India is vast and there is so much to see. But in 10 days you can still capture some of the cultural and social highlights alongside the wildlife – experience some key delights, we have got you covered!
From the Old and New Delhi, Ruins of Mughal Empire, you will venture it all with a rickshaw ride, getting a real feel for the hustle and bustle of this metropolitan city: its malls, people and sites. You will then travel onto Agra, to take in the marvelous Taj Mahal and its magical love story. Next, you will be visiting Jaipur: time to indulge in checking out the cuisine, colourful bazaars and crafts of Jaipur city. You will spend time exploring Jaipur city, tour bazaars, craft shops & enjoy a cuisine walk. After that you’ll take two flights to reach Kochi where you’ll witness a taste of South Indian culture by witnessing a live Kathakali Dance performance; indulging in Muziris Heritage tour, visiting churches and a Jewish synagogue. Then you’ll be taking a boat ride in Alleppey where you’ll spend your afternoon in the waters before heading out to Kumarakom.
Read MoreWe have handpicked an assortment of Hotels, with the minimum transfer time to get to them from the city & to reach attractions – giving you more time to enjoy the hotels, the attractions & cities.
Ideal For – Adventure seekers/ Solo travellers/ couples/ friends / families with teenagers / small groups consisting of friends and family.
As this journey is available throughout the year, it is ideal for those who have busy schedules and are uncertain about the period of their holidays.
Highlights at glance
- You’ll be in Delhi and visit the ruins of the Mughal Empire as well as check out New Delhi – all on a rickshaw ride – getting you about quickly through the city and gaining a truer experience of local culture and lifestyle.
- Witness one of the 7 wonders of the World, Taj Mahal in Agra which is also considered a symbol of love all over the world.
- The Jaipur city tour and bazaars, crafts & cuisine walk will give the best of the city when you’re in Jaipur.
- You will then fly to Kochi from Jaipur to enjoy a live Kathakali dance theatre performance; visit the old port Muziris for a heritage tour. Then onto a tour of to visit a Jewish synagogue, churches and the Dutch palace.
- Experience a boat ride like no other, locally named as Kettuvallam which literally means ‘tied together boat’ and spend the day on your own enjoying the views, reading your favourite book or just taking memorable photographs.
01st & 02nd Nights: India’s Capital Delhi
A city that offers both ancient and modern day India, is Delhi. Not only the nation’s capital city it is the third largest city in India and one of the fastest growing in Asia. The various ancient ruins seen in the city are seemingly silent witnesses to its magnificent history. Old Delhi brings to focus a maze of narrow, maddening alleys and back roads amidst old buildings betraying a colonial past but not overshadowing freshly prepared, piping-hot street food and vendors wooing you to yards of colourful materials and an assortment of craft. Juxtaposed is New Delhi, hi-tech, shopping malls, wide roads and a never-ending bustle of shoppers, teenagers and visitors from all over the country. You’ll find anything to everything: New Delhi never sleeps.
On your arrival at the International Airport in Delhi, our representative will receive and escort you to your hotel. You will have the time to unwind and chill in your room, perhaps exploring the hotel and its facilities. Talking to the hotel staff is a great way to get first hand details about the city, if you like to do that.
After breakfast, we’ll get you started on your tour: taking you to Old Delhi: visiting Jama Masjid – the largest mosque in India – and driving past Red Fort – once the most opulent fort and jewel of the Mughal Empire (Red Fort is closed on Mondays). Then a rickshaw ride in the old city market of bustling Chandani Chowk.
Then you will see the ‘other’ side – New Delhi. Interestingly, New Delhi offers more historical sites than Old Delhi but reflects a colonial past. At the same time, you will be amazed by the bustle of people getting about the malls, cinemas and of course the food – so many street food options and restaurants to indulge in.
03rd Night: Agra
Agra – the city of Taj founded by Sikander Lodi in 1475 AD. Agra finds mention in the Mahabharata as Agraban. But power changed hands of this city, with Babur defeating the Lodis to capture not only Agra but also laid the foundation of the Mughal Empire. From the mid 16th century to early 17th century AD, Agra witnessed a frenzied growth and it was during this time when the symbol of love Taj Mahal was built, taking years to build, as materials were brought from lands far from India. Elegant domes, intricately carved screens and some of the best inlay work ever seen. The Taj Mahal is a testament only to love but also to fine planning, intricate and skilful architecture of Persian architects Ahmed Lahori and Ustad Isa and tireless sourcing of material.
After breakfast we will drive you to Agra, a 4 hour drive covering 205 kms. Upon arrival at your designated hotel, you will be able to rest before stepping out.
Sheroes Hangout Café will be your first stop. This Café is testament to women who are survivors of acid attacks. Run solely by them, it houses a centre that runs campaigns, a library, a boutique where you can purchase handicrafts (and support their cause) and of course great food and drink.
The Café empowers these women and creates awareness for an issue that is very problematic in India.
