Highlights of North India and Kerala: Culture, Wildlife & Nature

21 Days from $7,590 USD / person

Ideal For

Adventure & Outdoors

Heritage & Culture

Itinerary Summary

Day

Place

Hotel Opts

1 – 4

Delhi
Highlights: Red Fort, Humayuns Tomb, Jama Masjid, Qutab Minar, India Gate

Zone Connect by The Park Saket Delhi
The Connaught, New Delhi – Taj Hotel

4 – 6

Varanasi
Highlights: Boat Rides on The Ganges, Ganga Aarti, Spirituality, Sarnath

Radisson Hotel Varanasi
Brijrama Palace

6 – 8

Agra
Highlights: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri

Grand Mercure Agra
ITC Mughal

8 – 10

Ranthambore
Highlights: Jeep Safaris, Wildlife, Nature, Tiger Sightings, Ranthambore Fort

Ranthambore Heritage Haveli
Khem Villas

10 – 12

Jaipur
Highlights: Amber Fort, City Palace, The Palace of Winds, Jantar Mantar

Jas Vilas
ITC Rajputana

12 – 13

Barli
Highlights: Village Life, Fort Barli, Bullock Cart Ride, Local Markets

Fort Barli
Fort Barli

13 – 15

Udaipur
Highlights: Boat Ride on Scenic Lake Pichola, City Palace, Aravalli Hills

Fateh Niwas
Fateh Garh

15 – 17

Cochin
Highlights: Fort Kochi Harbor, Matancherry & Pardesi Synagogue, St. Francis Church, Kochi-Muziris Biennale

Casino Hotel
Eighth Bastion

17 – 18

Backwaters of Kerala
Highlights: Lagoons & Lake, Houseboat Cruise, Village Life & Local Culture

Spice Coast Cruise
Lake Ripples Houseboat

18 – 21

Mararikulam
Highlights: Pristine Beach, Village Life

Amritara A Beach Symphony
Marari Beach Resort

21 – 21

Cochin
Highlights: Fort Kochi Harbor, Matancherry & Pardesi Synagogue, St. Francis Church, Kochi-Muziris Biennale

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This itinerary can be customized for you. Get in touch with our experts for your personalized vacation plan.

Itinerary Details

Day 1 – 4

3 Nights

Delhi

Delhi, the City of Djinns (spirits) is yours to discover! Let us take you on a journey of India’s capital that covers 5,000 years, from its imperial history and two World Heritage sites to today’s electric contemporary vibe. A feast for the senses, you can enjoy delicious fine dining experiences, some of the best museums in India, exhilarating nightlife and marvelous shopping opportunities from bustling time-honored markets to designer chic malls.

Hotel options

Zone Connect by The Park Saket Delhi – Opt 1

Room Connect Room

Meals Room Only

Style International

The Connaught, New Delhi – Taj Hotel – Opt 2

Room Deluxe Room

Meals Room Only

Style Heritage

Day 4 – 6

2 Nights

Varanasi

Varanasi, the holy city, is older than history and legend! Located along the banks of the holy River Ganges, it is the oldest living city in the world. Thousands of scholars and sadhus (holy men) visit Varanasi every year to gain ancient wisdom and debate the nature of Godhead, whilst Hindu pilgrims flock to the riverside to wash away their sins and conduct significant life and death rituals. An awe-inspiring melting pot, the spiritual capital of India is also known for its beautiful silks, perfumes and sculptures. Colorful, chaotic, inspiring and moving, Varanasi is not for the faint-hearted.

Included activities

Personalised Evening Highlights of Varanasi

Begin your evening tour of Varanasi with a delightful visit to a bustling local market, brimming with vibrant colors where it seems that everything is for sale! Venture into modern spirituality with a local temple visit. Take a thrilling auto rickshaw ride towards the ghats (steps) of India’s holiest river. Cruise around the River Ganges on an evening boat ride as the sun begins to set. Participate in the enthralling Ganga Aarti, a heartwarming and fascinating prayer ceremony, where you can watch Hindu pilgrims giving offerings to their holy river. (Half Day, Private Evening Activity & Transfer; Time: 1500 hrs – 2000 hrs; Fitness Level: Easy)

