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::Itineraries::
 
North India Kerala  
   

True Colour of North India and Kerala

Delhi - Varanasi - Khajuraho - Satna - Agra - Jaipur - Mandawa - Bikaner - Jaisalmer - Jodhpur - Udaipur - Mumbai - Cochin - Periyar - Alleppey - Kumarakom - Cochin - Delhi

21 Nights - 22 Days

 
   


01 Day: Arrival Delhi:

Meeting and assistance on arrival at the International airport, our representatives welcome and escort you by a private car and transfer to the hotel, whilst the room keys and check-in is organized, our representative would hand over the documents and brief the tour programme to you. Overnight at the hotel.

02 Day: Delhi:

After breakfast take sightseeing tour of historic city visiting Old Delhi visiting the majestic Red Fort, a marvel in red sandstone, Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, both built by emperor Shah Jahan of Taj Mahal fame, Rajghat - memorial of Mahatma Gandhi & a Rickshaw ride past through the silver street in Chandani Chowk, the city tour continues covering New Delhi, visiting Rashtrapati Bhawan, one-time imperial residence of the British viceroys; the India Gate, a memorial raised in honour of the Indian soldiers martyred during the Afghan war; the Laxmi Narayan Temple, built by the Birlas, one of India’s leading industrial families; Humayun’s Tomb, lotus shaped Bhai’s Temple , Qutub Minar , built by Qutub-ud-din Aibek of the Slave Dynasty; in the evening you can visit see speculative Light and Sound Show at Red Fort. Return to the hotel for overnight at the hotel.

03 Day: Delhi - Varanasi (By Air):

After an early breakfast transfer to the airport to board the schedule morning flight to Varanasi. Assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel. Later take an excursion to Sarnath, located at 10 Kms from Varanasi where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon to the five holy men; visit Dharmarajika Stupa The 110 ft tall Dhamekh Stupa marks the place where Buddha preached first sermon., also visit to Archaeological museum, the collection of ancient Buddhist relics and antiques comprising numerous Buddha and Bodhisatva images, also see the Ashok Pillar with 4 lions, built in 3rd Centaury BC., symbolize both Ashoks's imperial rule and the kingship of the Buddha. The four-lion capital was adopted as the emblem of the modern Indian republic. After visit return to Varanasi, early evening take half day sightseeing of the city visiting. Golden Temple dedicated to lord Shiva, the Durga temple dedicated to goddess Durga. Interestingly the Durga Temple is also known as the Monkey Temple due to the large number of monkeys found in the Temple premises, In the evening you can take a walk through the narrow lane to explore and colourful market of the ancient city. Rest of the evening free for leisure and individual activities Overnight at the hotel.

04 Day: Varanasi - Khajuraho (By Air):

Early morning enjoy the boat ride on the Ganges at dawn when it is full of pilgrims is an amazing place to witness the living traditions of one of the world's oldest and most important religion. While on the boat you will also see the cremation ceremonies of dead bodies as per Hindi Rituals. After ride return to the hotel check out an drive to the airport to board the early afternoon flight to Khajuraho. Assistance on arrival and check in to the hotel. Later visit Western group of Temples consisting of the massive Laxman Temple dedicated to lord Vishnu, the Laxmi and Varaha temples dedicated to Vishnu’s consort Laxman, the Kandariya Mahadev temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Chausath Yogini temple dedicated to goddess Kali. Also visit Archaeological museum with its collection of stone sculptures of the Chandela dynasty. Return to the hotel for overnight.

05 Day: Khajuraho - Satna - Agra (By train):

Early morning visit Eastern group of Temples and visit the Jain temples of Parsvanath, Adinath, and Shanti Nath. Also visit the temples of Vamana and Brahma/Hanuman both dedicated to lord Vishnu. Later drive to Satna 117 kms, on arrival transfer to the railway station to board the schedule train to Agra, arrival in Agra next day morning. Overnight at the board.

