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Grand North India Cultural Odyssey & Kerala Backwaters

0/5
Duration

18 Nights / 19 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through India’s cultural heartlands and the serene backwaters of Kerala with our Grand North India Cultural Odyssey & Kerala Backwaters tour. Begin in Delhi, where ancient monuments like the Red Fort and Jama Masjid narrate tales of Mughal grandeur. Marvel at the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra before exploring the medieval town of Orchha and the exquisite temples of Khajuraho. In Varanasi, experience spiritual enlightenment along the banks of the Ganges. Fly to Mumbai for a taste of cosmopolitan India, then uncover the ancient rock-cut caves of Aurangabad. Finally, unwind amidst Kerala’s lush landscapes and tranquil backwaters, completing a journey rich in cultural diversity and natural beauty.

Highlights

  • This is a private tour/activity only for your group.
  • Enhanced cleaning/ traveler safety.
  • In-depth cultural experience.
  • Flexible sightseeing & stopover.
  • Most travelers can participate.

Bulk discount (by Percent)

Bulk discount adult
# Discount group From adult To adult Value
1 Discount on 2-person group 2 2 %
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 %
3 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 %
4 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 %
5 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 %
6 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 %
7 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 %

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

Arrive in Delhi and transfer to your hotel. Rest and prepare for the journey ahead.

Day 2: Delhi

Breakfast at hotel Explore the majestic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning Mughal architecture. Visit Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, offering panoramic views of Old Delhi. Discover Raj Ghat, a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, where he was cremated. Explore Humayun's Tomb, a masterpiece of Mughal architecture surrounded by lush gardens. Ascend the Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world, dating back to the 12th century. Visit the Lotus Temple, renowned for its distinctive lotus-shaped architecture and tranquil atmosphere.

Day 3: Delhi - Agra (204kms)

Breakfast at hotel Drive to Agra, a city steeped in Mughal heritage. Marvel at the iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage site and symbol of eternal love. Explore the majestic Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty. Visit Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb, often referred to as the "Baby Taj," known for its intricate marble inlay work.

Day 4: Agra - Orchha (220kms)

Breakfast at hotel Travel to Orchha, a hidden gem known for its medieval architecture and serene ambiance. Explore Orchha Fort Complex, featuring palaces, temples, and cenotaphs overlooking the Betwa River. Visit Chaturbhuj Temple, known for its towering architecture and exquisite carvings. Discover Lakshmi Narayan Temple, dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi and adorned with vibrant frescoes.

Day 5: Orchha - Khajuraho (178km)

Breakfast at hotel Journey to Khajuraho, famous for its stunning temples adorned with intricate sculptures. Explore the Western Group of Temples, including the iconic Kandariya Mahadev Temple, known for its erotic sculptures. Visit the Eastern Group of Temples, featuring intricately carved Jain temples and other ancient structures.

Day 6: Khajuraho - Varanasi (flight)

Breakfast at hotel Fly to Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India. Attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the sacred River Ganges, a soul-stirring ritual of light and sound.

Day 7: Varanasi

Early morning boat ride on River Ganges Witness the sunrise over the Ganges and observe devotees performing morning rituals. Visit Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, and explore the Dhamekh Stupa and Mulagandha Kuti Vihar. Explore Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Visit the Bharat Mata Temple, showcasing a marble relief map of India. Discover Tulsi Manas Mandir, dedicated to Lord Rama and adorned with verses from Ramcharitmanas. Optionally visit Ramnagar Fort, known for its museum displaying vintage cars, royal artifacts, and a unique astrological clock.

Day 8: Varanasi - Mumbai (flight)

Breakfast at hotel Fly to Mumbai, the bustling financial capital of India. Visit the Gateway of India, an iconic monument overlooking the Arabian Sea. Explore Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formerly Prince of Wales Museum), showcasing ancient artifacts and art collections. Drive along Marine Drive, a picturesque promenade offering stunning views of the sea and city skyline. Optionally take a Bollywood tour to explore the vibrant film industry of India.

Day 9: Mumbai

Breakfast at hotel Visit Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore Hanging Gardens (Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens), offering panoramic views of the city skyline. Relax at Juhu Beach, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Optionally take a Bollywood tour to visit film studios and understand the filmmaking process.

