Rhythm of North India and Kerala Tour

Welcome to Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, where our representative will assist you and escort you by air-conditioned car to the pre-booked hotel. During check-in, all required documents related to the tour will be given to you, and all your queries concerning the tour plan and services will be explained. Later in the evening, visit the Light and Sound Show at Red Fort, where selected episodes from the history of Delhi, a city with around 5,000 years of history, are brought to life through narration and special effects amid the historic surroundings of the Red Fort. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast, take a sightseeing tour of Old Delhi, visiting the majestic Red Fort, a major Mughal monument built in red sandstone, Jama Masjid, one of India's largest and most prominent mosques, and Rajghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. Continue through New Delhi to see President House, India Gate, built to honour and pay tribute to Indian soldiers who sacrificed themselves during the Afghan war, Birla Mandir (Laxmi Narayan Temple), Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important example of Mughal garden-tomb architecture, the lotus-shaped Lotus Temple, Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Qutub-ud-din Aibek of the Slave Dynasty, and Sri Radha Parthasarathi Mandir, generally known as the ISKCON Delhi temple. In the evening, you can opt for a Cycle Rickshaw Ride through the lively and colourful market of Chandni Chowk. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to the airport to board the scheduled flight for Varanasi. Assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel. After relaxation, take an excursion to Sarnath, located 10 km from Varanasi, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon to the five holy men. Visit Dharmarajika Stupa and the 110 ft tall Dhamekh Stupa, which marks the place where Buddha preached his first sermon. Also visit the Archaeological Museum, housing ancient Buddhist relics, sculptures and antiques, and see the Ashok Pillar with 4 Lions, built in the 3rd Century BC. Its four-lion capital was adopted as the emblem of the modern Indian republic. After the visit, drive back to Varanasi. Overnight at the hotel.

Early morning, take a dawn Boat Ride on the holy River Ganges. During sunrise, the city and river come alive as people bathe and offer prayers to the rising sun. Later return to the hotel for breakfast and take a sightseeing tour visiting the famous ghats of Varanasi, including the two cremation ghats, Manikarnika and Harishchandra. Continue to Bharat Mata Temple, Durga Temple, Tulsi Manas Mandir and Kashi Vishvanath or Golden Temple, which is off-limits to non-Hindus but can be viewed from the top floor of the old house opposite it. Visit Banaras Hindu University, the largest residential university in Asia, spread over 1,350 acres with over 12,000 students living on its campus. In the evening, visit the bank of the Ganga to witness the spectacular Ganga Aarti, with brass lamps, chanting of mantras and a large gathering of devotees. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to the airport to board the scheduled flight for Khajuraho. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. After refreshment, visit Raneh Falls, one of the prominent attractions of the region, named after King Rane Pratap and situated at the confluence of the Ken and Khuddar rivers. Also visit the Archaeological Museum, with its collection of stone sculptures from the Chandela dynasty. In the evening, enjoy the Light and Sound Show in the garden of the Western Group of Temples. The 50-minute show traces the life and times of the great Chandela Kings and the story, construction, history and importance of the temples from the 10th century to the present day, narrated in the voice of Amitabh Bachchan. Later return to the hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast, explore Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Chandela-era temples and intricate sculpture, built between 950 A.D. and 1050 A.D. The temples are scattered across an area of around 8 sq km. Visit the Western Group of Temples, including the massive Laxman Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Laxmi and Varaha Temples, the Kandariya Mahadev Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Chausath Yogini Temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Later explore the Eastern Group of Temples, comprising three Hindu and three Jain temples. Visit the Jain temples of Parsvanath, Adinath and Shanti Nath, along with Vamana and Brahma/Hanuman temples. The close presence of Hindu and Jain temples reflects the religious tolerance of the Chandela period. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Orchha, the medieval city founded by the Bundela Rajput chieftain Rudra Pratap in the 16th century beside the Betwa River. The name Orchha means “hidden”, and its palaces and temples retain the character of a historic royal capital. On arrival, transfer to the hotel and, after refreshment, drive to the historic city of Jhansi, 18 km from Orchha. Jhansi is associated with the exploits of Rani Jhansi, who played an important role during the revolt of 1857. Visit Jhansi Fort and Rani Jhansi's Palace. Later enjoy the Light and Sound Show depicting the history of Orchha. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast, enjoy the scenic beauty of the Betwa River, surrounded by Sheesh Mahal, Chattaris and Ram Temple. Later check out from the hotel and drive to Agra, en route stopping at Gwalior for sightseeing. Visit the majestic Gwalior Fort, one of the largest and mightiest forts in India, along with the Sas-Bahu Temples, 11th-century temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Teli-ka-Mandir, a 9th-century Vishnu temple, and Man Singh Palace. Continue to Agra and transfer to the hotel. In the evening, visit Oswal Emporium to see its replica of the Taj Mahal, which took 10 years for the artists to build, and enjoy the Mohabbat-the-Taj: The Saga of Love light and sound show. Later return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Early morning, visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, known for its fusion of diverse architectural styles and its association with the story of eternal love. Continue with a visit to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1576 AD by Mughal Emperor Akbar, with red sandstone fortifications and historic structures including Pearl Mosque, Jahangir Mahal, Moti Masjid, Macchhi Bhawan, Nagina Masjid, Diwan-i-Khas, Sheesh Mahal, Diwan-e-Am, Meena Bazaar and Musamman Bhurj. Shahjahan was imprisoned here by his son Aurangzeb and could see the Taj Mahal from Musamman Bhurj. Afterwards visit the Tomb of Itamad-ud-Daula, built by Empress Noor Jahan in tribute to her father. Later return to the hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Ranthambore. En route, stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the old deserted town of the Mughal kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in red sandstone in honour of Saint Salim Chisti, who blessed Emperor Akbar with the birth of three sons. Explore its distinctive structures, including Diwan-e-Khas, Panch Mahal, the Tomb of Salim Chisti and Buland Darwaza, one of the largest and tallest gateways in the world. Continue to Ranthambore, once the hunting place of the Royal Family of Jaipur and today one of India's finest tiger reserves. On arrival, transfer to the jungle resort. Evening is free for individual activities. Dinner and overnight stay.