06 Day: Agra

Early morning arrival in Agra, assistance on arrival at the Railway station and transfer to the hotel, after relaxation witness the incomparable Taj Mahal with its’ speculative view. Taj Mahal, the architectural modern day wonder of the world; this monument is a fine example of the fusion of many architectural styles is one of the wonders of the modern world. Taj, endowed it with some of the loveliest buildings in the world. The tour continues with a visit to the Agra Fort from where one can get the most moving view of the Taj from the little octagonal tower in the Agra Fort, which lies, across the river Jamuna. Later visit the Pearl Mosque and the Tomb of Itamad-ud-Daula built by Empress Noorjehan in memory of her father. In the evening you may visit to the souvenirs market of Agra, one should visit Oswal Emporium where they have built a Mini Taj Mahal inside their showroom and it took 10 years for the artists to complete the mini replica of the Taj. The show room conducts free sound & light show showing the eras of Taj Mahal. Overnight in Agra

Note: Taj Mahal is closed on every Friday.

07 Day: Agra - Jaipur (230 kms - 4 hours):

After breakfast checkout and drive to Jaipur en route visit Old deserted town of Mughal Dynasty - Fatehpur Sikri built in red sandstone in honour of Saint Salim Chisti who foretold the birth of 3 sons to Emperor Akbar, is an example of robust stability combined with originality. Each important edifice here represents a type by itself. Notable among them is the Diwane Khas, Punch Mahal, the Tomb of Salim Chisti, and the Buland Darwaza. Later continue to precede Jaipur. On arrival transfer to hotel. After relaxing in the evening visit to Birla Temple, speculator white marble temple, glitters in the in the night, at the time of dinner visit to Chokhi Dhani - an ethnic 5 star resort serving Rajasthani & Continental cuisine with live music, astrology, games, folk dances and music, puppet shows in an ambiance of an ethnic village. Return to the hotel for overnight.

08 Day: Jaipur:

Today after breakfast explore the Pink City with an excursion to Amber Fort, situated just outside the city, enjoy the experience of ride on elephant back to and from the top of the hill on which the fort is situated. Afternoon sightseeing tour of City Palace in the heart of Jaipur is known for its blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Not far away is the Central Museum. Jantar Mantar is the largest of the five observatories built by Sawai Jai Singh. The Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds was constructed for the royal ladies to watch the royal processions without being seen, all monuments are located in the vicinity of City Palace Complex of Jaipur. Later late afternoon is kept free to visit the famous Markets of Textiles, Gems, Carpets, and handicrafts. Jaipur is an ideal place for buying souvenirs. One can also visit Nahargarh Fort to see it illuminated over the floodlights. Return to the hotel for overnight.

09 Day: Jaipur - Bikaner (330 kms 6 - 7 hours):

After breakfast checkout and drive to Bikaner. Optionally en route you can visit Mandawa fort or lunch & can visit Laxman Garh sightseeing of old Havelis. On arrival transfer to hotel. After relaxation, take an excursion tour to Deshnok to see the Temple of Karni Mata – at this temple rats are held sacred & roam freely within the temple complex. Spotting a white rat in this temple is believed to by lucky. Evening free for relax. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight.

10 Day: Bikaner - Jaisalmer (330 kms - 6 hrs):

After breakfast take a sight seeing tour of Bikaner covering Junagadh Fort - constructed between 1588 and 1593 by Raja Rai Singh, fort has a 986 meter long wall with 37 bastions & two entrances, Bhand Sagar Temple - The 16th century Jain temple, is the most important temple of this complex. After lunch drive to Jaisalmer. En route you can visit Pokhran came to the limelight when several nuclear tests were conducted here during the 1970's and the 1990's. Pokharan Fort is Built in 1532-1584 the yellow sandstone Pokhran fort, though not as grand a fort as some of the others in Rajasthan has a few exquisite palaces like the Mangal Niwas, the Rani Mahal and the Phool Niwas or the Flower Palace, visit to Pokhran Museum : The Pokhran Museum housed inside the fort’s premises is fairly small and contains an assortment of weapons, paintings, pottery and the costumes which the Maharajas wore. After visit continue to drive to Jaisalmer on arrival transfer to the hotel. Rest of the evening free for leisure, overnight at the hotel.

