Great India

Welcome to India! Delhi is a monumental city with a vibrant mix of old and new teeming bazaars, British boulevards, powerful Mughal palaces and forts, and intricate, ethereal towers, temples, and tombs. Upon arrival at Delhi International Airport, you will be met and assisted by our company representative and transferred to your hotel.

Overnight in Delhi

Today you will tour the Old and New Delhi. Get ready to visit Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi’s serene and evocative cremation site, India Gate (the War Memorial) and the President’s House (from the outside), and the Baha’i Lotus Temple (closed on Mondays); this lotus-shaped marvel in marble is a symbol of peace. From there you will continue your tour to the Qutub Minar, a stunning 240-foot brick minaret, the tallest in the world surrounded by an elaborate complex built in the Indo-Islamic architectural tradition. Drive to the medieval  l city of Agra, home to the world-famous Taj Mahal. Agra is one of the prime tourist spots in India for this reason, although its attractions also extend to a wide range of other historical sights. The Taj, however, is in a league of its own and is a must-see for any visitor to the city. Commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 15th century as a memorial to his wife Mumtaz Mahal, it is an architectural masterpiece of exquisite craftsmanship and perfect proportions. Enjoy your evening at leisure (no services offered). You may explore the city’s hidden alleyways and lively spice markets, hop on a cycle rickshaw, and admire colorful Hindu temples and traditional mosques. Or you may visit a local restaurant to enjoy incredible Indian food.

Overnight in Agra

Visit the Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays). Considered the pinnacle of Mughal art in India, the Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. When declaring it a World Heritage Site, UNESCO described it as “the jewel of Muslim art in India”. Few words can describe the magnificence of this monument. Marvel over the transforming light and colors of this breathtaking monument in the beautiful dawn glow. Return to the hotel and take a marble craftsmanship demonstration.

Overnight in Agra

Begin your tour with a visit to the Itmad-Ud-Daulah monument, known as the "Baby Taj", the first Mughal structure that was entirely built from marble. Later, you will visit the Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site developed and added to between the 16th and 17th centuries by successive rulers of the Mughal Dynasty. The fort was primarily built as a military structure, but Shah Jahan upgraded it to a palace before it became his gilded prison for 8 years after his son Aurangzeb seized power. The elegant building inside reflects a fascinating synthesis of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles.

Drive to Jaipur with an en-route visit to Fatehpur Sikri — an eerily abandoned capital from the Mughal Empire between 1570 and 1586. Akbar built this city to celebrate the birth of his son and future heir to the throne, Emperor Jahangir. While Akbar is believed to have been illiterate, he took great interest in the arts and architecture; Fatehpur Sikri is one of his famous works. Sadly, it served as the capital for little more than a decade and was eventually abandoned for a lack of access to water. Later, take a demonstration of gem-cutting and polishing. In the evening you will check in to the hotel upon arrival. Jaipur, Rajasthan’s capital is also known as the Pink City. The origin of this nickname will become immediately apparent as you enter the old city walls and greet the pink-colored buildings rising at every turn.

Overnight in Jaipur

After a traditional welcome, learn about the local culture, cuisine, rituals, and festivals from your charming hosts. Listen to the stories of the Pink City , admire the traditional décor of Hindu gods, and savor the delicious flavors of Rajasthani cuisine. Sit with the family to feast on naans, lentils, curry, and dal-bati, and many other dishes typical to Rajasthan served with a dessert or sweet dish.

Begin your day with an exhilarating excursion to Amber Fort. Perched on a hillside on the outskirts of town, the palace was constructed in the 1590s by Maharaja Man Singh, the commander of Akbar’s army, and was largely motivated by the highly defensible location. This is a beautiful and very well-preserved structure, built on four levels and surrounded by ruins, which served as the backdrop for the Mira Nair movie “Kama Sutra: A Tale of Love.” Spend your afternoon at leisure or perhaps join our optional tour.

Overnight in Jaipur 

Begin your tour of the city with a stop at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). This magnificent structure was built for the royal ladies of the palace to discretely watch the grand processions along the main street. The palace was built between 1729 and 1732 by the ruler Amber Sawai Jai Singh II. This palace takes a large part of the total area of Jaipur and is surrounded by battle doors. The complex was built like there is a city in a city, boasting courtyards, gardens, buildings, temples, fountains, pounds, courts, horse stable, workshops, and playgrounds. Continue your tour to the Jantar Mantar, an impressive astronomical observatory built in the early 1700s by Maharaja Jai Sing II, the astronomer to which this city owes its name. The term "Jantar Mantar" literally means "instruments for measuring the harmony of the heavens". It houses various architectural and astrological instruments that have caught the interest of astronomers, historians, and architects around the world. It is one of the largest observatories ever built. While you are in the city, you may also visit the nearby popular street markets of Jaipur such as the Johari Bazaar with hundreds of jewelry vendors, plus handcrafted clothing, furniture, artwork, and more to choose from.

