Duration : 35 Days
Destination Covered : Delhi, Varanasi, Khajuraho, Jhansi, Agra, Ranthambhore, Jaipur, Nimaj, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Aurangabad, Mumbai, Cochin, Kumarokom, Thekkady, Cochin, Bangalore, Goa, Delhi
Day 01 Delhi:
Arrival at Delhi
You will be met on arrival at the International airport. Transfer to your hotel. Relax.
DELHI, the capital of kingdoms and empires is now a sprawling metropolis with a fascinating blend of the past and the present. Delhi is a perfect introduction to the composite culture of an ancient land and a window to the kaleidoscope - that is India.
Overnight will be at Delhi.
Day 02 Delhi:
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel.
Start an afternoon tour of NEW DELHI.
NEW DELHI - An extensive sightseeing tour of New Delhi would include a visit to the Humayun’s Tomb, the Qutub Minar, a drive along the ceremonial avenue - Rajpath, past the imposing India Gate, Parliament House and the President’s Residence and would end with a drive through the Diplomatic Enclave.
Enjoy WELCOME DINNER with Durjay and know your tour. Overnight will be in Delhi.
Day 03 Delhi:
After breakfast proceed for a half day tour of Old Delhi.
OLD DELHI – A sightseeing tour of Old Delhi would entail visiting the Raj Ghat – the memorial site where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated; Jama Masjid - the largest mosque in India and the Red Fort - once the most opulent fort and palace of the Moghul Empire.
Enjoy the rickshaw ride at Old Delhi. Overnight will be in Delhi.
Day 04 Delhi – Varanasi:
By flight
Flight Number : 9W 723 (Jet Airways)
Aircraft : Boeing 737
Departure : 1040 Hrs
Arrival : 1150 Hrs
Breakfast will be at the hotel. Proceed to the airport for flight to Varanasi.
Varanasi is the World's most ancient living city. Crowded with temples, and its labyrinth of streets, the city attracts the maximum number of tourists. The religious capital of Hinduism, Varanasi is the carpet-manufacturing place of India. It was previously known as Kashi - the city that illuminates. The present name is derived from the fact that the city is at the confluence of the rivers Varunaand ASI. It is also called CITY OF TEMPLES.
In the evening you can visit the GHATS for the evening ceremony and the cremations. Overnight stay will be at Varanasi.
Day 05 Varanasi:
Morning drive to Daswamedh Ghat and take a boat ride on the sacred river Ganges to see the cremation Ghats and witness the living traditions of one of the world's oldest and most important religions. (To start at 0500 hrs. for the best lifetime experience) For you to appreciate this remarkable city, we’ll transfer you to the banks of the River Ganges before the sun rises. Board a boat with your guide and proceed to the middle of the river, where at sunrise the sight unfolds before you. Thousands of faithful come daily to the banks to bathe and pray while in the background, temples and palaces rise in tiers from the water’s edge. Then return for a walk through the cobblestone streets along the banks of "Ganga". As shops are opening, the place now becomes a beehive of activity as the faithful are coming and going. Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple while returning to the hotel.
Breakfast will be at the hotel. Proceed for day guided tour of Varanasi.
Visit Bharat Mata Temple, which features a big relief map of Mother India engraved in marble. Also visit the 18th century Durga Temple, commonly known as the Monkey Temple due to the huge population of the monkeys. Proceed to the Tulsi manas Temple, crafted from white marble which features the entire Ramayana inscribed on its walls. Also visit the BHU considered as the biggest residential university in Asia. The University Campus houses an Art Gallery and the Mosque of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
Overnight stay will be at hotel.
Day 06 Varanasi – Khajuraho:
By flight
Flight : 9W 723 (Jet Airways)
Aircraft : Boeing 737
Departure : 1220 hr
Arrival : 1300 hr
Breakfast will be at hotel.
Take an afternoon flight to Khajuraho.
