Journey Details

DAY 01: ARRIVE DELHI   

Delhi remains one of the oldest surviving cities in the world today. It is, in fact, an amalgam of eight cities, each site being built in a different era by a new dynasty/ruler. Today the remains of forts, palaces and buildings are spread across the city, hence adding to its character. Delhi through its 1000-year-old history has evolved into a culturally secular city – absorbing different religions, diverse cultures, both foreign and indigenous, and yet functioning as one organic entity. It was known for its riches – both material and cultural – foreign travelers were hypnotized by it – books have been written on it since time immemorial, poets have loved it, and Kings and Emperors have fought over it.

Meeting and assistance on arrival and transfer to hotel for check in.

Rest of the day is at leisure for relaxation.

Overnight at hotel.

DAY 02:  in DELHI  

After breakfast visit old Delhi, drive past the Red Fort – a marvel in red sandstone, the Raj Ghat, – memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, the Jama Masjid – the largest mosque in India. Spend some time in Chandni Chowk to savor the ambience of an oriental, crowded bazaar. After sightseeing of old Delhi spend some time in crowded market Chandni Chowk. Visit Khari Baoli is a street in Delhi, India known for its wholesale grocery and Asia’s largest wholesale spice market selling all kinds of spices, nuts, herbs and food products like rice and tea followed by cycle rickshaw ride.

Visit New Delhi, visit the 12th century Qutub Minar, gracefully hand-carved for its entire height of 234ft, and the iron pillar, which has withstood the ravages of time and not rusted even after 1500 years, the mausoleum of emperor Humayun, Gandhi Smriti-Gandhi Smriti formerly known as Birla House or Birla Bhavan, is a museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, . Drive past India Gate through Rajpath (memorial to the Indian army soldiers who died in the World War I) the Rashtrapati Bhavan (formerly the viceroy’s residence) and the Parliament House.

Also visit to the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, once belonged to Raja Jai Singh of Amber (Jaipur) in the 17th century AD, known as Jaisinghpura Palace. In 1664 AD, the 8th Sikh Guru Har Krishan, stayed here and later died. Sikh Temple–Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is one of the most prominent Sikh Gurudwara or Sikh House of worship in Delhi and known for its association with the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan, as well as the pool inside its complex, known as the “Sarovar.” The Gurudwara includes the temple, a kitchen, a large (holy) pond, a school and an art gallery. As with all Sikh Gurudwara, the concept of ‘langar’ (free kitchen) is practiced. Walk around the Temple complex and meet the people who prepare and eat the 10,000 meals served here every day. You may have a chance of your lifetime to participate in the community kitchen should you wish to.

Overnight at hotel.

DAY 03:     fly DELHI – Varanasi

After breakfast transfer to airport to connect fight G8 404 (1030/1140 hrs.) for Varanasi.

Meeting and assistance on arrival and transfer to hotel.

Varanasi is situated on the banks of the River Ganges, the holy city of Varanasi is a major religious pilgrimage site, to which all Hindus hope to journey at least once in their lives. Mentioned in the great epics of the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, the city has always stood as a symbol of Hindu renaissance and philosophy. Lining the river banks are nearly 100 Ghats – including 2 burning Ghats – which are the emotional and spiritual heart of this city.

Evening experience Varanasi intimately, you have to visit the Ghats, preferably in the evening. A leisurely rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes and by lanes of the city takes you down to the river, where the temples and Ghats are lit with oil-lamps and candles. Participate in a collective prayer ceremony, known as an Aarti, and watch the floating oil-lamps on the Ganges.

Overnight at hotel.

DAY 04:   TRAIN VARANASI – AGRA

Experience the soul and spirit of Varanasi during an early morning boat excursion on the holy River Ganges. The city has about 100 Ghats, each marked by a lingam, and from the river, we will see the bathing ghats, as well as the cremation Ghats. Return to the hotel on foot, walking through the narrow lanes and bazaars of this religious city. En route we visit a mosque built by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb on the site of an ancient Hindu temple, and we also see the Vishwanath Temple from the outside.