11 Day: Jaisalmer:

After breakfast take a sight seeing tour of Jaisalmer covering Jaisalmer Fort - built on the highest point of the Tricuta hill, consisting of 99 bastions. Outstanding features are Megh Durbar & various temples, Salim Singh-Ki-Haveli & Patwon-Ki-Haveli - some of the beautiful mansions with stone carving and latticework of breath taking intricacy, visit followed by Gadisar Lake. Later after lunch drive to Sam Sand Dunes - 45 kms en route visit the ancient Temple of Lodurwa, Amar Sagar and Mool Sagar Complex, built in 1815 AD, The complex also houses a summer palace where some beautiful paintings and pictures are displayed. On arrival at Sam Sand Dunes and transfer on Camels and enjoy camel safari to discover the various sights and sounds, the ruins and the temples in and around Jaisalmer in an authentic and leisurely fashion with entertainment by folk performers, visits to villages, and chatter from colorful guides thrown in. After safari drive back to Jaisalmer for overnight stay.

Note: Optionally you can stay overnight at the Sam Sand dunes in luxury tented accommodation, enjoy the starry night with ethnic food, folk dances, bone fire and camel safari in dues in nights hours.

12 Day: Jaisalmer - Jodhpur (290 kms – 6 hrs):

After breakfast checkout and drive to Jodhpur, en route visit to Osian Village, ruins of an ancient city called Osian, an oasis in the desert, A drive to this ancient township takes one past undulating terrain, punctuated by desert stretches and little hamlets. Osian has 15 beautifully sculpted Jain and Brahmanical temples. Of these, the most outstanding ones are the earlier Surya or Sun Temple and the later Kali temple, Sachiya Mata Temple and the main temple dedicated to Lord Mahavira. On arrival transfer to the hotel. In the evening you may opt to visit On the Rocks a garden restaurant serving ethnic food followed by live music and folk dance, located at Ajit Bhawan. Later return to the hotel for overnight stay.

13 Day: Jodhpur - Udaipur (276 kms - 6 hours):

After breakfast take a sight seeing tour of Jodhpur including Clock Tower, Mehrangarh Fort situated at an altitude of about 125 meters and is spread over an area of 5 sq. km and it has seven gates, Jaswant Thada is a white marble memorial built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh, followed by visit to Umaid Bhawan Palace which is a majestic Palace building that presently functions as a hotel and museum. Later check out the hotel and driver to Udaipur. En route visiting the Jain temples at Ranakpur Temples of 12 Century – The cluster of temples, made of intricately sculpted white marble, built out of marbles with 108 carved pillars each carved differently from others, Come across as a marvellous feat of architecture. One can have lunch at Maharani Bagh Hotel in Ranakpur and visit to local families on the way. After visit continue to proceed to Udaipur, on arrival transfer to hotel. Later in the evening you can take Boat ride at Lake Pichola and also opt for dinner at Lake Palace Hotel, located amidst the Lake. Overnight at the hotel.

14 Day: Udaipur:

After breakfast take a sightseeing tour of Udaipur, visiting City Palace built in 1559, a small palace over looking at the Lake Pichola, the additions were made to it by successive Kings of Udaipur gradually evolved become the larges place in Rajasthan, Main attraction of Place are Durbar Hall, Crystal Gallery, Palace Museum and Jagdish Temple. Later visit Saheli Ki Bari that is a small ornamental garden built in the honour of Royal Ladies for recreational purpose and visit Lok Kala Mandal collection of folk art items like folk dresses, ornaments, puppets ,masks, dolls folk musical instruments, folk deities and paintings. Opened seven days a week, puppet shows and folk dancing are conducted every evening from 1800 to 1900 in an adjacent open air theatre. & Shilpgram to see the village arts & crafts. Followed by visit to Eklingji & Nagda Temples - built in white marble with a double storied porch on the bank of Lake Bageela - 22 kms from Udaipur. Overnight at Udaipur.

