Menu
Tour Itinerary
An unforgettable 28-day India tour discovering the North and South India cities and sites that give you a new experience of Indian cultural, old traditions, Heritage, Houseboats, and wildlife (Safari in the search for royal Bengal tigers at Ranthambore National Park.)
This tour with full experience and memory, which no one can store in Hard disk. It can only store in mind and Heart. make everyday new full with India’s famous ‘An Indian Affair 2023’, as well as the opportunity to go on
Activities
- A walking tour through the narrow lanes of Old Delhi’s famous market
- Rickshaw ride in Old Delhi.
- Sunset or Sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal
- Dinner at Dera Amer Elephant resort
- Cookery class in the home of a local family in Jaipur
- Private Jeep safari searching for tigers in Ranthambore National Park
- Private House Boat at Kumarkom Lake resort
- Hot Air ballon ride at Jaipur
- Tribal village visit in Jodhpur
Heritage walk at Varanasi and Jodhpur - Camel Cart ride at Pushkar fair
Day 01: Delhi Arrival
On arrival at New Delhi’s International Airport, you will be received by a Castle & King representative – please keep a lookout for him as soon as you collect your luggage and walk towards the exit gate (we request you not to leave the terminal building until the representative has made contact with you). Assistance and transfer in your private air-conditioned car to the hotel where your room is reserved for immediate check-in.
Enjoy the rest of the day and evening at leisure.
Day 02: Delhi Sightseeing Half-day Old Delhi
After breakfast at the hotel, your driver and guide will collect you for a full day’s sightseeing in DELHI.
DELHI: Capital for many ancient and medieval Empires. The city of Delhi was built on the banks of the Yamuna River and the history of Delhi dates back more than 3000 years. Indraprastha according to legends was the old Capital of Delhi and founded by the Pandavas in the times of the Mahabharata 1500 B.C. and was located near the Old Fort. Today the city is a unique blend of old and new very evident in the two parts of Old and New Delhi, the latter mainly built by the British.
Old Delhi sightseeing
Red Fort – built by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1638 of the Mughal Dynasty.
Jama Masjid – magnificent mosque, also built by Shah Jahan, and the largest in India.
A rickshaw ride through the Market Place of Chandni Chowk (Moonlit Square), its narrow lanes famous for its small silver stores, antiques, Indian Saree shops, outlets for incense and ‘Ittar’ (the raw form of perfume products), and the ancient Bird hospital. Also, visit the Kinari Bazaar (bridal Market) and the Spice market both of which offer wonderful photo opportunities.
Next, head to the Sikh Temple to look inside its huge free kitchens while they prepare and serve lunch to hundreds of people.
Return to the hotel for an evening of leisure.
Day 03: Delhi Sightseeing after breakfast proceed for the Full day tour of New Delhi
New Delhi sightseeing
A drive along Rajpath (Kings Way), a wonderfully planned wide boulevard with ornamental ponds on each side and pollen-free trees that are now more than 100 years old, planted by the British to give shade in the summer. This is Lutyen’s Delhi, designed by the famous English architect during colonial rule. The 2800 acres are home to Delhi’s elite- ambassadors, ministers, high-ranking judges, etc. At the eastern end of Rajpath is India Gate, a 42-meter-high stone memorial constructed to commemorate those who died in the North Eastern Frontier (towards Afghanistan) with nearly 85000 names inscribed on the walls. At the far West side of the Boulevard is Rastrapati Bhawan (Presidential Palace) – the home of the former Viceroy of India and now the Residence of the President of India. The building was completed in 1929 and is an interesting blend of both Mughal and Western architectural styles (a visit inside the Palace is not permitted due to security reasons).
A visit tot Mahatma Gandhi’s residence where the great man was assassinated in 1948. It is now an interesting Museum based on his life and ideology.
Stop for lunch at one of Delhi’s fine restaurants. (Ask for Castle & King’s list of recommendations. It is essential to make a reservation which your driver/guide can do for you. Lunch is not included in the tour cost.)
After lunch visits will be arranged to:
Qutab Minar – Built in the 13th century by the Slave Dynasty King Qutab-ud-din-Aibaq.
