Best of Rajasthan with Kerala

DAY 01: ARRIVE DELHI BY INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT 

Arrive Delhi International Airport. Note:  If you are travelling on an evisa please ensure you are carrying a hardcopy of the approval with you and you should go to the counters at the end of the Immigration hall. You will meet our travel executive after collecting your luggage & passing customs at arrival hall who will assist you with your transfer to hotel. (Check in time would be 1400hrs) Briefing of the tour by the executive On arrival check in at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel. 

DAY 02: IN DELHI (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel Depart for full day tour of Old & New Delhi  DELHI The capital of India, Delhi is home to 16 million people, making it the third largest city in India.  The strategic location of the city made it an attractive location for invading armies, and it served as the capital for many great empires that ruled India.  Many of these Empires built significant monuments, and whilst the Mughal and the British are the most visible, while driving through the city you will see ruins from previous capitals, the earliest dating back to the 12th century. Today at 9: 00 AM meet your guide in the lobby for your full day sightseeing tour of Old & New Delhi   Drive past at Red Fort (Monday closed) (UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE) RED FORT is a historic fort in the city of Delhi in India. It was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal dynasty for nearly 200 years, until 1856. It is located in the center of Delhi and houses a number of museums. In addition to accommodating the emperors and their households, it was the ceremonial and political Centre of the Mughal state and the setting for events critically impacting the region. Today you will visit the Jama Masjid - the Great Mughal Mosque. Jama Masjid of Delhi, is one of the largest mosques in India. Located in Old Delhi, it was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan between 1644 and 1656 at a cost of 1 million rupees and was inaugurated by an Imam from Bukhara, present-day Uzbekistan. The mosque was completed in 1656 AD. Close to some 5000 craftsmen were occupied in the construction of the mosque. The courtyard can accommodate more than 25,000 persons.There are three domes on the terrace which are surrounded by the two minarets. On the floor, a total of 899 black borders are marked for worshippers.   For your next escapade, special mode of transportation has been arranged – brightly colored cycle rickshaws, the best way to navigate the narrow, bustling alleyways. Your ride takes you through the fabled Chandni Chowk, literally translated as ‘Silver Square’, which was designed by Jahanara Begum, Shah Jehan's favorite daughter. It was commercial hub of the Mughal era and at that time inhabited by the well-to-do families of the city. Then visit Raj Ghat (The memorial of the father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi). Continue your tour with Qutab Minar (UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE) Qutub Minar is a 73-metre tall tapering tower of five storeys, with a 14.3 metres base diameter, reducing to 2.7 metres at the peak. It contains a spiral staircase of 379 steps.  The walls consist of intricately carved quotations from Koran. The tower is one of the most perfect towers of the Persian world. The tour would also include a drive through the Lutyens Delhi and a photo stop at India Gate (The war memorial) as well drive past President's Palace & Parliament House (You can also have a photo stop here). This evening visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib- is one of the most prominent Sikh gurdwara, or Sikh house of worship, in Delhi, India and known for its association with the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru HarKrishan, as well as the pool inside its complex, known as the "Sarovar." It was first built as a small temple by Sikh General Sardar Bhagel Singh in 1783, who supervised the construction of nine Sikh shrines in Delhi in the same year, during the reign of Mughal Emperor, Shah Alam II After this visit Khan Market, One of the more expensive shopping hoods in Delhi, this place has some of the best shopping and eating options in the city. After the tour return to the hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.   