Personalized morning Highlights of Varanasi

Head out on a sunrise boat ride on the River Ganges before you explore the colorful, bustling maze of ghats and temples lining the this holy river. As a meeting place between the physical and spiritual worlds, this can be an intense experience as you witness life and death come together. After a short breakfast, discover architectural relics and artwork at Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum. Venture to a nearby hamlet and observe daily village life, and experience Ramnagar Fort, an 18th century Mughal Fort. On every day except Fridays, you can visit the ancient seat of wisdom Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first lecture after attaining enlightenment.(Half Day, Private Morning Activity & Transfer; Time: 0530 hrs – 1300 hrs; Fitness Level: Easy; Sarnath Museum closed on Fridays)

Hotel options

Radisson Hotel Varanasi – Opt 1

Room Superior Room

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Brijrama Palace – Opt 2

Room Nadidhara

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Day 6 – 8

2 Nights

Agra

Discover the magic of white marble at Agra! The city is home to UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal. As it lies on the banks of Yamuna River, this architectural marvel and testimony of undying love is steeped in history and romance. With a somewhat charming side, the city reveals an amazing tapestry of life as you are greeted by vendors in bustling markets and curious locals in chaotic alleyways. The city was first mentioned in the remarkable 5th century Indian epic, the Mahābhārata, and was a former capital of the great Mughal empire.

Included activities

Personalized Tour of Taj Mahal and Classic Agra Attractions

Discover the majesty of Mughal architecture during your tour of Agra’s most famous monuments. Set off for the red sandstone ramparts of Agra Fort that sits on the banks of the River Yamuna. Explore exquisitely designed palaces, mosques, and audience halls that still stand witness to the grandeur of Mughal craftsmanship. Feel the longing of the imprisoned emperor, Shah Jahan, as you gaze across the river to the Taj Mahal, the mausoleum of his beloved queen, Mumtaz Mahal. Witness next the fabled beauty of this marble homage to love that inevitably figures on any list of the World’s Wonders. Take in the breathtaking beauty of its dimensions, the intricacy of its engineering, and the ornate wall carvings that were once inlaid with precious stones. Finally, make your way to the delicately laid out Mehtab Bagh which offers one of the most scenic vantage points for the iconic Taj. (Taj Mahal closed on Fridays; Private Activity & Transfer; Duration: 3 hrs; Fitness level: Easy)

Hotel options

Grand Mercure Agra – Opt 1

Room Superior City View Room

Meals Room Only

Style International

ITC Mughal – Opt 2

Room Mughal Chamber

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Day 8 – 10

2 Nights

Ranthambore

Ranthambore National Park is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream! Sprawling over a vast expanse near Sawai Madhopur, the park encompasses the adjoining forests of Kaila Devi and Man Singh Sanctuary. Once a hunting ground for the maharajahs of Jaipur, the park is built around the 11th century Ranthambore Fort with ancient monuments and lakes scattered around it. Undoubtedly one of the best places to spot the Royal Bengal Tiger, Ranthambore is part of the Project Tiger initiative launched by the government to protect India’s dwindling tiger population. The park is also home to several other species of wildlife such as rare black bucks and marsh crocodiles, as well as thousands of birds.

Included activities

Shared Safari-Ranthambore (Morning and Evening)

Safari in style! Ranthambore National Park is a hotspot for discovering the celebrated Bengal tiger in its native habitat! Head out into thick foliage on morning and afternoon safaris, which are the best times for the big cats to reveal themselves. Safari routes are selected using a government-run lottery system, so it is the luck of the draw as to which path you take, however all of them provide a fascinating variety of native wildlife and bird life for you to witness. (2 safaris per day, Morning and late afternoon . Shared Activity & Transfer, Travel time to Activity: 30 mins, Duration: each safari 3.5 hrs , Fitness level: Easy; please wear comfortable walking shoes and light colored clothing. Please note that each jeep will accommodate 6 people in total. Please carry your water bottles along if required )

Hotel options

Ranthambore Heritage Haveli – Opt 1

Room Deluxe Room

Meals Room Only

Style Heritage

Khem Villas – Opt 2

Room Private Villa

Meals Full Board and Safari

Style Lodge

Day 10 – 12

2 Nights

Jaipur

Jaipur is the eternal rose pink city and gateway to North India’s most colorful state, Rajasthan. Surrounded by the arid Aravalli Hills, Jaipur was founded in the early 18th century by Maharajah (King) Jai Singh II, and is steeped in legends and regal grandeur. Amidst the buzz of bazaars and shops, there are many historical architectural delights. The pink hue of this lively and inviting city is testimony to Jaipur’s last ruler Man Singh II, who ordered every home to be painted pink for the British royal visit of Prince of Wales and Edward V11 in 1876. The law still exists today within the old quarter. Jaipur has a plethora of restaurants that you can explore as well.