Situated in the northernmost part of Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho is famous for its enchanting temples and its legendary Khajuraho dance festival. The name Khajuraho is derived from the Khajur tree (the date palm tree) which is grown abundantly in the region. The Khajuraho Temples are dedicated to a celebration of womanhood, her myriad moods and facets. Famous for its erotic architecture, the carvings include, women writing a letter, applying eye makeup, combing her tresses, dancing & playing with her child. Her innocent, blushed, charming, seductive, ardent beauty, all depicted in exquisitely sculptured details. These temples have been designed and carved to lead the eyes from ground level upward till you seem to be looking at heaven.
Reach and after lunch visit the EASTERN SET OF TEMPLES in the afternoon.
In the evening enjoy the SOUND & LIGHT SHOW at the temple complex.
Overnight will be at Khajuraho.
Day 07 Khajuraho – Jhansi:
By Road
By Road 175 km in 4 hr
Jhansi – Agra:
By deluxe train at 1800 hr reaching at 2000 hr
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Visit the Western set of temples.
Start for Orchha by surface.
It is a medieval city founded by the BUNDELA rulers with palaces and temples of the 16th & 17th century – which has remarkably withstood the onslaught of time. The town is known for its CHATTRIS which were built in the memory of the kings and the place is flanked by the river BETWA.
Enjoy your lunch at Orchha.
Proceed for sightseeing of ORCHHA sites within the Fort Complex.
Take the deluxe train for Agra and reach by evening.
AGRA: Two great Mughal monarchs, Akbar and Shah Jahan, transformed the little village of Agra into a befitting second capital of the Mughal Empire – giving it the name Dar-ul-Khilafat {seat of the Emperor}. Today a visitor to Agra is caught up in a world of contrasting edifices, of red sandstone and white marble, narrow galleys and quaint buggies, and that irresistible charm that this favorite city of the Mughals still retains. It is not surprising, that modern Agra still reflects its Mughal heritage most conspicuously. A walk down the narrow bustling streets of the city will introduce the visitor to the wafting aroma of Mughlai cuisine.
Overnight will be at Agra.
Day 08 Agra:
Have a leisurely breakfast at the hotel.
Proceed for day sightseeing of Agra.
AGRA FORT - Built by the famed Mughal emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, the fort is predominantly of red sandstone. Ensconced within is the picture perfect Pearl Mosque, which is a major tourist attraction. It lies on the bend of the river Yamuna, almost in the heart of the town. Akbar built it as his citadel over the years 1563-73 in the finest architectural style. It has imposing gates and walls of red sandstone and a moat.
After Agra Fort we will visit BABY TAJ – The interiors of which are considered better than the Taj.
Enjoy TAJ MAHAL from your room at sunset.
Visit SIKANDRA – A 10 MINUTES DRIVE FROM THE CITY.
Overnight will be at Agra.
Day 09 Agra – Ranthambhore:
By road 241 km in 5 hr
Breakfast will be at the hotel.
Drive to Fatehpur Sikri.
The deserted, red Sandstone City, Emperor Akbar built that as his capital and palace in the late 16th century is an exhilarating experience. It a veritable fairytale city and its "ruins" are in pristine condition ... it's not hard to imagine what the court life must have been like in the days of its grandeur. Also visit the Bulund Darwaza, the largest gateway in the world.
Continue drive to Ranthambhore National Park.
Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, at the junction of the Aravalis and the Vindhyas, is a unique example of natural and historical richness, standing out conspicuously in the vast, arid and denuded tract of eastern Rajasthan, barely 14 kilometers from Sawai Madhopur. Get in tune with nature for a luxury holiday in the heart of the jungle. Most of the resorts are close to the National Park Gate, Tiger Den being the closest.
Tiger, at the apex of the food chain, lord over the kingdom in a subtle way. Solitary by nature, it operates in stealth. Therefore tiger sightings, frequent as they are, are always a matter of chance. However, even evidences of tiger's activities are very exciting.
Reach and relax at the beautiful hotel. Enjoy the dinner and retire early for the night as you will need to wake up quite early in the morning.
