Meruka India Tourism Service
 
     
 
     
  Destinations
     
  Fairs & Festivals
     
  Palace on Wheels
     
  Parks & Sancturies
     
  Adventure Tours
     
  Discover India
     
  Itineraries
     
  Book A Tour
     
  Contact Us
     
  Home
     
 
::Itineraries::
 
South-North India Tour  
   

North and South India Panorama

Delhi - Varanasi - Khajuraho - Agra - Ranthambhor - Jaipur - Delhi - Bangalore -
Mysore - Ooty - Cochin - Alleppey - Cochin - Mumbai

19 Nights - 20 Days


 
   

01 Day: Arrive: 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 to see speculative Light and Sound Show at Red Fort. Return to the hotel for overnight at the hotel.

03 Day: Delhi - Varanasi (By Air):

Early morning after breakfast check out the hotel and transfer to airport to board the morning flight for Varanasi, assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel. After relaxation, take an excursion to Sarnath, located at 10 Kms from Varanasi where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon to the five holy men; visit at 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. Return drive back to Varanasi, Overnight at the Hotel in Varanasi.

04 Day: Varanasi:

Early morning 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 religions. While on the boat you will also see the cremation ceremonies of dead bodies as per Hindi Rituals. After lunch visit to Banaras Hindu University - probably the largest residential university in Asia, in the university visit at Bharat Kala Museum. Later proceed on a tour of the temples of Varanasi visiting the 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. Overnight at the hotel.

05 Day: Varanasi - Khajuraho (By Air):

Morning after breakfast checkout and transfer to the airport to board the morning flight for Khajuraho. On arrival transfer to the hotel. After relaxation visit Western group of Temples consisting of the massive Lakshmana Temple dedicated to lord Vishnu, the Lakshmi and Varaha temples dedicated to Vishnu’s consort Lakshman, 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. Overnight at the hotel in Khajuraho.

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

After breakfast 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 (2 ½ hour drive). On arrival transfer to the railway station to board the schedule evening train to Agra, arrival in Agra next day morning. Overnight at the board.

07 Day: Agra:

Early visit to witness incomparable Taj Mahal with its’ speculative view at the time of Sunrise. 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.

08 Day: Agra - Ranthambhor (280 Kms - 5 hours):

After breakfast check out the hotel and drive to Ranthambhor 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 Diwan-e-Khas, Punch Mahal, the Tomb of Salim Chisti, and the Bulund Darwaza. Later continue to proceed to Ranthambhor. On arrival transfer to the hotel. Overnight at Ranthambhor

09 Day: Ranthambhor:

Today morning take Jungle Safari by open Canter accompanied by an expert naturalist to explore The Ranthambhor wildlife Sanctuary, one of the best places in India to see a tiger in its natural habitat. In the dry season tigers can be seen near the watering holes and are clearly visible in the dry forest. Return to the hotel for a lunch. Later visit Ranthambhor Fort over looking the National Park and Jogi Mahal. Also visit the famous Temple of Ganesha in the Fort. Rest of the evening free for leisure activities at the jungle resort. Overnight at Ranthambhor.

10 Day: Ranthambhor - Jaipur (180 Kms - 3 ½ hours):

After breakfast checkout and drive to Jaipur. On arrival transfer to hotel. After some relaxation 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.

11 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.

12 Day: Jaipur - Delhi (280 kms - 5 hours) Delhi - Bangalore (By Air):

After breakfast optionally you can take an excursion to Samode, (45 kms 1 hour) The old caravan city of Samode locked up in its walls and dominated by the castle, on arrival after refreshment visit at Samode Palace, the Sheesh Mahal- the hall of mirrors. Late afternoon take camel cart ride to explore the Samode Fort and the semi desert village of Samode, witness the culture and traditional of villagers. Later drive to Delhi. On arrival transfer to the airport to board the evening flight for Bangalore. On arrival transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay at Bangalore.

13 Day: Bangalore:

After breakfast check out and drive to Bangalore. On arrival transfer to the hotel relax. Later take a sightseeing tour of the city visiting Lal Baugh - One of the many gardens in the city; it derives its name from the profusion of Red roses which are in bloom here, Cubbon Park - a garden laid down by Lord Cubbon in 1864. The ambience of the city life is broken with presence of such a large park in the center of the city. The Bull Temple - The 4.57 m high and 6.10 meters long image is carved out of single granite rock, Bangalore Palace - Built in the Tudor style and inspired by the Windsor palace, Vidhan Soudha - the Vidhan Soudha houses the state legislative assembly of state government, Tipu’s Palace - The summer palace of Tipu Sultan later followed by visit to Sri Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple - The temple is natural monolith carved cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the evening you can visit Ulsoor Lake. Overnight at the hotel.

