Rajasthan Legacy & Scenic Kerala Tour

01 Day: Arrival Delhi

Welcome and assistance on arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and transfer to the pre-booked hotel by aircon car. After check in, travel document related to the tour plan and services will be handed over to you; our representative will explain all your queries about the entire tour plan. Later in the evening visit to see Light and Sound Show at Red fort. The show exhibits wonderful history of the city in a very interesting way. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Light and Sound Show: A spectacular show at the Red Fort. Which makes the 5,000 years old history of the city come alive. Amidst the harmony of the splendidly panoramic and historic environs of the Red Fort, select episodes from the annals of Delhi's historic and majestic past are vibrantly brought to life. Special effects combine with the exceptional character to make this show an impressively memorable experience.

02 Day: Delhi

After breakfast, take a sightseeing tour of Old Delhi: the majestic Red Fort, a marvel in red sandstone, Jama Masjid, the largest and most splendid mosque in India, Rajghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi, where he was cremated. The sightseeing continues to explore New Delhi including President House, India gate; built to honour and pay a tribute to the Indian soldiers who sacrificed themselves during the Afghan war, Birla Mandir (Laxmi Narayan Temple), Humayun’s Tomb, lotus shaped Bhai’s Temple, Qutub Minar; built by Qutub-ud-din Aibek of the Slave Dynasty. 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 Chandani Chowk. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Delhi, the towering capital city of the independent and largest democratic country in the world: India. Delhi is located and sprawled on both banks of Yamuna River. The city is enriched with culture, architecture and human diversity, Delhi city is a blend of the ancient past of India with the vibration of the modern world. The city designed by the British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens (1869-1944) & is tree-lined & spacious. Legend has it that the Pandavas of epic Mahabharata, the august heroes, founded Delhi around 1200 BC & the name of the city was Indraprastha.

03 Day: Delhi – Sikandra – Agra (210 kms: 5 hrs)

After breakfast check out the hotel and drive to Agra, on the way stop over at Sikandra to see the Tomb of Mughal Emperor Akbar, after visit continue to proceed to Agra, on arrival transfer to the hotel. In the evening, if time permits, must visit Oswal Emporium to watch the replica of Taj Mahal it took 10 years for the artists to build this artistic epitome, also enjoy light and sound show “Mohabbat-the-Taj: the saga of love”, the only show of its kind in India! Later return to the hotel overnight stay.

Agra is famous as being home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World - the Taj Mahal. A pleasant town with a comparatively slow pace, Agra is an old city and it is said that its name was derived from Agrabanad, a forest that finds mention in the epic Mahabharata. Agra is known for its superb inlay work on marble and soapstone by craftsmen who are descendants of those who worked under the Mughals. The city is also famous for its carpets, gold thread embroidery and leather shoes. Agra and Fatehpur Sikri, both are conveniently located close to Delhi. Agra Fort, Sikandra, Ram Bagh and Itmad-Ud-Daulah are some of the noteworthy places to visit apart from the famous Taj Mahal.

04 Day: Agra

Early morning visit world’s most popular and beautiful monument: Taj Mahal with its’ fabulous view at the time of sunrise. Taj Mahal, a beautiful architectural monument is one of the 7 wonders of the world. This historical masterpiece is an illustration of the fusion of diverse architectural styles. Taj Mahal is the crown of all the lovely buildings in the world and a symbol of eternal love. The tour continues with a visit to Agra Fort. The fort was built in 1576 AD by great Mughal Emperor Akbar, structured and designed with red stoned barricaded; here you will find the splendid Pearl Mosque and various other classic example of art: Jahangir Mahal, Moti Masjid, Macchhi Bhawan, Nagina Masjid, Diwan-i-Khas, Sheesh Mahal, Diwan-e-Am, and Meena Bazaar and Musamman Bhurj. Emperor Shahjahan imprisoned by his rebellious son Aurangzeb in the Musamman Bhurj, would see his love reflecting through the Taj Mahal, where his dear wife was cremated. Afterwards visit Tomb of Itamad-ud-Daula, 35 kms from Agra, built by Empress Noor Jahan daughter of Shahjahan, this monument a tribute to her great father. Later return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Note: Taj Mahal is closed on every Friday.

