India • Bhutan Myanmar • Vietnam Cambodia • Laos Philippines

Transcription

ASIA
India • Bhutan
Myanmar • Vietnam
Cambodia • Laos
Philippines
Dear Traveller,
Thank you for your interest in our brochure.
Our mission is to create unique adventures
in some of the planet’s most remote and
off-the-beaten-track locations – without
compromising on comfort when possible.
Our tours offer adventures in numerous
exciting destinations throughout Asia, the
Middle East, Latin America, Africa and
Europe’s fringes. With over a hundred
itineraries (and counting) to choose from,
we are confident your trip with us will
satisfy your wanderlust and yield new,
exhilarating experiences. This brochure
will give a short overview of our tour
options in Asia.
first-hand destination knowledge, our team’s
wealth of experience designing tours and our
local partners’ considerable local expertise to
craft tours to meet your travel requirements.
We look forward to welcoming you on one of
our tours very soon.
Our team have travelled extensively in each of
these destinations, so we bring together our
David McGuinness & Rahul Aggarwal
Happy travels!
Founders & Directors
Why Travel The Unknown?
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Unique itineraries
Small groups (max 12 people)
Intimate first-hand knowledge of destinations
Expert advice and trip preparation
Passionate and experienced local guides
Extensive range of tailormade options
Personalised service & excellent customer satisfaction
Full financial protection & ATOL bonding
SMALL GROUP AND TAILORMADE TOURS
Our expertise and specialism is and always has been on
developing small group tours with no more than 12 people
as well as tailormade tours for those looking for something
customised around their requirements. We believe this
enables the most genuine travel experience and let’s you
discover the real country you have chosen to visit.
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www.traveltheunknown.com | Book now: 020 7183 6371
Experiences
We offer a diverse range of
Trip Experiences for those
with special interests.
These include:
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Wildlife & Birding
Archaeology
Festivals
Luxury
Culinary
Honeymoon
Family
Activity
Travel The Unknown
a re always at the
forefront of a uthentic
a nd pioneering travel.
Lyn Hughes,
Founder & Editor of
Wanderlust Magazine
Holy man, India
Contents
North East India..................................... 7
Bhutan................................................... 21
North India............................................. 10
Myanmar................................................ 25
South India............................................. 15
Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos.................... 28
Wildlife of India...................................... 18
Philippines............................................. 34
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Accommodation
Practicalities
We understand that good quality accommodation
is an integral part of any travel experience. Where
possible we try to use accommodation that reflects
the local character. We use 4 star properties on most
trips but we mix it up to include guesthouses, heritage
properties and comfortable lodges as appropriate. Full
accommodation lists are available on request. Some of
our accommodation options include:
For information on various practical aspects of
our tours, frequently asked questions and booking
information, visit:
www.traveltheunknown.com/practical
BOUTIQUE HOTELS
More on our tours
Choose a boutique hotel bursting with local character that
represents the individual cultures and traditions of each
place, such as a cave hotel in Cappadocia, an opulent riad
in Morocco or a chalet on the lake in Myanmar.
HOMESTAYS
Interact with locals who are passionate about their
country and culture during a homestay and enjoy fresh
authentic food, while directly supporting the families
with whom you stay.
Alternatively please call us on 020 7183 6371 (UK)
or email us at [email protected] and let us
know how we can help.
Please visit our website, www.traveltheunknown.com
for more information on our tours as well as for details
on our range of tours outside Asia.
Refer to back of brochure for dates and prices list.
LUXURY CAMPS & WILDLIFE LODGES
A wilderness experience does not require compromising
on comfort. Stay at a private, furnished luxury camp to
commune with nature and relax in comfort.
Another brilliant trip with
Travel the Unknown travelling
to Assa m, and Nagaland
for the spectacular Hornbill
festival and a very emotional
visit to the war graves and
Museu m in Kohima where
my Dad served in the Indian
Army during WW II.
Payment Protection
Travel The Unknown is fully bonded by ATOL issued
by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number: 9854).
This means that your trip with Travel The Unknown is
100% financially guaranteed so you can relax and look
forward to a trip of a lifetime.
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Sue Clyde,
Assa m & Nagaland Hornbill Festival
Travel The Unknown is an award-winning
tour operator recommended by Lonely Planet,
Rough Guide, Bradt, Footprint & Wanderlust
How to book
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Choose your tour and departure date - or contact us for a tailormade tour.
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We will send you confirmation of your
payment and your trip.
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Complete a booking form and arrange
for payment of a 30% deposit on the tour
cost, and the full cost of any international
flights you decide to book with us.
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We will send you your trip documents
including itinerary, ATOL certificate,
e-tickets & practical information, first
by email and later a final version by post.
For more information call us on: 020 7183 6371
Follow us online
Website: www.traveltheunknown.com
Blog:
www.traveltheunknown.com/blog
Facebook: www.facebook.com/traveltheunknown
Twitter: www.twitter.com/travel_unknown
Skype:
TravelTheUnknown
YouTube:
www.youtube.com/traveltheunknown
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/ttunknown
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India & Bhutan
Visit ancient temples, colourful festivals, tribal cultures, rural villages, Himalayan kingdoms, tropical jungles, verdant tea and coffee plantations, and idyllic beaches. Get to know the people which make this the most diverse and enchanting region on earth.
North East India................................................................. 7
North India......................................................................... 10
South India......................................................................... 15
Wildlife of India.................................................................. 18
Bhutan............................................................................... 21
Arunachal Pradesh
Tibet
mdila
o
B
Majuli
Sibsagar
Dirang
ong
Nameri
Bhalukp
Mon
Kaziranga Jorhat
ur
zp
Te
ya
a
l
a Mawphlang
Cherrapunjee
Nagaland
Assam
Shillong
Mokokchung
Dimapur
Kohima
Mawlynnong
mar
Guwahati
Myan
Bhutan
M
Dibrugarh
Ziro
Tawang
h
eg
Basar
Dumporijo
Bangladesh
North East India
Dominated by the Himalayas and bordering onto Tibet,
Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar, the north east is one
of the most ethnically diverse and remote parts of India.
Encounter unique tribal cultures, visit the world’s largest
river island or ride elephant back in the jungle.