DAY 03: DELHI – AGRA BY ROAD (205KMS/4-5HRS) (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast drive to Agra by road, on arrival check in at hotel. AGRA This was the seat of the mighty Mughal Empire before it shifted its capital to Delhi, and it is home to some of their most inspired architectural creations including the Taj Mahal. In the 16th and 17th century, the Mughal Courts were at their most powerful, and were great patron of the arts, and Agra attracted artisans, poets and musicians from across India as well as Persia and Central Asia, transforming Agra into a cultural and architectural paradise. Then visit AGRA FORT(sometimes called the Red Fort), was commissioned by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565, and is another of Agra's World Heritage Sites. A stone tablet at the gate of the Fort states that it had been built before 1000 but was later renovated by Akbar. The red sandstone fort was converted into a palace during Shah Jahan’s time, and reworked extensively with marble &Pietra durainlay. Notable buildings in the fort include the Pearl Mosque, the Diwan-e'Ām and Dīwān-e-Khās (halls of public and private audience), Jahagir Palace, KhāsMahal, Sheesh Mahal (mirrored palace), Also visit local market and a marble factory where you can actually see the inlay work being done on marble like it was done for Taj in the past. In the evening, enjoy a walking cultural tour of Agra. Get to know Agra the local way, by exploring the city’s hidden lane-ways, bustling spice market, and religious mosques and temples, all with your feet to guide you. Sample treats at a 200-year-old sweets shop, hop on a cycle rickshaw, and learn why Hindu families dress their idols. Hear the legends that have been passed down through generations and learn how modern-day India is reshaping itself. Finish it all up with the spectacular sight of the Taj Mahal from a secret spot. Overnight stay at hotel. 

DAY 04: AGRA – RANTHAMBORE, VIA FATEHPUR SIKRI BY ROAD (280 KMS/5-6HOURS) (B,D) 

This morning wake up early and visit Taj Mahal by the sunrise to avoid the crowds. Described as a most extravagant monument ever build for love, this sublime Mughal mausoleum is India’s most ogled icon. The Taj was built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial for his second wife, MumtazMahal, who died giving birth to their 14th child in 1631. The death of Mumtaz left the emperor so heartbroken that his hair is said to have turned grey virtually overnight. Construction of the Taj began in the same year and was not completed until 1653.  Not long after it was finished, Shah Jahan was overthrown by his son Aurangzeb and imprisoned in Agra Fort where, for the rest of his days, he could only gaze out at his creation through a window. Following his death in 1666, Shah Jahan was buried here alongside Mumtaz. Return to hotel for Breakfast. Depart for Ranthambore en route visiting Fatehpur sikri The Mughal Emperor Akbar built Fatehpūr Sikrī about 35 km from Agra, and moved his capital there. Later abandoned, the site displays a number of buildings of significant historical importance. A World Heritage Site, it is visited by most tourists. The name of the place came about after the Mughal Emperor Barbar defeated Rana Sanga in a battle at a place called Sikrī . Then the Mughal Emperor Akbar wanted to make Fatehpūr Sikrī his head quarters, so he built a majestic fort; due to shortage of water, however, he had to ultimately move his headquarters to Agra Fort. Later continue your drive to Ranthambore and check in at your hotel. RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK is a cornerstone for wildlife lovers. Embark on an exhilarating wildlife safari to come across the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger and other wildlife creatures in their natural habitat. Enjoy voyaging across the best safari zone to have an increased chance of spotting the majestic animals. The habitat of this national park is encircled with varied water bodies and terrains with an average of 272 species of birds also which makes Ranthambore National Park the bird watcher’s paradise also! Rest of the day is free to relax. Dinner at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel. 

DAY 05: IN RANTHAMBORE  (B,L,D) 

Enjoy morning Jeep Safari at Ranthambore National Park (Sharing Jeep Safari) Ranthambore national park is one of the best wildlife tourist destinations in the world, to see Tiger and other wild animals in their natural habitat.  Ranthambore National Park is home to a large diversity of wildlife. It boasts the tiger, leopard, the elusive caracal, hyena, sloth bear, wild boar, crocodile, and many different species of birds. Ranthambore jungle safari tour is about 3 hrs. Return to hotel Breakfast at the hotel After some rest enjoy lunch at hotel Later enjoy afternoon Jeep Safari at Ranthambore National Park (Sharing Jeep Safari) Rest of the day is free to relax. Dinner at hotel.  Overnight stay at hotel.  