Statue of Mahavir (Jain Sect) – Perched on a hill near the Qutab Minar, offering great views of the area.
Drive past the Chattarpur Temple Complex – the largest Hindu temple complex in Delhi where all the different types of Indian Temple architecture (ancient and modern) can be seen.
Evening visit to Humayun’s Tomb, the last refuge of the Mughal Emperor. This spellbinding mausoleum is the first example of Mughal architecture in India and is said to have inspired the construction of the more famous Taj Mahal.
Return to the hotel for an evening of leisure.
Day 04: Delhi – Varanasi:
After an early breakfast transfer to the airport to board a flight for Varanasi. Upon arrival in Varanasi, you will be received by our company representative and transferred to the hotel.
Varanasi abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati, the origins of Varanasi are yet unknown. Varanasi abounds in the art of silk weaving, an exotic work of art that manifests itself in precious Banarasi silk saris and silk brocades which are cherished as collector’s items across the world, even today. The city is also renowned for its rich tapestry of music, arts, crafts, and education. On arrival at Varanasi meet assistance get transferred to hotel. Check into hotel.
Later in the evening enjoy a sunset boat ride to witness a grand prayer ceremony on the ghats of the river Ganges. You will be transferred to a surreal world, as dozens of big lamps are lit and swayed in a semi-circle, in tandem by the priests to offer prayers, while singing of Vedic hymns and playing traditional instruments, while the visitors release 100 small earthen lamps with flickering lights.
Overnight stay in Varanasi.
Day 05: Varanasi: Full day sightseeing of Varanasi and Explore Ghat
Early morning enjoys the heritage walk and sunrise boat ride on the river Ganges to witness early morning bathers, raising their faces to the rising sun and reciting the sacred mantra. Further, after breakfast at the hotel, proceed for a morning city tour of Varanasi visiting various temples, some of the most prominent amongst them are the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred Shiv Temples for Hindus & Bharat Mata Temple, where the map of undivided India is inscribed in stone and prayed instead of any god or goddess.
Afternoon visit Sarnath – the site of the deer park where Gautama Buddha is said to have given his first sermon. It has been a premier center for Buddhism and has a rich collection of ancient Buddhist relics and antiques comprising numerous Buddha and Bodhisattva images on display at the Museum (Sarnath museum is closed on Friday).
Overnight stay in Varanasi.
Day 06: Varanasi – Agra: Flight
(Direct flight is not operating now, once everything is on then it would be operating)
Breakfast at the hotel, and later transfers to the airport for the flight to Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi transfer to Agra. Reach Agra and check in at Hotel.
Agra:- Two great Mughal monarchs, Akbar and Shah Jahan, transformed the little village of Agra into a befitting second capital of the Mughal Empire – giving it the name Dar-ul-Khilafat {seat of the Emperor}. Today a visitor to Agra is caught up in a world of contrasting edifices, of red sandstone and white marble, narrow galleys, and quaint buggies. This city still retains that inescapable charm of the Mughals. It is found without any exception that modern Agra still boasts of its Mughal heritage most conspicuously. A leisurely stroll down the narrow bustling streets of the city will acquaint you with the wafting aroma of Mughlai cuisine.
Overnight stay in Agra.
Day 07: Agra:
Your driver and guide will collect you from the hotel early in the morning to see the Taj Mahal at sunrise. The ethereal light and fewer tourists make this one of the best times to visit this beautiful monument, a testament to love. A silent battery van will take you up to the entrance, and once inside you will be enthralled by the magnificence of this quite remarkable white marble building and its setting.
Taj Mahal a UNESCO Heritage Site, to catch the sun rising over the Taj Mahal – undisputedly one of the world’s most beautiful buildings. In the soft morning light, as the mist rises from the Yamuna River, it seems to float like a mirage above the surrounding landscape. Built from dazzling marble, its colour changes from white to yellow, cream and to almost orange… an exquisite image that you’ll remember forever.
Later transfer to the hotel and have relaxed breakfast.
Afternoon visits:
Agra Fort – Afternoon visit to this impressing edifice built by Akbar in1565 AD. The construction is is predominately of red sandstone and houses the beautiful Pearl Mosque. It is from here that Shah Jahan, imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb. looked across the Yamuna River to the Taj Mahal in the last few days of his life.