15 Day: Udaipur - Mumbai (By Air):

Early morning checkout and transfer to the airport to board the morning flight to Mumbai. On arrival transfer to the hotel. After relaxation you can take a visit to the city life of Western Suburan visiting Iscon Temple and shopping at the big malls like Shoppers Stop, In Style, West End. If you are staying at South Mumbai, you can visit Gateway of India, Marine drive also known as queens necklace in the night, Mahalaxmi Temple and for shopping visit to Cross Road, Phoenix Mill- Bombay Bazaar. Optionally you can have dinner at choice of city restaurants. Overnight at the hotel.

16 Day: Mumbai:

After breakfast takes a sight seeing tour of Bombay, drive to ( if you have not visited 1st day) Gateway of India and from here cruise by motorboats to Elephanta Caves. A flight of 100 steps takes you to the top of the hill where it is set. The caves houses large pillars that seem to hold the ceiling which is made of cross beams. The picturesque presentations of the 9 marvelous sculptured panels, set on the walls are awe-inspiring. The most famous of the panels is the Trimurthi, or triple-headed Shiva, where the God is depicted as the destroyer, the preserver and the creator. Later in the afternoon cruise back to Gateway of India, one can have lunch at the Taj Hotel or other several good Restaurants like Leopold & Mondegar serving continental cuisines. Later visit Prince of Wales Museum, Parliament House, Marine Drive, Jain Temple, Hanging Gardens, Return back to the hotel for overnight.

Note: Elephanta, Prince of Wales museum are closed on every Monday.

17 Day: Mumbai - Cochin: (By Air):

Morning after breakfast checkout and transfer to the airport to board the morning flight to Cochin. On arrival transfer to the hotel Cochin; Oasis state of Kerala & on to the Malabar Coasts & Kochi (formerly Cochin), one of the India's most colourful cities. This inter, connected series of Islands & shoreline presents a vivacious blend of Cultures & Religions; visit to Fort Cochin & St. Frances Church to see the town of Vasco da Gama. We also see the Jewish Synagogue & the Mattancherry "Dutch" Palace. This evening a memorable experience in any journey in Kerala is a Boat Trip along the Palm Fringed Lakes & Backwaters of the Area; we enjoy this extraordinary excursion today. As we sail along the shady canals we see cantilevered Chinese fishing nets. From our launch, we enjoy use of narrow produced - Laden dugouts & the everyday life of families living on narrow spits of land between the waters. In the evening enjoy the Kathakali, one of India's most famous Classical dances. Lavish Costumes & Exotic makeup & Masks intensify the beauty of the dancers, intricate moments. Overnight at Cochin.

18 Day: Cochin - Munnar (200 kms - 4 hours drive):

After an early breakfast drive to Munnar, on arrival transfer to the hotel, the word "Munnar" means three rivers. 3 mountain streams (Madurapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala) are joining together here. During the British rule in India, Munnar was the summer resort of the Government officials. The natural beauty, calmness and mild cold climate throughout the year make it the favourite tourist place. There are about 30 tea plantations in and around Munnar. The tea estates, hills, lakes and forests inside Munnar range exposes it's beauty. The Munnar hills are covered by tea plants, which make the feeling of seeing a wide green carpet. Munnar also has the highest peak in south India, Anamudi, which towers over 2695 M. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking. Later visit Eravikulam National Park (15 km from Munnar,) The Nilgiri Tahr can be observed at close quarters here. This park is established to protect the Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiri Ibex). The park is breathtakingly beautiful and is easily comparable to the best mountain ranges found anywhere in the world. Enjoy the tea plantation and Munnar Lake site. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.

