Uncover India: Delhi to Kerala

Tour Type: Country Explorer
Brochure Type Asia 2024 v1

All the treasures of India on one epic trip. From the captivating energy of Delhi and Mumbai to the tranquil backwaters and lingering spice aromas of Kerala. Journey to the jungles of Ranthambore, crisscross the Golden Triangle and admire India's legendary palaces, forts and monuments along the way.

Be My Guest
  • Jaipur Savor dinner with a local family at their home in Jaipur.
  • Kochi Visit and have dinner with a local family in their home in Kochi and gain a fascinating insight into their lifestyle.
Dining Summary
  • 7 Lunch (L)
  • 19 Breakfast (B)
  • 2 Be My Guest (BMG)
  • 11 Dinner (D)
  • 2 Welcome Reception (WR)
Dive Into Culture
  • Udaipur Visit a local market in Udaipur.
  • Jaipur Visit a local market in Jaipur.
  • Kochi See the unique Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi.
  • Periyar National Park See an Indian martial arts performance.
  • Mumbai Visit a Dhobi Ghat in Mumbai.
  • Delhi Take a rickshaw ride through Old Delhi.
  • Kumarakom Discover rural life on a walking tour with a local market visit.
  • Travel on a meter-gauge train in the countryside.
Iconic Experience
  • Agra Inside Agra's red sandstone fortress, witness the fairytale palaces, audiences halls and mosques of the Mughal rulers.
  • Kumily Learn about time-tested customs and the cultural significance of spice cultivation during your visit to Kumily Spice Garden.
  • New Delhi During your orientation of New Delhi, visit Humayun's Tomb, and see India Gate and the Qutub Minar complex.
  • Udaipur Stroll through Saheliyon Ki Bari, also known as Garden of the Maidens. Admire the exquisite design of its fountains, pavilions and lotus pools.
  • Udaipur Visit the City Palace complex, a testimony to the Rajput passion for art and architecture.
  • Ranthambore National Park Tour Ranthambore National Park for a chance to glimpse the resident animals and birdlife.
  • Udaipur Enjoy an evening cruise on Lake Pichola at the heart of Udaipur.
  • Jaipur Learn the traditional art of block-printing with a Local Specialist.
  • Kerala Backwater Day Tours Cruise the backwaters of Kerala on a traditional houseboat. Get an insider's look at the day-to-day activities of locals as you journey along Kerala's waterways.
  • Taj Mahal View the Taj Mahal, known as one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage.
  • Delhi See Old Delhi's Red Fort.
  • Delhi Visit Agrasen Ki Baoli and take in the arched niches of this citybound step well.
  • Jaipur During an orientation of Jaipur, visit the Amber Fort, City Palace and Jantar Mantar Observatory.
  • Mumbai Start your visit of Mumbai at the Gateway of India. Continue past the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and Churchgate Station, and take time to explore the Mani Bhavan museum.
  • Join a Local Specialist on a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park.
  • Agra See the imposing gate to the Jama Masjid and gain insight into life in Fatehpur Sikri, now a deserted ''ghost town.''
  • Jama Masjid Admire the red sandstone and marble details of Jama Masjid during your visit to one of the largest mosques in the country.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER
  • Delhi The Delhi City Walk tour explores lesser-known attractions around Paharganj and New Delhi Railway Station, guided by a teenager at the Trust who once lived and worked on the streets of Delhi. This personal touch makes the tour special and gives you
Must-see Highlights
  • See the Red Fort, Parliament House and India Gate in Delhi, the Gateway of India and the Chhatrapati Shivaji historic railway station in Mumbai
  • Explore Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Mumbai and Kochi
  • Scenic Cruise across Mumbai Harbor to Elephanta Island and the Kerala backwaters on a houseboat
  • Visit Jama Masjid, Raj Ghat, Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar in Delhi, the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort in Agra, Ranthambore National Park, the Amber Fort and City Palace in Jaipur, the City Palace and Garden of the Maids in Udaipur and Mani Bhavan in Mumbai and
  • View the Palace of Winds in Jaipur
Trafalgar Difference
  • Deogarh Stay in a beautifully maintained heritage resort in Deogarh, which was once a magnificent fort.
Whats Included
  • Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
  • All porterage and restaurant gratuities
  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • Optional Experiences and free time
  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • Flights from Udaipur to Mumbai and Mumbai to Kochi.
  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
  • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
  • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
  • On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

