You will continue with the guided exploration of Delhi today with the following attractions:

Old Delhi: Old Delhi, also known as Shahjahanabad, is a historic neighborhood in Delhi, India. Founded by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, it is characterized by narrow streets, bustling markets, and ancient landmarks, offering a glimpse into Delhi’s rich cultural heritage.

Red Fort: The Red Fort, or Lal Qila, is an iconic Mughal fortress located in Old Delhi. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, it served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. The fort’s imposing red sandstone walls and intricate architectural details make it a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit attraction in Delhi.

Chandni Chowk Bazaar + E-Rickshaw Ride: Chandni Chowk is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of goods. Visitors can explore its narrow lanes filled with shops selling everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and electronics. An e-rickshaw ride through the bustling streets provides a thrilling way to experience the sights and sounds of Chandni Chowk.

Jama Masjid: Jama Masjid, meaning “Friday Mosque,” is one of the largest and most prestigious mosques in India, located in Old Delhi. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, it showcases exquisite Mughal architecture with its red sandstone and white marble façade, intricate carvings, and towering minarets. Visitors can admire the mosque’s grandeur and panoramic views of Old Delhi from its lofty minarets.

After tour you will return to your hotel.

After early breakfast, you are assisted with your check out from the hotel and driven to Agra (approximately a 3-4 hours’ drive).

Agra Fort: Arrive at Agra and proceed to visit Agra Fort. Agra Fort, also known as the Red Fort of Agra, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. Constructed primarily of red sandstone, it served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until 1638 when the capital was shifted from Agra to Delhi. The fort complex comprises numerous palaces, mosques, and courtyards, showcasing a blend of Islamic, Persian, and Hindu architectural styles.

Break for Lunch and Check-in: After Agra Fort visit there is break for lunch. After lunch you will proceed to your hotel and assisted with your check-in. 

Sunset Taj Mahal Visit: Late afternoon visiting the Taj Mahal at sunset offers a breathtaking experience as the iconic marble monument is bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun. Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra, the Taj Mahal is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, it is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, renowned for its symmetrical design, intricate marble inlay work, and stunning reflection pools. As the sun dips below the horizon, the Taj Mahal is transformed by the shifting colors of the sky, creating a mesmerizing sight that lingers in the memory forever.

After Taj Mahal visit, you will return to your hotel.

Sunrise Taj Mahal Visit: A Sunrise at the Taj Mahal is a breath-taking sight and one of the most popular times to visit this iconic monument. As the sun rises behind the white marble mausoleum, it bathes the structure in a soft golden glow, creating a mesmerizing scene that attracts tourists and photographers from around the world. The changing colors of the sky against the pristine white marble create a magical ambiance that is truly unforgettable. Visitors often arrive early in the morning to witness this spectacle and capture its beauty through photography or simply to admire the serene atmosphere.

Drive to Jaipur and Chand Baori Stepwell: Upon returning to your hotel in time for breakfast and preparing for the day’s journey, you’re chauffeured to the magnificent Chand Baori stepwell at Abhaneri, situated just off the highway to Jaipur. Dating back to the 10th century, the Chand Baori Stepwell is an awe-inspiring marvel and one of India’s most impressive architectural feats. Nestled alongside a picturesque Rajasthani village, it boasts a staggering depth equivalent to that of a modern 7-story building. The stepwell’s grandeur is accentuated by its symmetrical design, with three of its sides adorned with stairs—although they are no longer accessible to visitors. With each side spanning over 100 feet wide (35 meters), the Chand Baori radiates timeless beauty and historical significance, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in India’s rich cultural heritage.

After indulging in a delicious lunch prepared with the finest local ingredients, you’ll resume your adventure towards the UNESCO World Heritage City of Jaipur. Arrive at Jaipur, and you will be assisted with check-in at your hotel.