TOURS
ssam & Nagaland
A
Hornbill Festival
Monks, Tribes & Rhinos
Living Root Bridges
Tribes of North East India
North East India Tours
Assam & Nagaland Hornbill Festival
One-horned rhinos, tea plantations & tribal cultures
• Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival
• Tribal villages in Nagaland
• WWII cemetery in Kohima
• Assam’s tea plantations
• Majuli Island’s Hindu culture
• Elephant safari in Kaziranga
PLACES: Guwahati - Kaziranga - Jorhat - Majuli - Mon - Mokokchung Kohima - Dimapur
DAYS: 15 | TOUR CODE: NHF
WHEN TO VISIT: Best Good Off season
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Monks, Tribes & Rhinos
Himalayan mountains, remote tribes & fantastic wildlife
• Stunning Tawang monastery
• Satras on Majuli Island
• Encounter remote tribes
• One-horned rhinos in Kaziranga
• Dramatic Himalayas
• Assam’s tea plantations
PLACES: Guwahati - Nameri - Ziro - Jorhat - Majuli - Kaziranga Dirang - Tawang
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DAYS: 20 | TOUR CODE: MTR
Living Root Bridges
Waterfalls, hills and living bridges
• Shillong’s bustling market
• Cherrapunjee’s living bridges
• Cleanest village in Asia
• Khasi tribal culture
• Rolling hills & waterfalls
• Mawphlang’s sacred forest
PLACES: Guwahati - Shillong - Cherrapunjee - Mawlynnong Mawphlang
DAYS: 7 | TOUR CODE: LRB
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To find your tour online go to www.traveltheunknown.com/
followed by the tour code, e.g. www.traveltheunknown.com/MTR
Tribes of North East India
Encounter remote tribal cultures
• Headhunters of Nagaland
• Ziro’s Apatani tribe
• Satras in Majuli
• Arunachal’s tribal villages
• Tribal homestay (optional)
PLACES: Sibsagar - Mon - Majuli - Ziro - Dumporijo - Basar - Dibrugarh
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DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: TNE
Tailormade North East India
Seven Sister States
River Cruise
If your time and budget permits we can even organise a
tour encompassing all seven states in North East India: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland,
Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura. Each state is known
for its distinct cultures, landscapes, handicrafts and
textiles. Contact us to put together a tour to this region.
Wildlife and wilderness are the main features of a
cruise in Assam on the vast Brahmaputra River – with wonderful bird life and the occasional Gangetic
Dolphin, as well as a glimpse into rural village life. The boat stops at some of Assam’s key sights, including
Kaziranga, Majuli, Sibsagar and Manas, a Project Tiger
reserve on the Bhutan border.
Activity
Embark upon an unforgettable trek through the
botanical paradise of Arunachal Pradesh, regarded
as a world biodiversity hotspot. Alternatively, chop
your way through the tempestuous Brahmaputra
River, on a white water rafting adventure. You can also
trek through the Garo and Khasi hills of Meghalaya,
exploring the many mysterious caves which hide
natural formations, some considered to have taken the
forms of holy deities.
For itineraries, dates and prices contact us or visit our website
For more information visit
www.traveltheunknown.com/nei
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Jammu & Kashmir
Nubra Valley
Kargil
Srinagar
Ladakh
Leh
Lake Pangong
Dharamsala
Amritsar
Tibet
Pakistan
Nepal
Rajasthan
Delhi
Pelling
a
Agr hambal Lucknow
Jodhpur
C
Rohet Jaipur
Ranthambore
Deoga
G
walior
Kumbhalgarh
rh
Shahpura
Poshina
Chittorgarh Orchha
Bera
Patan
Madhya Pradesh
Dasada Udaipur Bhopal
(Tiger Territory)
Bhuj
Rann of Kutch
Ahmedabad
Bhimbetka
Gujarat
Satpura
Rajkot
Gir
Diu
Arabian Sea
Darjeeling
West Bengal
Varanasi
Raipur
North India
Traverse Himalayan passes,
encounter tribes in Gujarat
& Orissa, uncover hidden
forts in Rajasthan and sail
down the Ganges.
Ch
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Orissa
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oot Fall
Chitrak
Jeypore
Mumbai
Gangtok
Bagdogra
Kolkata
(Calcutta)
Bhavnagar
Kanker
Sikkim
Sunderbans
(mangroves)
Bhubaneshwar
Puri
Gopalpur
Rayagada
TOURS
Hidden Rajasthan
Tribal India
Heart of India
Kashmir & Ladakh Explorer
Delicacies of North India
Treasures of Gujarat
Sacred India
Best of Bengal & Sikkim
Taj, Tigers & Temples
North India Tours
Tribal India
Encounter tribes of Gujarat, Orissa & Chhattisgarh
• Banni & Kutch tribes
• Textiles of Gujarat
• Hill tribes of Orissa
• Tribal markets
• Villages in Chhattisgarh
• Chitrakoot waterfall
PLACES: Mumbai - Bhuj - Dasada - Poshina - Ahmedabad - Bhubaneshwar
- Puri - Gopalpur - Rayagada - Jeypore - Chitrakoot - Kanker - Raipur
DAYS: 18 | TOUR CODE: TRI
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Kashmir & Ladakh Explorer
Houseboats, Himalayas & Hemis Festival
• Houseboat on Dal Lake
• Drive the Himalayan highway
• Ride double-humped camels
• Buddhist Hemis Festival
• Stunning Lake Pangong
• Dramatic landscapes
PLACES: Delhi - Srinagar - Kargil - Leh - Nubra Valley - Lake Pangong
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DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: KLE
Treasures of Gujarat
Discover villages, temples, salt flats & lions
• Visit Gandhi’s former home
• Rann of Kutch salt flats
• Asiatic lions in Gir
• Banni tribal people
• Jain temples
• Portuguese fort on Diu
PLACES: Ahmedabad - Rann of Kutch - Bhuj - Banni villages - Rajkot Bhavnagar - Palitana - Gir - Diu
DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: TOG
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North India Tours
Best of Bengal & Sikkim
Colonial Kolkata, toy train & mountains
• Walking tour in Kolkata
• Darjeeling’s toy train
• Tea plantation tour
• Buddhist culture in Sikkim
• Stunning Himalayan scenery
• Sunderbans mangroves
PLACES: Kolkata - Darjeeling - Pelling - Gangtok - Sunderbans
DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: BBS
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Hidden Rajasthan
Rural villages, grand forts & wildlife
• Rural villages
• Spot leopards in Bera
• Kumbhalgarh fort
• Luxury desert camp
• Lake city of Udaipur
• Heritage accommodation
PLACES: Delhi - Jodhpur - Rohet - Deogarh - Bera - Kumbhalgarh Shahpura - Chittorgarh - Udaipur
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DAYS: 13 | TOUR CODE: HRA
Heart of India
Taj Mahal & wonders of Madhya Pradesh
• Sunrise at the Taj
• Temples of Orchha
• Gwalior fort
• Bhopal’s Islamic heritage
• Wildlife in Satpura
• Bhimbetka’s cave paintings
PLACES: Delhi - Agra - Gwalior - Orchha - Bhopal - Bhimbetka Satpura
DAYS: 13 | TOUR CODE: HOI
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Delicacies of North India
Sample the culinary diversity of India
• Authentic Indian cuisine
• Visit street food markets
• Dine with Indian families
• Learn from experts
• Magnificent Golden Temple
• City walking tours
PLACES: Mumbai - Ahmedabad - Delhi - Amritsar - Lucknow - Kolkata
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DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: DNI
Sacred India
Uncover the religious diversity of India
• Zoroastrian culture in Mumbai
• Boat ride on Ganges
• Islamic culture in Lucknow
• Amritsar’s Golden Temple
• Buddhist life in Dharamsala
• Visit India-Pakistan border
PLACES: Mumbai - Varanasi - Lucknow - Amritsar - Dharamsala Delhi
DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: SAC
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Taj, Tigers & Temples
An intoxicating insight into India’s diversity
• Old & New Delhi
• Tigers of Ranthambore
• Majestic Taj Mahal
• Jaipur’s forts & palaces
• Boat on the Ganges
• Amritsar’s Golden Temple
PLACES: Delhi - Jaipur - Ranthambore - Agra - Chambal - Varanasi Amritsar
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DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: TTT
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Tailormade North India
For a private and personal experience we can
arrange a bespoke itinerary to cater specifically
to your needs. As well as the options available on
our group tours, please read on for more ideas
which we could incorporate on a private tour.
