India's Golden Triangle & Kerala Adventure - 15 Days

Highlights

• Visit the highlights of historic Delhi, like the Red Fort and India Gate
• Explore Udaipur, the "Pearl of Rajasthan" and see traditional folk dancing
• Enjoy street-food tours throughout Rajasthan and visit medieval palaces
• Cruise Kerala's canals, relax on beaches, and hike through national parks

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in New Delhi, Free Time

Welcome to New Delhi! Though only inaugurated as the nation's capital during the British colonial period in 1911, India's largest city has a much deeper history. Highlight periods include the Delhi Sultanate (13th-16th centuries) and the Mughal Empire (16th-19th centuries). Important structures from these periods, like the Qutub Minar minaret and Humayun's Tomb, still stand today and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

A driver will pick you up at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After settling in, feel free to stretch your legs on a walk around the city. Delhi's streets crackle with energy, abounding with pedestrians, vehicles, mopeds—even rickshaws and ox-drawn carts. It's a sensory blitz you have to see to believe.

Day 2: Old & New Delhi Sightseeing & Street Food Tour

Rise and shine for a sightseeing tour of historic Delhi! After breakfast, you'll meet a local expert guide and head to Old Delhi. This is the city's historic heart, where the Mughals once ruled from the ramparts of the 17th-century Red Fort.

While here, you'll visit the Jama Masjid, an extensive 17th-century mosque, and take an exhilarating rickshaw ride through the bustling Chandni Chowk market, which was the center of the city in Mughal times and is regarded as the food capital of India. Enjoy a street food tour in Old Delhi, beginning at the Paranthe Wali Gali restaurant with mouth-watering paranthas (flatbreads) stuffed with spiced vegetable fillings, washed down with a lassi (a yogurt-based drink).

Day 3: Fly to Udaipur, Free Time, Rajasthani Folk Dance Cultural Evening

Return to the airport this morning for the 1.5-hour flight north into the dazzling state of Rajasthan. India's largest state has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with its territories forming part of the Indus Valley Civilization. During the medieval period, it was home to several Rajput kingdoms, and, as such, many impressive forts and palaces dating to that period remain intact. 

You'll arrive in the city of Udaipur. Known as "The Pearl of Rajasthan," the "City of Sunrise," and "Venice of the East," Udaipur is considered by many to be the most romantic city in India. After settling into your hotel, you could head out to watch a beautiful sunset over the picturesque Lake Pichola. Around the lake, you'll see bathing ghats, hills, palaces, and temples.

After dinner, head to the famous Bagore Ki Haveli venue for an evening of traditional folk dancing and cultural performances. This haveli (a traditional townhouse or mansion) is an ancient building that stands on the platform of Gangori Ghat near Lake Pichola. The mansion has beautiful architecture, with delicate carvings and colorful stained glass, and it looks particularly special with glowing lights at night. The haveli stages entertaining performances of the traditional dance and music of Rajasthan. 

Day 4: Udaipur Like a Local Tour, Boat Ride on Lake Pichola

Take a tour of Udaipur starting with a trip to the spectacular City Palace. Famous for its intricate carvings and beautiful gardens overlooking Lake Pichola, Udaipur's 18th-century City Palace is actually made up of several different palaces, some of which have been converted into hotels, and one which is still home to the current maharajah (ruler). The magnificence of the palace will strike you right from its entrance at the northern Tripolia Gate, which leads to the central courtyard. This is the best place to view its filigreed balconies and ornate cupola-topped towers.

You'll also visit Jagdish Temple, the Indo-Aryan temple built in the year 1651 by Maharana Jagat Singh. It's the largest and most beautiful temple in Udaipur. At sunset, you'll set out on a boat ride on Lake Pichola's calm waters. Watch the lake glimmer as the sunset reflects off it while you pass Udaipur's illuminated skyline that's dotted with mansions. You'll also admire stately palaces on the lake's islands. 

