Uncover the delights of India’s famed Golden Triangle - Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, then head south to tropical Kerala. Visit historic Fort Kochi and the picturesque hill station of Munnar with its verdant tea plantations, relax in sleepy Kumarakom and spend a night aboard a house-boat, gliding along the palm fringed backwaters.
Saturday. Upon arrival at Delhi you will be met and transferred to hotel. The following morning, attend our welcome meeting before we set out on a full day sightseeing tour of Delhi. In the evening, we enjoy a Namaste Dinner at an Indian restaurant. Overnight - Delhi (B:1, D:1)
Delhi - Jaipur. Today we drive to the Pink City of Jaipur - the vibrant capital of the state of Rajasthan. Sightseeing includes a tour of the City Palace which is a wonderful example of Rajput architecture and Jantar Mantar - the world’s largest stone astronomical observatory.
On Day 4 early-risers can opt for a morning hot air balloon ride over Jaipur, and sail over hilltop forts, regal palaces, sleepy villages, and stone carved temples. After we travel beyond Jaipur to the beautiful 16th century Amber Fort. In true Indian style we take an elephant ride* up to the entrance of the fort and tour the well-preserved interior and grounds. Returning to Jaipur, spend the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight - Jaipur (B:2)
Golden Triangle & Kerala - 14 days Go Guide : :Check out the go guide for details of the tour, info on visas, climate, money, what to bring and more!
Jaipur - Bharatpur via Abhaneri and Peharsar. Departing Jaipur we stop in the village of Abhaneri to see Chand Baori, which is the largest and deepest step well in the world. This incredible well has a staggering 3500 steps and is 13 stories deep. Next, we drive on to the rural village of Peharsar, where we walk the backstreets discovering local life, traditions and (if open) visit the village school where we operate our ‘Change for Children’ programme. Here, we visit Chandra Mahal, a charming haveli (mansion house) with small courtyard, lawned gardens and rustic appeal carefully being restored to the splendour of better farming years (if open, currently under renovation till Dec 2012). After hotel check in at Bharatpur and time to freshen up we visit Keoladeo Ghana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we’ll enjoy a leisurely bicycle rickshaw ride through the park. Overnight - Bharatpur (B, D)
Bharatpur - Agra. En route to Agra, we visit Fatehpur Sikri, former imperial capital of the great Mughal emperor Akbar. Built between 1569 and 1585, it has been deserted for more than four centuries, by all accounts abandoned in 1600 due to a meagre supply of water. In Agra, we visit the impressive Agra Fort before touring the legendary Taj Mahal and witnessing a glorious golden sunset. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in loving memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz, who tragically died in childbirth in 1631, the Taj Mahal in Agra is described as the most extravagant monument ever built for love and remains one of India’s most enduring symbols. Overnight - Agra (B)
Agra - Delhi - breakfast. After breakfast we drive back to Delhi. Spend the remains of the day at leisure in India’s bustling capital. Overnight - Delhi (B)
Delhi - Kochi - breakfast. We catch an early morning flight to Kochi today in the beautiful southern state of Kerala. Long famed in the history books, Kochi (formerly known as Cochin) offered refuge to Jews more than 2,500 years ago. The Portuguese founded the first European colony in Kochi in the 16th century. The Dutch quickly followed and eventually, the British. The cosmopolitan mix of cultures makes the city fascinating. This evening we watch a Kathakali performance. Kathakali is the fascinating traditional dance form of Kerala. Overnight - Kochi (B)
Kochi - Munnar - breakfast. This morning we enjoy a guided tour of historic Fort Kochi. We see the elegant Chinese fishing nets and explore the winding streets of the old town, visiting St Francis’ Church, Parsi Synagogue (exterior only) and a Dutch palace.