Also Visit Sarnath (Museum Closed on Friday), 10-Kms away from Varanasi is the fabled place, which bears testimony to its great past where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon to his disciples, expounding the principles of Buddhism The remains date back to as far as the3rd-Century BC when Emperor Ashoka founded various institutions, stupas, monasteries and pillar Edicts. Visit the art collection at the Archaeological Museum. The main attraction is the superb Capital from Ashokan Piller – the Ashokan symbol of four back-to-back Lions which has been adopted as the state symbol Independent India.  Also visit the Mahabodhi ‘Buddha temple and walk around the Deer Park.  Later see the Monastery ruins area, Dhameka Stupa.

Post dinner transfer to railway station to board train Magadh Express (2204/ 0630 + 1) for Agra.

Overnight on board.

Day 05:     arrive Agra

Meeting and assistance on arrival and transfer for breakfast.

(Early check in would be subject to availability, check in time 1400 hrs.)

Post breakfast proceed to visit Taj Mahal (Closed on Fridays) built by Shah Jahan as an eternal symbol of his love for his favorite wife, whom he called Mumtaz Mahal (‘Jewel of the Palace’), it has immortalized him forever as one of the great architectural patrons of the world. The structure took 20,000 laborers and 22 years to complete. The Taj changes color depending on the time of day. Post visit return back to hotel for breakfast.

Visit Agra Fort. Which was built by Emperor Akbar, the construction of Agra fort commenced in the 1565 and completed in 1571. Built with red sandstone Agra Fort is a mixture of the Islamic and Hindu styles of architecture.

After visit return back to hotel for check in. Rest of the day is at leisure for individual activities.

OPTIONAL-1: FOOD TRAIL. (COST: USD 65 PER PERSON)

Later proceed for a food tour – A visit to Agra is incomplete without tasting its delightful local cuisine. This food tour of Agra will help you taste delicious street food dishes of varied Indian cuisines available from some of the oldest and most reputed food joints in the city.

OPTIONAL-2: KALAKRITI SHOW. (COST: USD 50 PER PERSON)

Light and Sound Show at Kalakriti Cultural and Convention Centre. The beautiful warm red facade of the Kalakriti Cultural and Convention Centre welcomes you in Agra. Admire the wide arches, the squat central dome and other architectural features of this well-designed building which hosts a light-and-sound show. Enjoy the stunning display of light and sound in a world class theatre, which has tourists from all over the world in attendance. The theatre can seat around 500 people; you can reserve your seat online as well. Reaching out across linguistic barriers, they also provide translations for the shows here in several languages. Just sit back in your comfortable seat and enjoy the fantastic experience! You are sure to be entertained and learn more about the rich cultural heritage of India when you visit this popular destination.

Overnight at hotel.

DAY 06:  DRIVE Agra – Bharatpur (60 KMS/ 01 HR)

TRAIN BHARATPUR – Sawaimadhopur (Ranthambore)

Morning after breakfast drive to Bharatpur to board train KOTA JANSHTBDI (1540-1805 hrs.) for Sawaimadhopur.

En-route visiting Fatehpur Sikri, located 40 Kms from Agra, and the deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri was built by Emperor Akbar in 1569, in honor of the great Saint Sheikh Salim Chisti who blessed Akbar and prophesized the birth of three sons to the heirless Emperor. Akbar used Fatehpur Sikri as his capital and the city was fully occupied for 14 years but slowly became deserted and ruined after Akbar left the city. Scarcity of water was the prime factor for the abandonment of this beautiful city. Visit the remarkably well-preserved, graceful buildings within the ‘Ghost City’ including the Jama Masjid, tomb of Salim Chisti, Panch Mahal Palace and other palaces that speak of the grandeur and splendor of the Mughal empire at the height of its power.

Post visit transfer to railway station and board train. Meeting and assistance on arrival and transfer to hotel.

Dinner & overnight at hotel.

Day 07:  in Ranthambore

Ranthambhore means the Ranthambhore National Park, because of its high density of wildlife and the presence of tigers in the national park and its immediate vicinity. Often described as a “secluded ecological island surrounded by fields and over-grazed plains”, the Ranthambhore tiger reserve lies at the intersection of the Aravalis and the Vindhyan hill systems covered by Northern tropical dry deciduous forests. The reserve lies in Rajasthan’s eastern districts of Sawai Madhopur and Karauli with the Chambal River forming its eastern boundary. The river Banas, a tributary of Chambal, flows through the reserve from the north-west to the south-east, dividing the reserve into two equal halves – the Kela Devi Sanctuary and other parts of the Reserve. Once part of the royal state of Karauli, Kela Devi Sanctuary (670 sq km) is almost half as big as the entire reserve but has little wildlife to offer as most of it is a dry “table top” plateau The other half of the reserve lies to the southwest of the river Banas, almost totally in the Sawai Madhopur district.