Day 5: Fly to Jaipur, Food & Bazaar Tour

It's another flight day as you head to the airport and board a plane for the one-hour ride north to Jaipur. Also in Rajasthan, Jaipur is Known as the "Pink City" due to its many rose-hued buildings. It's also famous for its forts, palaces, and architecture, which have Mughal, Jain, and Hindu influences. 

After transferring to your hotel, you'll venture out for a brisk 1.5-hour walking tour. During this jaunt, you'll visit the famous Jaipur Bazaar and browse traditional Rajasthani goods, including colorful textiles, handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and spices. You can also sample an array of different street foods and tantalize your olfactories with exotic incense and perfumes. Of course, visiting a marketplace like this is also a great opportunity to mingle with locals.

Day 6: Jaipur Sightseeing, Market Visit & Cooking Class, Dinner With a Local Family

Today's tour will begin at the 18th-century Hawa Mahal, a striking pink sandstone structure built to allow royal ladies to survey the landscape from its 953 windows. Then, you'll go to the UNESCO-listed Amer Fort, a hilltop fortress that's famous for its blend of Hindu and Muslim design and spectacular views. After exploring the fort, you'll visit the City Palace, which has a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture and is still home to the royal family. Your tour ends with a trip to Jantar Mantar, a giant 18th-century solar observatory, and Nahargarh Fort on the edge of the Aravalli Hills.

Afterward, you'll visit a local market where the fragrance of fresh spices and vegetables will awaken your senses. Here, you'll learn how to choose the essential ingredients needed to create delicious Indian meals. Then, transfer to the home of a local family to learn the basics of traditional Jaipur cuisine and the use of Indian spices. After you've cooked, females will enjoy a henna demonstration, while males will have a safa (a head scarf for males that is longer than a sari) tying demonstration. To finish, enjoy the Rajasthani delicacies that you've cooked.

Day 7: Transfer to Agra, Visit Abhaneri

It's road trip time! This morning, leave Jaipur with your driver on the five-hour scenic ride east to Agra, which is famous for its proximity to the Taj Mahal. It's a long trip, but you'll stop at the village of Abhaneri. Here, you'll visit the Harshat Mata Temple and India's deepest and largest stepwell, the impressive Chand Baori, which is dedicated to Harshat Mata, the Goddess of Joy and Happiness.

Later, continue on to Agra and check into your hotel. This city grew in prominence under the rule of the Mughal Empire from the 16th century. It reached its zenith between 1556 and 1658 under the successive rules of Akbar, Shah Jehan, and Jehangir. Akbar's reign was memorable in the city's history when it became a leading center of art, science, commerce, and culture, drawing intellectuals and artists to its durbars (royal palace courts) and havelis (traditional manor homes).

Day 8: Sunrise Taj Mahal Tour, Visit Agra Fort, Transfer to New Delhi

Rise before dawn this morning and make your way to the Taj Mahal. This global icon was built in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Primarily made of white marble, it was constructed as a mausoleum in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631. It's adorned with intricate inlay work of precious and semi-precious stones and features extensive use of red sandstone in the surrounding structures. For its history and opulent design, the Taj Mahal is listed as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

After witnessing the sunrise over the Taj Mahal's minarets (a memorable sight), you'll spend some time at the mausoleum before returning to the hotel for breakfast. Then, visit the city's other incredible landmark: the Agra Fort. This 16th-century former military fortress is the current home of the ornate Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque). Here, you can stroll the Mehtab Bagh (gardens) and relax by the Yamuna River with beautiful views of the Taj Mahal on the opposite bank. Later, you'll make the three-hour drive north back to New Delhi and check into your hotel.

Day 9: Fly to Cochin, Traditional Kathakali Dance Show

You've experienced the north; now it's time to discover India's gorgeous south. Transfer to the airport this morning and board a three-hour flight to Cochin. Also known as Kochi, this dynamic port city is located along the Arabian Sea in the state of Kerala. In fact, Cochin's long history stretches back to King Solomon's time, when it was known as Queen of the Arabian Sea. Back then, Arab, Chinese, and European merchant traders came in search of spices, silk fabrics, and sandalwood.