Overnight will be at Ranthambhore National Park.
Day 10 Ranthambhore:
Wake up early morning and leave for your safari into the National Park. Track the tigers and other wildlife through the morning. Return to the resort / lodge by 1000 in the morning and have breakfast.
Freshen up and then either spend time at the pool or visit the town. You could also go for a nice visit to the temple on top of the fort.
In the afternoon have lunch and then leave again for you afternoon safari. The safari will be till evening 1700 – 1800 hr and then return to the resort / lodge.
Dinner will be at the resort and retire early for the night. Overnight will be at Ranthambhore.
Day 11 Ranthambhore – Jaipur:
By road 175 km in 3 hr
Proceed for the early morning SAFARI into the National Park.
Return to the hotel and breakfast will be at hotel.
Drive to the city of Jaipur through rustic villages. Reach and check in at hotel by afternoon.
JAIPUR - The origins of the beautiful city of Jaipur can be traced back to the eighteenth century, during the reign of Jai Singh II who ascended the Amber throne in 1699. Jaipur today, epitomizes the spirit of Rajputana. In-spite of growing into a bustling metropolis, it still retains its character and history - A beautiful fusion of the yesteryears and modernity. Jaipur is popularly known as the Pink City because of the extensive use of the locally abundant pink plastered stone, painted so in honor of the visit of the royal consort of Queen Victoria. Jaipur thrills the soul with its massive forts, magnificent palaces, exquisite temples and lush gardens.
This evening, visit the Birla Temple to learn more about the fascinating religious life of Jaipur. The marble structure, built as recently as 1985, houses ornate statues including one of Lakshmi (goddess of Wealth and Beauty) and Narayan dressed in gaudy robes, representing a Hindu vision of heavenly luxury. Carvings in the temple and on pillars supporting the covered walkways include images of the Hindu pantheon, as well as Jesus, the Blessed Virgin Mary and St Francis of Assisi. Your visit will coincide with the AARTI Ceremony, which involves oil lamps being lit and waved, in order to awake and invoke the deity. Enjoy the experience and spend night at Jaipur.
Overnight will be in Jaipur.
Day 12 Jaipur:
Proceed for a morning excursion to Amber Fort after breakfast. Elephant ride ascent to the fort.
AMBER FORT PALACE - Amber is the classic romantic Rajasthani fort palace. Its construction was started by Man Singh I in 1592, and completed by his descendent Jai Singh I. Its forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds its ultimate expression.
Continue sightseeing.
CITY PALACE - A delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture, the City Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area in the walled city. It houses the Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple and the City Palace Museum.
JANTAR MANTAR - This is the largest and the best preserved of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II in different parts of the country. This observatory consisting of outsized astronomical instruments is still in use.
HAWA MAHAL - The ornamental facade of this "Palace of Winds" is a prominent landmark in Jaipur. It is a five-storey structure of sandstone plastered pink encrusted with fine trelliswork and elaborate balconies. The palace has 953 niches and windows. Built in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the Mahal was a royal grandstand for the palace women.
Relax in the evening or visit the markets. Overnight will be at Jaipur.
Day 13 Jaipur – Nimaj:
By Road 150 km in 4 hr
Enjoy the breakfast at hotel.
Proceed to NIMAJ. (Chhatrasagar)
The fort of Nimaj was built in 1733 by the valiant ruler- Thakur Jagram Singh. Situated in the heart of the town, it is a massive structure built in traditional Rajput style with courtyards and separate wings for men & women. The little township is surrounded by places of historical interest, like the 9th century temple Magar Mandi, 3 kms away. Visit nearby villages to see local craftsmen at work & a little further see blackbucks, blue bulls etc.
Lakes in the desert region are a rarity having their own charm. Chhatra Sagar, 4 kms from the fort is a beautiful water body nestled between two hillocks. Built as a summer retreat, the lush green lawn, flowering trees and clear waters are like an oasis in the otherwise dry region. Boating and angling is possible. It is surrounded by lush green fields and vast grazing pastures. Chhatra Sagar, a hundred-year old reservoir with a periphery of about 10 kilometers, is an ideal destination for nature lovers and a perfectgetaway from the chaotic city life.