Taj Lake Palace hotel
www.traveltheunknown.com/nin
Luxury
Live like royalty in a heritage palace
or a luxury camp in the desert of
Rajasthan. Look out for wildlife
from the veranda of your exquisitely
crafted jungle lodge. Sip tea fresh
off the plantation in your Darjeeling
colonial tea bungalow. Disappear to
a boutique resort in the far reaches
of the Himalayas or retreat to one
of India’s many deluxe spiritual
sanctuaries and get in tune with
your inner self by taking part in a
yoga programme or detoxify with
organic food, natural treatments
and rejuvenating massages.
Trekking
North India is blessed with terrains
to suit all walkers, from challenging
treks through whispering
Himalayan valleys and mountain
peaks in Ladakh and Sikkim, to
more gentle village treks amongst
the evergreen Kumaon Hills in
Uttaranchal or one of India’s many
hill stations.
Railways
Take a whistle-stop tour through
India’s iconic cities and rural
landscapes by train. There are
a range of comfort options and
itineraries available, whether you’re
seeking a first class experience on
the opulent Maharajas Express or
the Palace on Wheels in Rajasthan;
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the colonial charm of the old toy
train through the lush mountains of
Darjeeling; or travelling amongst
the locals on regular trains, a rail
journey in India is as rewarding as
the destination itself.
River Cruises
Discover India from the comfort of
a boat whilst drifting down the holy
River Ganges watching pilgrims
come to worship. Glide along the
River Hooghly in East India where
you can witness daily life unfold in
India’s rural villages and
manoeuvre the creeks of
the nearby Sunderbans,
the world’s largest
mangrove forests and
home to swimming Royal
Bengal Tigers.
Festivals
With a country as large and diverse
as India, where religion is so
intricately intertwined with daily life,
there is a good chance at any given
time, a festival will be taking place
somewhere in India. Experience the
Buddhist Hemis festival in remote
Ladakh, watch temples and homes
light up on Diwali, India’s largest
Hindu festival, participate in Durga
Puja celebrations in Kolkata or
join in the riot of colours at the
Holi festival.
Hyderabad
Badami
Goa
Hampi
Karnataka
Hassan
Bylakuppe
Mangalore
Bekal
Coorg
Tellicherry
Mysore
Chennai
Tamil Nadu
Kabini
Mahabalipuram
Wayanad
Ooty
Calicut
Kerala
Cochin
Alleppey
(backwaters)
Trivandrum
Kovalam
Pondicherry
Palakkad
Trichy
Munnar
Thekkady
Chettinad
Karaikudi
Madurai
(Periyar)
Kanyakumari
(Cape Comorin)
South India
Marvel at Tamil Nadu’s soaring temples and Karnataka’s
bewildering stone architecture. Ride the toy train in the
Western Ghats and cruise through the backwaters of
Kerala. Learn the secrets of South Indian cuisine, and kick
back on the beaches of Goa or the remote Andaman &
Nicobar Islands.
TOURS
Spirit of South India
Karnataka Odyssey
Kerala Calling
Taste of South India
South India Tours
Spirit of South India
Temple towns, toy train & backwaters
• Cave temples in Tamil Nadu
• French Pondicherry
• Toy train in Ooty
• Tea tasting in Coonoor
• Colonial Fort Cochin
• Alleppey’s backwaters
PLACES: Chennai - Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry - Karaikudi - Madurai
- Ooty (Coonoor) - Cochin - Alleppey
DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: SSI
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Karnataka Odyssey
Coffee farms, wildlife and stone temples
• Stone temple architecture
• Boulder-strewn Hampi
• Wildlife in Kabini
• Bylakuppe’s Buddhists
• Coffee farms in Coorg
• Magnificent Mysore Palace
PLACES: Mangalore - Coorg - Bylakuppe - Kabini - Mysore - Hassan Hampi - Badami - Goa
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DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: KOD
Kerala Calling
Tea, spices, backwaters & beaches
• Theyyam festival
• Forests in Wayanad
• Backwaters of Kerala
• Cochin’s colonial heritage
• Tea & spice plantations
• India’s Southernmost tip
PLACES: Calicut - Tellicherry - Wayanad - Cochin - Munnar - Thekaddy
- Alleppey - Kovalam - Kanyakumari - Trivandrum
DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: KER
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Taste of South India
Experience exotic flavours of the South
• Learn from expert chefs
• Local food markets
• Dine with families
• Munnar’s tea estates
• Spice plantation tour
• Cruise on backwaters
PLACES: Hyderabad - Madurai - Chettinad - Palakkad - Munnar Thekkady - Alleppey - Cochin
DAYS: 15 | TOUR CODE: TSI
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Tailormade South India
Luxury
Trekking
Tropical beaches, emerald green hills and charming
colonial towns make South India the perfect luxury
getaway. Choose from delightful boutique bungalows,
colonial cottages, decadent lodges, plush houseboats
and 5 star hotels. South India is also the origin of
many ancient therapies including Ayurveda. Heal and
revitalise yourself with an Ayurvedic detox in one of
Kerala’s spa resorts, an ideal way to unwind after your
Indian adventure.
South India is blessed with magnificent mountain
scenery, ideal for those who like to explore on foot whether it be a relaxed trek through the fragrant tea
plantations of Munnar or something more challenging
across the Western Ghats, recently endorsed by
UNESCO as one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots.
This can easily be combined with a trip on board the old
toy train in Ooty.
Beach
Just a short flight from India’s east coast lie the idyllic
Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Blessed with turquoise
waters, diverse marine life and pristine coral reef,
this is a diver’s paradise. Rustic beachside properties,
delicious seafood and sublime scenery all seem a world
away from mainland India. Otherwise, consider ever
popular Goa with its Portuguese colonial charm,
or the beach towns of Bekal, Marari or Kovalam
along the Keralan coast.
Tea & Coffee
Very few places in the world grow both tea and coffee,
yet South India produces high quality blends of both.