05 Day: Agra – Fatehpur Sikri – Jaipur (240 kms: 5 - 6 hrs)

Today morning after breakfast check out the hotel and drive to Jaipur. Enroute stop over at Fatehpur Sikri, the old deserted town of the Mughal kingdom, built in red sandstone in honour of Saint Salim Chisti who blessed birth of 3 sons to Emperor Akbar. It is an example of robust stability combined with originality. Each important structure here represents a type by itself. Notable among them is the Diwane e Khas; Punch Mahal, the Tomb of Salim Chisti, and the Buland Darwaza, one of the largest and tallest gateways in the world. Also stop over at Abhaneri near Jaipur, and visit Step Well, it was built by King Chanda of the Chauhan Dynasty, and was dedicated to Hashat Mata, Goddess of Joy and Happiness upon completion. Afterwards continue drive to Jaipur. On arrival, transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

Jaipur is widely known as the ‘Pink City’ of India. The walls, houses and buildings of the entire city were washed with pink colour for a grand and royal welcome of Prince Albert and Queen Victoria of Britain, who visited Jaipur in 1853 A.D. This splendid city as was founded in 1727 A.D by one of the greatest ruler Jai Singh II. Jaipur is surrounded by hills on three sides. Jaipur is the only city in the world, which is designed in accordance with Hindu architectural science called Shilpa Shastra. The city had been designed in rectangular shape of 9 blocks, depicting the 9 partition of the universe.

06 Day: Jaipur

Today morning after breakfast, explore the Pink City with an excursion to splendid Amber Fort, situated just outside the city, built in the 15th Century by Rajput King Man Singh. Later visit another mighty and majestic Nagargarh fort, close to Amber fort. Drive back to the main city to visit the imperial City Palace - present residence of the royal family of Jaipur. The incredible Jantar Mantar was innovated and constructed by Jaipur King Swai Jai Singh. Splendid Hawa Mahal, also known ‘Palace of Winds’ Birla Temple, with its white shimmering marble glittering in the night. You can visit to Amber fort to see the Light and Sound Show: holds the history of a citadel, pulsating with a legendry past of 600 years & 28 kings of the Kachhwaha dynasty, before their capital moved to Jaipur. Later you can explore the bustling market by hoping onto a cycle rickshaw ride. Enjoy your evening at the most authentic and ethnic village resort: called Chokhi Dhani, designed on the theme of an ethnic village of Rajasthan with lots of traditional environment with entertainment like folk dances, puppet shows, astrology, music, camel ride, Here you can enjoy the traditional Rajasthani food. Afterwards return back to hotel for overnight stay.

07 Day: Jaipur – Pushkar (135 kms: 3 hrs)

After breakfast drive to Pushkar is well-known for the world’s largest cattle fair every year in the month of November, with glorious celebration. Visit the Brahma temple is an important pilgrim centre for the Hindus. The temple is one of very few existing temples dedicated to the Hindu creator-god Brahma in India and remains the most prominent among them. It is nestled in the Pushkar valley which lies beyond Nagaparvat and the Anasagar Lake. This place, full of natural beauty, holds a special place in the hearts of Indians for it is believed that Lord Brahma, together with all the gods and goddesses, performed a Yagya here. Also visit the Pushkar Fair site, which is right opposite the Pushkar Lake. Return to hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Pushkar: According to the Hindu scripture Padma Purana, Brahma saw the demon Vajranabha (Vajranash in another version) trying to kill his children and harassing people. He immediately slew the demon with his weapon, the lotus-flower. In this process, the lotus petals fell on the ground at three places, creating three lakes: the Pushkar Lake or Jyeshta Pushkar (greatest or first Pushkar), the Madya Pushkar (middle Pushkar) Lake, and Kanishta Pushkar (lowest or youngest Pushkar) lake.

08 Day: Pushkar – Jodhpur (210 kms: 4 - 5 hrs)

After an early breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Jodhpur. On arrival transfer to the hotel, after refreshment take an excursion to Bishnoi Village 25 kms: 45 min one way. The villagers coming from the Bishnois caste are believed to be the guardians of animals. Then visit to the local handicrafts viz shoe makers, pottery hand weaving watching men in their traditional attire, women clad with ancestral silver Jewellery, en-route watch and photograph the beautiful wildlife - black buck, chinkaras, peacock etc. liberally moving in plenty of care by the local villagers. After visit drive back to Jodhpur you can explore the local market, visiting various authentic restaurants. You may choose ‘On the rocks’ an open air restaurants with Rajasthani hospitality, offering authentic food and folk music and dance. Later return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Jodhpur: The home of Rajpoot, (Rathors) – The awesome significant city of Rajasthan. Founded in 1459 A.D. by Rao Jodha, today Jodhpur is one of the largest and flourishing city of Rajasthan, known as white city of Rajasthan. Jodhpur was once upon a time was the capital of Marwar state (Northern Part of Rajasthan). Mehrangarh fort, the crowning old palace is major tourist attraction of Jodhpur. Another pride of Jodhpur is Umaid Bhawan Palace; this grand palace is now converted into heritage hotel and present residence of the Royal family of Jodhpur.

