Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

Upon your arrival at Delhi airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. Post check-in, the remainder of the day is yours to unwind or explore the city at your own pace. Consider visiting the vibrant Chandni Chowk market or take a leisurely evening stroll around the India Gate.

 

Day 2: Delhi Exploration

After a hearty breakfast, set off for a full-day exploration of Delhi's historical and cultural landmarks. Delight in visits to the Red Fort, an emblem of Mughal grandeur; Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque; Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi's memorial; Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site; India Gate, a war memorial; and Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world. Additionally, enjoy a drive past the Parliament House, President's House, and other significant government edifices. In the evening, consider an optional rickshaw ride through the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk.

 

Day 3: Delhi to Agra (210km)

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Agra, the city of love. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. After refreshing, head out to marvel at the iconic Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun. Later, delve into the architectural grandeur and history of the Agra Fort. If time permits, visit the Mehtab Bagh for a panoramic view of the Taj Mahal during sunset.

 

Day 4: Agra to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri (245km)

Drive to Jaipur, the renowned "Pink City". Along the way, explore the UNESCO-listed Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned Mughal capital with intricate designs. Upon reaching Jaipur, settle into your hotel. In the evening, you may choose to explore the vibrant local bazaars known for their handicrafts and jewelry. Alternatively, opt for an evening cultural show at a local theater to witness Rajasthani folk dances and music.

 

Day 5: Jaipur City Tour

Start the day with a visit to the majestic Amber Fort, a stunning blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Enjoy an elephant ride to ascend the fort's hilltop location. Later, explore the City Palace, the residence of the royal family; Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory; and Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds, known for its intricate latticework. In the evening, visit the local markets to shop for colorful textiles, handicrafts, and semi-precious stones.

 

Day 6: Jaipur to Cochin (by flight)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Cochin. Upon landing in Kerala's cultural hub, check in and spend the day exploring local markets or relaxing at the hotel, soaking in the blend of colonial and Keralite influences in the city's architecture. In the evening, consider an optional Kathakali makeup and costume demonstration to understand the intricacies of this traditional dance form.

 

Day 7: Cochin Exploration

Embark on a half-day tour of Cochin. Visit Mattancherry Palace, showcasing Kerala's mural art; the Paradesi Synagogue, adorned with Belgian chandeliers; and experience the intriguing Chinese Fishing Nets, believed to be introduced by traders from the court of Kublai Khan. In the evening, immerse yourself in a traditional Kathakali dance performance, a dance form depicting tales from Indian epics with elaborate makeup and costumes.

 

Day 8: Cochin to Munnar (140km)

Journey to Munnar, a verdant hill station known for its sprawling tea gardens and misty mountains. En route, visit the Cheeyappara Waterfalls and Valara Waterfalls for a refreshing break. Check in upon arrival and spend the rest of the day at leisure, enjoying the tranquility of the Western Ghats.

 

Day 9: Munnar Sightseeing

Discover Munnar's beauty with visits to the Tea Museum, offering insights into tea processing; Mattupetty Dam, a picturesque reservoir; and Echo Point, known for its natural echo phenomena. Also, enjoy leisurely walks through the lush tea estates, savoring the aroma of fresh tea leaves and enjoying panoramic views of the rolling hills. If interested, opt for an early morning trek to the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India.

 

Day 10: Munnar to Thekkady (110km)

Drive to Thekkady, a nature lover's paradise and home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Check in and embark on an exhilarating boat ride on Periyar Lake, spotting wildlife like elephants, sambar deer, and birds. Later, visit aromatic spice plantations and learn about Kerala's rich spice heritage. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kerala martial arts performance known as Kalaripayattu.

 

Day 11: Thekkady Adventures

After breakfast, enjoy a guided nature walk through the dense forests surrounding the sanctuary, offering opportunities to spot diverse flora and fauna. You can also opt for a bamboo rafting experience in the Periyar Lake or visit tribal villages to learn about local customs and traditions.

