Discover North and South India

Your journey begins with your arrival in Cochin (Kochi), a vibrant city known for its stunning backwaters, spicy cuisine, and colonial architecture. After breakfast, explore the Fort Kochi area, where the Chinese fishing nets paint a picturesque view against the coastal backdrop. Visit the Mattancherry Palace and the Paradesi Synagogue, soaking in the rich history. Stroll through the quaint streets, discovering art cafes and spice markets. As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance. Overnight stay in Cochin.
 

Post breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Thekkady, approximately 160 kilometers away, a journey of about 4-5 hours through winding roads and lush landscapes. Thekkady, home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, offers an enthralling experience with its rich biodiversity. Engage in a boat ride on Periyar Lake, spotting elephants and various bird species. Explore spice plantations in the afternoon. The day ends as you retreat to your Thekkady accommodation for the night.
 

Continue your adventure in Thekkady with a guided jungle trek in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, starting early to witness the forest come alive. Post-lunch, consider a bamboo rafting trip on the Periyar River or visit a local Kalaripayattu (martial arts) performance. The day's explorations conclude with another peaceful night in Thekkady.
 

After breakfast, journey approximately 130 kilometers (about 3-4 hours) to Kumarakom, a serene backwater destination nestled on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Spend your day relaxing at a backwater resort, indulging in Ayurvedic spa treatments, or embarking on a village walk to experience the local lifestyle. Witness a mesmerizing sunset over the lake. Overnight stay in Kumarakom.
 

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you'll embark on a short yet scenic drive to Alleppey, famously known as Alappuzha, the gateway to the serene backwaters of Kerala. This picturesque drive, enveloping you with lush landscapes, takes about 1.5 hours from Kochi. Upon arrival in Alleppey, you'll step onto a traditional houseboat, setting the stage for a day filled with tranquility and breathtaking views.
As the houseboat begins its gentle cruise through the intricate network of waterways, you're transported into a world of emerald green waters, fringed by verdant paddy fields and dotted with charming villages. These backwaters are not just a beautiful sight; they are the lifeblood of the local communities, providing both livelihood and transportation. The slow rhythm of life here, seen in the daily routines of the local villagers, fishing, washing, and commuting by small canoes, offers a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of city life.
The houseboat itself is a marvel of traditional Kerala architecture, made with natural materials like bamboo, coir, and wood, offering a cozy and authentic experience. As you meander through the waters, indulge in a variety of freshly prepared local dishes, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Kerala. From the spicy and flavorsome seafood delicacies to the simple yet delicious vegetarian fare, each meal is an experience in itself.
As the sun begins to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, the houseboat anchors in a quiet spot on the backwaters. This tranquil moment, away from the cacophony of everyday life, provides a perfect opportunity to relax on the deck, perhaps with a book or just your thoughts for company, as the gentle lapping of water against the boat lulls you into a state of peace.
Your unique day of exploration and relaxation concludes with an overnight stay on the houseboat, under a canopy of stars, cradled by the gentle waters of Alleppey's backwaters. This experience, of being so close to nature while enjoying the comforts of a floating home, is sure to be a highlight of your journey, offering memories that will last a lifetime.
 

Begin your day by disembarking from the serene experience of a houseboat and make your way back to the bustling city of Kochi, approximately a 1.5-hour drive away. Dive into the cultural heart of Kochi by visiting the Indo-Portuguese Museum, which showcases the Portuguese influence on the local art and architecture. Take a leisurely stroll along Marine Drive, a picturesque promenade facing the backwaters, offering splendid views and a refreshing breeze. As evening descends, immerse yourself in Kochi's vibrant culinary scene, sampling an array of local dishes that tell tales of the city's rich cultural blend. End your day with an overnight stay in Kochi, allowing the day's experiences to marinate in the coastal city's ambient charm.
 

Your journey continues with an early morning flight from Kochi to Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India. Upon arrival, embark on a scenic 3-hour drive to Mysore, a city celebrated for its opulent royal heritage and awe-inspiring architecture. Begin your exploration with the majestic Mysore Palace, a historical gem that stands as a testament to the city's grandeur. Next, venture to Chamundi Hills, where you'll find the Nandi Bull statue, a monolithic sculpture that holds great mythological significance. As the sun begins to set, make your way to the Brindavan Gardens. Here, illuminated fountains and landscaped gardens create a magical ambiance, perfect for a tranquil evening stroll. Conclude your day by retreating to your accommodation in Mysore for a restful night, nestled amidst the city's royal legacy.
 