09 Day: Jodhpur – Ranakpur – Udaipur (257 kms: 6 – 7 hrs)

After breakfast, take a sightseeing tour of the city visiting massive the Clock Tower, the massive Mehrangarh Fort, magnificent Jaswant Thada (Mausoleums of the great Rajput King: Jaswant Singh), Umaid Bhawan Palace and museum – India’s one of most imposing and regal palaces. Later check out the hotel and drive to Udaipur, en route take a halt at Ranakpur, visit the ancient Jain Temples, built in the 12th Century, you may opt to enjoy lunch at Maharani Baugh: (on your own) an authentic heritage hotel. After visit continue to drive to Udaipur. On arrival, check into the hotel. In the evening enjoy a boat ride in Lake Pichola; you may opt to have dinner (of your own) at Lake Palace Hotel, located amidst the lake. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Udaipur: One of the most romantic and beautiful city of North India, the city was founded in 1568 AD by Rajput King Udai Singh., located on the banks of the shimmering Pichola Lake, is one of the most romantic city of Rajasthan. Udaipur is cuddle up in lush green Aravali mountain range. It is a kaleidoscope of wonderful lakes, enchanting temples, lake side gardens, amazing forts and palaces and narrow lanes of the old city with historical past, Udaipur characterize chivalry and velour of the Rajpoot clan who had ruled this city for years and valor and chivalry.

10 Day: Udaipur

After breakfast, take a sightseeing tour of Udaipur visiting the wondrous City Palace complex – a significant landmark of the town. The palace is a splendid white marble historical home of the Rajpoot Rulers. Here you will see notable places like the Durbar Hall, Palace Museum, Crystal Gallery and Jagdish temple, followed by Sahelion Ki Bari, a beautiful recreation garden for queens and princes of the rulers. Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal is an ethnic exhibit of traditions and culture of Rajasthan, ethnic ornaments traditional outfits, puppets, masks, dolls, classical paintings, fold musical instruments. In the evening visit to Lake Bageela 22 kms, for a sightseeing tour of the ancient Eklingji and Nagda Temples. Overnight at the hotel.

11 Day: Udaipur – Mumbai (By Air)

After breakfast, check out the hotel and transfer to airport to board the flight for Mumbai, assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel in Mumbai. The day is free for leisure and individual activities. If the hotel is located in Western Suburban, you may visit to ISKON Temple, Juhu Chowpatty or enjoy shopping in various shopping malls. In case hotel is located in South Mumbai, you may take through Gateway of India and bustling Colaba Market: famous for handicraft outlets (Cottage Industry, Avente Handicrafts ) Cinema hall ( Regal Theatre) bars and restaurants: like Bay View, Café Mondegar, Leopold Café, The Table many more. Later return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Mumbai: The largest city of India and capital of Maharashtra state, overlooking the Arabian Sea- a major port of India. Mumbai is one of the 7 island on Konkan coastline; the name Mumbai derives it’s from Goddess Mumbai Devi. The city is blend of ancient architectural charm past and dazzling contrast of modern style of architecture, most of them built during the British regime. Often Mumbai is called Economical Capital of India due its economical contribution to the country. The city is the homeland of Bollywood industry. Mumbai offers many fair and festivals, places of interest for tourists.

12 Day: Mumbai

Today morning after breakfast take a sightseeing tour of Mumbai city, firstly visit to Gateway of India and cruise by motorboats to Elephanta Caves - ancient rock cut caves dedicated to Lord Shiva. Later cruise back to the city and after lunch at the bustling Colaba market, sightseeing continue visiting Prince of Wales Museum- A heritage museum exhibits ancient artifacts. Parliament house- (From the side), Nariman Point- Commercial Hub, Marine Drive- a most beautiful laid boulevards of the city. Dhobhi Ghat- a famous open air laundry, Mani Bhawan- Known also Gandhi Bhawan. You may also opt to enjoy Mumbai night life visiting pub, bars and restaurants of the city. Overnight at the hotel in Mumbai.

Note: Elephanta Caves and Prince of Wales museum are closed on every Monday.

