Authentic North and South India
Trip Info
- Oct – April
- Mumbai
- Delhi Airport
- 4-12 People
- English, French
- Required for India
Trip Overview
Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - Trivandrum - Kumarakom - Alleppey - Cochin
An unforgettable trip where we immerse ourselves in the fascinating diversity of India, which takes us from the busy streets of Delhi to the majestic palaces of Jaipur and the breathtaking monuments of Agra. We experience the cultural splendour and rich history of these regions of India as we move through the bustling bazaars and magnificent temples. But the trip has more in store - from the tropical waters of Trivandrum to the picturesque waterways of Kumarakom and Alleppey. The exotic beauty of Kerala enchants us as we explore the tranquil backwaters and discover the cultural melting pot city of Cochin. On this small group tour we get very close to the Indian people with some very special activities, e.g. visiting various social projects or meeting different social groups. This trip is a feast for all the senses, a mixture of colors, Flavors, impressions and feelings that offers us an incomparable experience in the heart of India.
Trip Highlights
- Getting to know the Indian capital with a visit to social projects
- Our trip with a particularly sustainable view of the regions visited
- Rowing boat trip on the Yamuna River
- Pink city "Jaipur" by tuk-tuk
- Detailed tour of the port city of Cochin with its Portuguese buildings
- Visit to authentic villages in Kerala
- On the way in a pleasantly small group
- Individual beach extension possible
Itinerary
Upon arrival at New Delhi International Airport, meet & greet by our representative. After breakfast we visit Literacy India, a non-governmental organization that works for underprivileged children, women and youth and offers them the opportunity to develop their personality and improve their skills. We then visit Sunder Nursery and get an insight into the work of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture. It focuses on the physical, social, cultural and economic revitalization of communities in developing countries. In the afternoon we visit the Bangala Sahib Gurudwara, one of the most famous Sikh temples in India. There is a community kitchen on the premises where more than 10,000 people can eat free of charge every day, regardless of their race or religion. We round off our day with a drive through the government district, past the India Gate.
Meals: Breakfast Only
After breakfast we commence our journey to Vrindavan. From here, we take an e-rickshaw to the Iskcon temple and receive a brief introduction to temple life and refresh ourselves with a cup of chai. Later, a short walk through the alleys of Vrindavan. Afterwards, we are taken by rickshaw to the Yamuna bank, where we board rowing boats and travel on the Yamuna River for 30-45 minutes. A local guide accompanies us and tells us stories about Lord Krishna. After our arrival in Agra, we visit the Mehtab Bagh garden to enjoy the breathtaking view of the Taj Mahal from the other side of the Yamuna River at sunset. If you want, you can then visit the SHEROES Café. The café was founded by women who were victims of acid attacks.
Meals: Breakfast included
Early in the morning, we visit one of the most magnificent wonders of the modern world, the Taj Mahal. Immediately after, we visit the Agra Fort, a sprawling complex with a number of magnificent palaces, courtyards, pleasure gardens, pavilions and mosques. The Mughal Emperor Akbar began construction of the fort and subsequent emperors added their own structures and design elements over the years. Continue to Jaipur.
Meals: Breakfast included
In the morning, we start our tour of the Pink City. We begin with the fascinating Amber Fort, built in the 17th century by Maharaja Man Singh. He was one of the Mughal Emperor Akbar's most successful generals and a superb warrior. The hilltop fort was the seat of power of the Kachhwaha Rajput clan before the City Palace was built in Jaipur. The fort complex is home to some of the most impressive palaces, gardens and courtyards decorated with colorful frescoes and mirrors. Later, we visit the stunning City Palace. This sprawling complex of palaces, gardens and courtyards also houses the residences of the current royal family of Jaipur. Beautifully painted doors, exquisite paintings and exhibits of weapons, rare manuscripts, art, jewelry, textiles and traditional handicrafts make the Palace Museum a unique place. On a walking tour we explore the bazaars of old Jaipur. We can sample sweets and watch local artisans such as silversmiths and bangle makers in their workshops. Another highlight today is the "Pink Tuk Tuk Ride" - an extraordinary way to explore the old and modern side of Jaipur. It is a unique initiative that offers 200 women from low-income households in Jaipur an aspiring employment opportunity. So all tuk tuks are driven by women!