Itmadullah’s Tomb – Also known as Baby Taj, it was built between 1622-26 AD by Nur Jahan the wife of Jahangir in memory of her father Ghias-ud-Din-Beg. From its parkland setting, there are wonderful views of the River.
Return to the Hotel for an evening at leisure.
Overnight stay in Agra.
Day 08: Agra – Fathepursikri – Ranthambhore:
By Surface and then by train: Kota Jan Shatabdi 02060 Dep:2:50 Arr:05:13 P.M
Early morning proceeds for the Yoga Class overlooking at Taj Mahal.
Drive to Bharatpur (58 Km, 1 hr 15 mins), stopping at Fatehpur Sikri en route / TRAIN to Rathanbore: KOTA JAN SHATABDI –2904 (Dep:15:45, Arr: 17:05)
Return to the hotel for breakfast and after checking out, set off with your driver and guide for the drive to Bharatpur stopping en route to visit Fatehpur Sikri.
Fatehpur Sikri – A deserted, red sandstone City, built by Emperor Akbar as his capital and palace in the late 16th century. A visit to this veritable fairytale city is an exhilarating experience, its ‘ruins’ in such pristine condition that it’s not hard to imagine what the court life must have been like in the days of its grandeur. Marvel at the Buland Darwaza, the largest gateway in the world built of red and buff sandstone and decorated by carving and inlaying of white and black marble. An inscription on its central face throws light on Akbar’s religious broad-mindedness.
Leave your guide here and continue by car to Bharatpur railway station to board the train for Ranthambore.
On arrival in Ranthambore, our representative will be at the station to meet you and take you by car to your hotel. He will talk through the timings for your safaris on the next two days.
Ranthambhore National Park; one of the biggest and most renowned National Parks in Northern India. The park is located in the Sawai Madhopur district of South-eastern Rajasthan, which is about 130 km from Jaipur. Being considered as one of the famous and former hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur, today the Ranthambhore National Park terrain is major wildlife tourist attraction spot that has pulled the attention of many wildlife photographers and lovers in this destination. Arrive and check into the hotel. Stay for two nights in the wildlife resort
Evening at leisure at the hotel.
Day 09: Ranthambhore:
Breakfast at the Hotel before setting off for your 2 personal safaris in a private jeep.
Ranthambore – A vast national park and tiger reserve in Rajasthan state of western India. It is located in the Sawai Madhopur district of south-eastern Rajasthan, about 130 km from Jaipur. The park lies on the edge of a plateau, and is bounded to the north by the Banas River and to the south by the Chambal River, and there are several lakes in the park. It is named for the historic Ranthambore fortress which lies within the national park. The park covers an area of 392 km², and is famous for its tiger population, one of India’s ‘Project Tiger’ reserves. Other wild animals you can spot here include the leopard, dhole, wild pig, sambar, chital and the gaur. It is also home to wide variety of trees, plants, birds and reptiles native to this area.
Enjoy this amazing day before returning to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Day 10: Ranthambore morning / Afternoon drive to Jaipur: 180 Km, 3 hours
Early breakfast before leaving for a further half day Safari.
Return to the hotel perhaps to change. After checking out leave for the drive to Jaipur.
On arrival at Jaipur, our representative will be waiting to greet you at the hotel. After check in, he will talk through timings for sightseeing visits. Your driver and guide will be available for a late afternoon drive through this wonderful City.
JAIPUR: The origins of the beautiful city of Jaipur can be traced back to the 18th century, during the reign of Jai Singh II who ascended the Amber throne in 1699. Jaipur today, epitomizes the spirit of Rajputana. In-spite of growing into a bustling metropolis, it still retains its special character and history, a beautiful fusion of the yesteryears and modernity. Jaipur is popularly known as the Pink City because of the extensive use of the locally abundant pink plastered stone, painted in honour of the visit of the royal consort of Queen Victoria, Prince Albert. Jaipur thrills the soul with its massive forts, magnificent palaces, exquisite temples and lush gardens.
Enjoy a cookery lesson and dinner with a charming local family.
Day 11: Jaipur
Breakfast at the hotel before leaving with your driver and guide for a day of sightseeing.