As a hunting preserve of the Nimaj Estate, Chhatra Sagar has witnessed many exciting shikar camps and leisure parties. Today, the campsite, situated on the dam, offers breathtaking views of the sunrise, sunset and the Aravalli ranges on the horizon. The old shooting box - Aodhi has been put to good use as it provides a closer view of the water fowl and birds of prey.
Watch the birds, go for nature walks, soak in the fresh air, sit around the bonfire and listen to old folk lore - or be more adventurous and take one of the many safaris on offer. Experience the warm hospitality, and enjoy some truly delicious Indian and traditional Rajasthani meals cooked with farm fresh vegetables in the family kitchen.
Relax in the tastefully designed and well-appointed tented accommodation. Each tent has an attached bath with running hot and cold water, and its own private sit out overlooking the lake.
Overnight will be at the camp.
Day 14 Nimaj – Jaisalmer:
By Road 350 km in 6 hr
Enjoy the morning with the family and watching birds.
Breakfast will be at the resort.
Drive to Jaisalmer. Reach in the evening and check in at the hotel.
Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert like a golden mirage is the city of Jaisalmer. A commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone stands, with its awesome splendor, dominating the amber-hued city.
The city has an interesting legend associated with it, according to which, Lord Krishna-the head of the Yadav Clan, foretold Arjuna that a remote descendent of the Yadav Clan would build his kingdom atop the Trikuta Hill. His prophecy was fulfilled in 1156 AD when Rawal Jaisal, a descendent of the Yadav Clan and a Bhatti Rajput, abandoned his fort at Lodurva and founded a new capital -Jaisalmer, perched on the Trikuta Hill.
Reach and check in at hotel. Stay overnight at Jaisalmer.
Day 15
Jaisalmer:
After a relaxed breakfast proceed for full day sightseeing tour of The Golden City - Jaisalmer. It is in the heart of the Great Indian Desert. Its temple, fort and palaces are all built of yellow stone. The city is a mass of intricately carved buildings, facades and elaborate balconies. Visit the JAISALMER FORT – The oldest living Fort in the world. (This is the highlight of the tour)
See the Patwon-Ki-Havelies, Salim-Singh-Ki-Haveli and Gandhi Sagar Tank. Also visit Barabagh Hill.
Also visit the ROYAL CENOTAPHS and relax in the evening.
In the afternoon, proceed to the SAM SAND DUNES for visiting the typical Rajasthani Desert Village. View the sunset from the dunes, as the sky is set on fire. Return to the village for dinner amidst Rajasthani musicians playing haunting tunes.
Overnight will be at Jaisalmer.
Day 16 Jaisalmer – Jodhpur:
By Road 305 km in 5 hr
Drive to Jodhpur after a relaxing breakfast.
Set at the edge of the THAR Desert, the imperial city of Jodhpur echoes with tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the desert. Once the capital of the Marwar state, it was founded in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha – chief of the RATHORE clan of Rajputs who claimed to be descendants of Rama - the epic hero of the RAMAYANA. The massive 15th century AD Mehrangarh Fort looms on the top of a rocky hill, soaring 125 Mts. Above the plains. The city is encompassed by a high wall -10 km long with 8 gates and innumerable bastions.
Enjoy the visit to the Umaid Bhawan Palace museum.
Overnight will be at Jodhpur.
Day 17 Jodhpur:
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Morning sightseeing tour of Jodhpur – gateway to the desert beyond, home of the Rathors of Marwar, visit the Mehrangarh Fort, rising up a hilly scarp, built on the advice of a hermit, overlooking the city in the image of a long sentinel. Inside the Fort are a number of palaces added by successive rulers. In this palace you would see different miniature paintings & cradle room. After this you would visit Jaswant Thada Memorial.
In the afternoon go for a drive visiting the BISHNOI VILLAGES and / or explore the blue city.
