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

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

21 Days from $7,590 USD / person

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 – 4

International Arrival

You will be transferred from the airport to your hotel

3 Nights

Delhi

Delhi, the capital of India, has a long and storied history that goes back 3,000 years. It is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, and has been the beating heart of many empires, from the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughals to the British. Each one has left its imprint on Delhi’s architecture, creating a varied and multicultural cityscape. Three UNESCO World Heritage sites span the centuries and are arguably the highlights. The 12th-century Qutub Minar is an early example of Delhi’s Islamic heritage. Humayun’s Tomb, built in the 16th century, features a garden mausoleum with a striking octagonal design. Finally, there is the iconic sandstone Red Fort, or Lal Quila, built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. Today, Delhi is split between ‘Old Delhi’, with its narrow streets, bazaars, and historical monuments, and ‘New Delhi’, with its wide boulevards and grand government buildings. One thing they both have in common is delicious street food ranging from chaat and kebabs to flaky parathas, making Delhi a food lover’s paradise.

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

You will be transferred from your hotel to the airport

Board your flight from Delhi to Varanasi (Flight duration: 1.5 hrs)

You will be transferred from the airport to your hotel

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.

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

You will be transferred from your hotel to the airport

Board your flight from Varanasi to Delhi (Flight duration: 1.5 hrs)

Your chauffeur will drive you from Delhi to Agra in a private vehicle (Duration: 4 hrs)

2 Nights

Agra

Agra is most famous today for being the home of the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven wonders of the world. But there is more to Agra than the Taj. The city was the capital of the Mughal Empire under five different emperors. Emperor Akbar built the Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, in the 16th century. Made of red sandstone, it was the seat of the royal Mughal government. You will also find the so-called ‘Baby Taj’ on the left bank of the Yamuna river. The nickname refers to the Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah, commissioned by Nur Jahan, wife of the emperor Jehangir, for her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg. Jehangir also built Sikandra, a tomb complex for his father Akbar, which sprawls across 119 acres. The city is well connected by air, road and rail. Agra also hosts the Taj Mahotsav, a cultural festival and craft fair, in February every year.

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

Your chauffeur will drive you from Agra to Ranthambore in a private vehicle (Duration: 6 hrs)

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.

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

Your chauffeur will drive you from Ranthambore to Jaipur in a private vehicle (Duration: 4 hrs)

2 Nights

Jaipur

Jaipur is a living tapestry of grand forts, bustling bazaars and centuries-old craftsmanship. Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, India’s first planned city rises majestically from the Rajasthan plains. The nickname ‘Pink City’ comes from the terracotta-rose hue painted across the old town in 1876 to welcome the Prince of Wales. The gesture of hospitality has become a permanent identity. Here, you will find auto-rickshaws weaving past palace walls and street vendors selling fresh samosas beneath intricately carved balconies. The atmosphere is both regal and chaotic. A city landmark is Hawa Mahal, the extraordinary five-story facade of 953 jali windows designed so royal women could observe street life unseen. There is also the City Palace, the current maharaja’s residence, which is a complex of courtyards and museums. You will also find Jantar Mantar, the 18th-century astronomical observatory with massive geometric instruments still accurate today. Do not miss visiting the lively bazaars to soak in the sights and sounds.

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

Your chauffeur will drive you from Jaipur to Barli in a private vehicle (Duration: 4 hrs)

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.

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

Your chauffeur will drive you from Barli to Udaipur in a private vehicle (Duration: 5 hrs)

2 Nights

Udaipur

Udaipur rises from the Aravalli Hills, a vision in white marble and sandstone. Founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II, it served as the historic capital of the Kingdom of Mewar. The city’s prominence stems from its natural beauty, which is framed by its interconnected lakes and its breathtaking palaces that seem to float on the water’s surface. It is a key destination to experience the opulence, architectural genius and rich courtly culture of the Rajput era. Life in Udaipur centers around the water and the vibrant, winding lanes of the old city. The mornings often begin with the sound of temple bells, followed by the hustle of vendors setting up their stalls in the bazaars. At its heart is the City Palace, a vast complex overlooking Lake Pichola. Try traditional Rajasthani cuisine, perhaps a ‘thali’ platter. Wander the narrow lanes of the old city, where artisans hammer silver and paint miniatures using centuries-old techniques. At sunset, climb to the Monsoon Palace, perched high above, for panoramic views.

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

You will be transferred from your hotel to the airport

Board your flight from Udaipur to Cochin via Mumbai (Flight duration including layover in Mumbai: 4.5 hrs)

You will be transferred from the airport to your hotel

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.

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

Your chauffeur will drive you from Cochin to Backwaters , Alleppey/Kumarakom in a private vehicle (Duration: 1.5 hrs)

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

Your chauffeur will drive you from Backwaters , Alleppey/Kumarakom to Mararikulam, Alleppey in a private vehicle (Duration: 30 mins)

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

Your chauffeur will drive you from Mararikulam Beach hotel to Cochin airport in a private vehicle (Duration: 2 hrs)

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.

International Departure

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

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