Included activities

Personalized Highlights of Jaipur

Wander into regality during your full day tour! Explore Amber Fort, a fabulous sandstone fort complex that overlooks the city. Drive past Albert Hall, the state museum of Rajasthan with its vast collection of interesting regional Indian artifacts. Observe the aesthetically beautiful honeycombed façade of Palace of Winds (Hawa Mahal). Discover the architecturally rich City Palace with its many regal courtyards, temples and pavilions. Head to the world’s largest stone observatory – the Jantar Mantar. (Full Day, Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy)

Hotel options

Jas Vilas – Opt 1

Room Standard Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Guest house

ITC Rajputana – Opt 2

Room Executive Club

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Day 12 – 13

1 Night

Barli

Barli is a typical Indian picturesque village, situated off Rajasthan’s beaten path, with a small population of just over 1,000 residents. The village has hardly changed in centuries and could be described as a place that time forgot. Legends of Rajput princesses and heroes can invoke your imagination. The medieval period is brought into contemporary life with the dominant old Fort Barli that perches on a hill and is brimming with watchtowers, and a tranquil inner courtyard. Today, Fort Barli is a hotel boasting elegant rooms, allowing you to experience classic heritage within this wonderfully rural setting.

Included activities

Private Royal Dressing Experience with Dinner

Wear traditional Rajasthani clothing, featuring rich textiles of vibrant colors, and ornate accessories during this royal experience. A clothing expert will visit you at your hotel and bring your outfit. The ensemble includes kurta, pajama and headgear for men, and a saree, bangles and bindi, a decorative dot worn on the forehead, for women. While dressing up, gain insight into the cultural significance of the traditional garments. Learn about the techniques used to craft the clothes and the regional variations in designs and patterns. After you are dressed up, dine at one of the hotel’s theme restaurants and live like Rajasthani royalty for a couple of hours. (Duration: 2.5 hrs; Private activity; Transfers not required; Fitness level: easy; Meals included: dinner; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Best time to visit: Oct-Mar)

Activities at Fort Barli

Your guide from the hotel will take you on a tour of the property and introduce you to examples of Rajput art and architecture that are scattered throughout the fort. Visit the two segregated sections of the heritage property – the Mardana which was built for the menfolk, and the Zanana, which was the women’s stronghold. Explore the armory to understand more about Rajput warfare, and the assembly halls, revenue stores and treasury to unearth the customs of this bygone era. (Duration; 30 mins, please check with the hotel staff for the timings of the fort tour, fitness level: Easy)

Hotel options

Fort Barli – Opt 1

Room Super Deluxe

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Fort Barli – Opt 2

Room Super Deluxe

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Day 13 – 15

2 Nights

Udaipur

Udaipur is the City of Lakes! Tucked away in the heart of the forested Aravalli Hills, this regally romantic city has always stood out from Rajasthan’s other desert cities with its network of manmade lakes. The city was established in the 16th century by Udai Singh II, a ruler of the Mewar dynasty. Today’s royal lineage stretches back 26 generations, yet even with all its luxurious grandeur, Udaipur has a gentle and relaxing edge. The jewel of the city’s crown is sparkling Lake Pichola with the illusory floating Taj Lake Palace, which featured in the 1980s Bond movie, Octopussy.

Included activities

Enroute visit Ranakpur Temple

Journey to Ranakpur which can be enjoyed en route. The highlight of this town is the Jain Temple, which dates back to the 15th century and is intricately crafted – and entirely out of white marble. The temple complex is extraordinarily well-preserved, despite its age, and covers a vast area. Take on the role of explorer as you venture through the complex, with its 29 halls, 80 domes and pavilions, and 1,444 imposing pillars, of which no two are alike in design or sculpture. Ranakpur is the single most important pilgrimage site for followers of the Jain religion, so expect to find devotees engaged in prayer in this tranquil place. Kindly note that guides are not permitted to accompany you inside the temple complex.