Overnight will be at Jodhpur.
Day 18 Jodhpur – Udaipur:
By Road 250 km in 6 hr
Drive to Udaipur.
On your way you will stop at the beautiful temples of RANAKPUR for sightseeing.
The RANAKPUR TEMPLES, dating back to the 15th century have 200 pillars, none of which are alike, support its 29 halls. The Temple abounds with intricate friezes and sculptures. Includes visits to two more Jain temples and the Temple of the Sun God with its erotic sculptures.
Enjoy a hot lunch in a nice village restaurant or at the FATEH BAGH PALACE and continue drive to Udaipur.
Reach Udaipur and check in to hotel.
The city of Dawn, Udaipur is a lovely land around the azure lake, hemmed in by the lush hills of the ARAVALLIS. A vision in white drenched in romance and beauty, Udaipur is a fascinating blend of sights, sound and experiences and inspiration for the imagination of poets, painters and writers.
Its kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow lanes strewn with stalls, carry the flavor of a heroic past, epitomizing valor and chivalry. Their reflection in the placid waters of the LAKE PICHOLA is an enticing sight.
Udaipur is the jewel of MEWAR -a kingdom ruled by the Sisodia dynasty for 1200 Years.
Overnight stay will be at Udaipur.
Day 19 Udaipur:
Breakfast will be at hotel.
Proceed for sightseeing tour of Udaipur, stopping first at City Palace. Here you will marvel at rooms with mirrored walls and ivory doors, colored glass windows and inlaid marble balconies and the Peacock Courtyard.
Also visit the lovely Sahelion-ki-Bari Gardens, the Jagdish Temple and the local folk Museum.
Proceed for Evening Motor launch cruise on the placid waters of Lake Pichola. From the boat you will be able to view the city of Udaipur as it rises majestically above the lake in the middle of the Rajasthan desert. Also visit the Jag Mandir Palace - the other island palace in the middle of the lake and spend some time. (Currently water level is very low and is subject to increase water level)
Enjoy the visit to the CENOTAPHS of the royal rulers and in the evening proceed for a dinner with dances show.
Overnight will be at Udaipur.
Day 20 Udaipur – Mumbai:
By Flight
Number : 9W 709 (Jet Airways)
Aircraft : Boeing 737
Departure : 0820 hr
Arrival : 0935 hr
Mumbai – Aurangabad:
By Flight
Number : 9W 3109 (Jet Airways)
Aircraft : ATR Jet
Departure : 1825 hr
Arrival : 1925 hr
Breakfast will be at the hotel.
Proceed to the airport for flight to Mumbai. Reach and check into the hotel close to the airport.
Enjoy the day relaxing and in the evening take flight to Aurangabad.
Reach and check into the hotel.
The city of Aurangabad was founded in 1610, on the site of a village, Khirki by Malik Ambar - the Prime Minister of Murtaza Nizam Shah II. When Fateh Khan, Malik Ambar's son turned successor in 1626, he gave the city the name 'Fatehpur'. Later in 1653, when Prince Aurangzeb became Viceroy of the Deccan, he made the city his capital and called it Aurangabad. Aurangzeb added the walls that enclose the central part of the city in 1686 in order to withstand attacks from the Marathas. There are four principle gateways to the city - the Delhi Darwaza, the Jalna Darwaza, the Paithan Darwaza and the Mecca Darwaza. Nine secondarygateways also formed a part of the defensive system of this city.
Aurangabad district has always been a prominent region on the Deccan plateau. Having been inhabited since the Stone Age, it has a long artistic and cultural history - to which several dynasties have made major contributions over the years. Maurya rule marked the arrival of Buddhism in Maharashtra.
Aurangabad today is a bustling city of Maharashtra with diverse big and small industries, fine silken textiles, and exquisite hand woven brocades of silver and gold fabrics, Himroo of world frame. To scholars and lovers of art and culture the city is more familiar as the gateway to the ancient caves of Ajanta and Ellora, both famous as treasure houses of Indian Art and Sculpture.