AMBER FORT PALACE – Amber is a classic, romantic Rajasthani fort palace, Its construction started by Man Singh I in 1592, then expanded and renovated by his descendent Jai Singh I . It’s forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds it’s ultimate expression. Enjoy a short elephant ride up the steep approach to Amber, then once through the Sun Gate, your guide will take you round explaining the history of this unbelievable place, the most beautiful and impressive forts in India. Located high on a hill, and the jewel in the crown of Jaipur. Its huge courtyard and lush gardens are just a taster to what lies inside the palace. Sheesh Mahal is a breathtaking experience, decorated with mirrors and glass inlaid panels on the walls and ceilings. On the other side is the Sukh Niwas that features an early form of air conditioning where a cool climate is created by winds that blow over the water and cool the air. There are photo opportunities galore here, both inside and out, and the views toward Jaipur are stunning.
CITY PALACE – This sprawling complex, with its gorgeous buildings and marvellous collection of art and artifacts is without parallel in Rajasthan. A major part of the City Palace now consists of the ‘Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum’. It is also the residence of the Jaipur Royal Family. A delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture, the City Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area in the walled city. It houses the Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple and the City Palace Museum.
JANTAR MANTAR – This is the largest and the best preserved of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II in different parts of the country. This observatory, consisting of outsized astronomical instruments, is still in use and incredibly the sundials can tell time to the nearest second!
HAWA MAHAL – The ornamental facade of this “Palace of Winds” is a prominent landmark in Jaipur. Its five-storey structure of sandstone plastered pink is encrusted with fine trelliswork and elaborate balconies.
The palace has 953 niches and windows. Built in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the Mahal was a royal grandstand for the palace women where they could observe street life and yet not be seen.
Rest of the day at leisure, OR, if you fell in love with the Amber Palace, you might want to return there for the Light and Sound show in the evening.
Or we can add the Hot Ballon ride today.
Day 12: Jaipur:
After a relaxed breakfast, spend the morning shopping, walking through the streets of Jaipur with your guide, or hire an auto rickshaw ride to where you would particularly like to go for perhaps Lac work, Meenakari metal work (enamelled), marble work, paintings, books and stationery, leather work, gemstones, carpets, woodwork, or jewellery. Ask for our list of ‘Where to Shop for What in Jaipur’.
Later, continue to to spend a memorable evening with elephants. It’s a magical place on the outskirts of the city, where you can spend time up close with elephants by helping to feed and bathe them before taking a gentle walk together through the surrounding forest at sunset (Dera Amer do not encourage rides). If meeting elephants isn’t your thing, this can certainly be removed or replaced. Perhaps with a private cooking class or a special dinner recommendation. For those interested in spending time with elephants, Dera Amer is a fantastic and ethical place to do it.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 13: Pushkar fair dates 2023
By Surface: 180 Km 3 Hrs,
After breakfast drive to Pushkar.
The fair kicks off with camel races, traditional folk performances, cricket matches and even a camel beauty contest! A festive funfair atmosphere prevails over Pushkar during the mela’s two-week duration and reaches a crescendo on the night of the full moon when pilgrims take a dip in the holy lake. A photographer’s dream, one cannot help but become immersed in this frenetic festival’s sights, sounds, and smells.
Pushkar, lying along the bank of the picturesque Pushkar Lake, in a narrow dry valley, overshadowed by impressive rocky hills, offering the most spectacular views of the desert during sunset. It is one of the five most sacred places of pilgrimage of Hindus. As per Indian mythology, the city was created when a lotus leaf fell from Lord Brahma’s hand and the holy lake sprouted up there. It is surrounded by hills on three sides and sand dunes on one which makes it the most fascinating.
Visit Pushkar Lake and Brahma temple; the only one of its kind in the world. This is a city of pilgrimage from time immemorial with over 500 temples and Ghats, with each Ghat having its own miraculous qualities and healing powers. Pushkar begets a legacy of timeless architectural heritage and radiates an ambience of peace and spirituality.
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 14: Pushkar:
Spend the day and evening enjoying the festivities of the Pushkar Fair with your guide.