DAY 06: RANTHAMBORE - JAIPUR BY ROAD (180 KMS / 4-5 HRS)  (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel Morning at leisure After Lunch drive to Jaipur, en-route visit Abhaneri Stepwell. The Abhaneri Step Well, known as Chand Baori, is an ancient marvel near Jaipur, Rajasthan. Built in the 9th century, it boasts 3,500 symmetrical steps and intricate carvings. Beyond its aesthetic value, it served as a practical water source. Visitors can explore the architectural beauty, cultural richness, and rural life of Abhaneri. Best visited in the early morning or late afternoon, it offers a captivating glimpse into ancient water conservation techniques. After the visit, I continued drive to Jaipur. Upon arrival check in at hotel. JAIPUR was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and is the first well planned city of India, located in the desert lands of India, Rajasthan. The city which once had been the capital of the royalty now is the capital city of Rajasthan. The very structure of Jaipur resembles the taste of the Rajputs and the Royal families. In the present date, Jaipur is the major business centre for the natives of Rajasthan with all requisites of a metropolitan city Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.

DAY 07: JAIPUR (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel Amber fort - Situated at top of the Aravali hills, it is the ancient capital of Jaipur and a magnificent example of Rajput architecture. Also enjoy the Elephant ride at amber fort and then came back by Jeep or own vehicle. Stop at Water Palace (Jai Mahal Palace) for Photo stop. Later sightseeing of Jaipur city visiting and enjoy Rickshaw ride in city Hawa Mahal- Palace of Winds(This five storied building which looks out over the main street of the old city is one of Jaipur's major landmarks. This is a stunning example of the Rajput artistry with it's pink, semi-octagonal and delicately honey combed and stone windows. Originally HawaMahal was built to enable the ladies of the royal families to watch the daily life and processions of the city), Jantar Mantar(The Observatory, built by Raja Jai Singh in1728. It is an excellent example of the marvelous precision where in each construction has a specific purpose to measure the position of stars, altitudes and azimuths or calculating eclipses. The most  striking instruments the Sun Dial which is 90 feet high) and City Palace Museum(City Palace is delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture. A part of the palace is still the house of the former Maharaja of Jaipur). Visit the various galleries displaying the armory, clothes and paintings of the Rajput clan. Enjoy evening aarti at Govind Deo Ji temple. Overnight stay at hotel. 

DAY 08: JAIPUR – JODHPUR BY ROAD (350 KMS / 06-07 HRS DRIVE) (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel Later in time drive to Jodhpur, on arrival check in at hotel. JODHPUR Also known as the Blue City, has one of the most beautiful fort called Mehrangarh Fort(my favourite one). I would also recommend to visit a near by Village called "Bishnoi Village". The Bishnoi’s are a eco Friendly sect of Hindu religion, it is one of the different community of Rajasthan who are famous for there rich cultural Rajasthani Life and there true love for nature and animals.  Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel. 

DAY 09: IN JODHPUR (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel After breakfast Full day sightseeing tour of Jodhpur. The city of Jodhpur, with its gentle atmosphere belies a stormy yet glorious past. Its walls, seven gates and numerous bastions and towers were built in the 16th century by Rao Maldeo. 393 feet above the flat surrounding plains soars a bold bluff on which was built the massive Meherangarh (Majestic) Fort.  In the old city’s maze of old lanes lie several palaces, havelis and some temples.  The famous puppetmakers of Jodhpur are found here. Visit the Sardar Bazar with its Clock Tower of 1912. Visit the fort and palaces, some of which contain a fine collection of Rajput miniature paintings, a museum, Maan Vilas which houses Rathore armoury and on the ramparts stand cannons, the spoils of Gaj Singh.  On the road down from the Fort see Jaswant Thada, the blinding white marble cenotaph (chhatri) of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.  Overnight stay at hotel. 

DAY 10: JODHPUR - UDAIPUR BY ROAD (265 KMS / 05-06 HRS DRIVE)  (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel. Later in time drive to Udaipur, en route visiting Ranakpur – famous for its beautiful Jain’s temple.  RANAKPUR-100 kms from Udaipur, in a deep, secluded valley at Ranekpur are the most magnificent Jain temples in India.  It is an extensive complex covering 3,600 sq. metres and has 29 halls with 1,444 pillars, each unlike the other, intricately covered with delicate carvings, geometrically so designed that if one stands near any pillar, one can see the deity.  The central temple is dedicated to Adinath, the Revealer of Truth.  The temple was constructed in the early 14th century. Later continue drive towards Udaipur, on arrival check in at hotel. UDAIPUR- Located amidst mighty Aravalli Hills and renowned as the ‘City of Lakes’, Udaipur is dotted with royal palaces, tranquil lakes, towering temples, and majestic forts. You can explore this idyllic place and get glimpses of rich Rajasthani culture. Furthermore, they can embark on a Udaipur tour to explore its attractions and delight in the breathtaking scenery. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel. 