Call (321) 632-5610 for more information or to book today! Mention code 18891551

Tour Operator
Trafalgar Tours
Offer
Offer valid through 12/31/2024
Duration
20 Days
Escorted
Escorted - Yes
DayDestinationDescription
Day 1DelhiWelcome to Delhi: India's vibrant capital extends a lively welcome, launching an unforgettable journey through northern India's most exquisite sights. On arrival in Delhi, you'll be transferred to your hotel where you'll meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception with drinks and local appetizers this evening.

Accommodations: The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi
Day 2DelhiDiscover the Delights of Old Delhi Dive Into Culture: Dive Into Culture as you embark on an exhilarating rickshaw ride, navigating the busy streets of Old Delhi. See the Red Fort, a sandstone fortress which once housed the emperors of the Mughal dynasty for centuries. Next, ride through the colorful Chandni Chowk market and watch it come to life as the day's trading begins amidst the sounds of enthusiastic salesmen and endless traffic. Visit Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Admire its ornate façades before boarding a waiting vehicle to drive to Raj Ghat, a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Pay tribute to this beloved figurehead, who led the campaign for India's independence from Britain. You'll come face-to-face with the site where he was cremated following his assassination in 1948. Today the simple square platform of black marble is surrounded by a tranquil park, befitting of its status as a place of contemplation. Your next stop is Agrasen Ki Baoli, one of the most noteworthy stepwells in Delhi. Hidden amidst the cacophony of Delhi's streets and business towers, this ancient water reservoir rises from the depths of the earth to stand atop 103 stone steps. Spend a few moments of serenity amidst its centuries-old ornate arches before returning to your hotel for an afternoon of leisure or consider one of our Optional Experiences.

Accommodations: The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi
Day 3DelhiSee the Sights of Delhi Make Travel Matter Dive Into Culture: This morning, embark on a guided walking tour to discover the work done by the Salaam Baalak Trust, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experience. This non-profit organization that aims to provide a caring environment for street children. Later, we'll walk through the bazaar of Paharganj, rubbing shoulders with the locals who flock to the market to shop everyday. Escape the noise and head to New Delhi, designed and built by the British in the 1920s. Your first stop here is a visit to the UNESCO-listed Humayun's Tomb, the earliest example of Mughal architecture in India. Recently renovated with the gardens restored to their former glory, you'll see first-hand why it served as the inspiration for the design of the famous Taj Mahal. Enjoy local flavors for lunch at a local restaurant near India Gate, then head to the Qutub Minar complex, also a UNESCO listed site. This fluted ?Victory Tower' is decorated with elaborate inscriptions, geometric carvings and elegant balconies. Returning to your hotel later, drive past Lutyens' Delhi to view the elegant colonial façades leading British architect Edwin Lutyens left behind on the cityscape. You'll have the rest of the afternoon at leisure, or perhaps join one of our Optional Experiences.

Accommodations: The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi
Day 4AgraSunset at the Taj Mahal: It's time to leave Delhi behind, bound for the Uttar Pradesh city of Agra. There are many reasons to love Agra and its own ?monument to love', the Taj Mahal, is perhaps the most captivating of all. Marvel at its elegant marble façades awash with the sunset's rose and golden hues. Admire this well-preserved landmark from all sides, stepping away from your fellow travelers for a moment to contemplate the magnificence of this man-made wonder. This evening, you could choose to end a memorable day at an optional sound and light show prior to dinner.