Upon arrival at the airport, you'll meet your tour representative and transfer to the hotel. Take some time to settle in before attending a traditional Kathakali dance show at a cultural center. These classic dances are a form of theater and storytelling, complete with elaborate costumes.

Day 10: Cochin Sightseeing Tour

This morning, meet a guide for a half-day tour around Cochin. It begins in the Fort Kochi area of the historic center, an area known for its Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial architecture. Next, visit Mattancherry Palace (popularly known as the Dutch Palace), which was built by the Portuguese in 1557 as a gift to the then-king. Nearby are some fine churches as well as Jewish synagogues. Later, stop at the Dhobi Khana, a historic laundry station dating the Dutch occupation of the 17th century, and an aromatic spice market where you can pick up souvenirs.

Day 11: Transfer to Periyar, Spice Plantation Walk

After breakfast, leave for a 3.5-hour drive inland to Thekkady, a small town close to Periyar National Park. Periyar is home to one of India's most fascinating wildlife sanctuaries, featuring habitats that support over 30 species of mammals and rich birdlife. The area is also dotted with farms and plantations, and after checking into your hotel, you'll tour one such agricultural operation.

Specifically, you'll visit a spice plantation for a guided walk around its lush gardens. It's a great opportunity to discover the origins of the exotic spices exported from India to grocery stores around the world. Engage your senses as you inhale the fragrant aromas of staples like pepper, vanilla, clove, nutmeg, and cardamom. Taste fresh herbs and observe firsthand how these flavorsome spices are grown and produced. At the end of the tour, you'll return to your hotel.

Day 12: Hiking & Rafting in Periyar, Evening Martial Arts Show

Leave early on a half-day day excursion around Periyar National Park. First up is a guided jungle walk during which you'll spot exotic animals like elephants, gaur, and deer, plus birds like kingfishers, storks, and hornbills—get lucky, and you might even spot a tiger. Then, hop on a bamboo raft for a ride around the park's centerpiece, Periyar Lake, for a fun cruise to spot more regional wildlife. Afterward, you'll return to your hotel in Thekkady and will have the rest of the day free.

However, the fun is far from over. This evening, you'll head to a local venue for a live performance of Kalaripayattu. Originating in south India around the 11th century, this ancient practice is known as the mother of all martial arts. It was inspired by the raw power of animals like lions, tigers, elephants, wild boars, snakes, and crocodiles, which is represented in the acrobatic movements. After the one-hour performance, you'll return to your hotel.

Day 13: Transfer to Marari, Optional Activities

Leave early on the 3.5-hour drive back to the coast and Marari. This eco-friendly resort mimics the style of a traditional fishing village and features a stunning beachfront setting surrounded by lush coconut groves. Upon arrival, check in, get settled, then spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach—making sure to catch a glorious sunset over the Arabian Sea.

Day 14: Day Trip to Alappuzha, Houseboat Cruise

After breakfast, meet your driver for the 30-minute ride south to Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey. Located on the shores of Vembanad, Kerala's largest lake, this entire area is laced with a network of wetlands and waterways traditionally used for transportation. These "backwaters" are now one of the major draws for tourists seeking a peaceful cruising experience—which is exactly why you're here.

Upon arrival, you'll board a traditional wooden houseboat for a three-hour cruise around the wetlands. As you enjoy the scenery, you'll learn how these waterways are the lifeblood of the area. In fact, local commerce revolves around it, with boats laden with everything from fish to the daily newspapers. Lunch will be served on board, and at the end of the cruise, you'll transfer back to Marari. 

Day 15: Transfer to Cochin, Depart

You've seen some of the best of India, now it's time to head onward to the next adventure. In the morning, your driver will pick you up for the 1.5-hour ride back to Cochin. There, you'll hop on a plane and depart India. Safe travels!

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