Golden Triangle & Kerala – 15 Days tour

Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

Namaste! Welcome to Delhi! Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure. In the evening, meet the group and your guide at 18:00 for a welcome meeting. For those arriving early, join our optional ‘Backstreets of Delhi’ tour to explore Old Delhi, savor street foods, and visit the vibrant Khari Baoli spice market.

Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing

Today is packed with sightseeing in Old and New Delhi. Visit UNESCO-listed Humayun’s Tomb and the magnificent Jama Masjid, India’s oldest and largest mosque. Explore the Sikh temple Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, known for its community kitchen serving thousands daily. Enjoy a thrilling rickshaw ride around the Chandni Chowk bazaar before driving to Agra. After checking into the hotel, enjoy a group dinner for departures in 2024 (note: dinner not included for 2025 departures).

Day 3: Agra

This morning, visit the legendary Taj Mahal, a tribute by Emperor Shah Jahan to his wife, recognized as one of the world’s most extraordinary architectural masterpieces. Capture the moment with photographs before heading to the impressive Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its rich history and stunning Mughal architecture.

Day 4: Agra to Karauli/Dholpur

Departing Agra, we travel to either Karauli or Dholpur, with lunch en route. In Karauli, stay at Palace Bhanwar Vilas, an Art Deco and Oriental architecture gem. In Dholpur, enjoy the magnificent Raj Niwas Palace, known for its traditional Rajput architecture. Spend the afternoon exploring the grounds or attend the evening Aarti (prayer). (Lunch included for 2024; no lunch for 2025 departures).

Day 5: Karauli/Dholpur to Jaipur

Travel to Jaipur, the vibrant Pink City. Spend the afternoon visiting the City Palace and the Jantar Mantar Space Observatory, both UNESCO World Heritage sites showcasing impressive architecture and astronomical instruments.

Day 6: Jaipur

Begin your day with an optional hot air balloon ride over Jaipur for breathtaking views. Later, take a jeep ride to Amber Fort for a guided tour, and visit a cotton weaving house for an authentic fabric dyeing demonstration. The rest of the day is free to explore the lively Johari Bazaar in the Old Pink City.

Day 7: Jaipur to Delhi

Return to Delhi today, where you have the day at leisure. Consider visiting Akshardham, the world’s largest Hindu temple, or exploring more of the city’s sights.

Day 8: Delhi to Kochi

Fly to Kochi in Kerala, where a unique blend of cultures awaits. Enjoy the remainder of the day relaxing or exploring this coastal city known for its historical influences.

Day 9: Kochi to Munnar

Travel to Munnar, a picturesque hill station surrounded by tea plantations. Take a guided stroll through a local tea plantation, visit a market, and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. You may opt to visit Blossom Park for cycling or boating.

Day 10: Munnar to Periyar

Drive to Periyar, South India’s renowned wildlife sanctuary. Spend the day at leisure exploring the charming town of Kumily. On day 11, embark on a boat ride on Lake Periyar to spot elephants and enjoy optional visits to spice plantations or cultural performances.

Day 11: Periyar

Enjoy an included boat ride on Lake Periyar to observe herds of wild elephants. Spend the rest of the day at leisure exploring the sanctuary or opting for additional activities like a spice plantation tour or a traditional kalaripayattu dance performance.

Day 12: Periyar to Kumarakom

Depart for Kumarakom, a village on Lake Vembanad. The day is free for relaxation or exploration. Consider a boat ride on the lake or visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a vital habitat for migratory birds.

Day 13: Kumarakom to Alleppey – Keralan Backwaters

Take a scenic drive to Alleppey, where you will board a private rice boat for a journey through the famous Kerala backwaters. Enjoy a leisurely cruise, witnessing local life and beautiful landscapes. Watch the sunset over the backwaters while enjoying meals prepared with fresh local ingredients.

Day 14: Keralan Backwaters to Kochi

Disembark the rice boat and head back to Kochi, fondly called “The Queen of the Arabian Sea.” Spend the day exploring at leisure. In the evening, consider attending an optional Kathakali dance show, known for its elaborate costumes and storytelling.

Day 15: Departure from Kochi

As your Indian adventure comes to an end, a departure transfer is included for 2024 departures. If you are traveling in 2025, this transfer can be arranged for an additional fee if required.

This itinerary ensures a rich cultural experience, combining historical exploration with natural beauty, making it a memorable journey through India.