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Exploring India

Rajasthan & Kerala

For those looking to experience India’s contrast between the bustling north and tropical south, this itinerary is the perfect blend of the two. Start with 10 days exploring the colourful cities and tranquil countryside of Rajasthan before travelling south to explore the lush green backwaters and stunning tea plantations of Kerala.

Your Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome to Delhi!

This morning your overnight flight arrives in to Delhi, oozing with history and intrigue. Your driver and guide will greet you at New Delhi International Airport and transport you to your comfortable accommodation. Nothing is planned for this afternoon to allow you to recover from your flight, so relax and enjoy the hotel’s roof top seating area or head out for a wander.

Day 2 - Fascinating Old and New Delhi

Today you will have a full tour of Old and New Delhi. Your guide will explain the full history and highlight the contrast between the Old and New regions of the city. A highlight of the tour is a guided walk or cycle rickshaw through the sprawling narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, where you can absorb the sights, sounds and fascinating local life in the depths of Old Delhi. The tour takes approximately 5 hours, and the remainder of the day is at your leisure.

Day 3 - Romantic sights of Agra

Today you will rise early and experience India’s famous railways as you catch your morning train to Agra. After settling in to your accommodation, your guide will take you around Agra’s key sights, one of the highlights being the magnificent Red Fort. Later this afternoon, you will finish the day by enjoying the sunset from the quiet gardens of Mehtab Bagh, which sit behind the spectacular Taj Mahal. A peaceful and magical experience.

Day 4 - The magic of the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is one of the most romantic and iconic buildings in the world, and one that most certainly lives up to it’s hype. We recommend visiting at sunrise, when the crowds are a little quieter and the ethereal early morning light adds to the magical atmosphere. After your visit, you will continue your journey to the Pink City and capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur. The remainder of the day is free to spend as you wish.

Day 5 - Stunning palaces and impressive architecture

Today your guide will join you in exploring the beautiful old city of Jaipur, discovering the imposing Amber Fort and intricate facade of the Palace of the Winds. Learn about the fascinating workings behind Jantar Mantar Observatory and soak up the colourful atmosphere of this beautiful city. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your own leisure.

Day 6 - Get under the skin of Jaipur

Today is a free day to enjoy at your own pace. Perhaps jump in a rickshaw and meander around Jaipur’s exhilarating markets or relax in the serene courtyards of your hotel. However you decide to spend your day, remember to keep your camera handy to capture some beautiful photographs!

Day 7 - Experience rural Rajasthan

Today your driver will transfer you the rural village of Barli, where you will be staying in the beautifully restored Fort Barli. The heritage property is full of character and charm and has a lovely swimming pool to relax in, or you can head out in to the local village. Meander through the dusty colourful lanes, soaking up the atmosphere and enjoying an insight into life in rural Rajasthan.

Day 8 - Arrival into beautiful Udaipur

After a leisurely breakfast at Fort Barli, you will continue your journey to Udaipur with your driver. Udaipur has a truly beautiful setting, built on the banks of serene Lake Pichola, and has a wonderful relaxed atmosphere. On arrival, the afternoon is yours to spend as you wish. Perhaps enjoy a cold drink overlooking the lake and iconic Lake Palace, or take a stroll through the vibrant streets.

Day 9 - Experience the romance of Udaipur

Today you will be joined by your guide to explore the interesting and beautiful sights the city has to offer. You will meander through the old part of the city visiting the City Palace, rich with history and intricate traditional decoration, fascinating Jagdish Temple and the pretty Saheliyon Ki Bari gardens, or ‘Garden of the Maids’. The remainder of the day and evening is yours to enjoy as you wish before your depart north India tomorrow.

Day 10 - Arrival into idyllic Kerala

Fly to the south of India today from Udaipur via Mumbai to the luscious and green state of Kerala. On arrival you will be met by your driver who will transfer you to the historical port of Fort Cochin. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure taking in the sights and culture, experiencing the contrast from the first half of your trip.