Overnight will be at Aurangabad.
Day 21 Aurangabad:
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.
Proceed for a full day sightseeing with excursion to Ajanta Caves.
Ajanta caves: Nestling in an inner fold of the Sahyardi hills, 100 km from Aurangabad in the shape of a mammoth horse- shoe, are the 30 rock-hewn caves of Ajanta. The Caves date from the 2nd century BC. Discovered in 1819 by a group of British army officers, these startling achievements took around 600 years to create. Carved with little more than a hammer and chisel, Ajanta, once the retreat of Buddhist monastic orders features several 'chaityas' (chapels) and 'viharas' (monasteries). The exquisite wall and ceiling paintings, panels and sculptures of Buddha's life are famous throughout the world as the earliest and finest examples of Buddhist pictorial art.
Overnight will be at Aurangabad.
Day 22 Aurangabad:
Breakfast will be at the hotel. Proceed for a visit to the Ellora Caves.
Ellora Caves: Impressive in their own right is the rock-hewn temples and monasteries of Ellora that lie just 30 km away from Aurangabad city. In all, there are 34 cave temples, 12 Mahayana Buddhist caves (550-750 AD), 17 Hindu caves (600-875 AD) and 5 caves of the Jain faith (800-1000 AD) 22 more caves, dedicated to Lord Shiva, were recently discovered. Kailas Temple (cave16), the central attraction at Ellora, is the most remarkable. Chiseled by hand from a single massive rock, it includes a gateway, pavilion, courtyard, vestibule, sanctum, sanctorum and tower which bear testimony to the excellence of Dravidian art. It is believed to have taken 7000 laborers, working in continuous shifts and 150 years to build. Ever since the first European visitors in 18th Century, Ellora has attracted chroniclers, antiquarians, scholars and in more recent years, ever- increasing number of tourists.
Aurangabad Caves: The almost forgotten caves of Aurangabad lie just outside the city. Excavated between the 2nd and 6th century AD, they reflect TANTRIC influences in their iconography and architectural designs. In all there are nine caves which are mainly viharas (monasteries). The most interesting among these are Caves 3 and 7. The former is supported on 12 highly ornate columns and has sculptures depicting scenes from the legendary 'Jakata' tales. Cave 7 with its detailed figures of bejeweled women also has a dominating sculpture of a 'Bodhisattva' praying for deliverance.
Overnight will be in Aurangabad.
Day 23 Aurangabad – Mumbai:
By Flight
Number : 9W 3104 (Jet Airways)
Aircraft : ATR Jet
Departure : 0845 hr
Arrival : 0945 hr
Mumbai – Cochin:
By Flight
Number : IC 165 (Indian Airlines)
Aircraft : Airbus 320
Departure : 1105 hr
Arrival : 1250 hr
Breakfast will be at the hotel.
Take flight to Mumbai and connecting flight to Cochin.
Arrive Cochin and transfer to Hotel.
The eventful history of this city began when a major flood in AD 1341 threw open the estuary at Kochi, till then a land locked region, turning it into one of the finest natural harbors in the world. Kochi thus became a haven for seafaring visitors from all over the world and became the first European town-ship in India when the Portuguese settled here in the 15th century.
The Dutch wrested Fort Kochi from the Portuguese in AD 1663 and later in the last phase of the colonial saga, the British took over, the town in 1795. During 1660's, Fort Kochi peaked in stature as a prime commercial centre and its fame spread far and wide - variously as a rich trade centre, a major military base, a vibrant cultural hub, a great ship building centre, a centre for Christianity and so on. Today, centuries later, the city is home to nearly thirteen communities.
Proceed in the evening for the HARBOUR CRUISE and watch the fishing island, dolphins and old town from the sea. Enjoy the sunset from here.
Overnight will be in Cochin.
Day 24 Cochin:
Breakfast will be at hotel.