Meals: Breakfast included
Today we leave the north of India and fly via Mumbai or via Delhi to the south, to Trivandrum the capital city of Kerala.
Meals: Breakfast included
In the morning, we will take a trip to one of the architectural wonders of the past, the Padmanabhapuram Palace. The Padmanabhapuram Palace, which is over 400 years old, is considered the largest wooden palace in all of Asia. It covers an area of 6.5 hectares with more than 15 buildings, with each part of this magnificent complex boasting intricate woodwork that showcases the outstanding skills of the artisans of yesteryear. Later, we will visit one of the most beautiful temples, Thiruvattar Adikesava Perumal, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Meals: Breakfast included
Drive to Alleppey, a pleasant, relaxed market town surrounded by coconut plantations. With its large network of canals, it is an important centre for backwater houseboat trips and the setting for spectacular snake boat races. The town, also known as the "Venice of the East", is the headquarters of Kerala's coconut industry and important for the processing of cashew nuts. Here we board our houseboat, which we leisurely chug through the backwaters. Today we spend the night on board the houseboat.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, & dinner included
After our breakfast on board, disembarkation and drive to Kumarakom. On the way, we will visit a rubber plantation. Kumarakom is the best destination to experience Ayurvedic massages and relaxation, which we can enjoy directly at the hotel (payment on site).
Meals: Breakfast included
Our excursion today begins with a ride on a shikhara boat that takes us across a lake to the village of Manjira. With the help of our village guide and the village community, we learn about many of their local practices and products. Experts show us how to climb a coconut tree and we watch skilled fishermen cast their nets and catch a few fish with ease. We enjoy a walk through the lush green rice fields and learn about the unique plants and spices that surround the village. We are also invited into the homes of the residents to see more traditional and unique crafts.
Meals: Breakfast included
We first drive into the hinterland of Kerala by tuk tuk to get to know various small villages. Our guide later takes us to the local fishing port and we witness a live fish auction. Today we have lunch with a local family. Afterwards we drive to Cochin.
Meals: Breakfast included
After breakfast we go on an exciting, sustainable tour through cultural Cochin. On the bike we get to know the way of life, places of worship and eating habits of the various communities of Cochin. After our bike tour we visit the Jewish quarter with the old synagogue, the Mattancherry Palace and the Chinese fishing nets. In the evening a Kathakali dance performance awaits us.
Meals: Breakfast included
Early morning transfer to the airport and return flight to back home or onward destination. End our services.
Meals: Breakfast included
Trip Cost Includes
- Transport: (As per group size)
- A traditional welcome on arrival at Delhi & Trivandrum Airport
- English speaking assistance 24 x 7
- All in-out transfer, sector drive and city sightseeing
- All toll tax parking fuel and driver’s allowance
- Mineral water (1lt) per day per guest
- Houseboat on full board (Lunch, dinner & breakfast)
- Boat ride at Vrindavan in Yamuna River to see the ritual life of Hindu
- English speaking city guide at:- Delhi, Vrindavan, Agra, Jaipur, Trivandrum & Cochin only
- One time monument entrance
- Domestic flight fare from Jaipur – Trivandrum
- Rickshaw or push push ride at Jaipur, Old Delhi & Cochin.
- Village excursion during houseboat trip at Alleppey
Trip Cost Excludes
- Any personal expenses
- Any international flight fare or visa fee
- Any major meal except Alleppey (Houseboat on full board)
- Tip, laundry, any kinds of emergency services, camera feel
- Anything else that is not mentioned in the “Price Includes” section
- Best Price Guaranteed - ( You can add information like this to further explain value that you provide to your travel clients. )
- No Booking Fees - ( You can add information like this to further explain value that you provide to your travel clients. )
- Professional Local Guide
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