Itinerary

1. Arrive Delhi

   Day 1 :
   

   On arrival at Delhi airport, receive assistance & transfer to hotel.

   Rest of the day free to relax and engage in personal activities.

   Overnight at the hotel.

   
   

2. Delhi

   Day 2 :
   

   [sensitive content] tour of Delhi.

   Visit Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former residence of Mughal emperors until 1857, showcasing red sandstone architecture.

   Visit Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in the world built by Shah Jahan, with an expansive courtyard and stunning architecture.

   Cycle Rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk & Khari Baoli Spice Market, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere and diverse array of spices, dried fruits, and traditional Indian sweets.

   Visit Raj Ghat, the serene memorial of Mahatma Gandhi, marking the spot where he was cremated.

   Visit Humayun's Tomb, a splendid example of Mughal architecture and the first garden-tomb in India, commissioned by Humayun’s first wife, Empress Bega Begum.

   Visit Qutab Minar, a towering 73-meter tall minaret and an exemplary piece of Afghan architecture.

   Visit Lotus Temple, a Bahai House of Worship known for its distinctive flower-like shape and serene ambiance.

   Drive past President House, Parliament, & India Gate, witnessing the grandeur of these important governmental landmarks.

   Overnight at the hotel.

   
   

3. Delhi - Agra (204kms)

   Day 3 :
   

   Breakfast at hotel.

   Drive to Agra, check in at hotel.

   Visit Taj Mahal, an iconic symbol of love, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in white marble for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

   Visit Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a majestic fortress that was the main residence of the Mughal emperors until 1638.

   Visit Itmad-ud-Daula Tomb, often referred to as the "Baby Taj," commissioned by Nur Jahan for her father, featuring intricate marble inlay work.

   Overnight at the hotel.

   
   

4. Agra - Orchha (220kms)

   Day 4 :
   

   Breakfast at hotel.

   Drive to Orchha, enroute visit Gwalior Fort.

   Explore Gwalior Fort, a stunning hilltop fortress known for its magnificent architecture and historical significance, housing several palaces and temples.

   Visit Siddhachal Caves and Gopachal rock-cut Jain monuments, adorned with thousands of Jain Tirthankar idols.

   Visit Teli Ka Mandir and Sas-Bahu Ka Mandir, two architecturally rich Hindu temples with intricate carvings.

   Visit Gurudwara Data Bandi Chhor, a sacred Sikh site within the fort complex.

   Visit Jai Vilas Palace, famous for housing the world's largest carpet and massive chandeliers.

   Arrive Orchha, check in at hotel.Later visit Orchha Fort complex, including Raja Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, and Jahangir Mahal, showcasing Rajput architecture.

   Visit Chaturbhuj Temple, a multi-storied temple with one of the tallest vimanas among Hindu temples.

   Visit Chattris (Cenotaphs) on the banks of the Betwa river, serving as magnificent royal tombs of the Bundela rulers.

   Overnight at the hotel.

   
   

5. Orchha - Khajuraho (178km)

   Day 5 :
   

   Breakfast at hotel.

   Drive to Khajuraho, check in at hotel.

   Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site temples, renowned for their stunning erotic and sensuous carvings, exemplifying the Chandela dynasty's architectural brilliance.

   Explore the eastern, western, and southern groups of temples, built between 950 to 1050 AD, known for their intricate sculptures and detailed carvings.

   Overnight at the hotel.

   
   

6. Khajuraho - Varanasi (flight)

   Day 6 :
   

   Breakfast at hotel.

   Morning free to explore the village with your driver.

   Transfer to airport to board flight for Varanasi.On arrival, transfer to hotel.

   Evening attend Holy Ganga Aarti, a mesmerizing ritual at sunset on the banks of the Ganges, involving priests with brass lamps and chanting of holy mantras.

   Overnight at the hotel.

   
   

7. Varanasi

   Day 7 :
   

   Early morning boat ride & Ghat visit along the Ganges to witness the daily rituals of devotees bathing and praying in the sacred river.

   Breakfast at hotel.

   Visit Banaras Hindu University, the largest residential university in Asia, with a sprawling campus and rich academic history.

   Visit Bharat Mata Temple, housing a unique relief map of undivided India carved out of marble.

   Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir, adorned with beautiful images of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshman, and Hanuman, with verses from the Ramcharitmanas inscribed on its walls.

   Visit Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment, home to the Dhamekh Stupa and Ashoka Pillar.

   Visit Ram Nagar Fort, featuring an eccentric museum with vintage cars, weapons, and an astrological clock.

   Overnight at the hotel.

   
   

8. Varanasi - Mumbai (flight)

   Day 8 :
   

   Breakfast at hotel.

   Transfer to airport to board flight for Mumbai.

   On arrival at Mumbai airport, assistance & transfer to hotel check in.

   Enjoy Mumbai's vibrant nightlife and shopping.Rest time free for personal activities.