04th & 05th Night: Jaipur
Founded in 1727, the capital city of the state of Rajasthan, Jaipur is also known as “Pink City”. Once ruled by Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II, in a grand gesture of hospitality, had the whole city painted pink terracotta in honour of a royal guest. In fact, pink was considered the colour of hospitality. The Amber Fort is a centre piece here; sitting atop a hill. The City Palace is open to the public courtesy of the present resident royal family and within the complex you will find the beautiful Chandra Mahal or Chandra Niwas which is most commanding: a seven-storeyed wonder! Back to the present, you will take a walk through Jaipur’s bazaar, catching sight of various crafts and being overwhelmed by the aromatic street food!
Early morning, you will be taken to see the wondrous Taj Mahal. Sunrise is considered the best time to see the palace. It is often said that the Taj Mahal seemingly changes colour, depending on the light and how the weather prevails, reflecting different hues of colour on this symbol of love. A testament of Emperor Shah Jahan’s love for his wife Mumtaz, this white-marbeled palace commands a magical view across the crescent-shaped grassy floodplains of the Yamuna river. A timeless achievement in the range of Indo-Islamic architecture: finely-carved screens, seamless domes and perfection in symmetrical design… this UNESCO Heritage Site took 21 years to construct…a site to behold at sunset. You will return to the hotel for breakfast and then leave for Jaipur, a 5 hour journey (240 kms).
Jaipur is bejewelled by grandeur, brilliant architecture and history. You will start your tour by heading for the Amber Fort which houses halls, temples and gardens. On to Sheesh Mahal where elaborate mirror work takes precedence. In the City Palace complex, the seven-storeyed Chandra Mahal is a wonder with each floor housing unique paintings, mirror work, intricate woodwork and sculptural works of art. There is a beautiful peacock gate at the entry to the Mahal complete with screened balconies and a pavilion at the roof with a panoramic view of the city. The evening will wind down with a walk through the bazaar, a maze of arts and craft, made by using rich traditional artisan skills.
06th & 07th Nights: Kochi
Kochi (formerly known as Cochin) sits on the south western coast of India, in the multi-faceted and scenic state of Kerala. is a vibrant city situated on the south-west coast of the Indian peninsula in the breathtakingly scenic and prosperous state of Kerala, hailed as ‘God’s Own Country’. Kerala’s strategic importance goes back many centuries and it’s believed it was first visited by Arab and Chinese traders. Fine sandalwood and spices have since lured the Portuguese and the British to Kerala: the “Queen of the Arabian Sea”. Kochi is flanked on the west is also referred to as the Gateway to Kerala.
You will have an early start following check out. You will be transferred to the Jaipur airport to board your next flight to Kochi via Ahmedabad. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your designated hotel for check-in. In the evening, you will watch a live performance of Kathakali. This genre of classical dance form has its roots in Kerala. Associated with storytelling like other Indian classical dance arts, the story in ‘Kathakali’ is also communicated through impressive gestures of face and hands complimented by music and singing. Kathakali is distinct because of the very exaggerated facial make-up or masks that amplify the facial expressions while the style of dance and movements reflect the age-old martial arts and athletic conventions prevalent in Kerala. Kathakali is greatly followed and admired.
In the morning, you will be taken to Malabar Coast: a gateway to many faiths and cultures. Historically, Muziris – the name of an ancient port city here – traded in precious goods. The earliest Jewish settlers came here, Christianity and the first mosque came to be in Muziris. A flood damaged Muziris, conceding its trading position to Cochin. However, it is still a great testament to the inter-faith existence as its numerous places of worship will show you. After lunch you go on a tour of Kochi’s highlights: including Cheenavala: the place where fishing nets were introduced during Kublai Khan’s era and are still only found here in Kochi.Your final stop: Fort Cochin; built during a colonial past.
08th & 09th Nights: Kumarakom
After breakfast, you will drive to Alleppey. A 50 km distance, to an embarkation point for a day’s cruise in a houseboat. This locality is called Kettuvallam, fringing the coast of Kerala and winding far inland through a vast network of lagoons, lakes, rivers and canals. A unique habitat, your route will take you on a unique geographical formation – that will surely be a memorable one.
The Kettuvallam, or ‘tied together boat,’ is made with Jak tree lashed together with coir rope and reinforced with coconut fibre and boiled cashew shell goop. These large boats have been used for decades as a means of transport goods in Kerala. But today you will board one, complete with comfy chairs, bamboo and palm thatched canopy for shade, even one or two small bedrooms with an ensuite washroom. Enjoy the ride in the backwaters here, in the warmth of the sun…while a cook conjures up a sumptuous meal and a small crew keeps the impressive boat going.
Today is your day to completely plan as you wish; feel free to explore the property and surroundings. A day to perhaps reflect on your tour, as it draws to an end: photographs, adventures, sounds, sights, food, people… you will have so much to reminisce!
Day 10: Kochi - Onward Journey
Coming to the end of your 10 day tour of India, we will transfer you to Cochin airport, a drive that will take approximately 1.5 hours, ensuring you reach there comfortably, to get your flight to your journey home or onward destination.