Today you will visit Cochin, one of the oldest Jewish communities in the world. The Jewish community traces its history to nearly 2000 years ago. In 1948 the community numbered 2500 and today there are fewer that 30 people. The community is still centered round JEWTOWN where you will visit its crown Jewel, the Paradesi Synagogue. Built in 1568 and reconstructed after a Portugese bombardment in 1662, the synagogue is distinguished by its tile roof and bell tower. The small synagogue is also known for its hand-painted, willow-patterned, blue and white Chinese floor tiles, and the many brass and crystal lamps that hang from the ceiling. Later visit the interesting International Pepper Exchange, also located in Jewtown.
Proceed for a sightseeing tour of FORT COCHIN. A few interesting sites included in the tour are the Chinese fishing nets along the Vasco Da Gama Square, Santa Cruz Basilica, St. Francis Church, VOC Gate, Bastion Bungalow, Jewish Synagogue, Mattancherry Palace, etc. Learn the operation of the interesting Chinese fishing nets erected on teak wood and bamboo poles which work on the principle of balance. Records say they were first set up here between AD 1350 and 1450. Vasco Da Gama Square, the narrow promenade that parallels the beach, is the best place to watch the nets being lowered and pulled out of the sea.
In the early evening proceed for a private harbor cruise. Enjoy watching the dolphins, the fishing island and the Bolghatty Palace. Cruise till the mouth of the sea and enjoy the sunset.
Return to the hotel and enjoy a seafood dinner. Overnight will be at Cochin.
Proceed for a Half day sight seeing of Cochin. A few interesting sites included in the tour are the:
Chinese fishing nets: The Chinese fishing nets erected on teak wood and bamboo poles work on the principle of balance. Records say they were first set up here between AD 1350 and 1450. Vasco Da Gama Square, the narrow promenade that parallels the beach, is the best place to watch the nets being lowered and pulled out of the sea.
JEWISH SYNAGOGUE: The Jewish community traces its history to nearly 2000 years ago. In 1948 the community numbered 2500 and today there are fewer that 30 people. The community is still centered round JEWTOWN where you will visit its crown Jewel, the Paradesi Synagogue. Built in 1568 and reconstructed after a Portugese bombardment in 1662, the synagogue is distinguished by its tile roof and bell tower. The small synagogue is also known for its hand-painted, willow-patterned, blue and white Chinese floor tiles, and the many brass and crystal lamps that hang from the ceiling. Later visit the interesting International Pepper Exchange, also located in Jewtown.
The Vasco Da Gama Square, Santa Cruz Basilica, St. Francis Church, VOC Gate, Bastion Bungalow etc. are also nice for sightseeing. Take a boat ride and visit BOLGATTY PALACE and VYPPIN ISLAND.
In the evening proceed for KATHAKALI DANCE PRESENTATION. Over night stay at hotel.
Day 25 Cochin – Kumarokom:
Backwater Cruise
Breakfast will be at hotel.
Proceed to Aleppey Jetty for boarding your luxurious houseboat (private with private crew) starting the cruise through the backwaters to Kumarokom.
The houseboat with all modern comforts lets you discover the countryside at your own pace. You will have lunch and dinner on the Houseboat. A ride on the houseboat is a fabulous way to explore the fascinating beauty of the backwaters.
Both the meals would be prepared by the crew on board with fresh ingredients and cuisine will be authentic Kerala style.
Overnight will be at Houseboat.
Day 26
Kumarokom – Thekkady:
By road 180 km in 4 hr
Breakfast will be on the boat.
Start cruise through the backwaters and arrive at Kumarakom enjoying the beauty of the lakes and lagoons.
The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and this small water world is part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary here, which is spread across 14 acres, is a favorite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Egrets, darters, herons, teal, waterfowl, cuckoo, wild duck and the migratory birds like the Siberian stork that live there in flocks are a fascination for visitors. This is an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with while lilies.
Reach and proceed for Thekkady - drive through tea estates, spice gardens and wild forests. Arrive at Thekkady after a memorabledrive of approx. 4 hours.