After breakfast, take a Jungle Safari by Open Canter, accompanied by an expert naturalist, to explore Ranthambhore Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the best places in India to see a tiger in its natural habitat. During the dry season, tigers can often be seen near watering holes and are more clearly visible in the dry forest. The park, established as a sanctuary in 1959 and included in the first phase of Project Tiger in 1972, takes its name from the historic Ranthambhore Fort overlooking the forest. You may also enjoy a Jeep Safari and look for wildlife including deer, wild boar and sloth bear. Return to the hotel for lunch. Later visit Ranthambhore Fort, Jogi Mahal and the famous Temple of Ganesha within the fort. Afterwards return to the jungle resort for dinner and overnight stay.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Jaipur. En route, visit the historic Step Well at Abhaneri, situated in the village of Abhaneri near Jaipur. It was built by King Chanda of the Chauhan Dynasty and dedicated to Harshat Mata, Goddess of Joy and Happiness, upon completion. Continue to Jaipur, widely known as the Pink City, founded in 1727 A.D. by Jai Singh II and planned according to the principles of Shilpa Shastra. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Jaipur is known for handwoven carpets, precious stones, handicrafts, marble, textiles, blue pottery and handmade paper. After refreshment, enjoy the evening at Chokhi Dhani, an ethnic village resort with folk dances, puppet shows, astrology, music, camel rides and traditional Rajasthani cuisine. Enjoy dinner at Chokhi Dhani before returning to the hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast, explore the Pink City with an excursion to Amber Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site forming part of the Hill Forts of Rajasthan, situated just outside the city and built in the 15th century by Rajput King Man Singh. Enjoy an Elephant Ride ascending Amber Fort before continuing to Nagargarh Fort, close to Amber Fort. Drive back to the main city to visit the imperial City Palace, the present residence of the royal family of Jaipur, Jantar Mantar, constructed by Jaipur King Sawai Jai Singh, and Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds. Continue to Birla Temple, built in white marble. You can also visit Amber Fort for its Light and Sound Show, presenting the 600-year history of the citadel and the 28 kings of the Kachhwaha dynasty before their capital moved to Jaipur. Later explore the bustling market by Cycle Rickshaw Ride. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Delhi. En route visit the massive Neemrana Fort, recalling the old-world charm of Rajasthani majesty and hospitality. Once a tributary chiefship of the former Alwar state and associated with the Chauhan Rajputs, the fort has been converted into a heritage hotel and is known for its historic architecture and royal setting. Here you can experience the ZIP Tour, India's first ZIP Tour, and opt for lunch at the hotel at your own cost. Later continue the drive to Delhi and, on arrival, transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to the airport to board the flight for Cochin. Assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel. After refreshment, visit Fort Cochin, the historic quarter known for its colonial architecture and old trading connections, followed by St. Francis Church, one of the oldest European-built churches in India and associated with Vasco da Gama. Continue to the Jewish Synagogue, part of the historic Jewish heritage of Mattancherry, and Mattancherry Dutch Palace, known for its murals, royal collections and Kerala-style architecture. In the evening, enjoy the Kathakali Dance, one of Kerala's best-known classical performance traditions, recognized for elaborate costumes, distinctive makeup, expressive gestures and carefully choreographed movements. Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Munnar. The name Munnar means “three rivers”, referring to the meeting point of the three mountain streams, Madurapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. There are around 30 tea plantations in and around Munnar, while its hills, lakes and forests are closely associated with the landscape of the Western Ghats. The tea estates covering the hills resemble a wide green carpet, while the surrounding region is also known for forests, wildlife, coffee and spice plantations. Take a short tour of the Munnar Tea Factory & Museum. The remainder of the evening is free for leisure. Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast, explore the hill station of Munnar. Visit Pothamedu for views of coffee, tea, cardamom and other spice plantations. Continue to Devikulam, 7 km from Munnar, known for its lawns, flora, fauna and surrounding mountains. Visit Blossom International Park, about 3 km from Munnar, followed by Mattupetty Dam and Reservoir, 13 km from Munnar, also known for the Indo-Swiss Farm and a dairy farm. Continue to Echo Point and Kundala Lake. In the evening, you can take a Tea, Coffee and Spice Plantation Tour and visit the tea museum. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Periyar (Thekkady). On arrival, transfer to the jungle resort. After refreshment, visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of India's major wildlife sanctuaries and a tiger reserve covering 778 square kilometres. The sanctuary is known for elephants, wild boars, gaur, sambar and other wildlife, along with birds such as grey heron and ibis. Enjoy an Elephant Safari in the park and Boating at Periyar Lake to observe animals along the water's edge, with the possibility of seeing a rare tiger or bathing elephants. Later take a Spice Plantation Tour to see cinnamon, cardamom, pepper, tea and coffee estates. On the way back, stop at the local spice market to shop for fragrant spices. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Alleppey. On arrival, check in to the houseboat and begin your Backwaters Tour through Sailing Boat. Cruise through tropical countryside, passing palm-fringed narrow canals winding through paddy fields and tiny hamlets along the waterways. Along the route, see Chinese Fishing Nets, reminders of Kerala's historic trade links, groups of ducks swimming through the canals and colourful birds flying across the sky. You can also try your hand at Fishing from the Houseboat. In the evening, enjoy the sunset from the sun-deck. The houseboat has a sitting-cum-dining area, private bedroom with attached English toilets, sun deck and fully equipped kitchen with a Chef and Srank (Driver). Enjoy dinner of your choice cooked and served by the Chef. Dinner and overnight at the houseboat.