Pink City Tour: Start your exploration of the enchanting walled pink city of Jaipur, beginning with a leisurely stroll through its bustling main bazaar. Located at the heart of the city, this vibrant marketplace offers a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds, where locals converge to procure an array of goods. Witness the lively hustle and bustle as street vendors line the sidewalks, showcasing an eclectic assortment of vegetables, fruits, and other wares. Spice-scented air wafts from traditional spice stalls, while colorful displays of nuts, flowers, toys, footwear, and hardware captivate the senses. Amidst the labyrinthine alleys, you’ll discover hidden courtyard shops brimming with treasures waiting to be uncovered.

Hawa Mahal: Following a brief stroll, you’ll find yourself at one of Jaipur’s most iconic landmarks, the captivating Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of the Winds. Erected in 1799, this architectural marvel boasts a striking facade adorned with intricate lattice windows. Designed to allow the ladies of the royal court to observe the lively bazaar below while remaining concealed from public view, the Hawa Mahal exudes an air of mystery and elegance. There is a break for lunch. 

Jantar Mantar: Your journey continues with a visit to the Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its intriguing stone observatory. Constructed in 1728, this remarkable architectural marvel houses a collection of sophisticated astronomical instruments. Among these instruments stands a monumental stone sundial, boasting remarkable precision, accurate to within 2 seconds. 

City Palace: Adjacent to the Jantar Mantar lies the majestic City Palace, a splendid testament to the fusion of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural grandeur. Originally constructed as a royal residence, this sprawling complex exudes opulence and elegance at every turn. While a portion of the palace remains occupied by the esteemed Royal family and is not accessible to the public, your knowledgeable guide will captivate you with tales of regal splendor as you gaze upon the palace’s exterior. Within the expansive confines of the City Palace, immerse yourself in a world of history and culture as you explore its array of museums.

Optional: Jaipur is famous for hand-crafted items, fabrics, carpets, and jewelry. If you are interested in shopping, your guide can serve as a personal shopper, or you can choose to return to your hotel.

Today you will proceed to explore the following attractions of Jaipur.

Albert Hall Museum: Your first stop takes you to the picturesque vicinity of a public park in Jaipur, where you’ll find the magnificent Albert Hall Museum. Completed in 1887 under the architectural expertise of Samuel Swinton Jacob, this landmark boasts breathtaking Indo-Saracenic architecture. While you won’t be entering the museum premises, you’ll have the chance to stroll around and admire the splendor of its exterior.

Monkey Temple: Next on your itinerary, you’ll be chauffeured to the ancient Hindu pilgrimage site of Galtaji, nestled within a crevice in the Aravalli Hills. This 15th-century temple complex, often affectionately dubbed the Monkey Temple by visitors, is home to a thriving tribe of monkeys who consider the site their own. As you explore the picturesque complex, you’ll encounter seven tranquil ponds fed by natural springs from the surrounding hilltops. Hindu pilgrims flock here to partake in the purifying ritual of bathing in these sacred waters. The monkeys, true to their reputation, frolic with abandon around the main pond, their antics adding to the enchanting atmosphere. Many of them can be spotted diving into the water from various vantage points, showcasing their playful nature.

Amer Fort: After Galtaji, you will be whisked away to the majestic Amer Fort & Palace Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you ascend towards the hilltop fortified city, you will break for a lunch. After lunch, prepare to be enthralled by the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Amber Fort and Palace Complex. Completed in 1599 AD after 25 years of meticulous construction, this monumental fortress stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Rajput dynasty. We do not offer elephant-back ascents up the ramparts, but you have this option, or you will be driven to the back entrance for your convenience.

Once inside, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of splendor and history. The massive, fortified city within the complex showcases some of India’s finest examples of Rajput architecture. As you navigate through its labyrinthine chambers and hallways, you’ll be mesmerized by the exquisite designs and handcrafted embellishments adorning every surface.

You are at leisure rest of day with your vehicle and chauffeur who are available to you until 6 pm to explore more of this fascinating city. You Guide will make suggestions based on your preferences.