Day 11 - Experience the culture and history of Fort Cochin

Explore a guided tour of Fort Cochin this morning. As you travel through the colonial streets you will pass sights such as the oldest church in India, St Francis, the Dutch Palace and the Santa Cruz Basilica.

The rest of the day is to spend as you wish. If you would like to attend a Kathakali performance tonight, which originates from Kerala, please let us know or ask at your hotel on arrival.

Day 12 - Travel into the hills

Travel up to the Western Ghats and to the area surrounding the hill station of Munnar today. With spice and tea plantations from every vantage point, staying in one of the isolated properties here with unspoilt views is a truly memorable experience.

Day 13 - Explore the tea and spice plantations on foot

Your guide will take you on a trek today where you will not only get to see the area but also learn about this part of Kerala. You may like to enjoy one of the other activities your property offers this afternoon.

Day 14 - Enjoy fabulous views on your journey

After a leisurely morning where you might like to enjoy another activity in Munnar your driver will pick you up for your journey to the Periyar National Park. This drive is particularly beautiful and your driver will be happy for you to make stops to take some stunning photographs. When you have arrived you will have the evening to relax at your leisure.

Day 15 - Experience Kerala’s wildlife

An early start today as you head out with a local ranger on a jungle walk of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Keep your eye out for sambar deer, giant squirrels, monkeys and wild boar amongst impressive bird life. Following an early lunch your driver will pick you up for the journey West to the beautiful Keralan backwaters. Enjoy a night on your rice barge where you will be served a fantastic Indian dinner after you have drifted through the scenic waterways.

Day 16 - Life on the backwaters

A further day on the backwaters. You may like to have another night on the rice barge so you can journey through the narrower and more scenic parts of this area. Bicycles mean you can explore villages and the food will continue to change but be delicious and memorable. Stay in a homestay on the backwaters if not having a second night on the barge.

Day 17 - Head to the beach!

For your final stop in Kerala enjoy the golden sand beaches of Marari where you can relax and reflect on your fantastic Indian experience.

Day 18 - Enjoy your final day relaxing

Day at leisure.

Day 19 - Home time!

Your driver will pick you up today in plenty of time to take you back to Cochin for your flight home.

DETAILS: -

This itinerary costs from £2,650 per person B&B and is based on two people sharing during the high season (Oct-Mar) excluding the Christmas and New Year period. The price includes all private transfers and domestic travel but not international flights.

International flights tend to cost about £600pp for a return – do ask us for advice. Alternatively we can book the flights for you but a booking fee may apply.

What's included?