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 15: Pushkar – Bundi: By Surface: 180 Km 3 Hrs,
After relaxed breakfast continue drive to Bundi, reach and check into hotel. Bundi known as Hadoti, – the land of the Hadas. Hada Rajputs are a major branch of the Chauhan Agnikula (fire dynasty) Rajputs. They had settled in the hilly terrain of Mewar, at Bambaoda, near Bijolian in the 12C. Bundi was conquered in 1241 by Rao Deva Singh from the Meena tribe. This was the first step in the establishment of Hadaoti, when the Hadas moved down from the ‘Pathar’ around Bambaoda.
Overnight stay in Bundi.
Day 16: Bundi – Chittorgarh – Udaipur: By surface: 264 Km 5 Hrs,
After breakfast drive to Udaipur, Enroute visit Chittaurgarh Fort, The fort of Chittor is regarded as one of the most outstanding forts of the country and is indeed the “Pride of Rajasthan State”. The formidable fort is perched atop a 180 meter high hillock covering a massive area of 700 acres and is a standing sentinel to the courage and valour of Chittorgarh. It is belived that the fort was built by the Mauryans in 7th century and further strucres were added to it by the successive Mewar rulers.
After visiting continue to Udaipur, reach and check into hotel.
Udaipur, The city of Dawn, Udaipur is a lovely land around the azure lake, hemmed in by the lush hills of the ARAVALLIS. A vision in white drenched in romance and beauty, Udaipur is a fascinating blend of sights, sound and experiences and inspiration for the imagination of poets, painters and writers. Udaipur is the jewel of MEWAR -a kingdom ruled by the Sisodia dynasty for 1200 Years. Relax in the evening.
Overnight stay in Udaipur.
Day 17: Udaipur
After breakfast proceed for guided sightseeing tour and visit City Palace, Jagdish Temple, Museum, Jag Mandir and Saheliyon-Ki-Bari. We also visit the Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandir which is an Indian folk arts museum and has interesting exhibits that include folks dresses, ornaments, puppets, masks, dolls, folks musical instruments, folk deities and paintings followed by a visit too Jag Mandir, a temple dedicated to Lord Jagdish.
Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola, an artificial fresh water lake, created in the year 1362 AD, named after the nearby Picholi village. It is one of the several contiguous lakes, and developed over the last few centuries in and around the famous Udaipur city. The lakes around Udaipur were primarily created by building dams to meet the drinking water and irrigation needs of the city and its neighbourhood. Two islands, Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir are located within Pichola Lake, and have been developed with several palaces to provide views of the lake. Conclude your day with a fantastic cultural show at the Bagore-ki-Haveli you might even get up and join in the dancing.
Overnight stay in Udaipur.
Day 18: Udaipur – Ranakpur – Rawlanarlai: By Surface: 120 Km 2 Hrs,
After breakfast at the hotel transfer to Narlai by surface, en-route visit Ranakpur Temples.
Ranakpur Temples dating back 15 century. 200 pillars, none of which are alike, support its 29 halls. The temple abounds with intricate friezes and sculptures. Included visits to two more Jain temple and the temple of the Sun God with its erotic sculptures.
After visiting the Temple drive to Narlai, reach and transfer to the hotel. Wake up to the sounds of this 17-century village and take in the spiritual energy from the invigorating air descending from the Shiva Temple, lodged deep in a primal cave high on the hill. The village is caught in a time warp, since the Royal family moved back to the Kingdom of Jodhpur. Life has continued much as it was then in Narlai.
It’s the best to explore the Indian old traditions, rural life and cultural.
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 19: Rawala Narlai – Jodhpur: By Surface: 130 Km 2 Hrs,
After a relaxed breakfast at the hotel transfer to Jodhpur by surface, reach Jodhpur and check in to hotel.
Jodhpur Set at the edge of the Thar Desert, the imperial city of Jodhpur echoes with tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the desert. Once the capital of the Marwar state, it was founded in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha-chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs who claimed to be descendants of Rama – the epic hero of the Ramayana. The massive 15th century AD Mehrangarh Fort looms on the top of a rocky hill, soaring 125 Mts. Above the plains.
The city is encompassed by a high wall -10 km long with 8 gates and innumerable bastions.