Drive to Jodhpur: After checking out from your hotel in the morning, you will embark on a scenic drive to Jodhpur. Upon your arrival in the afternoon, you will be assisted with your check-in at the beautiful hotel. You can relax for few hrs.

In the mid-afternoon, you have an option to proceed on a guided walk through the bustling Sadar Bazaar, also known as the Clock Tower Market, where the central monument forms the heart of the circular layout of the bazaar. Explore the vibrant stalls, soak in the local atmosphere, and indulge in shopping for souvenirs and traditional Rajasthani handicrafts.

Mehrangarh Fort: The tour begins from the fifteenth century Mehrangarh Fort. This formidable hilltop fort is arguably the most awe-inspiring in Rajasthan, a land of impressive hilltop forts and palaces. Entry to the massive fort is through a series of seven great gates, with the main entrance being the huge Lohapol that literally means Iron Gate. Next to this gate there are 15 handprints in the wall, the Sati marks of Maharaja Man Singh’s widows. These handprints were etched into the wall by the queens just prior to them throwing themselves upon his funeral pyre in 1843, as the besieged fort was about to be conquered.

Inside the fort is a collection of some of the finest palaces and galleries, including, Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Sukh Mahal (Pleasure Palace), Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), Elephant Howdah Gallery, Palanquin Gallery, the Armory, the Turban Gallery, and the Folk Music Gallery. The Daulat Khana houses one of the world’s finest collections of Mughal Art. On your way down from the fort you will stop for a tour of Jaswant Thada, a marble cenotaph built in 1899 as a memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.

Walking Tour: You will explore more of charming ancient Jodhpur with your Guide. The busy bazaars are full of locals shopping for their needs and you will walk through several interesting parts of the city.

There is a break for lunch. 

Bishnoi Tribe or Relax at Hotel: After lunch you have an optional activity, we offer a complimentary excursion to a rural community on the outskirts of Jodhpur, inhabited by the Bishnoi tribe. This cultural experience offers insights into the traditional way of life in Rajasthan. You’ll have the chance to visit the home of a potter and his extended family, where you can try your hand at the potter’s wheel and learn about their craft.

Additionally, you have the option to witness a unique ritual practiced by the Bishnoi tribe. At the end of the day, as the adults return from working in the fields, they are greeted by the youth with water pipes laden with opium. You are invited to observe this recreational activity, gaining a deeper understanding of local customs and traditions.

Whether you choose to relax at your lodging or participate in the optional excursion, your afternoon and evening in Jodhpur promise to be enriching and memorable.

Ranakpur Jain Temple: You will be assisted with your check-out just before noon, and then embark on a scenic drive to Udaipur with a fascinating stop en route. A short distance away lies one of India’s lesser-known architectural marvels, the 15th Century Jain Temple. This active place of worship, known as the Ranakpur Jain Temple Complex, showcases breathtaking marble architecture.

Explore the main temple with its twenty-nine halls supported by fourteen hundred and forty-four intricately carved marble pillars, each with a unique design. Admire the abundance of intricate sculptures and friezes, experiencing the grandeur and exquisite details of its design firsthand.

Drive to Udaipur: Continuing on your journey to Udaipur, you will be treated to one of the most picturesque drives in India. Passing through the scenic Aravalli hills, you will have ample opportunities for photographs capturing village life, livestock, and the charming presence of camels. The rolling landscape and vibrant villages, brimming with colorful inhabitants, will captivate you during this 2.5-hour journey.

Upon arrival in Udaipur, you will be greeted by the majestic City Palace, the city’s main attraction, and your lakeside lodging. Prepare to be enchanted by the serene beauty of the surroundings as you settle in for an unforgettable stay in Udaipur.

Monsoon Palace: This morning, you will be driven to visit the Monsoon Palace, a charming hilltop structure offering breathtaking views of the picturesque city of Udaipur, its serene lakes, and majestic palaces. As you ascend the hill, you’ll traverse through a protected wildlife sanctuary, where occasional wildlife sightings may add to the adventure. After a brief exploration of the historical structure, you will be treated to the spectacular vista of Udaipur, nestled amidst the Aravalli Mountain range.

