SAP BASIS Self Learning

Hello,

Is there any possibility to learn SAP BASIS using Sap netweaver trial version download from the SDN network? There is no institute in my District, I have to relocate to Bangalore for a month to do the course. But i am busy with my current project so it will take 3-4 months to join the class. Meanwhile i would like to learn by myself before joing the course. But i dont know how to start.
And what is IDES? will it help for learning BASIS?
could anyone suggest an idea.

Regards,
Ashok