In the afternoon proceed for the Blue old city.
Overnight stay will be at Hotel.
Day 20: Jodhpur
Morning proceed for Jeep safari to Bishnoi Village.
Afternoon proceed to visit Mehrangarh Fort; one of the largest forts in India, the beauty and grandeur of numerous palaces inside narrates a saga of hard sandstones yielding to the chisels of skilled Jodhpuri sculptures and to enter, seven gates have to be crossed. A collection of musical instruments, palanquins, furniture and cannons on the forts ramparts are well preserved. Also visit Old city; surrounded by a 10km long wall, has 8 gates serving as entrances, the winding streets offer colourful street markets with blue houses alternated with white houses and Clock tower; a prominent landmark. Evening get yourself painted with Henna, the ancient Indian form of Tattoo, for over five thousand years, henna has served as a symbol of good luck, health and sensuality in the Indian sub-continent.
Overnight stay in Jodhpur.
Day 21: Jodhpur – Mumbai: Flight: UK-656 Dep: 1:45 PM Arr:3:15 PM
Castle and King India executive will wait at the arrival with a placard in your name to greet you. Thereafter you will be assisted with a transfer and check in at the hotel.
Mumbai was given by Portuguese as dowry to Charles II of England when he married Catherine. The group of seven islands was leased to the East India Company who offered freedom of business and religion to persons who came and settled here. Initially a few Parsis and Gujarati came but soon a sizeable population began to thrive here. This was way back in the 17th century. Today also Mumbai is a city of migrants. People from all over the country have come and settled here. This gives the society of Mumbai a multi-lingual and multi-cultural colour.
Overnight stay in Mumbai.
Day 22: Mumbai:
After breakfast at the hotel process for full day sightseeing of Mumbai visiting Gateway of India, Prince of Wales Museum (closed on Mondays) Fish Aquarium, Jain Temple, Hanging Garden on the slopes Of Mahabar Hills Offering nice view of Marine Lines and Chowpatty Beach, Kamala Nehru Park. Mani Bhawan (where Mahatma Gandhi used to stay) then to Dhobi Ghat. Also drive past Afghan Church, Flora Fountain (Bombay nerve- center), and colorful Crawford Market and Marine Drive
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 23: Mumbai to Aurangabad Flight: AI-319 Dep:15:25 Arr:16:45 PM
Morning transfer to Mumbai airport to board flight for Aurangabad. Upon arrival transfer to hotel. Aurangabad, The city of Aurangabad is frequented for its medieval monuments and cultural heritage. It was the seat of the Mughal Empire for a short period. The city has prime tourist attractions like Bibi-ka-Makbara, a tomb that resembles the Taj Mahal. The importance of Aurangabad is great, owing to its proximity with world heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora. Ajanta and Ellora are famous for Buddhist, Jain and Hindu temples. Aurangabad better recognised for its silk and cotton textiles.
Overnight stay in Aurangabad.
Day 24: Aurangabad:- (Ajanta & Ellora Caves)
Morning after breakfast excursion to Ajanta Caves. Nestling in an inner fold of the Sahyadri hills, 100 kms from the city of Aurangabad in the shape of a mammoth horseshoe are the 30 rock-hewn caves of Ajanta, dating from 2nd century B.C. Discovered in 1819, by a group of British Offcers, these startling achievements took around 600 years to create. Carved with little more than a hammer and chisel, Ajanta, once the retreat of the Buddhist monastic orders features several ‘Chaityas’ and Viharas. The exquisite paintings and sculptures of Buddha’s life belong to the Mahayana period.
Afternoon proceed to visit to Ellora Caves. Impressive in their own right are the rock-hewn temples and monasteries of Ellora that lie just 30 kms away from Aurangabad City and are the meeting point of the Buddhists, Jains and Hindus. In all, there are 34 elaborate cave temples. This afternoon enjoy an excursion to Daulatabad Fort, a labyrinthine structure that was once covered in Persian tiles.
Overnight stay in Aurangabad.
Day 25: Aurangabad – Mumbai – Cochin:
Flight: 6E-568, Dep: 0815, Arr: 0920 hrs Connected 6E-5214 Dep:11:15 Arr:13:10
After an early breakfast transfer to Aurangabad airport to board flight for Mumbai. Reach Mumbai and transfer to the Cochin flight.