Udaipur City: Following this, embark on an easy and delightful walk through the ancient part of Udaipur, known for its small-town atmosphere and charming ambiance. Accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, explore the local bazaars and other interesting corners of the city, pausing for a brief stop at a gallery where local artists create Udaipur’s famous miniature paintings.

Tuk Tuk Ride: Next, enjoy a slightly bumpy yet exhilarating three-wheeler scooter ride to the lakefront Sunset Terrace restaurant at the entrance of the magnificent City Palace Complex. Here, you will savor lunch while soaking in one of the best lake views in Udaipur.

City Palace: After lunch, delve into the fabled City Palace Complex, housing multiple old palaces and architectural marvels. Explore beautifully decorated rooms adorned with exquisitely sculpted mirrors, massive ivory doors, stained-glass windows, and inlaid marble balconies. Don’t miss the unique peacock courtyard and the mesmerizing views of Lake Pichola, the Lake Palace, and Jag Mandir Island.

One of the highlights of the palace complex is the remarkable Crystal Gallery, boasting the world’s largest collection of priceless crystal artifacts. Marvel at the stunning crystal pieces, including a complete bedroom furniture set, and exquisite crystal fountains.

Boat Cruise on Lake Pichola: Conclude your palace exploration with a visit to the palace jetty, where you’ll board a private boat for a sunset cruise on captivating Lake Pichola. Enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and the magical city of Udaipur before disembarking and back to your hotel.

Flight to Aurangabad: You will begin your day with assistance for a smooth check-out from your accommodation. A comfortable drive will take you to the airport, situated outside the city. Here, you will board a no-frills flight to Hyderabad, where you will connect to your onward flight to Aurangabad.

Upon your arrival in Aurangabad, you will be greeted and driven to your hotel. While this hotel is the best lodging available in Aurangabad and conveniently located near the airport, it is classified as mid-level upscale and may not offer the same luxurious experience as your previous accommodations. Nevertheless, it provides a comfortable and welcoming environment for your stay in Aurangabad.

UWHS of Aurangabad: The Ajanta and Ellora monuments and caves, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites near Aurangabad, are renowned as India’s most remarkable archaeological sites and among the world’s most impressive achievements of ancient civilizations. Many of our guests express surprise that these sites are not included in other tours. Several have even compared them favorably to the monuments in the Angkor Region, noting that Ajanta and Ellora are twice as old.

Ajanta Caves: After enjoying breakfast, you will embark on an excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ajanta. Your hotel will provide a choice of sandwiches and accompaniments that will remain edible for a few hours, ensuring you are well-prepared for the journey.

The caves at Ajanta were excavated, sculpted, and painted by Buddhist monks and local craftsmen starting in the 2nd century B.C. These 28 caves showcase an incredible variety of paintings and sculptures created in hard rock using primitive yet ingenious lighting, tools, and materials. The devotion of the Buddhists and the skill of their craftsmen are evident in every detail.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Ajanta is the concept of Vertical Excavation. Your Guide will passionately explain this concept and the processes involved, leaving you in awe of the craftsmen’s achievements. While the caves themselves are impressive in their design and the sheer volume of sculptural work, it is the art within the caves that truly astonishes. The paintings and sculptures exhibit incredible artistry and colors that are unparalleled. These works of art are even more remarkable when you consider that they were created by artists nearly two thousand years ago.

Ajanta’s paintings, in particular, are a testament to the skill and creativity of the artists of that era, showcasing colors and textures that are still vibrant and captivating today. It is an experience that will leave you in awe of the artistic and cultural heritage of ancient India.

Ellora Caves: After breakfast, you will be assisted with your checkout from your hotel, and we recommend leaving your baggage with the bell desk for convenience. You will then proceed for an excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ellora. Your hotel will provide a choice of sandwiches and accompaniments that will remain edible for a few hours, ensuring you are well-prepared for the excursion.