Stay in a cottage amongst the rolling tea estates in
Munnar or sip aromatic Nilgiri tea in Coonoor. For
coffee enthusiasts, Coorg in Karnataka is known for its
lush green coffee forests teeming with birdlife. Wake up
in your rustic cottage with a cup of monsoon coffee and
views of the mist-shrouded hills.
For more information visit www.traveltheunknown.com/sin
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Wildlife of India
Whether by jeep, elephant, boat or on foot, a wildlife
adventure in India is a thrilling experience. Roam
through thick jungles, mangroves and sub-tropical
forests, and there is a good chance you will come
face-to-face with the wide spectrum of animals that
call India their home – from wild elephants, spotted
deer and majestic tigers to one-horned rhinos,
long-snouted gharials and even lions!
Below is a selection of India’s best national parks
and tiger reserves.
National Park/
Tiger Reserve
Region
of India
When
Wildlife
Kaziranga NP
North East
Nov – Mar
One-horned rhino, tigers, wild buffalo, elephants,
swamp deer, hog deer, hoolock gibbon
Nameri NP
North East
Nov – Mar
Elephants, tigers, butterflies, birdlife
Sunderbans NP
North East
Oct-Mar
Crocodiles, Royal Bengal tigers, 7 species
of kingfisher, Gangetic dolphins
Ranthambore TR
North
Oct - Jun
Tigers, leopards, spotted deer, crocodiles, peacocks
Chambal NP
North
Nov - Apr
Gharial, Gangetic dolphins, marsh
crocodiles, jungle cats, hyenas, birdlife
Corbett TR
North
Nov - May
Tigers, leopards, jungle cats, Asiatic
golden jackals, elephants, gharial
Satpura TR
Central
Nov - Jun
Leopards, tigers, sloth bears, Indian bison, wild
dogs, nilgai, birdlife
Panna TR
Central
Nov - Jun
Tigers, leopards, wild dog, chital deer, sloth bears
Bandhavgarh TR
Central
Nov - Jun
Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian bison, wild dogs
Kanha TR
Central
Nov - Jun
Tigers, barasingha, leopards, sloth bears,
Indian bison
Pench TR
Central
Nov - Jun
Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian bison, wild dogs
Tadoba TR
West
Nov - Jun
Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs
Gir NP
West
Oct - Jun
Asiatic lions, leopards, nilgai, wild boar, jackals
Little Rann of Kutch
West
Nov - Apr
Asiatic ass, chinkara & Chowsinga antelopes,
desert Cats, desert foxs, flamingos, short eared owls
Kabini NP
South
Oct-Apr
Tigers, leopards, elephants, crocodiles, Malabar
giant squirrels, sloth bears, wild dogs
Periyar TR
South
Nov-Apr
Elephants, birdlife
KEY:
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= Jeep
Safari experience
= Elephant-back
= Walking
= Boat
Tigers, Lions & Rhinos of India
Spot India’s BIG SIX!
• Tigers in central India
• Asiatic lions in Gir
• Elephant safari
• One-horned rhino
• Diverse birdlife
• Luxury jungle lodges
PLACES: Gir - Kanha - Pench - Kaziranga
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DAYS: 15 | TOUR CODE: TLR
Big Cats of India
Track tigers, lions & leopards
• Spotting tigers in the wild
• Elephant safari
• Game drives in Kanha
• Leopards in Satpura
• Stay in rustic jungle lodges
• Gujarat’s Asiatic lions
PLACES: Delhi - Kanha - Bandhavgarh - Satpura - Gir
DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: BCI
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Wildlife of North East India
Undiscovered wildlife in Assam & Sunderbans
• Wilderness of Manas
• Kaziranga’s one-horned rhinos
• Elephant safaris
• Birdlife in Nameri
• Cruising in Sunderbans
• Optional village visits
PLACES: Manas - Kaziranga - Nameri - Sunderbans
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DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: WNE
19
Thanks for organising such a great trip
to North East India! We loved the fact
that we could book an individual tour
but still have flexibility with our itinerary
once we were there, enabling us to
take in the Si Donyi Festival and stay
overnight in a local village home. Our
guide was super - he had a wealth of
knowledge and a great sense of humour!
Hazel Fairall
(Tribes of North
East India)
An excellent introduction
to South India. The
itinerary was varied and
interesting, and the
accommodation and
food excellent. The real
highlight for me was
going to many places
that were very much off
the beaten track, and
getting the opportunity
to meet local people in their
homes, at local markets
and cult ural events.
Julie Hindmarch
(Taste of South India)
20
This was my first experience of using Travel the Unknown
having enjoyed small group adventure holidays for many
years. I was attracted to the company because it seeks out
the more unusual and lesser known areas of a country and I
was not disappointed by my visit to Assa m and Arunachal
Pradesh. There is a clear contrast between the people and the
scenery of these two regions and we saw very few western
tourists particularly in Arunachal Pradesh. The tour was well
organised with plenty to see and do.
Keith Lewis (Monks, Tribes & Rhinos)
Another great trip from Travel the Unknown. I would
recommend this company to anyone who wants to move
outside the boundaries of the usual tourist itinerary.
Catherine Crawford (Kashmir & Ladakh Explorer, India)
I have travelled with various tour companies offering small group journeys
to destinations that I think of as more adventurous and for the sake of travel
rather than simply annual leave. I rate Travel the Unknown at the top of this
market. Their attention to the content and variety of the itinerary and the
quality of accommodation is excellent. I shall most certainly consider
Travel the Unknown’s offering when I choose my next destination.
Susanne Bradley (Spirit of South India)
Travel The Unknown tailormade our
extensive itinerary to meet our specific
requirements and we couldn’t have been
happier. The trip went like clockwork!
The individual guides and drivers were
excellent and the variety of unique
accommodation was outstanding. The
rough roads of Ladakh were worth it to
experience first-hand the majesty of the
towering Himalayas. So much to see in
India - need to plan another itinerary!
Laurel Smallwood
(Tailormade India)
What an incredible trip you planned
for us! I cannot tell you how thrilled we
were with our tailormade India tour. We
traveled for 34 days and every single day
was wonderful. Not only did you include
everything that we would have wanted to
experience, and many additional things
that we had no clue about, you planned it
in such a way that we had “down time” to
be able to relax and think about and savor
what we were experiencing. In addition, the
choice of many fascinating accommodations
gave almost as much an exposure to aspects
of India as our various tours.
Jay Holtzman
(Tailormade
tribal India)
Tibet (China)
Punakha
Haa
Thimphu
Paro
Trashiyangtse
Lhuntse
Bumthang
Arunachal
Pradesh (India)
Gangtey
Phobjikha Valley
Mongar
Darjeeling
Samdrup
Jongkhar
Phuentsoling
West
Beng
al (Ind
ia)
Trashigang
Manas NP
tra
u
ap
m
ah
Br
Assam (India)
Guwahati
Bangladesh
Bhutan
Hidden deep in the Himalayas, Bhutan is a mystical land
where traditional Buddhist beliefs permeate everyday life,
masked monks perform medieval dances, monasteries
and dzongs dot the landscape, and birds sing from dense
virgin forests covering most of the land.