This morning you will drive to Pushkar, a sacred city for Hindus. Surrounded by hills on three sides and dunes on the fourth, Pushkar boasts a fascinating location and a befitting backdrop for the annual religious and cattle fair (held in November). As a quiet and secluded desert town for 51 weeks a year, for just a few days it transitions into an incredible and authentic extravaganza during the annual Pushkar Fair. Drawing people from all around the world, this is also possibly the largest camel and cattle-trading fair in the world. Upon arrival in Pushkar, you will check in to your hotel. Head on a walking tour of the holy city of the God, Brahma; visit the Pushkar Lake and the famous 8th century Brahma Temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe and the only bull temple in the world. Experience a special Pooja ceremony at a Ghat with a Hindu priest on the banks of Pushkar Lake.

Overnight in Pushkar

After breakfast, you will drive to Udaipur. Udaipur is a majestic city of lakes and palaces. Founded by Maharana Udai Singh in 1559 and fondly referred to as Rajasthan’s most romantic city, its rich history is matched by its picturesque setting among the Aravalli Mountains and three manmade lakes. Upon arrival in Udaipur, you will check in to your hotel. After a short period of rest, choose to explore the city on your own or join our optional tour.

Overnight in Udaipur

Sailing past picturesque Ghats and palaces, you will stop at the island of Jag Mandir, a 17th-century water palace that witnessed two important historical events. It was the refuge for Prince Khurram, later known as Shah Jahan when he was exiled by his father. Later during the uprising of 1857, the island offered safety to several British families who fled from nearby Née much.

Your day will begin at the City Palace, overlooking the blue waters of Lake Pichola. Maharana Udai Singh initiated construction in 1559 A.D., which was subsequently expanded, with impressive uniformity, by several succeeding Maharanas. The palace boasts plenty of beautiful courtyards and gardens. The main hall has been converted into a museum, housing opulent artifacts and original works of art. Inside the complex you will find the exquisite crystal gallery, exhibiting 19th-century pieces including crystal chandeliers, tables, sofas, and beds. We will continue walking to the Jagdish Temple to study its many remarkable friezes. Lavishly built in 1651 by Maharana Jagat Singh, it is easy to understand why Jagdish is the most respected Hindu temple in Udaipur. Afterward, we will explore the Old City, wandering through the bustling streets lined with art shops, spice vendors, tailors, and more.

Overnight in Udaipur

Drive to Jodhpur, with an en-route visit to the Temple of Ranakpur. Built-in the 15th century and situated in a valley on the western side of the Aravali Range, Ranakpur is considered one of the five holiest sites of the Jain community and is exceptionally beautiful. Over 1444 marble pillars, each distinctively carved in exquisite detail, support the temple. However, legend has it that it is impossible to count the pillars. Not to be missed in the temple is one carving out of a single stone with 108 heads of snakes and numerous tails. Upon arrival in Jodhpur, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Jodhpur

Today you will visit the Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada. Later, drive to Jaisalmer, founded by Prince Jaisal in 1156. Jaisalmer served as a major staging post on the trade route across the Thar Desert. Your first glimpse of the honey-colored walls, rising out of the hot and barren desert, will be a magical experience. Untouched by time, Jaisalmer, with its golden crenulated walls and narrow streets lined with exquisite Havelis, offers a medieval ambiance. Upon arrival in Jaisalmer, check in to the hotel and spend your time at leisure. Jaisalmer is famous for its old stonework, antiques, blankets, rugs, mirror work, and embroidery, and is the perfect place for antique street shopping.

Overnight in Jaisalmer

Take a tour of Jaisalmer. The fort, often referred to as the Golden Fort due to the color of the stone, encloses palaces decorated with delicate jail or lattice worked screens, carved doors, floral carvings, and elaborately carved 12th to 16th-century Jain Temples. The Havelis in both the fort and the town are exceptional, similar in style to the homes of Venetian merchants. These were the mansions of wealthy traders. The houses are decorated with beautifully carved facades, screens, and windows. Each haveli boasts an inner courtyard surrounded by richly decorated apartments. Walk through the narrow streets of the fort to see the Nathmalji-ki-Haveli with its beautifully arched roof with carved brackets in the form of peacocks. Patwon-ki-Haveli is the most elaborate and magnificent haveli, known for its latticed façade and Salim Singh ki Haveli. Outside the walls of the fortified town lies the small oasis of Gadi Sagar, which led Prince Jaisal to discover this city.

