Day 1: Delhi Airport - The Leela Ambience Convention or Similar Hotel
Arrive at the Delhi Airport where you will be assisted for check in at the Leela Ambience Convention/ Eros Hotel New Delhi/ Crown Plaza Okhla. After check in at your hotel you can relax for the rest of the day.
Day 2: Delhi Tour
After Breakfast you will set out for some sightseeing of Old Delhi. The tour will begin with a visit to the Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques. It was built in red sandstone. Later visit Chandni Chowk, Asia's largest wholesale market, a massive area packed with shops, bazaars and people. Drive past the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Mughal emperor. Also visit the Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Then visit to Lakshmi Narayan temple, famously known as Birla Temple, a temple known for its striking architecture and for its historical value. Once you’re done relishing its beauty, you will be escorted to the next destination which is the magnificent Gurudwara Bangla Sahib and visit their community kitchen (langar service) to see how everyday food is being served for thousands of people and understand their selfless devotion and service to humanity. After that proceed towards New Delhi and the first stop will be a UNESCO World Heritage site - Qutub Minar, the second tallest minar in India. Later visit the 16th century Humayun’s Tomb, the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. This tour is also include a drive past of India Gate, the 42 m high War Memorial Arch and the official residence of the President of India.
Day 3: New Delhi - Agra
After a breakfast, start for a journey to the city of love, Agra (3.30 hrs. drive approx.). The city is known by all as the home of the iconic Taj Mahal, it is still associated with the Mughals. Post your arrival, check in at the Hotel Trident Agra. After Freshen up visit Agra Fort, it is also known as the Red Fort of Agra, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its well-preserved structures and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the cultural heritage of India. After that proceed to the Itmad dualla tomb. It is often referred to as the "Baby Taj" due to its resemblance to the Taj Mahal. Its serene setting, intricate details, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for admirers of architectural beauty and cultural history. Rest of the day relax at your hotel.
Day 4: Agra - Jaipur
An early start this morning, but worth it for sunrise views of the Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays). Back at your hotel and enjoy your breakfast, now it’s time to head to the "Pink City - Jaipur" which is around 5 hours’ drive and check in at the hotel ITC Rajputana a Luxury Collection Hotel. , Jaipur is the capital and largest city in India’s northern state of Rajasthan. Enjoy a leisurely rest of the day at your own pace.
Day 5: Jaipur Tour
After an early breakfast enjoy drive to Jaipur and visit to the Amber fort which is located on a hilltop about 11 kilometers from Jaipur, is one of the most captivating and well-preserved forts in Rajasthan. En-route to Amber Fort you will stop and see the `Palace of Winds,’ otherwise known as Hawa Mahal (Only Drive past). It is really an elaborate façade, extremely intricate in its pink sandstone carving. After that visit Jantar Mantar, an observatory built by Sawai Jai Singh II in the 18th century. One of the most remarkable sites in Jaipur, the Jantar Mantar has fourteen major geometric devices for measuring time, predicting eclipses and tracking stars and planets. Just next to the observatory is the City Palace. Built within the fortified area of the original city, it has one of the finest monumental entrances in India. The Palace is now principally a museum housing a collection of great treasures, including miniature paintings, carpets, royal garments and other interesting objects from Jaipur's intriguing past. The former royal family retains a part of the palace for their personal use.
Day 6: Jaipur - Cochin
After breakfast get ready for your transfer to Jaipur airport where you will board a flight to Cochin via Mumbai. On arrival at Cochin you shall be escorted to your hotel Fragrant Nature. Check in at the hotel and relax for the rest of the day.
Day 7: Cochin Tour
After Breakfast enjoy a private tour of colonial Cochin with your local guide. It usually lasts for around half a day. The tour will begin with a visit to the Dutch Palace. It was originally built by the Portuguese in the mid-16th century as a gift to the Raja of Kochi. Later, in the 17th century, the Dutch undertook renovations and hence the name "Dutch Palace." Later visit to the Jewish Synagogue. It is a significant historical and cultural site in Kochi. Visitors are required to follow a dress code, with both men and women covering their shoulders and legs. Scarves are provided at the entrance for those who need them. Then visit to the St Francis Church. It is located in Fort Kochi, a historic part of Kochi known for its colonial architecture, narrow streets, and multicultural charm and It is situated near the Vasco da Gama Square, making it a central point for exploring the historic sites of Fort Kochi. This tour is also includes a visit to the Chinese fishing nets. The Chinese fishing nets have become a major tourist attraction in Kochi, drawing visitors who are fascinated by their unique design and the traditional fishing methods. The sight of these nets against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea and Fort Kochi's historical architecture is picturesque, making it a popular spot for photography. Your guide can tailor the tour to suit your interests. Enjoy your evening with Kathakali Dance Show.
Day 8: Cochin - Thekkady
After breakfast, enjoy your four-hour drive to Periyar National Park. It is located in the Cardamom Hills region of the Western Ghats in the southern part of Kerala, near the town of Thekkady. Periyar is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, sambar deer, barking deer, Indian bison (gaur), wild boar, langurs, and a wide array of bird species. In Afternoon visit to a Spice plantation in Thekkady. A visit to a spice plantation provides not only an educational experience about the cultivation and processing of spices but also an opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the flavors that enrich culinary traditions. Relax rest of the day at the Resort Spice Village.
Day 9: Thekkady - Alappuzha
Get up early this morning for a jungle walk with a local ranger on a small group tour with fellow guests from your hotel. As the jungle wakes, you have the opportunity to potentially see black monkeys, sambar deer, giant squirrels, and even wild boar. The birdlife is impressive too. Your walk lasts around three hours - don't forget comfy shoes, your camera, and insect repellent. After breakfast, travel for around three to four hours to the Keralan Backwaters. Board your traditional private rice barge and spend your afternoon and evening relaxing as you float around the waterways at Xandari Riverscapes on your Deluxe Houseboat.
Day 10: Alappuzha - Mararikulam
Enjoy your breakfast on board, cruise through the backwaters watching the children going to school and the village markets opening. Disembark the houseboat in the morning approx. 09:30 hrs. and drive to Mararikulam (15 mins drive) and check-in at the hotel the Marari Beach. Rest of the day enjoy a relaxing stay at your hotel.
Day 11 & 12: Mararikulam
Relax and unwind at your hotel the Marari Beach and enhanced scenic views of Kerala.
Day 13: Mararikulam - Airport
It's time to bid farewell to India. After breakfast, you will be accompanied to Cochin International airport.