TOURS
Western Bhutan Explorer
Bhutan’s Hidden East
Best of Bhutan
All scheduled Bhutan tours
coincide with festivals.
Bhutan Tours
Western Bhutan Explorer
Tiger’s Nest, dzongs & valleys
• Thimphu’s living museum
• Magnificent Punakha Dzong
• Rural Phobjikha Valley
• Hike to Tiger’s Nest
• Dramatic Haa Valley
PLACES: Paro - Thimphu - Punakha - Gangtey - Paro - Haa
J
F M A M
J
J
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DAYS: 10 | TOUR CODE: WBE
Bhutan’s Hidden East
Hidden villages, forests & dramatic scenery
• Remote rural villages
• Rich Buddhist culture
• Textiles & handicrafts
• Wildlife in Bomdeling NP
• Valley walks in Bumthang
• Majestic landscapes
PLACES: Guwahati (India) - Manas NP (India) - Samdrup Jongkhar - Trashigang Trashi Yangste - Bomdeling NP - Lhuentse - Mongar - Bumthang - Paro
DAYS: 12 | TOUR CODE: BHE
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J
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Best of Bhutan
Traverse Bhutan from east to west
• Medieval Buddhist dzongs
• Hike to Tiger’s Nest
• Himalayan scenery
• Rural walks in Bumthang
• Meet local people
• Diverse birdlife
PLACES: Guwahati (India) - Samdrup Jongkhar - Trashigang Trashiyangtse - Mongar - Bumthang - Gangtey - Punakha - Thimphu - Paro
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DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: BOB
Tailormade Bhutan
For a private and personal experience
we can arrange a bespoke itinerary to cater
specifically to your needs. As well as the options
available on our group tours, please read on for more
ideas which we could incorporate on a private tour.
www.traveltheunknown.com/bhutan
India Extensions
Bhutan shares two border crossings
with India and if you have spare time
then it is highly recommended you
enter Bhutan by road - either from
West Bengal or Assam.
West Bengal
If your Bhutan trip starts in the west
(typically Paro or Thimphu) fly into
Kolkata taking in its colonial sights
and bustling markets, then proceed
to the tea estates and ride the toy
train in Darjeeling and finally drive to
the border town of Phuentsholing in
Bhutan. You can do this trip in reverse
if exiting by road from Bhutan.
Assam
If your Bhutan trip starts or ends in
Samdrup Jongkhar in the east (on
Assam border) you can easily fly
in or out of Guwahati, just 3 hours
drive away. As long time specialists
in North East India we can organise
a tailormade tour of Assam or
elsewhere in the region. If dates
work out, you could even join a
scheduled tour. Take a look at our
North East India section (page 7) for
more ideas.
Note: you will require either a
single or multiple entry visa for
India depending on how you enter/
exit Bhutan.
Wildlife & Birding
Given that over 60% of Bhutan’s
land mass is protected and largely
inaccessible, it is no surprise that
Bhutan is bursting with hidden
flora and fauna. Over 600 species
of birds have been recorded thus
far and endangered species like
the rare and endangered black
necked crane migrate from Tibet
to Phobjika Valley in autumn (there
is a good chance of seeing them
on our Western Bhutan Explorer
tour). Although big cat sightings
are rare, it is possible to spot
some of Bhutan’s iconic mammals
including endemic golden langurs,
red pandas and takin. Most parks
are still closed to visitors, although
Royal Manas National Park, on the
Assam border, is gradually opening
up to wildlife tourism. Contact us if
you are interested in a customised
wildlife or birding tour.
Trekking
With few visitors, untrodden
paths, majestic mountains, virgin
forests, subtropical jungle and
spectacular valleys, Bhutan is a
trekker’s paradise. From gentler
community-based village treks
in the valleys of Bumthang taking
you past ancient monasteries
and temples to more challenging
multi-day treks in the Greater
Himalayas, we can design a
pure trekking itinerary for you
or integrate some lighter village
walks into your Bhutan trip. Either
way you are guaranteed some of
the most dramatic scenery in the
world, exotic birdlife and ever
welcoming locals.
TIP: For wildlife lovers, consider a
trip to little-visited Manas National
Park which also borders Bhutan,
and is particularly renowned for its
birdlife. You can also extend further
and visit Kaziranga and Nameri
National Parks.
23
Far East
Renowned for its ancient cultures and traditions, the Far
East is home to floating villages, evergreen rice terraces,
crumbling colonial towns, diverse birdlife, magnificent
waterways and mouthwatering cuisine.
Myanmar....................................................................................25
Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos......................................................28
Philippines.................................................................................34
India
Kyaukme
Bangladesh
Chin Hills
Mrauk U
Sittwe
China
Hsipaw
Man
dalay
Bagan
Kalaw
Heho
Lake Inle
Laos
Ngapali
Yangon
Kyaiktiyo
Hpa An
Mawlamyine
Thailand
Indian Ocean
Gulf of
Thailand
Myanmar
Rapidly emerging from the shadows of its troubled past,
Myanmar is brimming with hidden delights - from ancient
pagodas and colourful tribal markets to forest-clad
mountains, rural villages and welcoming people.
TOURS
Mystical Myanmar
Classical Myanmar
Magic of Mrauk U
Myanmar Tours
Mystical Myanmar
Experience the best of Myanmar
• Ancient Buddhist temples
• Boat ride in Mandalay
• Tribal culture in Mon
• Golden rock pagoda
• Forest trek in Kalaw
• Observe rural life
PLACES: Yangon - Hsipaw - Mandalay - Bagan - Kalaw - Inle - Kyaiktiyo
- Hpa An - Mawlamyine
DAYS: 17 | TOUR CODE: MYM
J
F M A M
J
J
A
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Classical Myanmar
Buddhist culture & rural villages
• Heritage tour of Yangon
• Ancient pagodas of Bagan
• Pine forests of Kalaw
• Floating villages on Lake Inle
• Monks in Mandalay
• Visit local markets
PLACES: Yangon - Bagan - Mandalay - Heho - Kalaw - Inle
J
F M A M
J
J
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DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: CMY
Magic of Mrauk U
Temples & tattooed tribes
• Temples in Mrauk U
• Boat down Lay Myo river
• Tattooed Chin tribe
• Serene rural life
• Market visits
PLACES: Yangon - Sittwe - Mrauk U - Chin Hills
DAYS: 5 | TOUR CODE: MOM
26
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Tailormade Myanmar
www.traveltheunknown.com/myanmar
Trekking
Archaeology
Myanmar offers stunning trekking
routes for everybody, no matter
what your level of experience is.