13 Day: Mumbai – Cochin (By Air)

Today after breakfast check out the hotel and transfer to the Mumbai domestic airport to take the flight to Cochin. Assistance on arrival, transfer to the hotel in Cochin. After refreshment, visit Fort Cochin & St. Francis Church to see the town of Vasco da Gama. We also see the Jewish Synagogue (Closed on Friday afternoons and all Saturdays & all Passover Days & the Mattancherry "Dutch" Palace (closed on Fridays & Saturdays). Enjoy the Kathakali Dance, one of India's most famous Classical dances with lavish Costumes, exotic makeup & Masks intensifying the beauty of the dancer’s intricate moments. Overnight at the hotel..

Kochi (colonial name Cochin) is a vibrant city situated on the south-west coast of the Indian peninsula in the breathtakingly scenic and prosperous state of Kerala also called 'God's Own Country'. Its strategic importance over the centuries is underlined by the sobriquet Queen of the Arabian Sea. Informally, Cochin is also referred to as the Gateway to Kerala. From time immemorial, the Arabs, British, Chinese, Dutch, and Portuguese have left indelible marks on the history and development of Cochin.

14 Day: Cochin – Munnar (130 kms: 4 - 5 hrs)

Today morning check out the hotel and drive to Munnar, The word "Munnar" means three rivers. 3 mountain streams (Madurapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala) are joining together here. There are about 30 tea plantations in and around Munnar. The tea estates, hills, lakes and forests inside Munnar range expose its beauty. The Munnar hills are covered by tea plants, which look like a wide green carpet. You can take a short tour visiting Munnar Tea Factory & Museum (closed on Monday). Rest of the evening is free for leisure. Overnight at the hotel.

Munnar: the one-time 'summer capital of the British rulers', over the years now became the most sought after tourist destination in Kerala. It is the abundant gift of nature to the Western Ghats, the eastern border of Kerala, 5000 feet above sea level. Intense forests, wildlife sanctuaries and major tea, coffee and spices plantations sprawled over this region. Munnar abounds in animals like wild elephants and Nilgiri Thar and rich biodiversity teeming with flora and fauna. An ideal hill destination to enjoy the sheer nature.

15 Day: Munnar

Today morning after breakfast explore this panoramic hill station- visit Pothamedu to enjoy picturesque view of the coffee, tea, cardamom and other spices plantations in Munnar, Devikulam (7 km from Munnar), this tranquil hill station with its velvet lawns, vibrant flora and fauna with picturesque mountains, a rare experience. Blossom International Park is about 3 km away from Munnar, Mattupetty Dam and its reservoir is located 13 km away from Munnar, Mattupetty is also known for the Indo-Swiss Farm and a dairy farm, Echo Point and Kundala Lake. In the evening you can take a tea and coffee and spices plantation tour visiting tea museum. Later return to the hotel for overnight stay.

16 Day: Munnar – Periyar (90 kms: 3 hrs)

Today morning after breakfast check out from the hotel and drive to Periyar (Thekkady), on arrival transfer to the Jungle Resort, after refreshment visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, explore the park, animals found here are elephant, wild boars and gaur and birds like grey heron and ibis, here you can enjoy elephant safari in the park and boating at Periyar Lake to view animals, if you are lucky one, may see rare tiger as well and bathing elephants. Later take a spice plantation tour to see crops of cinnamon, cardamom, pepper, tea and coffee estates etc. On your way back to the hotel, a stopover to the local spice market to shop some fragrant spices. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Periyar: Famous for Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the bank of Periyar River in Kerala, one of India's biggest wildlife sanctuaries covering 778 square kilometers, this sanctuary also houses Tiger Reserve. Periyar National Park is blend of mercerising charming beauty and affluent nature surroundings. The sanctuary houses sizable population of elephants, also Tiger, Sambars, Bisons, Antelopes and Wild Boars. Here one can enjoy Elephant safari exploring dense forests on the back of Elephant.

17 Day: Periyar - Alleppey (140 kms: 4 hrs) Backwaters tours through sailing boat)

After breakfast check out the hotel and drive for Alleppey, on arrival check in to the houseboat and journey begins to explore backwaters world though sailing boat passing thorough tropical countryside, enjoying view of palm fringed narrow canals winding through the vast expanse of paddy fields and the neat tiny hamlets lined up along either side of the canals are panoramic sights. On the way one can see The Chinese fishing nets, the reminiscent of our past trade links, groups of duck swimming around and colourful birds flying across the sky remains as enduring pictures treasured in our memories, you can try your hands in fishing from the houseboats. In the evening enjoy beautiful sunset from the sun-deck of the houseboats. Enjoy the dinner of your choice cooked and served by the Chef. Dinner and overnight at the houseboat.