Overnight in Jaisalmer

After breakfast drive to Bikaner. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and spend the day at leisure. Bikaner exhibits a rich history of Rajputs; there are so many Havelis, palaces temples, and museums offering a pleasing picture of a bygone era. In Bikaner, one can travel back in time and experience the rich culture and hospitality that melts hearts.

Overnight in Bikaner

Today you will visit the Junagarh Fort. This magnificent structure was started by Raja Rai Singh in the 16th century and added onto over the next three centuries. The outer wall, built of light red sandstone is surrounded by a moat, and within you will find beautifully designed palaces with balconies, kiosks, fine jail or latticework screens with richly decorated interiors. The Badal Mahal in the fort boasts walls covered with stories from Krishna’s life, whilst the walls of the oldest palace, the Lal Niwas, are decorated elaborately in red and gold. From there you will drive to Mandawa. Upon arrival check in to your hotel. Enjoy a walking tour of Mandawa, dominated by a painted arched gateway adorned with Lord Krishna and his cows. Visit Chokhani and Ladia Havelis, and the street with Saraf Havelis.

Overnight in Mandawa

After breakfast at your hotel, travel back to Delhi to catch your flight to Mamallapuram. Upon arrival at Chennai International Airport, you will be met and assisted by our company representative and transferred to Mamallapuram, with its picturesque location on a rocky outcrop between the beach and lagoon. Mamallapuram is referred to as an ‘open-air museum’. Its name is believed to have been given after the Pallava King Narasimhavarman I, who took on the nickname Maha-Malla (great wrestler), as this was the favorite sport of the Pallavas. Mamallapuram boasts plenty of historic monuments built largely between the 7th and the 9th centuries and has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Overnight in Mamallapuram

After breakfast at the hotel, spend your morning by the beach at leisure. The spectacular Mahabalipuram Beach is shored by the Bay of Bengal with the dreamy rock-cut sculptures being very pleasing to the eye. The ancient port city of the Pandavas boasts plenty of seaside activities while bustling with Pallava art forms.

Overnight in Mamallapuram

Visit Arjuna's Penance. Nothing can prepare you for the wonderful bas-reliefs covering two huge boulders. The exquisite detail, dating from the 7th century, depicts the flow of the Ganges down from the Himalayan mountains as well as scenes from Indian daily life.  You won't believe that the Five Rathas shrines are carved whole from an outcrop of rock. Each of the five temples is dedicated to heroes from the great epic of the Mahabharata. Spend time admiring the detail of the carvings which include gods, humans and elephants and wonder why the temples are incomplete and were never consecrated.

Serving traditional South Indian cuisine served in Thalai vazhai ilai which means the top part of a banana leaf. In a clean banana leaf, first in the top a thayir pachadi (curd + vegetable), a varuval (deep fried vegetable), a kootu, a poriyal (vegetables) are offered. 

In the morning you will depart for Pondicherry, set on the Bay of Bengal with delightful beaches. This surprising town will take you back to colonial times when it was a French enclave but is now blended with Tamil culture. Those used to British colonial architecture will enjoy the Gallic imprint with the profusion of Catholic churches and distinctly French buildings and excellent restaurants. En route you will visit Auroville, the French village inspired by the mother as a place where people can come together, regardless of nationality, belief, or color, to live a meaningful life. Experimental buildings mixing Western and Indian elements are situated on the narrow rural road shaded by lush greenery. This utopia supports itself through agriculture, handicrafts, and alternative technology. Well known for the Shri Aurobindo Ashram that was set up by one of his disciples, a Parisian known as The Mother, in his memory, and is one of the most active ashrams in India. Upon arrival in Pondicherry, check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Pondicherry

Eat breakfast at the hotel before you drive to Tanjore, a bustling market town in one of the main rice-growing regions of Tamil Nadu. Tanjore once served as the capital of the Chola Empire. While many buildings from that period no longer exist, the town is still full of lovely temples. En route, you may stop at the Dharasuram Temple, built-in memory of the white elephant, Airavath, from God's family. The temple’s original name was “Airavatheshwar.” Upon arrival in Tanjore, check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Tanjore

This morning you will explore Tanjore, with a visit to the Brihadeshvara Temple. This magnificent temple is over 1000 years old and now serves as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The complex evokes the power of the Chola kings as it towers over the town. Study the detailed inscriptions depicting temple life and the dancers, musicians, potters, goldsmiths, and astrologers who lived there. With a history of traditional bronze casting, you will get the opportunity to view the masters at work using the lost wax method. This method, used to create sacred temple bronzes during the Chola period, is still practiced today and is being passed down through the generations to ensure that bronze casting continues to thrive.