The rural highlands of Northern
Shan state will challenge the
most ardent trekker, while those
seeking a less strenuous trek will
enjoy the beautiful route from the
pine forests of Kalaw to Lake Inle.
For something in between, trek to
the summit of Mount Victoria, and
enjoy the added bonus of a prime
bird-watching spot and a Chin tribal
experience.
Myanmar’s complex history tells
the tale of flourishing Burmese
kingdoms, each leaving their
own indelible mark on the
archaeological landscape of
Myanmar. Our specialist guide
will help you discover the colonial
heritage and Shwedagon Paya in
Yangon. Further north, learn about
the ruling dynasties of Sri Ksetra
and Beikthano, before reaching the
infamous temple town of Bagan.
Finally head west to the hidden
former Rakhine kingdom of Mrauk
U, considered one of the most
important archaeological sites in
Myanmar.
Festivals
There is almost a festival every
week of the year in Myanmar, but
you have to be in the right place
at the right time. Why not make a
splash at the Water Festival, one of
Myanmar’s most famous festivals
where locals pour water over each
other as a cleansing ritual before
the New Year begins. Or you can
follow processions of Buddha
statues on Lake Inle at the Phaung
Daw Oo festival, one of Myanmar’s
largest Buddhist festivals.
Contact us for suggested
archaeology-themed itineraries
in Myanmar.
River Cruise
Luxury
Accommodation
Although tourism is still in its
infancy, luxury options are available
in Myanmar’s main cities. You can
read a book on the verandah of your
boutique Burmese cottage, sip wine
in your chalet overlooking sparkling
Lake Inle or unwind in high-end
colonial properties.
Beach
Ngapali on Myanmar’s west coast
boasts a huge stretch of white
beach with coconut palms and
crystal clear waters. With a number
of plush resorts to choose from, a
sundowner overlooking the Bay of
Bengal is the perfect way to round
off your Myanmar adventure.
Myanmar’s legendary Ayeyarwady
River has always played a vital
role in trade and the sustenance
of rural communities throughout
the country. Watch life unfold from
the comfort of your boat, whether
it be between the iconic cities of
Bagan and Mandalay or down
lesser-known rivers and tributaries
stopping off at hidden villages. The
sight of Myanmar’s ancient pagodas
shimmering in the water against
the fading sun is a memory that will
last a lifetime.
27
Hanoi
Vietnam
Burma
Ha Giang
Ba Bé Lake
Sapa
Thac Ba
Hanoi But Thap
Halong Bay
Mai Chau
Laos
Hué
Laos
But Thap
Halong Bay
Luang Prabang
Vientiane
Hoi An
Nam Ngum
Kontum
Hué
Cambodia
Buon Ma Thuot
Hoi An
Nha Trang
Thailand
Ho Chi Minh
City
Mekong Delta
Cambodia
Veon Sai
Preah Vihear
Siem Reap
(Angkor Temples) Stung Treng
Sambor Prei Kuk
Battambang
Tonlé
Sap Lake
Siem Reap
(Angkor Temples)
Sambor Prei Kuk
Ban Lung
Kampong Thom
Kratie
Cardamom
Mountains
Sen Monorom
Kampong Cham
Phnom Penh
Buon
Ma Thuot
Kratie
Phnom Penh
Vietnam
Cambodia
Ho Chi Minh City
(Saigon)
Chisor Mountain
Kampot
Kontum
Ban Lung
Strung Treng
69
11
Kep
Mekong Delta
Vietnam,
Cambodia & Laos
Sharing a common history of Chinese dynasties,
Angkor kings, Champa emperors, and US
bombardment, this region also boasts abundant
natural beauty, warm hospitality, and superb cuisine.
Mekong Delta
TOURS
Classic Indochina
Hidden Indochina
Essential Vietnam
Hidden Vietnam
Flavours of Vietnam
Classic Cambodia
Hidden Cambodia
Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos Tours
Classic Indochina
Ancient temples, glittering bays & delicious cuisine
• Hindu mythology & Khmer
architecture
• Cambodia’s killing fields
• Sacred site of Luang Prabang
• History of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh
• Junk boat through Halong Bay
PLACES: Sambor Prei Kuk - Siem Reap & Angkor Temples - Luang Prabang
- Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hué - Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta
DAYS: 19 | TOUR CODE: CIC
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F M A M
J
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A
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Hidden Indochina
Capture the true essence and diversity of Indochina
• Attend a remote monastery ceremony • Meet calligraphers, water
• Elephant project and tribal markets
puppeteers
• Take a boat to visit fishing villages
• Discover hidden tribes & pagodas
PLACES: Phnom Penh - Stung Treng - Ban Lung - Kratie - Vientiane - Nam
Ngum - Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City - Central Highlands - Hanoi
J
F M A M
J
J
A
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DAYS: 21 | TOUR CODE: HIC
29
Essential Vietnam
Discover Vietnam’s charms and its people
• Take a traditional junk boat
• Contrasting history of Vietnam’s two
through Halong Bay great cities - Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh • Historic cities of Hué and Hoi An • Coastline & the Mekong Delta
PLACES: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hué - Hoi An - Nha Trang - Ho Chi Minh
City - Mekong Delta - Can Tho
DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: EV
J
F M A M
J
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Hidden Vietnam
Get under the skin of Vietnam’s culture & people
• Tribes of the Central Highlands
• Undiscovered temples & pagodas
• Discover local art & music scenes • Water puppetry and calligraphy
• Riverboat cruise in Mekong Delta • Alternative Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City
PLACES: Ho Chi Minh City - Cai Be - Tra On - Buon Ma Thuot - Lak Lake - Kontum - Hanoi
J
F M A M
J
J
A
S
O
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DAYS: 15 | TOUR CODE: HV
Flavours of Vietnam
Discover Vietnam’s wonderful food culture
• Boat Halong Bay & Mekong Delta • Learn techniques from excellent chefs
• Contrasting history of Vietnam’s two • Historic Hué and Hoi An
great cities - Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh • Make coconut candy & rice noodles
PLACES: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hué - Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City - Can Tho
DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: FOV
30
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J
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Tailormade Vietnam
Rural Vietnam
www.traveltheunknown.com/vietnam
Sapa & the Northwest
Discover colourful tribes, ethnic
markets, magical scenery and a
great place to go trekking.
Far North
Take a boat out on BaBe Lake, hike
Bac Giang’s grand massifs, rocky
plateaus & rolling valleys, overnight
with locals in their homes.
Mai Chai
Vibrant ethnic markets and good
hiking and cycling.
Phu Quoc
Undeveloped island with beautiful
white sand beaches and friendly
locals. Excellent diving and
snorkelling.
Festivals
(lunar new year) in Hanoi, join the
elephant racing festival in Dak Lak
or witness human chess at the
Perfume Pagoda festival.
Train and boat
Great ways to experience Vietnam,
especially a Mekong Delta cruise.
Options to cruise to Cambodia
available.