Personalized Highlights of Udaipur

Journey into the City of Lakes and soak up historic culture. Tour the 16th century City Palace, a flamboyant and towering structure sitting on a hilltop and one of the largest palaces in the state, boasting spectacular views and an intriguing museum. Explore 17th century Jagdish Temple, dedicated to Hindu God Krishna. Discover Saheliyon ki Bari, the ‘Garden of Maids’, which boasts lush lawns, stunning lotus pools, marble pavilions and even elephant-shaped fountains! Head to the crystal gallery to witness the world’s largest private collection of crystal. (Full Day, Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy)

Hotel options

Fateh Niwas – Opt 1

Room Deluxe Room with Balcony

Meals Breakfast

Style Resort

Fateh Garh – Opt 2

Room Heritage Suite with Balcony

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Day 15 – 17

2 Nights

Cochin

Kochi, formerly Cochin, is considered the Queen of the Arabian Sea as it was one of the first European settlements in India, due its ideal positioning for trading. Kochi has always been at the heart of the Indian spice trade.The Portuguese first colonised Kochi in the 16th century, before the city was conquered by the Dutch in the 17th century and the British in the 19th century. The city’s architecture has been shaped by its colonial rulers, yet today it remains a vibrant and busy commercial center with a multicultural atmosphere and a cosmopolitan heart. As well as showcasing Kerala’s traditional dance and martial art forms throughout the year, Cochin plays host to several annual celebrations, including the Cochin Carnival every December, and the colorful contemporary art festival, Kochi-Muziris Biennale.

Included activities

Highlights of Cochin (Half Day)

Cochin is an engaging city to explore, from the absorbing views of Fort Kochi harbor with its huge Chinese fishing nets, to ancient mosques, Portuguese architecture, and the crumbling remnants of the British Raj. Explore Mattancherry, where you can observe murals and antiquities at the Dutch Palace and Cemetery. Indulge your senses browsing traditional spice and antique markets. Encounter the fascinating 400 year old, fully-functioning Paradesi Synagogue in the Jewish quarter. Visit the original grave of Vasco da Gama in St. Francis Church, used before his remains were returned to Portugal. Discover Hill Palace, the state’s largest archaeological museum, which is located in the regal and artistic suburbs of Tripunithura. (Duration: 4 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy; Please note that the Dutch Palace is closed on Fridays, the Jewish Synagogue is closed on Friday afternoons and Saturdays and the Hill Palace Musuem is closed on Mondays.Dutch Palace has 14 steep stairs).

Hotel options

Casino Hotel – Opt 1

Room Standard Room

Meals Room Only

Style International

Eighth Bastion – Opt 2

Room Bastion Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Day 17 – 18

1 Night

Backwaters of Kerala

Kerala’s famous backwaters are a labyrinthine network of tree-fringed lagoons, idyllic lakes, and river systems, running parallel to the Arabian Sea along the Malabar coast. Quaint towns and charming villages dot the banks of these interconnected canals. This unique ecosystem is home to a diverse variety of flora and fauna. The heart of Kerala’s backwaters is the vast Vembanad lake and the intimate Ashtamudi lake. The region is replete with inviting and serene homestays, resorts, and houseboats offering diverse experiences that provide a glimpse of life on these waterways. Cruising down the tranquil backwaters aboard traditional kettuvallams or houseboats is a quintessential Kerala experience, especially enhanced by local seafood and meat preparations and complemented by the region’s iconic palm wine. For a window into the state’s culture, visit the region during the colorful annual boat races which feature up to a 100 rowers rowing in unison in 100-feet long snake boats.

Hotel options

Spice Coast Cruise – Opt 1

Room One Cabin House Boat

Meals Full Board

Style Houseboat

Lake Ripples Houseboat – Opt 2

Room One Bed Room

Meals Full Board plus Activities

Style Houseboat

Day 18 – 21

3 Nights

Mararikulam

Mararikulam located a short drive from the town of Alleppey, epitomizes the tropical dream with its pristine white sands and crystal clear waters. Named after the small, sleepy hamlet of Mararikulam that lies nearby, this still-undiscovered beach is slowly finding its rightful place in the limelight. Rated as one of the world’s best hammock beaches by National Geographic, this beach is perfect for basking in the sun without a care in the world. Wake up to the sight of fishing boats head out to sea in search of the day’s catch. Known for its beautiful sunsets, the beach comes alive in the evening as locals come to enjoy the lovely sights. Enjoy the tranquility of the swaying palms and the soothing sound of the waves crashing when you spend a few days at one of the pretty resorts that dot the area.

