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Eastern Frontier to Southern Shores: A Grand Tour of India

0/5
Duration

25 Nights/ 26 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Embark on a captivating journey across India with our “Eastern Frontier to Southern Shores: A Grand Tour.” Starting in Kolkata, immerse yourself in the bustling streets and cultural treasures before venturing into the tranquil hills of Darjeeling and Pelling. Explore the ancient monasteries of Gangtok and Kalimpong, then fly south to Hyderabad to uncover its rich heritage. Discover the architectural marvels of Hampi and Badami, and indulge in the serene backwaters of Kerala. From the majestic temples of Madurai to the French colonial charm of Pondicherry, this tour promises an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and natural beauty across India’s diverse landscapes.

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 Kolkata

Arrive in Kolkata and transfer to your hotel. Rest and relax after your journey.

Day 2: Kolkata

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Explore the iconic Victoria Memorial, a magnificent marble structure showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture amidst lush gardens. Visit the bustling New Market, a historic shopping hub offering a variety of local goods, from textiles to handicrafts. Experience the spiritual ambiance at Dakshineswar Kali Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kali and situated on the banks of the Hooghly River. Optional: Take a tram ride through Kolkata's colonial-era streets or visit Marble Palace, known for its exquisite marble architecture and art collection.

Day 3: Kolkata - Bagdogra (Flight)/ Darjeeling (75kms)

After breakfast, fly to Bagdogra or drive to Darjeeling. Darjeeling is famous for its tea gardens and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along Mall Road, soaking in the colonial-era architecture and local culture. Optional: Visit the Himalayan Tibet Museum to learn about the region's Tibetan culture and history.

Day 4: Darjeeling

Start early with breakfast at your hotel before heading to Tiger Hill to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest peak. Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Zoological Park, housing rare Himalayan species like the Red Panda. Enjoy a scenic ride on the UNESCO-listed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, known as the "Toy Train," winding through picturesque landscapes. Optional: Explore the picturesque Batasia Loop and Ghoom Monastery for panoramic views and cultural insights.

Day 5: Darjeeling - Pelling (72kms)

After breakfast, drive to Pelling, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges and lush valleys. Explore Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim, renowned for its ancient artifacts and serene ambiance. Visit the nearby Rabdentse Ruins, the second capital of the former Kingdom of Sikkim, with its archaeological remnants and historical significance.

Day 6: Pelling - Gangtok (130kms)

Journey to Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, after breakfast. Enjoy the scenic drive surrounded by mountains and verdant landscapes. Visit Enchey Monastery, perched atop a hill and offering panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range. Spend the evening exploring MG Marg, Gangtok's lively promenade lined with shops, cafes, and local boutiques. Optional: Take a cable car ride to enjoy bird's-eye views of Gangtok and its surrounding hills.

Day 7: Gangtok

After breakfast, embark on a day trip to Tsomgo Lake, a glacial lake at an altitude of 12,400 feet. Enjoy the serene beauty and optional yak rides. Visit Baba Mandir, a revered memorial dedicated to an Indian Army soldier. Optionally, with permits, explore Nathu La Pass on the India-China border, known for its strategic importance and breathtaking vistas. Optional: Visit the Rumtek Monastery, a prominent Tibetan Buddhist monastery known for its intricate architecture and religious significance.

Day 8: Gangtok - Kalimpong - Bagdogra (60kms)/ Hyderabad (Flight)

Drive to Kalimpong after breakfast, known for its panoramic views and flower nurseries. Return to Bagdogra for a flight to Hyderabad or fly directly from Gangtok to your next destination. Optional: Visit Durpin Monastery and Deolo Hill in Kalimpong for panoramic views of the Teesta River and the Himalayas.

Day 9: Hyderabad

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before exploring Golconda Fort, a magnificent citadel known for its impressive architecture and historical significance. Visit Charminar, Hyderabad's iconic monument and mosque, standing amidst the bustling old city. Explore the local markets for souvenirs and traditional Hyderabadi cuisine. Optional: Visit Salar Jung Museum to admire one of the largest collections of art and artifacts in the world.