At Ellora, you will explore the magnificently sculpted cave temples and monasteries. The site comprises 34 caves, each of which would be considered a significant attraction in most countries. These caves, built between 600 – 1000 A.D., are dedicated to Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. Seventeen of the caves illustrate a resurgence of Hinduism in the region, showcasing Hindu themes, sculptures, and art.

Flight to Mumbai: After your exploration, you will return to your hotel and break for a slightly late lunch. Your bags will be loaded into your vehicle, and you will be driven to the nearby airport. Here, you will be assisted with boarding your early evening flight to Mumbai. Upon your arrival in Mumbai, you will be driven to your beautiful oceanfront hotel and assisted with your check-in.

Mumbai Ocean View: The neighborhood surrounding your hotel is a popular evening destination for middle-class Mumbai residents seeking the ocean breeze and social interactions. It’s an ideal area for a solitary stroll, with locals relaxing on the seaside promenade while street vendors offer an array of goods, from tempting street food to toys and even foot massages. You can confidently and leisurely explore the vicinity of your Mumbai accommodation until late into the evening, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling city.

Gateway of India: Start your tour at the iconic Gateway of India.  a historic monument overlooking Mumbai’s harbor. Built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai in 1905, it is a great place to begin your exploration of the city.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT): After the Gateway of India, head to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), formerly known as Victoria Terminus. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and one of the busiest railway stations in the world.

Walking Tour: Embark on a leisurely walking tour through Mumbai’s most interesting areas. Stop to admire historic attractions, bustling street bazaars, and public parks where locals play cricket. Marvel at the architectural details of century-old Gothic and Victorian buildings from the British Raj era.

Flora Fountain and Horniman’s Circle: Admire the historic Flora Fountain and take a short walk to Horniman’s Circle, a historic business district with beautiful architecture.

Mumbai’s Town Hall: Visit Mumbai’s Town Hall, located near the docks, and learn about its history and significance.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya: Explore the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum. This premier museum showcases beautiful Indo-Saracenic architecture and exhibits on paintings, archaeology, and natural history.

There is a break for lunch.

Dhobi Ghat: After lunch, visit Mumbai’s main Dhobi Ghat, where you can observe the traditional method of laundry known as Dhobi Ghat. See how clothes are washed, dried, and ironed in this bustling area.

Hanging Gardens: Drive along Marine Drive and head up Malabar Hill to visit the Hanging Gardens. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the bay from this beautiful vantage point.

Return to Hotel: In the middle of the afternoon, avoid rush hour traffic as you are driven back to your hotel. Relax and enjoy the surroundings, views, and facilities of your hotel.

Flight to Cochin: You are driven to Mumbai Airport in the morning for your no-frills flight to Cochin. Upon arrival, lunch will be served at the main restaurant of an upscale hotel near Cochin Airport, offering a variety of Western and Indian cuisine options. After lunch, you are driven to historic Fort Kochi, which is about an hour and a half drive from the airport. Here, you will check in to your wonderful boutique historical lodge.

Afternoon Leisure: You have some leisure time to freshen up and enjoy the facilities of the lodge.

Evening Kathakali Performance: Your Facilitator or Guide will pick you up from your hotel and accompany you to a local theatre where you will experience Kerala’s ancient performing art – a Kathakali performance. Kathakali is a traditional dance form that tells stories through intricate movements and expressions.

Chinese Fishing Nets: Start your day with a short 1-minute walk from your hotel to the Chinese fishing nets, a trademark attraction of Cochin. These enormous nets were reportedly brought here by Chinese explorer Zhang He about 600 years ago. Watch as local fishermen skillfully manipulate the nets, a tradition passed down through generations.

Historic Walk: Continue exploring Fort Kochi with an 8-to-10-minute walk through its charming streets and alleys, surrounded by Portuguese, Dutch, and British architecture. Explore chic cafes, boutique stores, and art galleries along the way.