Dedicate this day to delving deeper into the cultural tapestry of Mysore. Start with a visit to the bustling Devaraja Market, where the colors, smells, and sounds offer a sensory feast, showcasing a wide array of spices, silk, and sandalwood. Next, explore the Mysore Zoo, one of the oldest and most well-maintained zoos in India, home to a diverse range of wildlife. If time permits, consider a visit to the Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery and Auditorium, which houses a vast collection of South Indian paintings and artifacts, further enriching your understanding of the region's artistic heritage. As the day winds down, take a leisurely evening stroll through the city's lush gardens, such as the serene Kukkarahalli Lake, offering a peaceful respite from the day's explorations. Your enriching day in Mysore concludes with another overnight stay in the city, surrounded by its historic splendor and cultural richness.
 

Return to Bangalore, India's Silicon Valley. Spend the day exploring the Bangalore Palace, Cubbon Park, and the bustling streets of MG Road. Relish in the city's modern cafes and breweries. Overnight stay in Bangalore.
 

Your journey starts with an early flight from the bustling city of Bangalore to Varanasi, a city that resonates with spiritual energy. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the city's ancient culture by exploring its winding streets and visiting the sacred river Ganges. As the day turns to evening, find yourself at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where the Ganga Aarti, a deeply spiritual Hindu worship ritual, takes place. The sight of hundreds of small lamps floating on the river, accompanied by chants and prayers, is nothing short of magical. This experience marks not just the end of the day but a profound spiritual journey. Overnight stay is in Varanasi, allowing you to further soak in the city's tranquil atmosphere.
 

Rise before the sun and embark on a serene boat ride on the Ganges to witness the breathtaking sunrise, observing the city slowly come to life. Following this tranquil start, visit the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and immerse yourself in its spiritual ambiance. The day continues with a trip to Sarnath, a significant site for Buddhists, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. As the evening sets in, lose yourself in the narrow, bustling alleys of Varanasi, exploring local markets and savoring street food. The day concludes with another restful night in Varanasi, allowing you to reflect on the profound experiences of the day.
 

After breakfast, take a flight to Delhi, and from there, drive to the sacred cities of Mathura and Vrindavan. This journey, taking about 3 hours, brings you closer to the heart of Krishna's legendary tales. Spend the afternoon exploring the myriad of temples, each narrating a piece of Hindu mythology, and take a peaceful walk along the serene banks of the Yamuna River. As dusk falls, engage in the evening prayers, a spiritual rendezvous that connects you with the divine. The day ends with an overnight stay in Mathura-Vrindavan, amidst tales of divine love and devotion.
 

An early start takes you on a short drive to Agra, where the iconic Taj Mahal awaits in its alluring beauty at sunrise. This symbol of love, built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, presents a breathtaking sight in the soft morning light. Your exploration continues at the formidable Agra Fort and, time permitting, the Baby Taj or the tranquil gardens of Mehtab Bagh, offering a unique sunset view of the Taj Mahal. The day's journey concludes with an overnight stay in Agra, a city that's home to some of India's most significant Mughal-era landmarks.

Depart from Agra in the morning, driving towards Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan. En route, visit Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its red sandstone architecture and unique blend of Hindu and Islamic styles. Upon arrival in Jaipur, also known as the Pink City for its distinctively colored buildings, spend the evening exploring the City Palace or wandering through the lively local bazaars, soaking in the rich culture and history. Your day ends with an overnight stay in Jaipur, preparing you for the next day's adventures in this royal city.
 

Dedicate this day to discovering the majestic forts and palaces of Jaipur. Begin with the Amber Fort, a sprawling complex of courtyards, palaces, and temples, overlooking the Maota Lake. Consider visiting the Jaigarh Fort, known for the world's largest cannon on wheels, and the iconic Hawa Mahal, with its unique five-story exterior resembling a honeycomb. As the day fades, head to Nahargarh Fort to catch a mesmerizing sunset over the city. The day concludes with another night in Jaipur, allowing you to rest and reflect on the grandeur you've witnessed.
 

\Your journey leads you back to Delhi, a city where ancient and modern blend seamlessly. The drive takes approximately 5-6 hours, after which you can spend the evening exploring iconic historical sites like the India Gate, Red Fort, and Qutub Minar. Alternatively, dive into the vibrant markets for some last-minute shopping, capturing the essence of India's diverse culture. Your final night is spent in Delhi, offering a moment to reminisce about the incredible journey you've undertaken.
 

As your tour concludes, take time to reflect on the extraordinary diversity, history, and spirituality you've experienced across India. From the serene backwaters of Kerala to the bustling streets of Delhi, each moment has contributed to a journey that extends beyond mere sightseeing, touching the depths of cultural immersion and personal discovery.