Day 10: Hyderabad - Visit Warangal Unesco World Heritage Sites (300kms round)

After breakfast, embark on a day trip to Warangal to explore its UNESCO-listed sites, including the majestic Kakatiya Fort and the intricate Thousand Pillar Temple. Discover the rich history and architectural splendor of these ancient monuments. Optional: Visit Ramappa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate carvings and architecture.

Day 11: Hyderabad - Hampi (flight)

Fly to Hampi after breakfast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its ancient temples and ruins from the Vijayanagara Empire. Spend the afternoon exploring the Virupaksha Temple and the impressive Vittala Temple complex, renowned for its stone chariot and musical pillars. Optional: Visit Hampi Bazaar and Queen's Bath to explore more architectural marvels and historical sites.

Day 12: Hampi

Begin your day with breakfast before delving deeper into Hampi's archaeological wonders, including the Royal Enclosure, Hazara Rama Temple, and the Queen's Bath. Explore Hampi Bazaar for local handicrafts and souvenirs, reflecting the region's cultural heritage. Optional: Visit the nearby Anegundi Village for a glimpse into rural life and ancient traditions.

Day 13: Hampi - Lakkundi - Gadag - Badami (150kms)

Drive to Badami via Lakkundi and Gadag after breakfast, exploring lesser-known yet historically rich sites. Discover Lakkundi's intricately carved temples and ancient monuments showcasing the region's architectural prowess. Explore Badami's rock-cut cave temples, the Bhutanatha Temples, and the imposing Badami Fort.

Day 14: Badami, Aihole & Pattadakkal

After breakfast, delve into the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pattadakkal, renowned for its Chalukyan architecture and ancient temples dedicated to Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist deities. Visit Aihole, an archaeological site with over 100 temples, each displaying unique architectural styles and historical significance. Optional: Visit Banashankari Temple and Durga Temple in Aihole for more insights into ancient Indian temple architecture.

Day 15: Badami - Hubli (110kms)/ Cochin (Flight)

Drive to Hubli for a flight to Cochin or fly directly to Cochin after breakfast. Explore Fort Kochi's historic landmarks, including St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets along the waterfront. Optional: Visit Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, to admire its murals depicting Hindu mythology.

Day 16: Cochin - Alleppey (60kms)

After breakfast, drive to Alleppey and board a traditional houseboat for an overnight cruise through Kerala's famed backwaters. Relax on deck as you glide past picturesque landscapes of paddy fields, coconut groves, and quaint villages. Optional: Enjoy traditional Kerala cuisine served on board and watch cultural performances by local artists.

Day 17: Alleppey - Thekkady (160kms)

Disembark from the houseboat and drive to Thekkady after breakfast. Embark on a boat safari on Periyar Lake within Periyar National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty. Optional: Visit spice plantations and learn about the cultivation of cardamom, pepper, and other spices in the region.

Day 18: Thekkady

Begin your day with breakfast before exploring the spice plantations of Thekkady on a guided tour. Engage in optional activities like bamboo rafting or nature walks amid the lush greenery and spice-scented air. Optional: Attend a traditional Kalaripayattu martial arts performance or visit nearby tribal villages for cultural insights.

Day 19: Thekkady - Munnar (100kms)

After breakfast, drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its sprawling tea gardens and cool climate. Visit tea estates to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy panoramic views from Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point. Explore the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and offering breathtaking landscapes.

Day 20: Munnar

Enjoy breakfast before visiting the Tea Museum to delve into Munnar's tea heritage and take leisurely walks amidst verdant tea plantations. Visit Top Station for panoramic views of the Western Ghats and neighboring states. Optional: Trek to Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India, for adventurous travelers seeking stunning vistas and natural beauty.