After our sightseeing in Kochi we drive east to Munnar - a picturesque hill station nestled on the verdant slopes of tea plantations. Located at a lofty height of 1600m, Munnar in South India offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills carpeted with tea plantations. From many locations in Munnar, one can view Anamudi (2695m), South India’s highest peak. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax or explore the area. The next morning we’ll visit a tea plantation, where we learn about the various stages of tea processing. Overnight - Munnar (B:2, D:2)
Day 11: Kerala Backwaters
Munnar - Alleppey - Keralan backwaters. We set off early this morning to visit the Tea Museum of Munnar. After its a scenic 4 - 5 hour drive to Alleppey. Mid afternoon, we board a simply furnished private rice-boat for a journey through the lush backwaters. Our private rice-boat takes us sedately along the enchanting palm-fringed backwaters, covering a distance of some 20 kms, during which time the boat glides past local villages and fascinating scenes of everyday rural life. Watch a beautiful sunset over the backwaters and enjoy tasty meals (starting with a late lunch) prepared by the onboard chef using fresh local produce. Overnight - Deluxe Rice Boat (B, L, D)
Keralan Backwaters - Kumarakom - breakfast. This morning we disembark the houseboat after breakfast at Kumarakom. Perched sleepily amongst a tangle of lush tropical waterways known as the Keralan backwaters, Kumarakom is technically a cluster of islands on Lake Vembanad - one of Asia’s largest freshwater lakes. This is an ideal place to relax for the next two days and enjoy the beautiful scenery. There is also a wonderful bird sanctuary spread across 14 acres, which is a favoured haunt of migratory birds and certainly worthy of a visit. Overnight - Kumarakom (B:2)
Kumarakom - Kochi - breakfast. Today marks the end of our memorable journey. After breakfast we travel back to Kochi and included transfer to the airport. Please note: flights from Kochi should depart after 2pm. (B)
Extend Your Stay At The Beach
Extend your stay in sun
kissed Kerala with a
relaxing beach break.
Located in the picturesque
fishing village of
Mararikulam near Alleppey,
Marari beach is fringed by
limitless lines of coconut
palms. Ideal for some rest
and relaxation! Please
contact us for details.
Holi & the Festival of Jaipur
Combine a tour of the Golden Triangle and Kerala with the exuberant festivities of Holi - India’s most dazzling celebration, and the vibrant Festival of Jaipur, a colourful display of local culture through its people, with folk dancers, melodious music, and exciting traditional competitions.
If travelling on our Golden Triangle & Keralatour departing Thursday 13 March 2014 and ending Wednesday 26 March 2014, we will be attending the Festival of Jaipur at the Rambagh Polo Ground on the afternoon of 16 March and will be taking part in Holi - the festival of colour celebrations in the rural village of Bharatpur the following day. A small supplement has been added to our tour price for this departure. For more information on the events and our touring itinerary please see to our Golden Triangle & Kerala tour Go Guide.
FROM USD $2,879
Prices & Departure Dates
Prices shown are per person travelling. 'Twin/Double' prices per person apply when there are 2 people travelling, sharing a room. The 'Single supplement' applies for single travellers who require their own room and needs to be added to the 'Twin/Double' price. If you are happy to be paired up with another single traveller of the same sex on your tour, this can be arranged, (if another solo traveller of the same sex is already booked upon the tour), thus avoiding the single person supplement.
All our scheduled tour departures are guaranteed subject to a minimum of 2 travellers. To date we have not cancelled a single trip.
This tour is also available on a private basis - for details please see the Supplementary Prices at the bottom of this page.
NOTE: If departing on Thu 13 March 2014 we will be attending The Festival of Jaipur and celebrating Holi in Bharatpur. Please see our tour Go Guide for more info.
Golden Triangle & Kerala - 14 days Go Guide : :Check out the go guide for details of the tour, info on visas, climate, money, what to bring and more!
Bolt-ons
Make the most of your time away! Listed below are the optional activities that are available on this trip. Please note that you will need to book these prior to travel as we cannot always guarantee availability of these activities once you are on holiday.
The Festival of Light is the happiest festival of the Hindu calendar. At night, countless oil lamps are lit to show Rama the way home from his period of exile. In all the festival lasts five days.
Ride the narrow gauge railway aboard the Himalayan Queen Toy Train to Shimla. Nestled between lofty peaks and breathtaking scenery, the charming getaway was once the summer capital of British India. The natural beauty of Shimla will enchant you, being famous for its colourful bazaar, temples at soaring heights, stunning sunsets and verdant woods, contrasted with the quintessential English pomp and style.