19 Day: Munnar - Periyar: (110 kms 2 ½ hour drive):

After breakfast checkout and drive to Thekkaddy, on arrival transfer to the hotel, later visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary one of India's biggest wildlife sanctuaries covering 777 sq. Km (300 Sq. miles) is a Tiger Reserve. Its centrepiece, the man-made Periyar Lake at the height of 2000 ft. covers 26 sq. km, running through the forests of the Western Ghats in Kerala, discover the park, animals found here include elephant, sambar, gaur and wild boars and birds like ibis and grey heron. The visit is done in a boat to view animals with a bit of extra luck we may be able to see the rare tiger as well. Later in the evening take a spice plantation tour to see crops of cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, coffee, tea estates etc. on your way back to the hotel, you could stop at the local market and pick up some fragrant spices. Overnight at Periyar.

20 Day: Periyar - Alleppey (114 kms - 2 ½ hours) Backwaters tours through sailing boat to Kumarakom:

After breakfast checkout and drive for Alleppey, on arrival embark at the houseboat. The day for the journey of backwaters in the boat, through the tropical countryside enchanting backwaters of Alleppey by regattas (snake boats) for which Kerala is very famous, while sailing enjoy palm fringed narrow canals winding through the vast expanse of paddy fields and the neat tiny hamlets lined up along either side of the canals are panoramic sights one can never forget. The Chinese fishing nets, the reminiscent of our past trade links, are also found on the way. Flocks of duck swimming around the banks and tiny birds flying across the sky remains as enduring pictures reflecting the charm of this tourist land, you also enjoy fishing from the houseboats, evening enjoy sunset from the sun-deck of the houseboats, moving towards Kumarakom. The Houseboats have generated electricity; sitting cum dinning area, separate bedroom with attached English toilets, sun deck and fully loaded kitchen with a Chef, and Srank (Driver). Overnight at the houseboat.

21 Day: Kumarakom:

After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and drive to Kumarakom - for the nature-lover. Here in this backwater town, you can laze in a canoe amidst sylvan surroundings where the only presence is yours and the egrets. Later visit at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, to see bird viewing where numerous species of birds, including Darters, Bitterns, Brahminy kites, Marsh Harries, Teals and several varieties of Herons roost are found. For an inquisitive bird watcher, it is always advisable to carry their binoculars at all times. Return to hotel, Make sure you do not miss out on Karimeen and fresh toddy the favourite fresh water food and the local wine. Overnight stay at Kumarakom.

22 Day: Kumarakom - Cochin (92 kms - 2 hours.) - Delhi - Home Town (By Air):

The breakfast will be served on board, then disembark from the houseboat and drive to Cochin On arrival transfer to the airport to board the schedule flight for Delhi. On arrival transfer to the international airport to board the schedule flight back to home country. On departure tour concludes with happy memories.

 
   
 
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Important Note:

1. Customized Tour:
Above tour programme can be customized, as per the preference by the guest in terms of arrival dates, departure dates and destinations, no. of days etc., it will be your individual tour not sharing with other person or a group tour.

2. Our Services:
We provide individual customized tour packages with 2, 3, 4, 5, 5 star deluxe hotels as well as standard and luxury heritage hotels and palaces with air - conditioned car accompanied by English speaking driver through out the tour (right from your pick up from the airport till you departure to home town) for all transfers, sightseeing, intercity travel, city tour with services of English/multilingual guide, domestic air/train ticketing, special interest tour with all kind of travel related services.

3. Tour Cost:
Tour cost depends on 3 major factors: A) How many people are traveling together? B) Travel period, as the hotels are having different rates during low and high season. C) Preference of hotel category or budget per person per day.

4. Group Tours:
The above tour programme can be executed for group tours, if the guest or any travel agency forms a group in their own country. Conducting and forming a group tour in India with different nationals is not feasible.
 
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