Reach Cochin and transfer to hotel.
Kochi (colonial name Cochin) is a vibrant city situated on the south-west coast of the Indian peninsula in the breathtakingly scenic and prosperous state of Kerala, hailed as ‘God’s Own Country’. Its strategic importance over the centuries is underlined by the sobriquet Queen of the Arabian Sea. Informally, Cochin is also referred to as the Gateway to Kerala.
After lunch proceed to a sightseeing tour of the oasis state of Kerala and one of the India’s most colourful cities. You will have a walk around the Synagogue. The area around the synagogue is known as “Jew town” and is one of the Kochi’ spice trade centres. We also stop at Mattancherry Dutch Palace which was built by the Portuguese, and presented to the Maharaja of Cochin in 1568. Proceeding ahead you will visit St. Francis Church; the first church to be built in India by the Portuguese. After visiting Santa Cruz Cathedral enjoy strolling on the beach side viewing the life at Chinese fishing nets.
In the evening enjoy a Kathakalli Dance Performance. Kathakalli is a ritualized dance form that is native to Kerala, with elaborate costumes and makeup. Male dancers portray both male and female roles that tell the stories taken mostly from the epics of the Mahabharatha and Ramayana.
Overnight stay in Cochin.
Day 26: Cochin – Kumarakom: By Surface: 60 Km 1 Hrs,
After breakfast at Hotel drive to Kuamrakom, reach and transfer to Kumarkom Lake resort. In my opinion as well as our previous guest experience it’s best and luxury resort for you to relax and enjoy the resort facilities.
The rooms, villas and suites at Karakorum Lake Resort are a perfect blend of Kerala’s traditional architectural charm with luxurious, modern comforts. Each is a careful reconstruction of manas, the 16th century traditional homesteads of Kerala, with many such manas having been transplanted from their original locations and reassembled painstakingly by hand, plank by plank, tile by tile, to create the luxurious abodes at Kumarakom Lake Resort. The traditionally styled, luxuriously modern, open-roofed bathrooms set in small, aesthetically designed courtyards are a common feature to the villas and suites.
Overnight at Resort.
Day 27: Kumarakom (Houseboat)
After breakfast at the hotel embark on Overnight houseboat. The backwaters in Kerala are a world of serenity and wonderment. This large aquatic area is a vast network of lagoons, lakes, rivers and canals, and the people who live in this region have created their own distinct lifestyles. Witness the peaceful way of life on these amazing waterways with lunch, dinner and overnight stay on board; this will be a real highlight of your holiday. Your journey will start from Pallathurathy starting at 12 noon cruise towards Kannjipadam – The land situated in a picturesque surrounding with- all beauty of Kerala – Coconut palm plantations, paddy fields, backwaters & canals. After lunch at Kannjipadam cruise via Thottapally towards- Thakazhi by reaching by 5.30PM. We will anchor the house boat and then after proceed for a village walks. The land is bounded by backwater and is the birth place of famous Malyalam writer Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai. Thakazhy was a centre of Buddhism during the early days. It was under the Chempakassery Kingdom, which is annexed to Travancore by Marthanda Varma. After you finish exploring the village return to house boat for dinner and overnight stay.
Overnight stay on Houseboat.
**While on the houseboat you can enjoy fishing with rod or can ask the local chef for Kerala Cooking demonstration. The houseboat docks itself in the evening at around 1700 hrs as by this time the fisherman draws their nets in the backwaters. The Air conditioning in the houseboat also starts at night after the houseboat docks.
Day 28: Kumarakom – Cochin – Home/ Flight to Mumbai:
Breakfast at the houseboat. Later disembark from boat and drive to cochin, then, depending on the time of your homeward flight, either spend time using the facilities of the hotel, or go with our company representative who will transfer you to the International Airport. (Allow a minimum of 2 1/2hr for check in formalities.)
The Castle and King team wish you a safe and pleasant journey home and hope that this taste of India will entice you to return in the future to see more of this spectacular, awe-inspiring and unforgettable country. We would be honoured to be asked to plan your next visit.
Tour Ends.
