Traidcraft Meet the People Tours, Fair Trade Holidays

Eastern India

To complement our existing range of trips we are adding this exciting tour which explores Central and Eastern India. Our tour begins in Delhi and we can take in the sights and sounds of this fascinating city as we visit some of the historic buildings and enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through Chandi Chowk. We learn about the work of Trade Alternative Reform Action (TARA) at their office in Delhi before taking our first train journey to Agra where we visit one of their embroidery projects. Agra is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India and some time will be spent visiting various sights including the Taj Mahal before moving on to Bhopal. A gas leak in the US Union Carbide factory killed more than 15,000 people in 1984 and still continues to impact on the health of those who live in the surrounding area. We visit Bhopal Rehabilitation Centre (Bhopal RC) who work with locals to provide training to men and women in the production of leather, canvas, jute and silk items.

The journey will continue eastwards with stops in Kanha National Park and Raipur before reaching the State of Orissa where stays in Rayagada, Taptapani and Konark will allow us to get a taste for what this state has to offer. Here in Orissa we learn more about the work of Traidcraft Exchange and visit their partners Council of Professional Social Workers (CPSW) and Anwesha.