Discover North and South India

Your journey begins with your arrival at Cochin Airport, where the vibrant culture of Kerala welcomes you. After landing, you'll be transferred to Cochin City, a melting pot of colonial history, local spices, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets that dot its coastline. Spend your day soaking in the colonial architecture and vibrant markets. As the sun sets over the Arabian Sea, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance, an exquisite cultural experience. Overnight stay in Cochin, nestled amidst the serene backwaters and bustling streets.
 

Embark on a scenic journey to Kumarakom, approximately a 2-hour drive from Cochin. Board a traditional Kettuvallam, or houseboat, and set sail through the tranquil backwaters. Glide past lush paddy fields, quaint villages, and palm-fringed canals. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch of local Kerala cuisine on board as you relish the serene waterways. As the day turns to dusk, the houseboat anchors for an overnight stay on the tranquil waters of Kumarakom, under a starlit sky.
 

After breakfast on the houseboat, journey to Thekkady, home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The drive takes about 3-4 hours, winding through the picturesque Western Ghats. On arrival, explore the spice plantations, a sensory delight with the aromas of cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper filling the air. In the evening, opt for a boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you might spot wildlife along the shores. Overnight stay in Thekkady, amidst the lush greenery and cool air of the Western Ghats.
 

Immerse yourself in the lush wilderness of Thekkady with a day dedicated to exploring the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Embark on a guided trek through this vibrant ecosystem, home to elephants, bison, and an array of avian life, offering a chance to connect with nature intimately. Post-adventure, meander through local markets, a treasure trove of spices and handmade crafts, providing a perfect souvenir hunt. As dusk falls, experience the kinetic energy of Kalaripayattu, Kerala's ancient martial art, in a thrilling performance. Retreat for an overnight stay in Thekkady, cradled by the calming sounds of the forest.
 

Depart from the natural embrace of Thekkady on a 4-5 hour drive back to Cochin. En route, pause at the quaint Airport Village, where the essence of Kerala's local life unfolds. Here, you might indulge in a traditional Kerala meal, a symphony of flavors. Continue to Cochin, the gateway for your onward journey, carrying with you the serene tableau of Kerala's backwaters and undulating hills. The night's stay in Cochin offers a moment of reflection, surrounded by the city's eclectic charm.
 

Transition from Kochi's coastal vibe with an early flight to Bangalore, the nucleus of India's tech innovation. From Bangalore, embark on a 3-hour drive to Mysore, the City of Palaces, where history and opulence converge. Explore the architectural marvel of Mysore Palace, especially mesmerizing at dusk when it's bathed in golden lights. Wander through the aromatic Brindavan Gardens, a testament to Mysore's erstwhile royal legacy. Overnight in Mysore, where tales of royalty are whispered by the winds.
 

After savoring Mysore's historical splendor, return to Bangalore, a city that juxtaposes contemporary flair with its verdant gardens and stately monuments. Dedicate your day to exploring Bangalore's diverse offerings, from the lush Cubbon Park to the regal Bangalore Palace, a vestige of bygone eras. Stroll through MG Road, the heart of Bangalore's shopping and dining scene, pulsating with energy. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Bangalore, where tradition and modernity dance in harmony.
 

Board a morning flight to Delhi, the city where centuries coalesce. Spend your day unraveling Delhi's rich tapestry, from the imposing Red Fort to the towering Qutub Minar, each monument narrating tales of India's grand past. As twilight descends, delve into the vibrant chaos of Chandni Chowk, a bazaar that's been the lifeblood of Delhi for generations. Your exploration of Delhi culminates with an overnight stay, surrounded by the city's enduring charm and bustling spirit, setting the stage for the continuing journey through India's heartland.
 

Embark on a journey to Agra, taking a 3-4 hour drive from Delhi, and find yourself in the city that houses the epitome of love, the Taj Mahal. Spend the morning in awe of this magnificent monument, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a testament to eternal love. Post lunch, delve into the grandeur of Agra Fort, another architectural marvel that offers a glimpse into the life of the Mughal emperors. As the day wanes, visit Mehtab Bagh for a sunset view of the Taj Mahal, witnessing the changing colors of the marble under the setting sun. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Agra, surrounded by the legacy of the Mughals.

Dive deeper into Agra's rich heritage with a visit to the tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, often referred to as the "Baby Taj," showcasing intricate lattice work and marble inlay designs. Spend your afternoon meandering through the bustling local markets, a perfect place to find marble handicrafts and other souvenirs. As evening approaches, take one more chance to admire the Taj Mahal, perhaps from a different viewpoint, basking in its timeless beauty. Your night in Agra allows for a reflective pause, enveloped in the stories and splendor of a bygone era.
 

Journey to Jaipur, a 4-5 hour drive from Agra, entering the realms of the Pink City, famed for its vibrant bazaars and majestic forts. Begin your exploration with the Amber Fort, an imposing structure known for its artistic Hindu elements. Following this, venture into the heart of Jaipur to visit the City Palace, a complex of courtyards, gardens, and buildings with a rich historical background. Don't miss the Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory that speaks volumes of the scientific advancement of its time. Spend your evening sampling local Rajasthani cuisine, immersing yourself in the city's cultural vibrancy. Overnight in Jaipur, amidst its regal charm and bustling streets.
 

Bid farewell to Jaipur and embark on a 5-6 hour drive back to Delhi. Utilize your last evening in the capital to revisit favorite spots or explore new ones, soaking in the diverse culture and history of this metropolis. Perhaps enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Delhi's acclaimed restaurants, celebrating the culmination of your journey through India. Your final night's stay in Delhi is filled with reflections of the diverse landscapes, architectural wonders, and rich cultural tapestry experienced along the way.
 

As your journey comes to a close, proceed to Delhi Airport for your departure, carrying a mosaic of memories from the serene backwaters of Kerala to the royal palaces of Rajasthan, and the architectural marvels of Agra. This tapestry of experiences across India promises to stay with you long after you've departed from its shores.