AM & PM game drive by shared canter ride.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner & overnight at hotel.

Day 08:  drive Ranthambore – jaipur (160 kms/ 04 hrs)

After a leisurely breakfast in time drive to Jaipur. On arrival check in at hotel.

In the evening visit the colorful markets for Jaipur followed by the Aarti ceremony at Birla Mandir, the beautiful Birla Mandir is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his consort, Goddess Laxmi. The temple’s three elaborate domes symbolize India’s secular character as they represent three different approaches to religion. At night, the temple is brilliantly illuminated and dazzles the onlooker.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 09:  in jaipur

After breakfast head to visit the Amber Fort followed by jeep ride. This is one of the most fascinating of the Indian forts comprising the Palace of Mirrors, Hall of Public Audience and the beautiful gardens, all of which give a glimpse into the majesty of days gone by. The approach is through a narrow pass, and the fort, an imposing edifice that grew over a period of 2 centuries, is naturally fortified by the Aravalli Hills, making it an ideal stronghold.

Later visit the City Palace who’s several courtyards and gardens provide a wonderful contrast to its many palatial structures including Mubarak Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Badal Mahal and the Sri Govind Dev temple. The huge silver water vessels displayed at the Diwan-e-Khas recorded in the Guinness Book as the largest in the world are a must see. Also, drive past the Hawa Mahal. This five-storied building along the main street of the old city is in pink splendor with semi octagonal and delicately honey combed sandstone windows. The monument was originally conceived with the aim of enabling ladies of the royal household to watch the everyday life, and royal processions of the city then visit the Jantar Mantar – the Observatory that incorporates multiple buildings of unique geometrical forms, each with a specialized function for astronomical measurement.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 10:  fly jaipur – cochin

After a leisurely breakfast in time transfer to airport to connect flight G8 701 (0900-1320 hrs.) for Cochin via Ahmedabad.

Formerly known as Cochin, the beautiful city of Kochi is the ‘Gateway to Kerala’ and has been shaped by a host of eclectic influences. The Arabs, British, Dutch, Chinese and the Portuguese have all left their mark on the city. It has one of the finest natural harbours in the world and for many centuries remained the most prominent hub of global spice trade. It is Kerala’s largest city and boasts myriad charms from vibrant shopping arcades and restaurants to grand old historical structures and scenic natural attractions, Kochi seems to have it all.

Meeting and assistance on arrival and transfer to hotel.

In the evening enjoy Kaleidoscope performance, one of India’s most famous Classical dances. Lavish costumes & Exotic makeup & Masks intensify the beauty of the dancers, intricate moments.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 11: In cochin

Morning proceed for sightseeing of Cochin. A city till today influenced by medieval Portugal, Holland and England. You visit St. Francis Church, built in 1503 by Portuguese Franciscan friars where Vasco da Gama was buried for 14 years before his remains were transferred to Lisvon. His tombstone still stands. Nearby is the Mattancherry Palace or “Dutch Palace”. The central hall on the 1st floor was the coronation hall of the rajas of Cochin. Other rooms depict scenes from the Ramayana and Puranic legends connected with Hindu gods. Amazing are the Chinese fishing nets. These cantilevered fishing nets line the entrance to the harbor mouth, they were introduced by traders from the courts of Kublai Khan.  (Dutch Palace & Jewish Synagogue remains closed on Fridays & Saturdays).

Overnight at hotel.

day 12: Cochin – Munnar (130 kms/ 05 hrs)

After breakfast drive to Munnar, one of the most scenic places in the state of Kerala, lies at an altitude of 1,600 meters above sea level. Munnar means ‘three rivers’ and the name is apt as the destination is situated at the confluence of the Mudhirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundaly rivers. Munnar has remained a popular getaway, especially during summers, right since the colonial days. Even today, the old-world colonial charm can still be experienced in Munnar’s quaint old buildings, streets and the sprawling misty tea gardens. This fairytale town is also famous for the Neelakurinji flower, which blooms once in 12 years.