Luxury
Rice harvest
Indulge in champagne and lobster on a private restored junk
boat through Halong Bay, enjoy
traditional massage and a herb
bath in tranquil rural Vietnam and
experience Vietnam’s finest dining.
Family
Take your family on the holiday
of a lifetime - boats, beaches,
elephants, and more.
Street vendor, Hanoi
Add some colour to your trip by
catching a festival. Spend Tet
Traditional Longhouse
Halong Bay sunset
31
Classic Cambodia
Khmer temples, colonial towns and warm locals
• Hindu mythology & Khmer
architecture
• Make classic Cambodian dishes
• Colonial Kampot and Kep
• Visit Hindu and Buddhist relics
• Explore heritage of Phnom Penh
PLACES: Phnom Penh - Battambang - Siem Reap - Angkor Wat Kampot - Kep
DAYS: 10 | TOUR CODE: CCB
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F M A M
J
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Hidden Cambodia
Discover the real Cambodia, far from the tourist trail
• Pre-Angkorian temples, Buddhist
pagodas & Hindu shrines
• Spend time with elephants
• Take a boat to visit remote villages
• Ceremony at a hidden monastery
• Enjoy a traditional Khmer massage
PLACES: Phnom Penh - Stung Treng - Ban Lung - Koh Trong - Sen
Monorom - Kompong Cham - Phnom Chisor
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J
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DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: HC
Tailormade Cambodia & Laos
Tailormade Cambodia
•
Water Festival in Phnom Penh - boat races,
fireworks & music (November)
•
Preah Vihear temple - beautiful remote 9th Century temple dedicated to Shiva
•
Take a helicopter ride over the Angkor temples to
grasp their true scale
•
•
Koh Dach - observe traditional silk weaving on this
rural island
Cardamom Mountains - hiking with jungle stays in hammocks as well as kayaking, mountain biking, butterfly and bird watching
•
More options for luxury, family and active trips are available
For more information visit www.traveltheunknown.com/cambodia
Tailormade Laos
•
Active - Laos boasts a wide range of trekking and
cycling options to suit every level and taste. Other
activities include rafting, kayaking, zip-wiring, treetop canopy walks, mountain biking, climbing, caving
and river trips.
•
Archaeology - visit the UNESCO Wat Phou temple
ruins in the Mekong Basin and discover the mysterious
prehistoric landscapes of the Plain of Jars.
•
Rural - stay with locals and get under the skin of
the real Laos.
For more information visit www.traveltheunknown.com/laos
33
Laoag
Vigan
Sagada
Banaue
Baguio
Philippine Sea
North Luzon
Legazpi
Manila
Bulusan
Ticao Island
Sorsogon
Legazpi
(Mt Mayon)
St. Paul Subterranean River
National Park
Sorsogon
South Luzon
Tagaytay
(Mt Taal)
South China Sea
Bicol
Visayan Sea
Puerto Princesa
Cebu
Palawan
Bohol
Puerto Princesa
Sulu Sea
Mindanao
Davao
Celebes Sea
Indonesia
Philippines
A vast archipelago of over 7000 islands, home to seething
volcanoes, hill tribes who still tend 2000 year old rice
terraces, bulging tropical biodiversity, palm-fringed
beaches and charming Spanish colonial towns, the
Philippines has to be Asia’s best-kept secret.
TOURS
Best of the Islands
Hidden Treasures of Luzon Philippines Tours
Best of the Islands
Chocolate hills, tribes, volcanoes & beaches
• Village life of the Bagobo tribe
• Historical tour of Cebu
• Chocolate Hills & tarsiers in Bohol
• Underground river in Palawan
• Mount Mayon – perfect conical volcano
• Isolated beauty of Ticao Island
PLACES: Manila - Davao - Cebu - Bohol - Palawan - Legazpi - Ticao
DAYS: 14 | TOUR CODE: BOI
J
F M A M
J
J
A
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Hidden Treasures of Luzon
Hill tribes, dramatic volcanoes & idyllic islands
• Manila’s Intramuros fort
• Vigan’s colonial charm
• Hill tribes of Banaue
• Sagada’s hanging coffins
• Smoking volcanoes
• Relax on Ticao Island
PLACES: Manila - Laoag - Vigan - Banaue - Sagada - Baguio - Tagaytay
- Legazpi - Ticao
J
F M A M
J
J
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DAYS: 16 | TOUR CODE: HTL
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Tailormade Philippines
www.traveltheunknown.com/philippines
Around Manila
The main entry point to the
Philippines, Manila can seem a
typical chaotic capital. However,
it’s worth spending a few extra
days there to take in some
noteworthy sights:
Intramuros (half-day tour): built
in 1571 and enclosing government
buildings, churches and schools, the
ruins of this once imposing fortress
serve as a reminder of Spanish
domination in the Philippines. You
can walk along the 4.5km-long
ramparts and most of the walls and
gates are still accessible.
Corregidor Island (full day tour): a 1 hour ferry ride from Manila Bay,
Corregidor Island saw two fierce
battles between the US and Japan
during WWII. Your guide will take
you to Malinta Tunnel, Battery Way,
the Pacific War Memorial and the
Spanish Lighthouse, and recount
WWII life in the tunnels.
Volcanoes: Mount Taal and Mount
Pinatubo are close by.
Volcano Trail
Located along the ‘Pacific Ring of
Fire’, volcanoes of all shapes and
sizes dot the Philippines landscape.
Mount Taal (North Luzon): Located
close to Manila in the small town
of Tagaytay, Lake Taal sits within
the crater of Mount Taal, which
itself sits within the crater lake of
36
a prehistoric super volcano! Boat
trips can be taken to Mount Taal so
you can admire ‘Volcano Island’ at
close quarters.
Mount Pinatubo (North Luzon):
Also close to Manila, take the jeep
across the moon-like terrain of
Crow Valley, through the indigenous
Aeta village, where you can trek
to the summit of Pinatubo. Enjoy
sublime views of the crater lake
before heading back to Pinatubo
spa town for a reinvigorating
shower and hearty meal.
Mount Mayon (South Luzon):
Dubbed the ‘most perfect conical’
volcano in the world, perpetually
smoking Mount Mayon provides
a formidable backdrop to Legazpi
City. You can trek through forests,
grasslands and boulders, bathe
in natural springs and camp on
Mayon’s symmetrical slopes. You
can also take an ATV (all-terrainvehicle) through rocky rivers and
walk up to one of the lava walls
created when it erupted in 2006.
Mount Apo (Mindanao): Scale the
highest volcano in the Philippines,
considered sacred by local tribes.
On this two day ascent, pitch your
tent in primeval forests and bathe
in the waterfalls. There is also a
good chance to spot the endangered
Philippine Eagle. Speed your way back
down Southeast Asia’s longest zipline.
There are numerous other trekking
options available in the Philippines.
Contact us for more information.