 

Day 12: Thekkady to Alleppey (130km)

Head to Alleppey, known as the "Venice of the East". Board a traditional houseboat for a memorable cruise through the serene backwaters, passing by picturesque villages, lush paddy fields, and tranquil lagoons. Relish traditional Kerala cuisine prepared onboard and spend the night on the houseboat, lulled by the gentle sway of the water. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Thiruvathira dance performance onboard.

 

Day 13: Alleppey to Kovalam (200km)

Travel to the coastal paradise of Kovalam. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax on the pristine beaches or indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments offered at local wellness centers. In the evening, stroll along the Kovalam Beach promenade, dotted with numerous eateries and shops.

 

Day 14: Kovalam and Trivandrum Excursion

Today, visit the scenic Lighthouse Beach and Hawa Beach in Kovalam, known for their golden sands and clear waters. Later, explore Trivandrum's cultural and historical landmarks, including the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a blend of Dravidian and Kerala architectural styles, and the Napier Museum, housing a rare collection of archaeological and historic artifacts. In the evening, explore the bustling Chalai Market for local spices, textiles, and handicrafts.

 

Day 15: Kovalam Leisure

Enjoy another day at your own pace in Kovalam. Opt to visit the Kovalam Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the coastline; explore the quaint Vizhinjam fishing village; or take a day trip to Poovar or Varkala beaches, known for their serene ambiance and scenic beauty. Alternatively, indulge in a relaxing Ayurvedic spa treatment to rejuvenate mind, body, and soul.

 

Day 16: Departure from Kovalam

After breakfast, transfer to Trivandrum airport for your onward journey, bidding farewell to the mesmerizing landscapes, cultural delights, and warm hospitality of India's Golden Triangle and Kerala Backwaters. As you depart, cherish the unforgettable memories and experiences collected during your journey through the diverse landscapes and rich heritage of India.

- Assistance on arrival at airport.

- 15 Nights' accommodation in selected price category hotels.

- Daily breakfast at hotels.

- Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.

- English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.

- Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.

- Bottled drinking water in car.

- Government taxes.

 

Hotels used or similar for 15 nights accommodations

Delhi x 2 nights
3* - Madhuban Hotel/ Meridian Plaza
4* - The Royal Plaza/ Country Inn & Suite Saket
5* - Le Meridien/ The Claridges

Agra x 1 nights
3* - Howard Plaza the Fern/ Atulyaa Taj
4* - Radission Hotel/ Crystal Sarovar Premier
5* - Trident Hotel/ Courtyard by Marriott

Jaipur x 2 nights
3* - Redfox Hotel/ Park Ocean
4* - Fortune Select Metropolitan/ Lemon Tree Premier
5* - ITC Rajputana/ Hilton Jaipur

Cochin x 2 nights
3* - The Dune Hotel/ Abad Plaza
4* - Casino Hotel/ The Avenue Regent
5* - Xandari Harbour/ Le Meridien

Munnar x 2 nights
3* - Fort Munnar/ Abad Copper Castle
4* - Nature Zone Jungle Resort/ Fragrant Nature Munnar
5* - Chandys Windy Woods/ Tea County

Pariyar (Thekkady) x 2 night
3* - Abad Green Forest/ Hotel Treetop
4* - The Elephant Court/ Cardamom County
5* - Spice village/ Cardamom County

Alleppey x 1 night
3* - ATDC Houseboat/ Dream Boats
4* - ATDC Houseboat/ Dream Boats
5* - Xandari Riverscapes/ Lakes & Lagoons/ Spice Route Premium

Kovalam x 3 nights
3* - Harmonia Beach Resort/ Sagara Beach Resort
4* - Estuary Island Resort/Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel
5* - Vivanta by Taj - Green Cove/ The Leela Kovalam Beach

- Jaipur - Cochin flight fare approx INR 9,500 per person in economy class.

- Camera charges at monuments if any.

- Meals other than mentioned in the inclusions.

- Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc. 

- Gratuities and optional activities.

- Anything not mentioned in inclusions.