   Overnight at the hotel.

   
   

9. Mumbai

   Day 9 :
   

   [sensitive content] tour of Mumbai.

   Drive via Marine Drive, one of the most picturesque boulevards in the city, to reach the Gateway of India.

   Board a ferry to Elephanta Caves, explore the ancient rock-cut temples on Elephanta Island (closed on Monday).

   Cruise back to Gateway of India.

   Drive past Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) & Parliament House, witnessing the impressive colonial-era architecture.

   Visit Dhobi Ghat, Mumbai's famous open-air laundry, where clothes are washed in massive stone troughs.

   Visit Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalay, a prominent museum with a vast collection of ancient artifacts, artwork, and sculptures.

   Overnight at the hotel.

   
   

10. Mumbai - Aurangabad (flight)

    Day 10 :
    

    Breakfast at hotel.Transfer to airport to board flight for Aurangabad.On arrival, transfer to hotel.

    Excursion to Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring an impressive collection of rock-cut temples and monasteries.

    Visit Grishneshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva.

    Visit Daulatabad Fort, a historic hilltop fortress known for its complex architecture and strategic defense mechanisms.

    Visit Bibi ka Maqbara, a white marble mausoleum resembling the Taj Mahal, built by a son in memory of his mother.

    Visit Panchakki, an ancient water mill showcasing medieval engineering.

    Visit Aurangabad Caves, ancient rock-cut Buddhist shrines dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries.

    Overnight at the hotel.

    
    

11. Aurangabad

    Day 11 :
    

    Breakfast at hotel.

    Excursion to Ajanta Caves (closed on Monday).

    Explore the 30 magnificent Buddhist caves adorned with sculptures and paintings depicting the life of Buddha.

    Return to Aurangabad for overnight at hotel.

    
    

12. Aurangabad - Cochin (flight)

    Day 12 :
    

    Breakfast at hotel.

    Transfer to airport to board flight for Cochin.

    On arrival at Cochin airport, assistance & transfer to hotel check in.

    In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional dance form of Kerala with elaborate costumes and makeup.

    Overnight at the hotel.

    
    

13. Cochin - Munnar (140kms)

    Day 13 :
    

    Breakfast at hotel.

    Visit Fort Cochin, a historic seaside area known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets.

    Visit St.Francis Church, the original burial site of Vasco da Gama.

    Visit Jewish Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations.

    Visit Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, famous for its Kerala murals depicting Hindu temple art.

    Drive to Munnar, check in at hotel.Later, visit a tea estate and enjoy a tea tasting session.Overnight at the hotel.

    
    

14. Munnar

    Day 14 :
    

    Breakfast at hotel.

    Visit Pothamedu, offering stunning views of the tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations.

    Visit Mattupetty Dam, a popular picnic spot with beautiful scenery and boating facilities.

    Visit Rajamala, located in Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.Note: Eravikulam National Park remains closed in March and April.

    Visit Echo Point, where the natural echo phenomenon can be experienced.

    Visit Top Station, the highest point in Munnar, offering breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.

    Visit Tea Museum to learn about the history and process of tea production in South India.Overnight at the hotel.

    
    

15. Munnar - Thekkady (110kms)

    Day 15 :
    

    Breakfast at hotel.

    Drive to Thekkady via Ramakkalmedu, known for its wind farms and panoramic views.

    Visit Frog Rock, Turtle Rock, and the twin statues of Kuravan & Kurathi.

    Continue drive to Thekkady, check in at hotel.

    Evening attend a Martial Arts & Kathakali Dance show, showcasing traditional Kerala art forms.Overnight at the hotel.

    
    

16. Thekkady

    Day 16 :
    

    Breakfast at hotel.

    Explore Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary on a boat, spotting wildlife such as elephants, bison, and a variety of bird species.

    Take a spice plantation tour to see crops of cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper.

    Visit the local market to purchase fresh spices.

    Overnight at the hotel.

    
    

17. Thekkady - Alleppey (140kms)

    Day 17 :
    

    Breakfast at hotel.

    Transfer to Alleppey boat jetty to board a houseboat.

    Sail through the backwaters, enjoying the serene landscapes of canals, paddy fields, and small villages.

    Witness the sunset from the houseboat's sun deck.

    The houseboat offers modern amenities with a chef & driver, providing a unique and comfortable stay experience.

    Overnight on the houseboat.

    
    

18. Alleppey - Cochin (60kms)/ Delhi (flight)

    Day 18 :
    

    Breakfast on the houseboat.

    Disembark from the houseboat and drive to Cochin airport.

    Board flight for Delhi.

    On arrival, transfer to hotel.Rest time free for personal activities.

    Overnight at the hotel.

    
    

19. Delhi - Departure (flight)

    Day 19 :
    

    Breakfast at hotel.

    Transfer to airport as per flight schedule for onward destination.