For some lighthearted fun, join in the energy of a Bollywood dance class in Delhi! Bollywood dance has transformed over the years from a traditional, classical style into a modern, pop culture which is taking the world by storm! We have teamed up with the Delhi Dance Academy to offer you a simple and entertaining introduction to this wonderful dance form! Whilst we cannot guarantee you'll leave the class ready to star in the next big Bollywood Blockbuster, you're sure to learn a few sharp moves to impress your friends on the dance floor!
Highlights & Inclusions
Below is a list of key highlights and what is included on this tour. Further, where appropriate, we have listed the items that are not included in the tour price.
Trip Highlights
Old and New Delhi - the magnificent Red Fort, India's largest mosque Jama Masjid, and Gandhi's crematorium Raj Ghat.
An exotic elephant ride into Jaipur's Amber Fort - just like the Raj would have done
The spectacular Taj Mahal - India's most famous monument in all its glory at sunset.
Abhaneri - the iconic Chand Baori 9th century step well - the deepest in the world.
Peharsar village - famed for friendly locals and charming havelis.
Lake Vembanad - Asia’s largest freshwater lake.
Kumarakom - picturesque cluster of islands
Kerala's famous tropical backwaters.
The Pink City of Jaipur - the lofty Amber Fort, the very regal City Palace and the ancient observatory of Jantar Mantar.
Agra - the beautiful Agra Fort and the Mughal mausoleum known as Baby Taj
Fatehpur Sikri - an ancient abandoned Mughal city.
Keoladeo Ghana National Park - UNESCO site and home to some 300 migratory birds.
Kochi - the beautiful St Francis’ Church, the white washed Dutch Palace, Fort Kochi and the iconic Chinese Fishing nets on the waterfront.
Munnar - Lush green Hill Station and tea plantations
Coastal Alleppey - gateway to the relaxing palm fringed backwaters
What's Included
13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5 dinners including Namaste Dinner in Delhi
1 night - houseboat on backwaters of Kerala
Buggy ride to Taj Mahal - Agra
Touring of Delhi, Jaipur, Bharatpur, Agra, Chand Baori Step Well, Peharsar Village, Fort Kochi and Munnar Tea Museum
Airport arrival and departure transfer on days 1 and 14
Services of local English speaking specialist guides
All relevant transfers and transportation
13 nights 3 - 4 star and heritage hotels
Economy class flight Delhi to Kochi
Elephant ride to Amber Fort - Jaipur (Subject to Government regulations & availability)
Kathakali dance show
English speaking, Indian tour leader (for groups of 6 or more)
Taj Mahal, Jaipur City Palace & Jantar Mantar entrance fees
What's Not Included
International flights and visas
Tip for your tour leader. We suggest $13-$20 USD per person for this tour. Tipping your leader is an entirely personal gesture.
Tipping Kitty: $35-40 USD
Laundry, drinks, items of a personal nature
Entrance Fees: $70-80 USD
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard when necessary.
Almondz Hotel - Delhi
The modern and smart Almondz Hotel offers guests good sized well appointed rooms which all come with complimentary Wi-Fi. The in house restaurant is highly recommended providing diners with delicious food and a friendly service.
The hotel is located in the heart of the Delhi in the lively Karol Bagh area and Patel Nagar Metro station is within walking distance giving you fast and efficient access to the rest of India’s buzzing capital.
Our Rating : Standard —
Local Rating: 3 Star Hotel
Mandawa Haveli - Jaipur
The beautiful heritage style Mandawa Haveli is a fine example of typical Rajasthan architecture - set in terraced gardens with pretty courtyards. All rooms are well appointed with intricately carved wooden beds and king-size royal portraits. An evening spent enjoying a lavish Rajasthani dinner in front of a traditional folk dance is highly recommended.
Well located in the heart of Jaipur city on Sansar Chandra Road, just a few minute’s drive from the Palace of the Winds.
Our Rating : Standard —
Local Rating: Standard Heritage
Laxmi Vilas - Bharatpur
Converted from a Palace into a hotel in 1994, the Laxmi Vilas is an elegant combination of Rajput and Mughal styles, set in 50 acres of gardens.