The river Periyar is the longest river in Kerala. This is the only perennial river in South India with clean water. The river occupies an important place in the history of Kerala. In the Sangam age Tamil epics such as Chilapathikaram, ‘Akananuru’, ‘Purananuru’ etc much has been said about this mighty river, formerly known as the ‘Choorni Nadi’ or ‘Thamraparni Nadi’ (Sukasandesam –stanza 66). A land route existed in the Sangam age from Mussuris (present-day Kodungalloor) to Madurai, which passed near the banks of the river Periyar. The capital of the old Chera Empire presumably existed on the banks of the river Periyar. It is believed that there was a flood in the 4th century AD that severely damaged the areas along the Periyar and the people living there had to escape to safer locations, abandoning their homes and livelihoods. The flood of AD 1341 resulted in the closing of Kodungalloor port and the opening of a new port at Kochi. The huge landslide that began in the high ranges as a result of the heavy downpours sent massive flows of mud and sand which created an Island at the ‘Azhimugham’ of the Periyar which is now known as the Vyppin Islands.
Enjoy the boatride at the LAKE watching the wild animals.
In the evening visit Kumily market to buy the best spices available. Overnight will be at Thekkady.
Day 27 Thekkady:
After very early or packed breakfast start for the National Park. Your guide will accompany you on a short trek through the lush green forests showing you different spices and plants. There would be occasional animals and you will have lunch inside the forest.
Return by evening and relax at the resort. Overnight will be in Thekkady.
Day 28
Thekkady – Cochin:
By road 200 km in 5 hr
Drive to Cochin after breakfast.
Reach by afternoon and relax at the hotel.
Overnight will be at the Cochin.
Day 29 Cochin – Bangalore:
By Flight
Number : 9W 3512
Airlines : Jet Airways
Aircraft : ATR Jet
Departure : 0830 hr
Arrival : 0945 hr
Bangalore – Goa: By Flight
Number : IT 203
Airlines : Kingfisher Airlines
Aircraft : Boeing 737
Departure : 1255 hr
Arrival : 1355 hr
Take flight to Goa via Bangalore. Reach and check in at the resort.
Goa, variously known as "Rome of the East", "Tourist Paradise" and "Pearl of the Orient", the state of Goa is located on the western coast of India in the coastal belt known as Konkan. The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendors of its temples, churches and old houses have made Goa a firm favorite with travelers around the world. Nestled on the slopes of the Western ghats (Sahyadri ranges), Goa is bounded on the North by Sindhudurg district of Maharasthra, on the East by Belgaum, on the South by Karwar Districts of Karnataka, and on the west by Arabian Sea.
Legends from Hindu mythology credit Lord Parshuram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu with the creation of Goa. Over the centuries various dynasties have ruled Goa. Rashtrakutas, Kadambas, Silaharas, Chalukyas, Bahamani Muslims and most famously the Portuguese have been rulers of Goa. Goa was liberated by the Indian Army from Portuguese colonization on 19th of December 1961 and became a Union Territory along with the enclaves of Daman and Diu. On 30th of May 1987 Goa was conferred statehood and became the 25th state of the Indian Republic. After all, more than anywhere else on planet earth, this is a place where people really know how to relax.
Relax at Goa. Overnight will be at the resort.
Day 30 – 33 Goa:
Breakfasts will be at the resort.
Enjoy the beach and one of the days take a tour of the old Goa.
Overnight will be in Goa.
Day 34 Goa – Delhi:
By Flight
Number : S2 118
Airlines : Sahara Airways
Aircraft : Boeing 737
Departure : 1545 hr
Arrival : 1810 hr
After breakfast drive to Cochin. Reach and proceed straight to the airport for flight to Delhi.
Reach and proceed to the hotel. Rest of the day will be free for shopping. Overnight will be in Delhi.
Day 35
Delhi – Home:
Breakfast will be at the hotel. Day will be free for shopping and visiting museums.
In the evening take flight to Delhi for connecting international flight home with sweet memories of India.
TOUR ENDS
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