Accommodations: Double Tree by Hilton
Day 5RanthamboreFrom the Taj to the Tigers: There's more to Agra than the Taj Mahal as you'll discover the morning during your visit to the UNESCO-listed Agra Fort. Stroll through the chambers of a 17th-century royal residence which served as the principal residence of the influential Mughal emperors until the capital was moved to Delhi. Continue to the long-deserted ?Ghost Town' of Fatehpur Sikri, built at great expense by Emperor Akbar in 1569 only to be abandoned soon afterwards due to a lack of water. The city remains beautifully preserved, albeit with an air of melancholy - a rusty-red sandstone masterpiece devoid of inhabitants. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Bharatpur. Then, appreciate first-hand a quintessential travel experience in India as you board a train bound for Ranthambore, where you'll stay for the next two nights.

Accommodations: Anuraga Palace
Day 6Ranthambore National ParkRoam Ranthambore in Search of Tigers: Start the day with an early morning visit to Ranthambore National Park, which was once the hunting ground of the Maharaja of Jaipur. Before the heat of the day sets in and the wilderness awakens, keep a keen eye out for the resident animals and birdlife that find sanctuary here. Have your camera ready in case the park's tigers make a brief appearance. Return to your hotel for a late breakfast, followed by some time to relax or to join an Optional Experience. After lunch there's another opportunity to explore the park for a glimpse of the various species of bird and wildlife on your second game drive of the day. Dinner is served at your hotel.

Accommodations: Anuraga Palace
Day 7JaipurOnwards to Jaipur Dive Into Culture Connect with Locals: Continue your journey to Jaipur, the Pink City. After some free time for lunch, join a workshop on hand-block printing, one of the most famous traditional art forms of Rajasthan. A Local Specialist will show you the tricks of the trade as you observe how the prints are handmade using small wooden blocks and hone your own block-printing skills. Later, Dive Into Culture and see the talents of local craftspeople on display during a visit to a local market. Admire the colorful textiles and perhaps buy a memento or two to take home. Jaipur is particularly renowned for its embroidery and blue pottery. This evening, join a local family for an exclusive Be My Guest dinner in their home. Connect With Locals and savor some of the regional delicacies.

Accommodations: Hilton
Day 8JaipurExplore Colorful Jaipur: A highlight today is a visit to the UNESCO-listed Amber Fort. But first, stop to admire the red and pink façades of the Palace of Winds, whose latticed windows once revealed the outside world to the sheltered ladies of the royal household. Continue with a visit to the ornate City Palace, an impressive complex of buildings from different eras and gardens in the heart of the Old City. Enjoy some time for lunch before visiting the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar Observatory, featuring the world's largest sundial. Later, perhaps join our optional Aarti ceremony, offering a blessing to one of the Hindu deities and hopefully receiving one in return. This evening, we'll toast to shared memories over a delicious local Farewell Dinner with those guests ending their journey in Jaipur.

Accommodations: Hilton
Day 9DEOGARHVenture to Deogarh Stays With Stories: A brush with Rajasthan royalty awaits as you leave Jaipur and head to Deogarh. This small city is perhaps best known as home to the royal family of the Deogarh Thikana. Overnight in one of Trafalgar's Stays With Stories properties, the Deogarh Mahal, once a magnificent fort at the center of an expansive territory. Tread in the footsteps of the Rawats (Rajas) of Deogarh and watch the world discreetly from behind the fort's jali windows. This evening, a Local Specialist shares the captivating stories across the centuries as you relive the old tales of family feuds and innumerable legends.

Accommodations: Deogarh Mahal
Day 10DEOGARHAll Aboard a Rural Railway Dive Into Culture: Join the locals in their favorite commute when you board a meter-gauge train from Kambali Ghat to Phulad this morning. The rail connection was originally launched by the British to unite the regions of Mewar and Marwar, who didn't enjoy the friendliest of relationships at that time. Today it is the lifeline of the local people. Dive Into Culture watching the rural landscapes flash past as you experience first-hand a typical experience of India. This afternoon, you could choose to take an optional village walk with a Local Specialist. Or simply enjoy some free time and relax at your historic hotel, soaking up its regal atmosphere. Join your fellow travelers for an enchanting cultural dance show followed by dinner.