On arrival check in at hotel, rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 13: in Munnar 

Morning after breakfast at hotel and proceed for sightseeing tour in Munnar. Drive leads to thickly forested hills, past rubber and spice plantations and into southern India’s tea growing district headquarters at the charmingly old-world Munnar. Snuggling coyly in the green and serene Kanan Devan Hills, at an altitude of 1524m and about 136 kms off Cochin, Munnar offers panoramic views of low flying clouds and mist filled valleys which make it a pretty little haven with a cool bracing climate. Kerala holds a major part in Indian Tea production The important places of interest include the Kundale Tea Plantation, drive past The High Range Club and Rajamalai (Eravikulam) National Park which is a wildlife sanctuary and home of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, Macaque, sambar, elephants, tigers, gaur and many more.  A little beyond lays Anaimudi, South India’s highest peak, which towers over 2695 meters. Also visit CSI Christ Church built with stone in 1910.  It is a calm & quite place to pray and meditate.  The church is known for its stained glass windows. There are many brass plaques in the church in the memory of the tea planters. Visit the Tea Museum, collection of old bits and pieces from colonial era can be seen here. Demonstration of tea production such as information related to machinery; tea leaf processing and tea tasting etc.

Overnight at hotel.

day 14: drive Munnar – Periyar (90 kms/ 04 hrs)

After breakfast drive to Periyar. On arrival check in at hotel.

Later proceed for Nature Walk, this walk provides one with a unique opportunity for watching birds, butterflies and the impressive wildlife of the Tiger Reserve. The Walk comprises of a host of trails traversing through a mosaic of habitats of the reserve. A walk through the trail which winds its way through the incredible landscape comprising of moist deciduous and evergreen forests interspersed with marshy grasslands offers a rare opportunity to witness the many splendours of nature.  This guided trekking programme which lasts for two-and-half hours and traverses a distance of 4-5 km.

Rest of the day is at leisure. You can use hotel SPA facilities on direct payment basis.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 14: Drive Periyar – Kumarakom (90 KMS/ 03 ½ HRS)      

Morning after breakfast check out from hotel and proceed to visit spice plantation.

The wealth of spices of India, especially Kerala have lured foreigners for centuries. The appetizing flavors and the intoxicating aroma of spices need to be experienced to see the reason for the temptation. Thekkady cultivates spices in their blissful weather and location. Owing to a number of lush green spice plantations, it is undoubtedly the heartland of spices. Learn about the famous spices of Kerala at one of the many spice gardens in the town. Along with a visit to spice plantations pay a visit to the spice market and buy souvenirs for home. Walks through spice plantations, to known about every characteristic of cultivation, harvesting, uses and the final product for consumption.

Post visit continue your drive to Kumarakom Enroute lunch at Philip Kutty’s Farm.

After lunch continue your drive to Kumarakom.

Kumarakom is a cluster of small picturesque islands around the Vembanadu Lake. The village is well acclaimed for its backwaters, delicious cuisines and greenery. This tourist destination, over the years, is one of the most-visited in Kerala. This day trip that takes you right into the heart of rustic Keralas Village life. This endeavour, which shares 65% of its package cost with the local community, has won a national award for the best rural tourism project.

On arrival check in at hotel, rest of the day is at leisure.  You can use hotel SPA facilities on direct payment basis.

Overnight at hotel.

DAY 16: In Kumarakom

After a leisurely breakfast you will proceed to embark Houseboat for day cruise followed by lunch (duration 03-04 hrs.).

Houseboat locally called Kettuvellam. These are huge, tapering barges which were traditionally used to cargo rice and other goods across Kerala. Modern-day Kettuvellam called houseboats, carry finished bedrooms, modern toilets, cozy living rooms, a kitchen and even a balcony where tourists can laze on cushions. The houseboats glide on the backwaters of Kerala, with a panoramic view passing by. Enjoy the lunch on board with freshly prepared seafood. Evening, witness sunset through coconut palms and enjoy Dinner under million stars and sleep & dream with the pleasant roll of backwater.

Post lunch disembark houseboat and return to hotel.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 17:  drive Kumarakom – cochin (75 kms/ 02 hrs)

Leave cochin

After breakfast in time drive to Cochin airport to connect flight for onward destination.

****TOUR ENDS****

HOTEL CHECK IN TIME IS 1400 HRS// CHECK OUT 1200 HRS