INCLUDED:
  • Prices start from £2,650 per person
  • Accommodation on B&B basis
  • Private transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle
  • Domestic flights and train tickets
  • Local taxes
  • All excursions and activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • All trips are ATOL protected or ABTA bonded to ensure you are fully covered
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Delhi
The gateway to many north India trips, Old and New Delhi are full of history and charm and it is an exciting place to explore. More
Agra
Agra is home to one of the most iconic buildings in the world, the Taj Mahal. Visiting this monument at sunrise is a truly magical once in a lifetime experience, and one that must not be missed. More
Jaipur
The capital city of Rajasthan, Jaipur is a riot of colour and rich in fascinating history. Stroll around the magnificent Amber Fort and marvel at the intricate facade of the Palace of the Winds. More
Ranthambore National Park
Search for the majestic Tiger and enjoy the peaceful landscape of rural Rajasthan. Fantastic accommodation options and a high population of Tigers makes Ranthambore a brilliant addition to north India tours for wildlife enthusiasts! More
Jodhpur
The blue hue of the city's old town, imposing Mehrangarh Fort and bustling markets makes Jodhpur one of the most colourful and characterful cities in Rajasthan. A selection of properties ranging from rustic traditional Haveli's to luxurious palaces make for a wonderful stay. The Blue City is the perfect backdrop for atmospheric photographs, so be sure to keep your camera handy! More
Jaisalmer
Known as The Golden City, and for good reason. Jaisalmer city and Fort rises out of the honey hued sands of the Thar Desert, and along with elaborate and intricate architecture it is one of the most atmospheric cities in north India. A camel ride into the surrounding dunes for a night under the stars completes the magical experience. More
Udaipur
The romantic lake-side city of Udaipur has a more relaxed pace than other cities, so is the perfect last stop on any Rajasthan tours. The picturesque Lake Pichola, the iconic Lake Palace, seemingly floating in the water, and the stunning hillside as the backdrop create the perfect setting for a lazy evening, cold beverage in hand, watching the sunset. More
Mumbai
Vibrant and exciting, Mumbai is a city of extremes. The home of Bollywood and the rich and famous, it is also home to one of the largest slums in Asia, Dharavi. A tour around Mumbai highlights the iconic monuments and rich culture, and gives a wonderful opportunity to get under the skin of the city and gain an insight into local life. More
Goa
Beaches lined with colourful shacks, golden sands, tropical Palm Trees and a relaxed, bohemian vibe is what you can expect to find in Goa. Head to north Goa for more of a buzz, central Goa to explore the relaxed capital of Panjim, and the less built-up south for a little more seclusion and peace. More
Fort Cochin
Relaxed and historic Fort Cochin is a wonderful place to explore, enjoying the beautiful sights of the Chinese fishing nets, colourful fishing boats lining the shore, coconut stalls sitting under the dappled sunlight and, if you're lucky, the odd sighting of the river Dolphin. More
Munnar
Travel inland from Kerala's tropical coast and you discover the hill station of Munnar, nestled within lush green tea plantations and breathtaking scenery. Spend your time walking through the country side and enjoying the view, learning how tea is picked and processed and gaining an insight into the local way of life in the hills. More
Thekkady
Thekkady is the location of Periyar National Park, a must for wildlife enthusiasts visiting Kerala. Enjoy Jungle treks into the park and keep your eyes peeled for Sambar Deer, Giant Squirrels, Monkeys and Wild Boar amongst impressive bird life. More
The Backwaters
Experiencing life on the backwaters is often a highlight of trips to Kerala. Drift down the waterways on a traditional Houseboat, or choose from a number of wonderful properties to stay in to enjoy this serene way of life, a total contrast from Indian cities. More
Marari Beach
The beautiful and peaceful Marari Beach is a wonderful way to end a trip in Kerala, relaxing on the vast golden sands and dipping your toes in the warm Arabian ocean. The setting of Kerala's tropical coastline is the perfect relaxing end to a tour of this region where you can just enjoy the surrounding nature. More
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands
You can expect to find stunning white sand beaches, azure waters, world class diving and exotic jungle on these remote islands in the Bay of Bengal. It can be a little more of a challenge to reach the islands, but it is more than worth it for the secluded tropical hideaway that awaits. More
Wayanad
The alluring rainforest covered mountains of Wayanad are spectacular and a must for nature lovers. Home to coffee and spice plantations, it makes a wonderful scenic change from the exotic beaches and tranquil waterways found on the coast of northern Kerala. More
Nileshwar
Nileshwar in northern Kerala is home to a beautiful coastline and peaceful waterways. Less touched by tourism than elsewhere in India, visitors to this region benefit from an off the beaten track experience of traditional houseboat cruises and village life on the waters edge. More
Varanasi
Located on the banks of the sacred River Ganges, Varanasi is one of Hinduism's seven holy cities. An incredibly spiritual, historic and culturally rich city, a visit to Varanasi never fails to be a memorable one. Witness daily rituals on the water's edge and navigate the tangle of narrow lanes weaving through the city, too narrow for cars to pass through. More
Lucknow
Lucknow is the capital of Uttar Pradesh and full of magnificent architecture and fascinating history. The city is also very well known for it's delicious cuisine, unique to the region. More

Your adventure starts here!

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