Continue your tour to Madurai, a vast and pulsating city. Madurai is one of the oldest cities in South India, dating 2500 years back in time, sprawled along the banks of the River Vaigai. Wander through the bustling packed streets which are full of pilgrims, wandering cows, open-air kitchens, and colorful bazaars. Upon arrival, you may check in to your hotel.

Overnight in Madurai

Spend your day at leisure or join the optional cycle rickshaw ride below.

Overnight in Madurai

Prepare for a tour of Madurai with a cycle rickshaw. This will be a highly memorable experience as you will discover the narrow streets and lanes of Madurai depicting the typical life of locals. The rickshaw pullers of Madurai became unpopular with the locals, as they preferred the modern forms of transportation. The Cycle Rickshaw, the most eco-friendly form of transport, was rapidly phased out and the 120 rickshaw pullers of Madurai were deprived of their livelihood as they were unable to buy modern forms of transit such as the auto-rickshaw/taxi. To give these pullers another lease of life, we have designed this tour as part of our commitment to promote responsible tourism. By joining this tour, you will be supporting the rickshaw pullers meanwhile encouraging locals to use rickshaws. By Cycle Rickshaw we will visit the Flower, Fruit and Spice Market, and stop to admire the Thirumalai Nayak Palace, visit the Gandhi Museum, and small-scale industries such as vessel and cloth making.

After breakfast you will drive to Periyar, also known as Thekkady, a beautiful sanctuary situated nearly 1800 m above sea level in the semi and evergreen forests of the Idukki district. Thekkady is a landlocked home for its fauna and flora and for the Mannans, Palians, and Urali tribes who continue to practice their ancient methods of herding and beekeeping. Check-in to your hotel.

Visit the Spice Plantation. Famous for their spice plantations, the Cardamom Hills serves as the perfect place to discover a garden where spices and aromatic plants are grown. Learn about their use in the preparation of local cuisine and their medicinal properties. You may enjoy an optional short ride on an elephant (supplement cost applicable) to get the best view of the scenery.

Overnight in Periyar

Early in the morning before breakfast, prepare for our optional river safari on Lake Periyar. After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Kumarakom, a cluster of tiny islands with an ethereal level of beauty, surrounded by a labyrinth of tropical waterways. Kumarakom is the jumping-off point to sail and explore the Kerala backwaters.

Overnight in Kumarakom

Wake up early for the best chance to spot elephants, deer, wild boars, mongoose, and colorful birds on a dawn walk. Your experienced guide will know the best places for game viewing and, if you are extremely lucky, you may even come across elusive leopard and tiger.

After a delicious breakfast, spend your time at leisure in this tranquil resort. Kumarakom is a small town situated on the backwater lagoons in the southern state of Kerala. It is famous for its natural beauty. You may choose to go fishing, experience a houseboat stay, book an Ayurvedic massage, or watch the sunset over Vembanad Lake.

Overnight in Kumarakom

In the morning you will drive to Cochin. The European influences will become immediately apparent in this charming town, situated on several islands between the Arabian Sea and Kerala Backwaters. The maritime history of Cochin is reflected in its blend of Dutch, Portuguese, and British architecture. Upon arrival, spend your day at leisure or join our optional tours.  

Overnight in Cochin

Meander through the historic districts of Mattancherry and Fort Cochin where the various European influences become most apparent, with merchant houses and old warehouses cramming the waterfront and narrow streets. Take in the St Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and the highly decorated Santa Cruz Basilica. Enjoy time admiring the colorful murals, including depictions of the Ramayana, in the 16th century Dutch Palace.  Linger in the colorful, pungent spice markets before moving to the much-photographed Chinese nets lining the shore of Fort Cochin.

Kathakali, literally meaning "story dance", is a pantomimic dance drama where dancing and acting are blended into an inseparable form. It is a combination of facial expressions and body movements, bringing out the thoughts and emotions of the characters. Kathakali’s origins date back to nearly 1500 years ago in the early ritual folk dances and dance dramas of Kerala in Southern India, such as the dances associated with the cult of Bhagavathy (Thiyyattom, Mudiyettu, and Theyyam), which were performed in religious festivals by actors wearing elaborate masks, colorful costumes and headdresses, and intricately painted faces.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Cochin International Airport for your onward flight.