Day 10: Mumbai - Aurangabad (flight)

Breakfast at hotel Fly to Aurangabad, known for its medieval monuments and rich history. Later, embark on an excursion to Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring rock-cut temples and monasteries. Visit Daulatabad Fort, a formidable hill fortress known for its strategic architecture and historical significance. Explore Aurangabad Caves, ancient rock-cut Buddhist shrines dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries.

Day 11: Aurangabad

Breakfast at hotel Excursion to Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its exquisite Buddhist cave paintings and sculptures. Explore Bibi ka Maqbara, often called the "Mini Taj" for its resemblance to the Taj Mahal. Visit Panchakki (Water Mill), an ancient water mill powered by a series of hydraulic pipes.

Day 12: Aurangabad - Cochin (flight)

Breakfast at hotel Fly to Cochin, a vibrant city known for its cultural diversity and historical landmarks. Attend a traditional Kathakali dance show in the evening, featuring elaborate costumes, expressive gestures, and rhythmic music.

Day 13: Cochin - Munnar (140kms)

Breakfast at hotel Drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station nestled in the Western Ghats. Visit tea gardens and learn about the tea-making process. Explore Mattupetty Dam, offering scenic views of the surrounding hills and reservoir.

Day 14: Munnar

Breakfast at hotel Discover Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and lush greenery. Visit Top Station, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats and neighboring state of Tamil Nadu. Explore the Tea Museum to learn about Munnar's legacy as a center for tea cultivation. Optionally visit Kundala Lake, known for its serene surroundings and boating facilities.

Day 15: Munnar - Thekkady (110kms)

Breakfast at hotel Drive to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary. Enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you can spot wildlife and enjoy the scenic beauty of the reserve. Visit spice plantations to learn about spices like cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves.

Day 16: Thekkady

Breakfast at hotel Explore Periyar National Park on a guided trek or nature walk. Visit Elephant Junction for a close encounter with elephants and enjoy activities like elephant rides and baths. Optionally indulge in an Ayurvedic massage to rejuvenate and relax.

Day 17: Thekkady - Alleppey (140kms)

Breakfast at hotel Drive to Alleppey, known as the Venice of the East, famous for its backwaters and houseboat cruises. Enjoy a serene houseboat cruise on the backwaters, passing through lush green landscapes and villages.

Day 18: Alleppey - Cochin (60kms)/ Delhi (flight)

Breakfast on houseboat Proceed to Cochin for onward journey or transfer to Cochin airport for flight to Delhi.

Day 19: Delhi - Departure (flight)

Breakfast at hotel Transfer to Delhi airport for departure.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 18 Nights' accommodation in 4-star hotels.
  • Daily breakfast and meal as per day plan.
  • Private air-conditioned deluxe car for airport transfer, sightseeing and excursion as per program.
  • English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.
  • Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Bottled drinking water in car.
  • Government taxes.
  • Khajuraho - Varanasi - Mumbai - Aurangabad - Cochin - Delhi flight fare approx INR 30500 per person in economy class.
  • Camera charges at monuments.
  • Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc.
  • Gratuities & optional activities.
  • Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

Tour's Location

FAQs

What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

Hotels used or similar for 18 nights accommodation

3 Star Hotels
Delhi x 2 nights: Dee Marks Hotel & Resorts/ Emarald Hotel
Agra x 1 night: Radisson Hotel/ Holiday Inn
Orchha x 1 night: Orchha Resort/ Amar Mahal
Khajuraho x 1 night: Ramada/SYNA Heritage Hotel
Varanasi x 2 nights: Meraden Grand/ Hotel Tridev
Mumbai x 2 nights: Hotel Godwin, Colaba/ Hotel Suba Palace
Aurangabad x 2 nights: The Fern Residency/ Amarpreet Hotel
Cochin x 1 night: The Tower House/ The Killians
Munnar x 2 nights: Abad Copper Castle/ Elysium Garden Hill Resort
Thekkady x 2 nights: Abad Green Forest/ Hotel Treetop
Alleppey x 1 night: Deluxe Houseboat (AC During Night Only)
Delhi x 1 night: Dee Marks Hotel & Resorts/ Emarald Hotel

Can travelers upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels?

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