Day 1
Arrive in Kathmandu
As you transfer from Kathmandu Airport to your hotel, notice the vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. Nepal's culture, deeply rooted in spirituality, unfolds in its capital's numerous shrines and temples. Anticipate exploring these sacred sites soon. Your evening includes a relaxing dinner at the hotel.
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza The Soaltee Kathmandu or similar
Meals Included: Dinner
Day 2
Kathmandu
Today, explore Swayambhunath, a UNESCO site, with its prayer mills and iconic stupa, adorned with Buddha's watchful eyes. Amidst ancient Buddhist and Hindu relics, witness Nepalese artistry and playful monkeys. Visit Durbar Square, heart of the old town, surrounded by historic temples and palaces. After lunch, discover Patan's famed temples and palaces at Patan Durbar Square. Conclude with a visit to the Tibetan Refugee Camp, showcasing traditional Tibetan crafts, before returning to Kathmandu for a relaxing evening.
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza The Soaltee Kathmandu or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 3
Kathmandu
Explore Bhaktapur's UNESCO-listed Durbar Square, a cultural hub amidst temple reconstruction. Wander its alleys, observing artisans crafting textiles, timber, and terracotta pottery. Participate in a pottery workshop, experiencing traditional techniques and creating your own piece. Sample Juju Dhau, a local yoghurt delicacy, and consider an optional Aarti ceremony at Pashupatinath Temple later, before returning to your hotel for leisure time.
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza The Soaltee Kathmandu or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 4
Kathmandu- Delhi
Begin your northern India adventure in its bustling capital, Delhi. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel, meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers, and ease into this incredible journey with a Welcome Reception, complete with drinks and local appetizers, setting the tone for the unforgettable experiences ahead.
Accommodation: Le Meridien New Delhi/The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi or similar
Meals Included: Welcome Reception
Day 5
Delhi
Embark on a rickshaw adventure through Old Delhi, witnessing the historic Red Fort and the vibrant Chandni Chowk market. Visit the grand Jama Masjid, then drive to Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi's memorial. Discover Agrasen Ki Baoli, a hidden stepwell oasis, before relaxing at your hotel or exploring further.
Accommodation: Le Meridien New Delhi/The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 6
Delhi
Start with a walking tour to learn about Salaam Baalak Trust's work for street children. Explore the bustling Paharganj bazaar, then shift to serene New Delhi, visiting Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO site inspiring the Taj Mahal. Savor lunch near India Gate and marvel at Qutub Minar's grandeur. Conclude with a drive past colonial Lutyens' Delhi, before relaxing at your hotel or engaging in optional activities.
Accommodation: Le Meridien New Delhi/The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7
Dehli- Agra
Depart Delhi for Agra, a city famed for the iconic Taj Mahal. Be captivated by its marble splendour bathed in the sunset's glow. Embrace a quiet moment to appreciate this architectural masterpiece. Conclude your day with the option of a sound and light show, enhancing the experience before dinner.
Accommodation: Double Tree by Hilton Hotel Agra or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8
Agra- Ranthambore
Explore Agra beyond the Taj Mahal with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Agra Fort, a significant Mughal residence. Then, discover the abandoned, yet well-preserved 'Ghost Town' of Fatehpur Sikri. After lunch in Bharatpur, embark on a classic Indian train journey to Ranthambore for a two-night wildlife adventure.
Accommodation: Anuraga Palace Hotel Ranthambore or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9
Ranthambore
Begin with a dawn safari in Ranthambore National Park, the erstwhile hunting grounds of Jaipur's Maharaja. Spot diverse wildlife and bird species, even elusive tigers. After a late breakfast at your hotel, relax or opt for an experience. Post-lunch, enjoy a second game drive before dinner back at the hotel.
Accommodation: Anuraga Palace Hotel Ranthambore or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10
Ranthambore- Jaipur
Travel to Jaipur, the Pink City, and engage in a traditional hand-block printing workshop after lunch. Learn from a Local Specialist and practice your skills. Then, explore a local market, admiring vibrant textiles and Jaipur's famous embroidery and blue pottery. End the day with a Be My Guest dinner, enjoying regional cuisine with a local family.
Accommodation: Hilton Jaipur or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Be My Guest
Day 11
Jaipur
Today's journey includes the UNESCO-listed Amber Fort and the Palace of Winds. Visit the City Palace, showcasing various architectural styles, and have lunch before exploring the Jantar Mantar Observatory, home to the world's largest sundial. Optionally, attend an Aarti ceremony. Conclude with a Farewell Dinner, celebrating the journey's end in Jaipur.
Accommodation: Hilton Jaipur or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 12
Jaipur- Deogarh
Journey from Jaipur to Deogarh, where royalty unfolds at the Deogarh Mahal, a Trafalgar's Stays With Stories property. Once a grand fort, experience living like the Rawats of Deogarh, peering through jali windows. Tonight, delve into centuries of history and legends with a Local Specialist, bringing the past to life.