Accommodations: Deogarh Mahal
Day 11UdaipurJourney to Udaipur: Royalty behind, romance ahead. Your next stop is Udaipur, the City of Lakes. The historic capital of the kingdom of Mewar, Udaipur is dazzling with its many palaces, temples and Havelis (mansions). After lunch at a local restaurant, take a sunset cruise on Lake Pichola and admire the golden hues glinting off lakeside façades. Located at the heart of Udaipur, Lake Pichola and the beautiful Aravali Hills provide a mesmerizing backdrop for yet another glorious day in Rajasthan. There's no better way to end the day than on the water.

Accommodations: Fateh Niwas
Day 12UdaipurUncover Udaipur's Treasures Dive Into Culture: Discover the history of the Mewar dynasty this morning when you visit Udaipur's exquisite City Palace. Admire the panoramic views of the city and Lake Pichola from the palace's ornate façades. No expense was spared in its construction. Its balconies, towers and cupolas are adorned with marble, murals, silver-work and colored glass befitting of the building's stature as the home of the Maharanas for many centuries. Take a leisurely walk past the 17th-century Jagdish Temple, then find sanctuary in the Garden of the Maidens, said to have been designed by Rana Sangram Singh himself to provide a tranquil space for his queen and her 48 maids. This garden is dotted with lotus pools, marble pavilions and elephant-shaped fountains. This makes it the perfect space to center yourself for a Dive Into Culture encounter with the city's lively markets and bazaars. Jostle for your spot in the liveliness of the locals' day to day.

Accommodations: Fateh Niwas
Day 13MumbaiFly to Mumbai: Say a fond farewell to Rajasthan and board your morning flight to Mumbai, India's largest city. There's nothing subtle or serene about this cosmopolitan metropolis. Expect larger than life, loud and high-spirited as you spend the next day discovering all it has to offer. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure or join our optional experience to embark on a cruise across Mumbai Harbor to see the centuries-old rock-cut temples on Elephanta Island. This UNESCO-listed labyrinth of caves features ancient temple carvings, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Dinner this evening will be at your hotel.

Accommodations: Trident Nariman Point, (Mumbai, India)
Day 14MumbaiExplore Mumbai's Metropolis Dive Into Culture: Embrace the magnetism of Mumbai, starting with a visit to the iconic Gateway of India, an iconic archway on the water's edge that witnessed the first visit of a British Monarch to India in 1911 and the departure of the last British troops in 1948. Visit Dhobi Ghat, where you'll Dive Into Culture exploring the world's largest outdoor laundry. Every day, thousands of kilograms of clothes are brought here from all over the city for washing. See the UNESCO-listed Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, a historic railway station built to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria. Then, continue to Churchgate Station and see the Dabbawallas (Tiffin Carriers) who have been ferrying hot lunch boxes by bike across the city to office workers for over a century. Later, visit Mani Bhavan, a museum and historical building which was once Mahatma Gandhi's residence. You'll have some time at leisure this afternoon to relax or to join an optional Bollywood Tour that uncovers the captivating world of film-making in India.

Accommodations: Trident Nariman Point, (Mumbai, India)
Day 15KochiFly to Kochi: Dip more than your toes in the bountiful backwaters of Kerala, 'God's own country'. This slice of southern India is a lush garden filled with spices, brilliant colors and the enchanting sounds of nature. Relax on the tranquil shores of the Arabian Sea, let the freshest seafood melt in your mouth and sink into a more straightforward way of life - one where nature sets the pace for the day. But first, board your flight from Mumbai to Kochi Airport, where you'll be transferred to your hotel. Later, join your local Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception with local appetizers.

Accommodations: Le Meridien Kochi
Day 16Periyar National ParkNature and Relaxation in Periyar Dive Into Culture: Your love affair with Kerala's lush landscapes begins today. Head to Periyar, named after Kerala's longest river which winds its way deep through the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, your first stop. You may wish to spend the afternoon soaking up the sounds of nature during an immersive Nature Walk with a Local Specialist. Tread lightly along the dense forest trails as you learn about the endemic flora and fauna. Banyan, Teak and Bamboo trees provide a serene backdrop for a lesson in Kerala wildlife. You may be lucky enough to see herds of wild elephant and bison seeking to quench their thirst along the quiet shores of Periyar Lake. Keep a keen eye out for hornbills, flycatchers and kites - some of the many species of local and migratory birds that flock to this pristine sanctuary. With your soul soothed after connecting with nature, head to your hotel to freshen up before an exhilarating Dive Into Culture Kalarippayattu performance. Watch as trained Kalari warriors show off this most ancient of martial arts, jumping and somersaulting in the ultimate coordination between mind and body. After a day of adventure, enjoy dinner at your hotel.