14 Day: Bangalore - Mysore (139 kms - 3 hours):

Morning drive to Mysore via Srirangapatnam where you enjoy a panoramic view of the Jain temples. On arrival in Mysore check into your hotel. After relaxation take a sight seeing tour visiting Maharaja Palace built in 1911-1912. The Palace is harmonious syntheses of the Hindu and saracenic style of architecture with archways, domes, turrets, colonnades and sculptures, which are magnificent. St. Philomena’s cathedral - folklore museum - Brindavan Gardens & spectacular musical fountains & Government Buildings, Later drive up to Chamundi Hill to see Chamundeshwari temple and a panoramic view of Mysore. On your way back, see the Nandi Bull. Return to the hotel for overnight at Mysore.

15 Day: Mysore - Ooty (170 kms 3 ½ hours):

After breakfast checkout and drive to Ooty, en route optionally you can visit Bandipur & Mudumalai Sanctuaries, on arrival transfer to the hotel. After relaxation, enjoy the beauty of this hill station. Ooty is fondly known as the 'Queen of Hill Stations', Ooty is snugly ensconced in the heart of the Nilgiris. Dotted with undulating hills, sparkling waterfalls, gurgling brooks and lush green tea gardens, this tranquil haven is sure to capture the hearts of every visitor. Later take a sightseeing tour of Ooty enjoy the scenic surroundings, the Botanical Garden a wealth of variety of plants that include different types of roses, imported shrubs, rare flowering plants, eucalyptus trees, several old trees and even a fossilized tree trunk that is 20 million years old, followed by boat rides and fishing, a visit to the Ooty Lake is a must. Besides these, there are various view points like Lamb’s Rock, Kodanadu and Dodabetta Peak is the highest point in the district at a height of 2623 meters. Provided the day is clear, one can see as far as the plains of Coimbatore and the Mysore plateau. Overnight at Ooty.

16 Day: Ooty - Cochin (300 kms- 7 hours):

After breakfast checkout and drive to Cochin. On arrival transfer to the hotel, in the evening take a sightseeing tour of 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.

17 Day: Cochin - Alleppey (64 Kms 1 ½ hrs) 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.

18 Day: Kumarakom - Cochin (92 kms - 2 ½ hours) - Mumbai (By Air):

After breakfast checkout and drive to Cochin, on arrival transfer to the airport to board the schedule morning flight for Mumbai. On arrival transfer to the hotel. After lunch you can visit ISCON Temple at Juhu and the giant shopping mall - Inorbit to enjoy shopping or a movie in multi complex cinema halls within premises of shopping arcade. Return to the hotel for an overnight.

19 Day: Mumbai:

After breakfast takes a sight seeing tour of Bombay, drive to 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 Caves and Prince of Wales museum are closed on every Monday.

20 Day: Mumbai -Back Home (By Air):

After breakfast day free to rest and individual activities, later checkout the hotel and transfer to the International airport to board the schedule flight back to home country. On departure the tour concludes with happy memories.

 
   
 
Book This Tour  
   
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.
 
Explore India, the most exotic holiday packages of North India and Rajasthan, tourist cities and destinations of Rajasthan, travelling in South India, desert, historical, culture tourism Rajasthan, tours to Indian destinations, pilgrimage tours, forts and palaces tours, Bombay Delhi travel agents and tour operators, India cultural adventure tour, India cultural travel and tourism, adventure wildlife, Indian government approved, hotels, tourism department of India, official website, South India heritage holidays, ministry of tourism, Rajasthan Kerala travel guide, mtdc, Rajasthan desert tour, Rajasthan tourism, culture tour, heritage of Rajasthan, Kerala beaches backwaters tour, culture travel guide, wildlife tours, trip to South India, backwaters tour planning in South India, South India temple tourism, rural, monuments, forts and palaces, temple tour of Karnataka, Visit to Delhi, Varanasi, Khajuraho, Agra, Ranthambhor, Jaipur, Banglore, Mysore, Ooty, Cochin, Alleppey, Mumbai, Karnataka tourism, India Cultural Adventure of Karnataka, Tamilnadu, Rajasthan Cultural Adventure tours, Kerala cultural adventure tourism guide, Rajasthan heritage tour, Karnataka, discover india tour, sightseeing, places of interest, guide, car rental, hotel bookings, reservation, air ticketing, city tours, guide, tourist destinations, accommodation, itinerary, itineraries, trip, vacations, holiday.28 April 2008
About Us | Destination | Fairs & Festivals | Palace on Wheels | Parks & Sanctuaries | Adventure Tours | Itineraries
| Discover India | Contact Us | Home
 
Copyrights © Meruka India Tourism Service 2006. All Rights Reserved.

Thanks for Visiting Tour Programme North India and South India