Hotel options

Amritara A Beach Symphony – Opt 1

Room Garden View Villa

Meals Breakfast

Style Beach Resort

Marari Beach Resort – Opt 2

Room Garden Villa

Meals Breakfast

Style Beach Resort

Day 21 – 21

Cochin

Come be immersed in the sights and sounds of North India and then relax in the backwaters of Kerala. This 20-day tour takes you through the icons of Indian culture and history with stops at the Taj Mahal, Delhi’s Red Fort, Jaipur’s Palace of the Winds and Ranthambore Fort. Enjoy a float down the Ganges, a rousing safari in Rathambore National Park, and exploring the colorful markets of Varanasi. Then hop a flight to Cochin and see an entirely different landscape in the south. Finish your journey out with a stunning houseboat cruise through the backwaters of Kerala and some time simply relaxing on the tropical beaches of Mararikulam. If this itinerary appeals to you, reach out to us, and our travel experts can tweak it to match your travel dreams!

Price & Inclusions

Option 1

From $7,590 USD / person

Option 2

From $11,590 USD / person

Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.

Price Includes

Accommodation and meals, as specified in the itinerary
Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
Transportation services, as specified in the itinerary
Your Trip Coordination Team: Dedicated support throughout your journey, with a primary, personal point of contact. Plus, in case of emergencies while you’re traveling, our trip coordination team are available 24/7 by phone

Not Included

Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
Tips and personal expenses
Visa and tourism fees
Travel, health, and cancellation insurance
International airfare

What Our Guests Say

Seamless organisation and communication resulting in an unforgettable experience in India. I would highly recommend this company and our itinerary. We particularly enjoyed staying in Indian Heritage Hotels and the local guides made each location interesting and informative. Our driver, Mukesh, was incredibly reliable and safe. Thanks to Rose Kennedy and Shruti Jain for making it happen

Yasmine Layher

Australia

This trip was my gift to my wife for her birthday. I had traveled to India numerous times for business and wanted her to see this interesting and beautiful land. This was our 7th trip with Enchanting and I knew they would put together a journey that would explore the most important sights in the time which we allowed. We spent 2 weeks in the North of India and 2 weeks in the South. I was hesitant to do some much traveling by car but India has really improved their highways and the car trips where enjoyable. Our drivers were excellent. They knew the lay of the land and how to navigate the hectic Indian traffic. I am a retired international airline pilot and I will tell you that the hotels we stayed in are some of the finest in the world.

Everett Beasley

USA

This was our 14th trip with Enchanting. Each trip is always very well coordinated with never any worries about transportation, reservations or tickets etc…. The guides are always very knowledgable, helpful and kind. The drivers are always very prompt and courteous. The trip coordinators are in constant contact for any needs or concerns throughout the journey. I always answer the survey after our trips and know that Enchanting takes the answers very seriously. Thanks to the staff at Enchanting for many happy memories!

Julie Goodwin

USA

Our week-long visit to Delhi and Rajasthan planned in a short period of time was exceptional. Everything except our dinners was arranged for and included in the itinerary. Our personal guides in each city were engaging and enhanced our experience tremendously. Our chauffeur (far more than a driver) was brilliant. He was also our trip coordinator and provided local guidance as we travelled. The whole visit was executed perfectly and Enchanting staff made it so from planning through to the final wave goodbye. We are so pleased to have found this company and will definitely select them again for future visits elsewhere in the world.

Michael Patrick Proctor

USA

I have been using Enchanting Travels from their very beginning and I will continue to use them in the future. Although I use them mainly for India, they did arrange a very nice trip to Vienna when I went there to attend a wedding. They are reliable, efficient, trustworthy and knowledgeable and just plain excellent.

Marianne Oort-Lissy

Netherlands

Enchanting Travels were very proactive in helping us put together our trip and their support during our trip was amazing. We travelled from Delhi to the Amritsar by train to see the Golden Temple and the Pakistan border flag ceremony. We flew to Udaipur and travelled by car via Deogarh, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Agra back to Delhi with an onwards flight to Jabalpur, followed by a car ride to the Bandhavgarh National Tiger Park. The holiday included a train trip and three internal flights, and everything went according to plan and without a hitch. There were too many highlights, but a special mention goes to the Diwali celebration with a local family, the Taj Mahal and the visit to the Bandhavgarh National Park where we saw tigers in the wild. We can say, hand on heart, that our holiday in India exceeded our expectations.

Harry Warries

Australia

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