Santa Cruz Basilica and St. Francis Church: Visit the Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, known for its impressive collection of colorful artworks. Then, take a 5-minute walk to St. Francis Church, the first European church built in India, established by Portuguese Franciscan Friars in 1503. It is also the burial place of Vasco Da Gama for a few years.

David Hall: Walk 2 minutes to David Hall, a 17th-century historic building that now houses art exhibits by young artists. Enjoy lunch at the popular café in the building, known for its casual Indian and Western cuisine, including wood-fired thin-crust pizzas.

Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace): After lunch, take a 10-minute drive to the Dutch Palace, also known as Mattancherry Palace, built by the Portuguese in 1555. Explore the palace known for its detailed carved wooden murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and the Puranic legends.

Paradesi Synagogue: Nearby, visit the Paradesi Synagogue, built in 1568 and still an active house of worship for the remaining Jewish community in the area. Walk along Jew Street, which runs through Jew Town and is known for its antique stores and souvenir shops.

After tour return to your hotel.

Drive to Periyar (Thekkady): After checking out from your hotel in the morning, you’ll embark on a fascinating drive through the incredibly scenic rainforests of the Western Ghats en route to Thekkady. This drive is renowned as one of the most beautiful in all of South India. Upon arrival in Thekkady, you’ll check into your scenic nature resort. The area is known as the heart of spice country, and you’ll be greeted by the pleasant, mild aroma from the surrounding plantations.

Periyar National Park: You’ll have a break for a late lunch before heading to Periyar National Park. The park is home to a picturesque artificial lake, created in 1895 by building a dam on the Periyar River. The terrain is hilly, with elevations ranging from a few hundred feet to about 6,000 feet above sea level. The lake serves as a permanent source of water for wildlife in the park.

While Periyar is part of Project Tiger, the main attractions here are the elephants. The park is home to just under a thousand elephants, as well as more than 60 other mammal species including tigers, bison, deer, wild boar, and wild dogs. There are also over 300 species of birds and 160 species of butterflies. Prominent among the birds are Cormorants, Kingfishers, Darters, the great Malabar Hornbill, and the racket tailed Drongos. Although the chances of seeing a tiger are extremely slim, Thekkady offers many other reasons to visit, including its spice plantations and picturesque Western Ghats location.

Spice Plantation: In the afternoon, you’ll visit a neighboring spice plantation where an experienced naturalist will guide you through scores of different spice plants, illustrating their medicinal and gastronomical properties. This immersive experience will provide insight into the fascinating world of spices and their importance in Indian cuisine and traditional medicine.

Periyar Lake Cruise: Begin your day with a scenic drive up to Lake Periyar and embark on a tranquil lake cruise. The 26-square-kilometer lake is surrounded by stunning scenery, with ancient tree stumps protruding from the waters, creating a surreal atmosphere. While Lake Periyar is officially a Tiger Reserve, the chances of spotting a tiger here are very low. However, it is common to see elephant herds coming to the lake to drink or traversing the terraced hills surrounding the lake. Wild boar are also frequently spotted in the area.

Elephant Junction: After your lake cruise, enjoy a break for lunch before your afternoon activities. In the afternoon, you will be driven to Elephant Junction, where you will have the opportunity to mingle with the elephants, their trainers, handlers, and other staff as they go about their daily routines. You can participate in feeding and bathing the elephants, as well as experience elephant back rides. After this unforgettable experience, you will be driven back to your resort, where you can relax and reflect on your day amidst the natural beauty of Thekkady.

Leisure at Resort: The rest of the day is at your leisure to enjoy the serene surroundings of your scenic pastoral resort or explore the charming rural town nearby. The flora and other attractions at your nature resort are impressive, with nearby spice shops offering locally grown products. The resort staff will gladly provide a guided tour of the variety of plants and trees on the property, as well as their organic gardens. If you’re interested, you can also spend time with the chefs to learn about the preparation of the local cuisine they offer. Additionally, the resort features a great Ayurvedic Spa where you can indulge in relaxing treatments (advance reservations recommended).