DAY 11: IN UDAIPUR  (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel. Today full day city tour of Udaipur. Visit the City Palace, once the home of Mewar’s rulers, is today a museum.  It consists of several flawlessly integrated palaces which overlook the clear blue of Lake Pichola. Visit Sahelion-ki-bari (Garden of the Maids of Honour) the scene of royal parties for centuries. Drive around Fateh Sagar Lake excavated in the late 17th century by Maharana Feteh Singh and past the Puppet Museum (Lok Kala Mandal) and the statue of Maharana Pratap (Moti Magri). Boatride on Lake Pichola - This lake takes its name from the small village of Picholi on its west bank. In the lake are several islands.  On two of them the maharanas of Udaipur constructed pleasure palaces, the Jag Mandir and the Jag Niwas (Lake Palace Hotel). Jag Mandir - It is said that Maharana Karan Singh built this island retreat for the family of his friend Prince Khurram, who later became Emperor Shahjehan. Huge, seamless stone slabs of translucent thinness were used. Spacious courtyards and beautiful rooms embellished with onyx, jade, carnelian, jasper, agate - and paintings - are a few of the splendours of the palace.  Legend has it that as a youth, Prince Jagat Singh once asked his father permission to take his friends with him to Jag Mandir for a bit of fun.  The old maharana refused and told his son to go build his own palace for fun and frolic.  Stung, the prince did just that and built a magnificent pleasure palace in a fairy-tale setting on a rocky island nearby - the Jag Niwas, today the Lake Palace Hotel.  Overnight stay at hotel.  

DAY 12: JAIPUR – COCHIN BY FLIGHT  (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel. In time transfer to Jaipur airport to board the flight for Cochin. Meeting with assistance on arrival and transfer to hotel. On arrival check in at hotel. Cochin, located in Kerala, is a historic port city with a rich cultural tapestry shaped by diverse influences. Fort Kochi, known for its colonial charm, houses iconic landmarks like the Chinese Fishing Nets and St. Francis Church. Jew Town, with its spice markets and the Paradesi Synagogue, adds to the cultural allure. Marine Drive offers a scenic waterfront, and the Kerala Kathakali Centre showcases traditional art. Culinary delights, island exploration, and a blend of history and modernity make Cochin a captivating destination. Overnight stay at hotel.    

DAY 13: COCHIN / MUNNAR BY ROAD (130 KMS/ 4 HRS. APPROX.)  (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel Morning half day city tour of Cochin. Jewish Synagogue (closed on Saturday)  for white Jews, lies at the heart of what is locally called Jew Town.  Built in 1568, the oldest synagogue in the commonwealth stands adorned with a gold pulpit, Belgian chandeliers & hundreds of exquisite hand-painted, willow-pattern floor tiles from Canton. Mattancherry Palace  (closed on Fridays) The Dutch Palace at Mattancherry was actually built by the Portuguese and presented to the Raja of Kochi in AD 1555. The palace acquired its present name in 1663 when the Dutch carried out some extensions and repairs in it. Chinese Fishing Nets, Fort Kochi.  It is believed that traders from the court of the Chinese ruler Kublai Khan introduced these nets here, & now Kochi is the only place outside of China where they are found. St. Francis Church-  is the oldest church built by Europeans in India. Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese trader who reached India by sea from Europe, fell ill and died in Kochi on his 3rd visit. He is buried in the St. Francis Church. Later drive to Munnar by road, on arrival check in at hotel. Munnar is Kerala’s premium hill station, & is surrounded by gently undulating hills swathed in the soothing green of vast tea estates. At an altitude of 1600 m above sea level, its bracing climate with laidback atmosphere and its delightfully refreshing air make it the most sought-after destination. Overnight stay at hotel.    