Diving & snorkelling
Perhaps it is no surprise that the
Philippines archipelago of 7107
islands lends itself to some of
the best diving and snorkelling
in the world. You are guaranteed
warm clear waters, technicolour
marine life, astounding coral
gardens and World War II wrecks.
It is impossible to mention the
hundreds of great dive spots in the
Philippines, so a few highlights are
mentioned below.
Donsol Bay (Southeast Luzon):
Get up close and personal with
whale sharks, the gentle giants
of the water! From November to
June whale sharks come in great
numbers to feed on nutrients. Slip
on a vest and snorkel alongside
these magnificent creatures
which span up to 12m in length
with mouths as wide as 2m! Only
snorkelling is allowed in Donsol Bay.
Coron Bay (Palawan): Few places
rival Coron for wreck-diving, where
a submerged Japanese fleet of
warships and merchant ships can
be seen teeming with aquatic life.
The wrecks can be found in both
shallow and deep waters, so divers
of all levels can observe these
historical vessels close up.
Diving courses (PADI/SSI) can also
be arranged.
A well-planned itinerary that cra mmed an
impressive a mount into 16 days, without ever
feeling rushed. Ca mbodia and Vietna m are both
fantastic destinations, offering stunning natural
scenery and beautifully preserved historical sites,
together with truly delightful and welcoming
people. Our guides made our trip extraordinary,
weaving their personal histories in to the many
insights they gave us of two countries that have
experienced such difficult pasts.
Mark Pettengel & Jo Martin
(Tailormade Vietna m
& Ca mbodia)
This is our second fabulous trip with
Travel The Unknown and we were not
disappointed. Rajasthan’s vibrant colours
of turbans and saris, the noise, the
spicy aromas, the silence in the hot air
balloon over rural Jaipur, the majestic forts
and palaces of ancient times, sighting
leopards in the wild, all far exceeded our
expectations and the heritage homes and
hotels we stayed in, whilst being of high
standard in every way, still had a friendly
fa mily touch. Thanks so much to Rahul
and the tea m for such a memorable trip.
Six weeks on and we still can’t stop talking
about it. I can’t wait for the next one!
Jenni Gregory
(Tailormade
India)
This was our second
tailormade trip with
Travel the Unknown
and we loved our
first time travel in
Myanmar. The
amazing attractions
together with the
wonderful and
friendly people of
Myanmar and the
delightful, adaptable
guides made it a trip
we will never forget.
Rainer Huebner
(Tailormade Myanmar)
From start to finish, the whole
trip was well planned to our
requirements. Everything went
smoothly and the guides
and drivers looked after our
every need. We stayed in
an interesting and diverse
selection of excellent hotels.
Throughout the trip, the
company regularly checked
that everything was going OK
and that we were happy. We
felt very looked after. Overall,
a wonderful holiday above our
expectations. We would use
Travel the Unknown again.
Graham & Barbara Wilson
(Tailormade India & Nepal)
The Mystical Myanmar
tour gave us a great
introduction to small group
tours. The itinerary gave us a
wide range of activities and
tours. The highlight of the trip
was Inle Lake, arriving by
bicycle at Indein and then
touring the lake by motor
boat. A fascinating country.
Sarah Bates
(Mystical Myanmar)
37
Mystical Myanmar offered a
great way of travelling around this
beautiful, unspoilt country, and
experiencing its culture and people
which are truly unique. It offers
a fantastic range of experiences
which made every day different
and very memorable.
Steve Stiles
(Mystical Myanmar)
Our trip with Travel
The Unknown was
one of our best trips
ever. All went as
planned, wonderful
guides, perfect hotels
- best of all: excellent
scheduling of activities
and time to restbalance was just what
we needed!! Thank you
to all staff involved!
This trip was very well put together and ticked
all the boxes that we had requested. The
accommodation throughout the tour was of a high
standard and our experiences in the national parks
was wonderful spotting many different animals
including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, lions, jungle cat
plus countless nu mber of birds. Thank you Rahul for
tailoring this trip to our requirements.”
Nigel & Margaret Turner
(Tailormade India wildlife tour)
I have been on 3 tailor made trips with Travel
the Unknown and have found them to be
knowledgeable and reliable. We’ve stayed in
some wonderful places and have had some
unusual and satisfying experiences that go
beyond the standard tours.
Joan Edmunds
(Tailormade India)
Rahul, of Travel The Unknown, has now arranged two trips
to India for me. I travel on my own, & have definite aims
on my travels. These are always achieved and more, as extra
activities are suggested and my wilder schemes gently
discouraged. I have complete faith in the tea m, which is
important both for me and my fa mily when I take off for
foreign climes. There is always someone at the end of a phone
when I’m abroad, so the occasional sticky moment is easily
defused. Wonderful experiences mean that I have a smile on
my face for at least a month after getting home. Thank you
all at Travel The Unknown. Can’t wait for next time!
Jan and Greg Sheffer
(Classic Indochina)
38
Christine Barratt
(Tailormade Shimla, Amritsar
& Darjeeling)
Notes
Photos courtesy of: Rob Horsefield (page 3), JP Klovstad (page 24)
39
Award−winning tour operator, recommended by
Lonely Planet, Rough Guide, Bradt, Footprint & Wanderlust
Travel The Unknown’s Northeast India tours have zoned
in on the absolute prime attractions, visiting a string
of culturally unique, scenically stunning places - and
maximising every moment spent there. They’re also to
be commended for their integrity, having established
,
excellent relations with local tour operators, sympathetic
to the remote communities they visit. Their outstanding
guides take great care to respect and protect indigenous
lifestyles in these delicate regions.
Having been on five trips now with Travel The
Unknown, I would definitely recommend anyone
considering to take the plunge if they haven’t
booked with TTU before! I really appreciate the
personal service from people who love and understand
travel. So many travel companies are offering
adventure and small group travel these days which
are no longer adventurous but mainstream and
whose small groups have crept up in size.
Vanessa Betts
(Author, Footprint Guide:
Northeast India)
Julie Crank
(Travelled to India,
Iran, Turkey, Colombia)
Request our other brochure for more on tours outside Asia:
Balkans • Caucasus • Turkey • Iran • Jordan • Ethiopia • Morocco • Colombia • Cuba • Mexico
Reasons to book with Travel The Unknown
• Small group tours (max 12 people)
•
•
•
•
• Fully ATOL bonded & ﬁnancially insured
UK: 020 7183 6371 I US: +1 347 329 5524
[email protected]
www.traveltheunknown.com
Riverbank House I 1 Putney Bridge Approach I London I SW6 3BQ I UK
Registered in England and Wales: 06347869 I ATOL 9854
Travel The Unknown
is always at the
forefront of authentic
and pioneering travel.
Lyn Hughes, Fou nder
& Editor of Wa nderlust

India • Bhutan Myanmar • Vietnam Cambodia • Laos Philippines

Transcription

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