Accommodation: Deogarh Mahal or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13
Deogarh
Embark on a cultural journey with a local-favourite train ride from Kambali Ghat to Phulad, a route established by the British to connect Mewar and Marwar regions. Witness rural India from the train, experiencing a quintessential aspect of Indian life. Later, opt for a village walk or relax at your historic hotel. The day concludes with a cultural dance show and dinner with fellow travellers.
Accommodation: Deogarh Mahal or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14
Deogarh- Udaipur
Leaving regal heritage behind, head to Udaipur, the enchanting City of Lakes, adorned with palaces, temples, and Havelis. Post-lunch at a local eatery, enjoy a mesmerizing sunset cruise on Lake Pichola, basking in the golden reflections on the water and the stunning Aravali Hills backdrop, culminating another splendid day in Rajasthan.
Accommodation: Fateh Niwas Udaipur or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 15
Udaipur
Explore the rich history of the Mewar dynasty at Udaipur's City Palace, marvelling at its lavish construction with marble, murals, and stained glass. Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Pichola, then stroll by the 17th-century Jagdish Temple. Find peace in the Garden of the Maidens, adorned with lotus pools and marble pavilions, before diving into the vibrant local markets and bazaars, immersing in the daily hustle of city life.
Accommodation: Fateh Niwas Udaipur or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 16
Udaipur- Mumbai
Bid goodbye to Rajasthan and fly to Mumbai, India's bustling metropolis. Immerse yourself in its vibrant, spirited atmosphere. Spend the afternoon at leisure or opt for a cruise to Elephanta Island, a UNESCO site with ancient rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Conclude your day with dinner at the hotel.
Accommodation: Trident Nairman Point or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 17
Mumbai
Discover Mumbai's charm with a visit to the Gateway of India, an emblem of both British arrival and departure. Explore Dhobi Ghat, the world's largest outdoor laundry, and the UNESCO-listed Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. Witness the century-old tradition of Dabbawallas at Churchgate Station. Visit Gandhi's former residence, Mani Bhavan, and consider an optional Bollywood tour in the afternoon.
Accommodation: Trident Nairman Point or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 18
Mumbai- Kochi
Embark on a journey to Kerala's lush backwaters, a haven of spices, vibrant colours, and nature's melodies. Savor fresh seafood and unwind by the Arabian Sea, embracing a simpler lifestyle guided by nature. Begin with a flight from Mumbai to Kochi, then transfer to your hotel for a Welcome Reception with your Travel Director and fellow travellers, complete with local appetizers.
Accommodation: Le Meridien Kochi or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Welcome Recpetion
Day 19
Kochi- Periyar National Park
Begin your exploration of Kerala in Periyar, home to the state's longest river and the enchanting Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Consider a Nature Walk to learn about local wildlife amidst banyan, teak, and bamboo. Spot wild elephants and bison by Periyar Lake and observe diverse birdlife. Refresh at your hotel before a thrilling Kalarippayattu martial arts performance, and cap off your day with dinner at the hotel.
Accommodation: The Elephant Court Thekkady Periyar National Park or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 20
Periyar National Park- Kumarakom
Immerse yourself in the aromatic world of Kerala's spices at Kumily Spice Garden, learning about the cultivation of diverse spices like pepper, ginger, vanilla, and the esteemed cardamom. Understand the impact of the spice trade on local culture. Then, explore Kumarakom, a serene village by Lake Vembanad, absorbing the vibrant life in its market and streets.
Accommodation: The Zuri Kumarakom Resort and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 21
Kumarakom
Today, celebrate Kerala's deep bond with water. Begin leisurely, then embark on a houseboat journey through the tranquil backwaters. Experience the laid-back canal life en route to Alleppey, observing locals in Shikaras amidst the palm-lined shores. Learn about the historical Kettuvalloms, once spice and rice carriers. Conclude with dinner and relaxation in Kumarakom.
Accommodation: The Zuri Kumarakom Resort and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 22
Kumarakom- Kochi
Explore Kochi, a city steeped in a vibrant trading history where Chinese, Arab, and European influences shaped its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. After lunch, tour the city, including Mattancherry Dutch Palace and St. Francis Church. Witness unique Chinese fishing nets in Fort Kochi. The day ends with a local cooking demonstration and a Be My Guest Farewell Dinner, offering a chance to connect with locals.
Accommodation: Le Meridien Kochi or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Be My Guest
Day 23
Depart Kochi
As your remarkable journey through Kerala's cultural and natural beauty concludes, cherish the lasting memories. Bid farewell to your fellow travellers and proceed to the airport, embarking on your next adventure with a heart full of unforgettable experiences.
Meals Included: Breakfast