DAY 14: IN MUNNAR  (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel This morning, visit a Tea plantation & nearby factories where you can see the process of picking and packaging tea. Tea Gardens Munnar’s top attraction is its scenic tea gardens and is a top priority on any travel itinerary in this area. There are around 30 tea estates, all are privately owned (about 27 of them owned by Tata Tea Company), but most estate managers will allow visitors to wander around the estate for free. Tea factories at the estates offer a great opportunity to witness the entire process by which tea changes from being a fresh, hand-picked leaf to the fragrant product that makes it to breakfast tables across the world. Some tea factories also offer tea on sale. Also proceed for visit to the beautiful Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Kundala Lake. Mattupetty Dam is a concrete gravity dam built across the Mattupetty River. It is nestled amidst picturesque surroundings with rolling hills, tea plantations, and a serene lake formed by the dam. Echo Point offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding tea plantations, mist-covered hills, and the Shola forests. Take some time to enjoy the scenic beauty and capture memorable photographs. Overnight stay at hotel.  

DAY 15: MUNNAR / PERIYAR BY ROAD (110 KMS/ 3 HRS. APPROX.) (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel This morning drive to Periyar, en-route enjoying the beautiful hills and valleys of Western Ghat. On arrival check-in to the hotel. PERIYAR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India, is a renowned nature reserve centered around the picturesque Periyar Lake. Known for its rich biodiversity, it is home to elephants, tigers, and a variety of other wildlife, as well as lush forests and spice plantations. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, guided treks, jeep safaris, and cultural performances. The sanctuary also focuses on conservation efforts, particularly through Project Tiger. Accessible via nearby airports in Madurai and Cochin, and well-connected by road, Periyar offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it an ideal destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Afternoon boat rides are ideal for spotting wildlife such as elephants, sambar deer, and various bird species. The serene environment of the lake amidst the forest is a perfect start to your day. Spice Plantation Tour: Visit nearby spice plantations to learn about the cultivation and processing of spices like cardamom, pepper, and vanilla. Kadathanadan Kalari Centre: Watch traditional Kalaripayattu martial arts performances and cultural shows. Overnight stay at hotel.  

DAY 16: MUNNAR/ALLEPPEY BY ROAD   (170KMS/4-5HRS)  (B,L,D) 

Breakfast at the hotel Drive to Alleppey & board your Rice Houseboat.  Relaxation time this afternoon, sailing in the canals of the massive lake, where you can see people living their day-to-day lives. Overnight on Houseboat. 

DAY 17: ALLEPPEY – COCHIN BY ROAD (60 KMS / 01-02 HRS)  (B) 

COCHIN – MUMBAI BY FLIGHT  

Breakfast at the Houseboat. Later in time transfer to Cochin airport to board the flight for Mumbai. Meeting with assistance on arrival and transfer to hotel. On arrival check in at hotel MUMBAI, the capital of Maharashtra, is India's financial and entertainment hub. It's known for Bollywood, a diverse culture, historical landmarks like the Gateway of India, and a stunning coastline along Marine Drive. The city boasts a rich culinary scene and premier educational institutions. However, it faces challenges like traffic and overcrowding. Mumbai is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city that offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern dynamism. Rest of the day at leisure Overnight stay at hotel.               

DAY 18: IN MUMBAI (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel Today full day sightseeing of Mumbai  Elephanta Caves: After the Gateway of India, take a ferry ride to Elephanta Island to explore the ancient rock-cut caves dedicated to Lord Shiva. Marvel at the intricate sculptures and architecture dating back to the 5th to 8th centuries. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formerly Prince of Wales Museum): Start your day with a visit to this museum, which houses an extensive collection of art, artifacts, and sculptures from India and around the world. Marine Drive: In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along Marine Drive, also known as the Queen's Necklace, and enjoy the scenic views of the Arabian Sea and the city skyline. Gateway of India: Start your day by visiting this iconic landmark, which overlooks the Arabian Sea. Take some time to admire its grand architecture and historical significance. Overnight stay at hotel.  

DAY 19: MUMBAI DEPARTURE BY INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel Later in time transfer to international airport to board the flight for onward destination. 

END OF OUR SERVICES