Drive to Kumarakom: After checking out from your hotel in the morning, you will embark on a captivating drive through the incredibly scenic rainforests of the Western Ghats as you head for Kumarakom. This drive is renowned as one of the most beautiful in all of South India, offering breathtaking views of lush greenery and picturesque landscapes.

Upon arrival in Kumarakom, you’ll check into your magical lakefront resort. Located on the serene backwaters of Kerala, your resort offers a tranquil retreat amidst nature’s beauty. Relax and unwind as you take in the peaceful surroundings and enjoy the warm hospitality of your resort.

Resort’s Amenities: The resort is renowned for its Ayurvedic treatments, and some of Kerala’s best practitioners are available to provide therapeutic treatments tailored to your needs. The resort staff will assist you in planning your treatments to ensure a rejuvenating and relaxing experience. Many guests from Western Europe choose to take advantage of the 1-to-3-week complete Ayurvedic packages at the resort, which include special diets designed individually for each guest. If you’re interested, we can facilitate such an extension for you.

The resort’s Fine Dining Restaurant, Ettukettu, offers a delightful selection of Keralan, Indian, and international cuisines, prepared with fresh, local ingredients. For seafood lovers, the lakefront seafood bar, Vembanad, is a must-visit, offering an incredible array of fresh seafood dishes that perfectly complement the stunning lake views.

Backwaters Day Cruise: In the late morning, you will be assisted in boarding your private 1 Bedroom Resort Houseboat for a day cruise on the backwaters. The backwaters of Kerala are known for their incredible lushness and beauty, with freshwater canals, rivulets, and lakes surrounded by charming water bodies and an abundance of coconut trees and exotic plants, creating a subtropical environment found nowhere else on Earth. Many guests find the most charming part of their cruise to be the opportunity to experience a unique way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries, living as the locals have in this area.

While there are now small dirt and paved roads leading to most homes and structures, the residents of this area still rely heavily on the waterways for transportation. You will witness men, women, and adolescents rowing themselves to their destinations, children in school uniforms being rowed back from school, women doing laundry and dishes by hand in the freshwater streams, fishermen and produce sellers rowing up to homes to sell their goods, farmers working in their water-soaked fields, and children swimming and playing in the shallower streams.

Throughout your cruise, the cook and other staff on the houseboat will ensure all your needs are taken care of, serving you freshly made local cuisine for lunch. At sunset, all houseboats anchor on the shores of the lake, and you will disembark from your houseboat directly at the jetty of your magical lakefront resort, ending your day on the backwaters with a truly memorable experience.

Drive to Kochi Airport: After breakfast, Check-out from your resort in the mid-morning and are driven to Vypin Island, located just off the route to Cochin Airport.

Chirai Beach: Explore the vibrant charm of Cherai Beach, beginning with a visit to the 19th-century Azheekkal Temple, renowned for its unique and impressive Ratha (Chariot). Delve into history as you briefly tour the Portuguese Fort, India’s oldest European structure dating back to 1503, followed by a stop at Pallipuram Church, a testament to Portuguese colonial heritage, adorned with fascinating artifacts.

After a delightful exploration, savor a leisurely lunch before embarking on a serene walk along Cherai Beach. Witness the picturesque coastline and bustling activities of local fishermen, immersing yourself in the tranquil ambiance of this coastal paradise.

Flight to Delhi: As the day winds down, depart Vypin Island in the mid-afternoon, ensuring a smooth journey to Cochin Airport ahead of rush hour, to board a flight for Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi, bid farewell to your India guide and unwind in the comfort of your upscale airport hotel, reflecting on the enriching experiences of your Indian adventure.

Depart for International: Check out from your hotel at the appropriate time, ensuring that your room is vacated by noon. A private hotel vehicle will be arranged to transfer you to the airport for your international flight. Depart for the airport with ample time to complete check-in procedures and board your flight, concluding your memorable stay in India.