Stanford Faculty Leader Saikat Majumdar, a novelist and literary critic who specializes in English as a language of world literature, the vernacular literary traditions of South Asia, the novel and narrative theory, and literary modernism, grew up in India and has studied and taught in the U.S. and Canada. He is the author of a book on the literature of the global British Empire, Prose of the World: Modernism and the Banality of Empire (Columbia University Press, 2013), and Silverfish (HarperCollins, 2007), a novel set in early-19thcentury Bengal and late-20th-century Kolkata. He has presented his work at several literary festivals, including San Francisco s Litquake, and at events in Delhi, Jaipur and Kolkata. He has also given several public talks on literary subjects at such venues as the Commonwealth Club and the Mechanic s Institute in San Francisco. Thinking on the Ganges River, Professor Majumdar states, Through my writing and my teaching, I often find myself trying to understand the complex and often contradictory phenomenon of modernity in India. The Ganges River, which provides the most fascinating and perhaps the most comprehensive trajectory of Indian culture through history, is a living reminder of how this modernity was imagined by different periods, and how sensual traces of that imagination continue to live in the present. Assistant professor of English, Stanford University Member, affiliated faculty of the Center for South Asia and the Center for Comparative Studies in Race and Ethnicity, Stanford University Visiting professor, University of Delhi, Jawaharlal Nehru University and Jadavpur University PhD, literature, Rutgers University, 2005 S T A N F O R D T R A V E L / S T U D Y Reservation Form The Ganges January 9 to 25, 2014 MR. / MRS. / MS. MISS / DR. / PROF. NAME AGE STANFORD CLASS MR. / MRS. / MS. MISS / DR. / PROF. NAME AGE STANFORD CLASS SIGN UP ONLINE! I/We have read the Terms and Conditions for the program and agree to them. Signature If this is a reservation for one person, please indicate: I wish to have single accommodations. OR I plan to share accommodations with OR I d like to know about possible roommates. Category Preference*: 1st choice: 2nd choice: *Only twin beds are available on the RV Bengl Ganga ADDRESS CITY / STATE / ZIP Here is my deposit of $ ($1,000 per person) for space(s), plus $ ($200 per person) for the optional Orissa post-trip extension. Enclosed is my check (make payable to Stanford Alumni Association) OR Charge my deposit to my: Visa MasterCard American Express HOME PHONE WORK PHONE CARD # EXPIRES CELL PHONE AUTHORIZED CARDHOLDER SIGNATURE DATE ADDRESS Mail completed form to address on mail panel or fax to (650) or place your deposit online at alumni.stanford.edu/trip?ganges2014. Please submit your reservation only once to avoid multiple charges to your account

8 THE Ganges Exploring India s Holiest River Stanford Travel/Study Frances C. Arrillaga Alumni Center 326 Galvez Street Stanford, CA (650) Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage P A I D Stanford Association January 9 to 25, 2014 alumni.stanford.edu/goto/travelstudy The contrast of the peaceful time on the Bengal Ganga and the frenetic pace of Indian cities gave a special character to this trip. Judy Font, 59, The Ganges, 2011 S T A N F O R D T R A V E L / S T U D Y