After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and drive to Kovalam. On arrival, transfer to the beach resort. Kovalam is located on the Malabar Coast, 16 km from Trivandrum, and is known for its sheltered bay, beaches, Ayurveda treatments and massages. After relaxation, enjoy beach activities at Kovalam Beach, with options including surfing, skiing and kayaking. You can also enjoy sunbathing and an Ayurveda Massage under the tropical sun. Kovalam means a grove of coconut trees, reflected in the coconut-lined coastline. Overnight at the beach resort at Kovalam.

After breakfast, enjoy the day on the sandy beach at Kovalam. You may opt for water sports and wellness activities including Sunbathing, Water Skiing, Angling, Para-sailing and Surfing. You may also experience renowned Ayurveda Massage, herbal body toning and treatments offered at many resorts. Ayurveda, meaning the science of healthy living, derives its name from the Sanskrit words AYUSH (Life) and VEDA (Knowledge), with treatments traditionally adapted to individual requirements. You can also enjoy a Special Cultural Programme and Catamaran Cruising. Overnight at the resort at Kovalam.

After breakfast, check out from the beach resort and drive to Kanyakumari, located at the southernmost tip of peninsular India, where the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean meet. On arrival, check in to the hotel. After relaxation, visit Kumari Amman Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Devi Kanya, an embodiment of Goddess Parvati, and Gandhi Mandapam, dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. In the early evening, take a Boat Cruise to Swami Vivekananda Memorial, where Swami Vivekananda meditated and decided to carry his message of peace across the world. Continue to Thiruvalluvar Statue, a landmark of Kanyakumari. In the evening, enjoy the sunset from Murugan Kundram Hills, with the rare possibility of seeing the rising sun and setting sun on the same horizon. Overnight at the hotel in Kanyakumari.

After enjoying the charismatic Sunrise at Kanyakumari and breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Trivandrum. En route, explore the Horse Palace, Napier Museum, Sree Chitra Art Gallery and Padmatheertha Kulam (Temple Pond). After sightseeing, continue to the airport to board the scheduled flight for your onward journey. With the completion of this journey through North India, Rajasthan and Kerala, the tour concludes with happy memories.