Accommodations: Elephant Court
Day 17KumarakomOnwards to Kumarakom Dive Into Culture: The intoxicating scents of cardamom, cinnamon and cloves linger long after today's encounter with Kerala's famous spices. Your first stop today is a visit to Kumily Spice Garden. Here you'll learn how the locals grow and share an astounding variety of flavourful spices, ranging from pepper and ginger to vanilla and cardamom, the 'Queen of Spices'. Gain in-depth insights into the process of spice cultivation and discover how Kerala's international spice trade has shaped its culture and heritage. There's more to experience as you head to Kumarakom, a tranquil village set on the peaceful banks of Lake Vembanad, the largest lake in Kerala. Embark on a walking tour and Dive Into Culture as you admire the vibrant day-to-day of village life in the regional market and lively streets.

Accommodations: The Zuri Kumarakom Resort and Spa
Day 18KumarakomCruise the Calm Backwaters: Kerala's intrinsic relationship with water takes center stage today. Enjoy a leisurely start, then board a traditional houseboat for a cruise surrounded by Kerala's iconic backwaters. Take a deep breath and enjoy the slow, sultry pace of life fringing the narrow canals as you wind your way to Alleppey. Watch villagers wave to each other from their wooden Shikaras (traditional boats), and see how life unfolds along the palm-fringed shoreline. Even your ride for the day is rooted in history. These houseboats, known locally as Kettuvalloms, were formerly old barges used to ferry rice and spices. Upon arriving in Alleppey, disembark and return to Kumarakom for dinner and a relaxing evening.

Accommodations: The Zuri Kumarakom Resort and Spa
Day 19KochiExplore Multi-Cultural Kochi Dive Into Culture Connect with Locals: The remnants of Kerala's colorful, centuries-old trading history are best explored in the old port city of Kochi. It was here that Chinese, Arab and European merchants came to buy the fragrant spices that found their way to tables all over the world. In turn, they left their mark on Kochi's architecture, cuisine and traditions. Colonial bungalows, Catholic churches, mosques and a European fort season the cityscape that was once known as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea'. Enjoy time for lunch before embarking on a city tour to see first-hand this multicultural center, including views of the Mattancherry Dutch Palace and St. Francis Church, built by Portuguese traders. Visit the Fort Kochi area and see traditional cantilevered Chinese fishing nets, unique to this part of Kerala. See how these fixed land installations made on bamboo scaffolding are artfully lowered into the sea to catch the seafood for which Kochi is famous. This evening, Connect With Locals and enjoy a cooking demonstration with a local family followed by a delicious Be My Guest Farewell Dinner.

Accommodations: Le Meridien Kochi
Day 20KochiFarewell Kochi: Your epic encounter with Kerala's culture and natural wonders has come to an end, but your memories will last a lifetime. Say farewell to your travel companions and take an airport transfer for your onward flight.

Accommodations:
Dates/Pricing

Click Quote or call us to get additional information on your chosen travel date. Special offers or competitive pricing may be available!

DatePrice / DescriptionQuote
12/18/2024$5,752.00* (USD) / Land PriceQuote
12/25/2024$5,752.00* (USD) / Land PriceQuote
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- Hotel Class Key: D: Deluxe SF: Superior First Class F: First Class

Tours


  • Uncover India: Delhi to Kerala

    From $5,332.00 (USD)

    Tour Type: Country ExplorerBrochure Type Asia 2024 v1All the treasures of India on one epic trip. From the captivating energy of Delhi and Mumbai to the tranquil backwaters and lingering spice aromas of Kerala.

 
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