Alleppey: a calm backwater town is the center for backwater cruises in Kerala. It has a large network of water canals, which passes through the town, provides its lifeline & has a long sandy beach. Alleppy is also famous for Speculative Nehru Trophy Boat Race, celebrated every year- in month of August, the most colourful and exotic snake boat race in Kerala. The city is known for coir products.

Houseboat: Generated through electricity; with sitting cum dining area, private bedroom with attached English toilets, sun deck and fully loaded kitchen with a Chef, and Srank (Driver).

Backwaters Tours: The mystifying intricate of forty-five rivers that creates around 900 km roundabout lakes, lagoons, canals, estuaries and deltas in the South Indian state of Kerala, This topographical persona blessed the God's Own Country with elaborate water worlds, commonly known as 'backwaters'. Cruising all along the backwaters of Kerala is an ultimate way to discern its implausible foliage, bona fide, affluent ethnicity and wildlife. The tranquil, steep and Sluggish backwaters tour is like inspiring depictions of nature’s beauty witnessed by the tourists.

18 Day: Alleppey – Kovalam (160 kms: 3 - 4 hrs)

Today morning after breakfast disembark from the houseboat and drive to Kovalam, on arrival transfer to the beach resort. Kovalam is the most picturesque beach of Kerala and just 16 kms away from - Trivandrum; Kovalam is quite famous for Ayurveda treatment and massage. After some relaxation you can enjoy beach activities on Kovalam beach with - surfing skiing and kayaking. Enjoy the sunbathing and Ayurveda massage under the tropical sun. Overnight at the beach resort at Kovalam.

Kovalam: On the Malabar Coast along the Kerala shoreline is a small village; called Kovalam is 16 kms away from Trivandrum, a sheltered bay endowed with unusual beauty. This natural bay is a safe sea-pool free from high waves and surge. The beach resort here is of international standard. Today Kovalam has become one of the most popular beach hangouts in India. Kovalam means a grove of coconut trees and truly the coconut trees along the beaches gives it a paradise of nature.

19 Day: Kovalam

Today morning after breakfast you can enjoy the day on the sandy beach – may opt for water sports and wellness : Sunbathing, water skiing, Angling, Para- sailing, surfing etc…you may experience renown Ayurveda massage, herbal body toning, treatment offered at most of resorts, this will not give you just relaxation, in fact rejuvenates your body, mind and soul. You can also enjoy special cultural programme and catamaran cruising. Overnight at the resort at Kovalam.

Ayurveda, means the science of healthy living, derives its name from the Sanskrit words, AYUSH (LIFE) and VEDA (KNOWLEDGE). It looks at healing in a holistic fashion. The physical treatment has overtones of philosophical and psychological approaches too. Any ailment in the body is viewed as a result of a combination of factors with special reference to the components of diet. It is here that Ayurveda recognizes that each individual is different and so treatment too should be customized. The Ayurvedic principles are found in detail in Atharva Veda, one of the four Vedas of Hinduism.

20 Day: Kovalam – Kanyakumari (85 kms: 2 hrs)

After breakfast check out the beach resort and drive to Kanyakumari, on arrival check into the hotel. After relaxation visit: Kumari Amman Devi Temple- dedicated to Goddess Devi Kanya, an embodiment of Goddess Parvati. Gandhi Mandapam - Dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi- The father of Nation. Then early evening boat cruise to Swami Vivekananda Memorial - where Swami Vivekananda meditated and decided to carry his message of peace across the world. Thiruvalluvar Statue- is the land mark of the Kanyakumari. In the evening enjoy the amazing sunset from Murugan Kundram hills, also rising sun on the same horizon, one of the phenomenal and rare experience in Kanyakumari. Overnight at the hotel in Kanyakumari.

Kanyakumari Referred to by the British as Cape Commorin, Kanyakumari in the state of Tamilnadu is located at the southernmost tip of the peninsular Indian. It derives its name from the small temple dedicated to Kanyakumari or the youthful form of the primeval energy Shakti (Mother Goddess) located on the city’s shore. Kanyakumari is the point of confluence of three oceans - the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. This well-known Hindu pilgrimage center is famous for its beautiful sights of sunrise and sunset over the waters.

21 Day: Kanyakumari – Trivandrum (90 kms: 2 - 3 hrs) – Hometown

After enjoying the charismatic sunrise and breakfast check out the hotel and drive to Trivandrum, exploring Horse Palace, The Napier Museum & Sree Chitra Art Gallery and Padmatheertha Kulam (Temple Pond). After visit continue drive to the airport to board the scheduled flight for onward journey. On departure the trip get over with happy memories.