Please do contact us for an attractive and customised quote, to give you the optimum itinerary for a complete experience.
What more to add?
- Hot air Balloon (Sharing basis) in Jaipur.
You may see the hotels which we have handpicked for you under each accomadation style. However, there are hundreds of other alternative properties for you to select if you wish to and you may mix and match hotels in different categories as well.
Modest
Accommodation
$ 2,000
1-2 persons
$ 3,000
3-4 persons
$ 4,000
5-6 persons
If you’re looking for a no-frills stay that’s easy on the wallet, and love to spend time with locals and explore the surroundings at your own pace, this is the perfect choice for you. This hotel style is wonderfully cosy, unique, mostly owner-run and provides you with a more personalised service.
Plush
Accommodation
$ 3,000
1-2 persons
$ 4,000
3-4 persons
$ 5,000
5-6 persons
Indulgence without breaking the bank? Well, this is the category for you. Personalised and high-quality service, attention to detail, comfort and all modern amenities are hallmarks of this category, whilst being situated in some amazing locations.
The Claridges – Delhi
During this 2 week culinary adventure you will discover history, mysteries and a riot of flavours in regional specialities and street food universally loved...
Dreamy
Accommodation
$ 1,000
1-2 persons
$ 2,000
3-4 persons
$ 3,000
5-6 persons
The absolute best in comfort and experience, these high-end properties will make your jaw drop! Unique designs, private plunge pools, personal butlers… the list goes on at these boutique properties. Luxury here is not about star ratings and amenities, it’s about being away from crowds and having authentic, personalised experiences.
Everything you need to know about the tour
We’ve taken every possible measure to ensure your safety and comfort during this tour.
The hotels, tours, add-ons, guides and chauffeurs who are part of this programme are carefully vetted, so that you enjoy the highest quality standards and enjoy your tour with peace of mind. At any given point of the tour you will always be within reach of your guide or chauffeur, either physically or via phone (e.g: when you are out exploring on your own), for any assistance.
The important stuff:
- Airfare is quoted on the basis of the best available average fare which is subject to change. This fare can be lower or can be higher at the time of booking. Exact fare will be advised at the time of booking.
- Standard check in time is 1400 hrs and check-out time is 1200 noon at most of the hotels.
- Taj Mahal remains closed on every Friday.
Included:
- Accommodation on double/twin sharing basis at hotels in their base category (unless otherwise specified) mentioned or in similar category with meals as indicated (B, L, D stand for breakfast, lunch and dinner respectively)
- Services of Air Conditioned Toyota Innova Crysta for all transfers, sightseeing and drives
- Services of guides with walking experiences during city sightseeing tours
- Rickshaw ride in Old Delhi and Jaipur
- Jeep ride at Amber fort, Uphill
- Private tour of City Palace, Jaipur
- Battery van ride at Taj Mahal from parking area
- Tea and snacks at Sheroes Hangout Café, Agra
- Live Kathakali dance performance in Cochin
- Day Cruise by houseboat in Alleppey
- Meeting / assistance at the time of arrival and departure at airport / railway station and during check in/out at hotels in major cities
- Mandatory Government service tax
Not Included:
- Any airfare, any insurance fee (supplement given for domestic sector)
- Anything not mentioned in inclusion above.
- Any Visa fee (India Visa is a must for all the visitors before boarding their flight except for nationals of 11 countries who enjoy visa on arrival. For more details visit Indian Visa https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/)
- Services of accompanying escort.
- Any optional tour.
- Any expenditure of personal nature like tipping, tabled drinks, laundry, tip, telephone calls, soft/ hard drinks, still/video camera fee, (if any) etc. However, supplements for the same have been quoted above.
- Anything ordered from room service at any hotel including mineral water (other than what being offered by the hotels on their compliment).
- Any sudden increase in price due to steep hike in fuel cost, change in government tax policy or for any reason beyond our control like acts of god, natural calamity, law and order situation, riots etc. and any forced change in itinerary for any unforeseen situation or reason beyond our control.
About pricing:
Although it may sound strange for a tropical country, Sri Lankan hotels operate on seasonal rates. This is simply due to a particular region having attractions or weather that’s best enjoyed during a specific time of the year and also due to the demand coinciding with the European winter season. So it’s not uncommon to have two rates that apply on different dates in the same month.
But to make things less complicated for you, Experiential Journeys does things differently by giving you the lowest season ball-park rate on the website, and follows up with the exact rate upon receiving an inquiry or booking request along with the confirmed travel dates. You will not be charged anything until the final price is agreed upon.
Experiential Journeys is an Australian based company and uses AUD as the main currency. We serve a global community of travellers predominantly from New Zealand, U.K., U.S.A., Canada & U.A.E.
Experience
Possible experience in this tour
Some of these experiences are already included in the tour you are looking at, either as a full length or time limited activity. You have the freedom to pick out the ones you want during your tour and the extent to how you want to experience it.
3 hours
Colombo Street Food Experience
Experience Colombo through its colourful, aromatic, multicultural cuisines on this 3-hour evening walking tour.