Day 21: Munnar - Madurai (160kms)

Drive to Madurai after breakfast, famed for its vibrant culture and the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple. Explore the temple complex, known for its towering gopurams, intricate carvings, and bustling markets. Visit Thirumalai Nayak Palace, an architectural marvel combining Dravidian and Islamic styles, showcasing Madurai's royal heritage.

Day 22: Madurai - Trichy - Thanjavur (190kms)

Visit Rock Fort Temple in Trichy after breakfast, offering panoramic views of the cityscape and surrounding countryside. Proceed to Thanjavur to explore the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Dravidian architecture and cultural significance. Visit the Thanjavur Royal Palace and Museum to admire its collection of art, sculptures, and historical artifacts.

Day 23: Thanjavur - Darasuram - Gangaikondacholapuram - Chidambaram - Pondicherry (180kms)

After breakfast, visit the Great Living Chola Temples of Darasuram and Gangaikondacholapuram, showcasing exquisite architectural marvels and intricate sculptures. Explore Chidambaram to visit the ancient Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva's cosmic dance, before arriving in Pondicherry for relaxation. Stroll along the Promenade Beach and explore the French Quarter's colonial-era buildings, art galleries, and cafes.

Day 24: Pondicherry

Begin your day with breakfast before exploring Pondicherry's French Quarter, adorned with colonial-era architecture, vibrant cafes, and boutique shops. Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram for spiritual solace and Auroville for a glimpse into its utopian ideals and cultural diversity. Optional: Attend a pottery or meditation session in Auroville to immerse yourself in the community's philosophy and lifestyle.

Day 25: Pondicherry - Mahabalipuram - Kanchipuram - Chennai (240kms)

After breakfast, visit Mahabalipuram's UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Shore Temple and the sculpted Pancha Rathas. Explore Kanchipuram's ancient temples, renowned for their architectural grandeur and intricate craftsmanship, before proceeding to Chennai. Visit the Government Museum in Chennai to explore its extensive collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures, coins, and archaeological finds.

Day 26: Chennai - Departure (Flight)

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before visiting Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Explore Kapaleeshwarar Temple, an ancient Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, before departing for your onward journey. Optional: Visit Fort St. George and the Chennai Rail Museum for insights into Chennai's colonial past and railway history.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 25 Night's accommodation in 4-Star hotels.
  • Daily breakfast and meal as per day plane.
  • 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.
  • Monuments entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Bottled drinking water in car.
  • Government taxes.
  • Kolkata - Bagdogra - Hyderabad - Hampi & Hubli - Cochin flight tickets approx ₹20500 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

Can travelers upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels?
What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

Hotels used or similar for X nights accommodation

3-Star Hotels

Kolkata x 2 nights: Golden Tulip/ Polo Floatel
Darjeeling x 2 nights: Summit Swiss Heritage Resort & Spa/ Udaan Himalayan Suites & Spa
Pelling x 1 night: Summit Newa Regency & Spa/ Magpie Pachhu Village Resort
Gangtok x 2 nights: Summit Namnang Courtyard & Spa/ Summit Norling Resort & Spa
Hyderabad x 3 nights: Hotel Abode/ Aditya Park
Hampi x 2 nights: Malligi Hotel/ Clarks Inn
Badami x 2 nights: Badami Court/ Clarks Inn
Cochin x 1 night: The Tower House/ The Killians
Alleppey x 1 night: Deluxe Houseboat (AC During Night Only)
Thekkady x 2 nights: Abad Green Forest/ Hotel Treetop
Munnar x 2 nights: Abad Copper Castle/ Elysium Garden Hill Resort
Madurai x 1 night: JC Residency/ Hotel Royal Court
Thanjavur x 1 night: Sangam Hotels
Pondicherry x 2 nights: Shenbaga Hotel/ Anandha Inn Convention Centre
Chennai x 1 night: ZONE By The Park/ Raj Park

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