Our Rating : Standard —
Local Rating: Standard Heritage
Raj Mahal Hotel - Agra
The charming and elegant Raj Mahal hotel offers guests clean and spacious rooms with hard wood floors and stylish design. On a clear day some rooms benefit from a view of the legendary Taj Mahal. The roof top restaurant comes highly recommended with delicious food and magnificent views across the city.
Perfectly located near to the Eastern Gate of the Taj Mahal.
Our Rating : Standard —
Local Rating: 3 Star Hotel
Travancore Court - Kochi
The Travancore is a simple, comfortable hotel, with a good sized rooftop swimming pool.
Our Rating : Standard —
Local Rating: 4 Star Hotel
Eastend Edassery - Munnar
The Eastend Edassery is a quaint resort set in landscaped gardens. The rooms are good sized and modern.
Our Rating : Standard —
Local Rating: 3 Star Hotel
Houseboat - deluxe airconditioned - Alleppey
These large floating structures have been part of Kerala's culture and heritage over the past years. Previously cargo boats, made up from different kinds of wooden planks put together and absolutely no nails. They have now been modified to house guests aboard for overnight cruising with comfortable rooms with air conditioning. Traditional meals are served aboard. A truly unique ‘hotel’ experience.
Our Rating : Superior —
Local Rating: Standard Cruise
Lake Song - Kumarakom
Nestled among the serene backwaters of Kumarakom, Lakesong comprises of 8 acres of facility packed leisure land. It is indeed a retreat with a difference in that it offers excellent facilities with uncompromising quality and superb service. We strive to enhance our abilities to meet and surpass the expectations of our guests.
Our Rating : Standard —
Local Rating: 3 Star Hotel
Postcards
Here's what some of our past travellers have written in to us and said about their experiences on this trip.
Golden Triangle & Kerala - 14 days
Hi Cherylyn
You're right! It was a fantastic holiday, and an eye-opening experience.
We did complete feedback forms for both the Golden Triangle and Captivating Kerala sections of the tour, but for your information I am repeating some of the points we raised:
• The "meet & greet" at Delhi and Kochi airports (including the transfer arrangements) were truly excellent - your representatives (Raj and Anurag plus their helpers) did a fantastic job
• The admin arrangements by you were also excellent (take a bow Cherylyn!)
• The coach driver for the Golden Triangle (Singh) was truly amazing in his skill - he deserved a medal (we gave him an extra large tip!)
• The guide for Kerala (Alec) was THE BEST - he cared for us, he kept us informed, he was knowledgeable, and he made side trips to show us extra things
• The hotels were all to a pretty good standard, but two of them (Travancore Court and Eastend) were alcohol free, which was a pity.
• Whoever designed the Kerala section with two days of relaxation at the end at the Lake Song resort, deserves a medal - it was perfect.
It was a great holiday!
Regards
Chas Stephens,
Golden Triangle & Kerala - 14 days
This was so much more than we expected - well done+thank you! The coach was very comfortable and spacious with a superb guide who not only gave us all the information we needed and many insights into Indian culture, but also treated us all with great respect and attention. A better guide and leader would be hard to find. He led tour with great skill and attention to detail - excellent, much appreciated.
Kathy Robson ,
Golden Triangle & Kerala - 14 days
Wow what a trip! 2 weeks of absolute bliss in incredible India. I can't name just one highlight - the whole thing was amazing. Though to narrow it down to 3 would have to be the wicked Abhaneri Step Well, the beautiful backwaters of Kerala and of course the legendary Taj Mahal!
Johnny Alex,
Golden Triangle & Kerala - 14 days
I can't speak highly enough of this tour. I've been on quite a few group tours in Asia and this was by far the best. I'd seen the Taj Mahal before but only when I was young, so to see it again and at sunset was truly a privilege to behold. I especially enjoyed the awesome stepwell in Abhaneri and Jaipur's buzzing vibe. Never one to turn down a cup of tea, I found Munnar a great place to relax and learn about how the tea is made. I ended up staying an extra week in Kerala as it was just so beautiful and the perfect place to unwind!
David Marshall,
Golden Triangle & Kerala - 14 days
Including the village school in the program, was a great experience and interaction with the children.