Taj Mahal, Palaces and Backwaters Tour India

Itinerary Highlights

Enjoy the contrast of the old and new in Delhi on a guided tour
Take stunning sunset photos from the beautiful Taj Mahal in Agra
Witness a Kathakali dance performance in Fort Cochin
Cruise through the beautiful maze of the backwaters of Allepey

What's Included

Accommodation Throughout
International Flights

14 nights from £4,125 per person

Ellie

Travel Specialist

01244 722 137

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In a magical country that’s almost as big as a continent, this journey evokes the very essence of India from the iconic Taj Mahal to Cochin and Kerala’s idyllic backwaters, Imperial Delhi and the colour and pageantry of Jaipur in Rajasthan.

This itinerary starts in the north of the country, visiting Delhi old and new, Agra's Red Fort and Taj Mahal and Jaipur's Amber Fort, city palace and colourful busy markets. You then take a flight south to Cochin, Kerala to discover the historical fort and visit Cochin’s famous Chinese fishing nets. Next, its time to relax and take in the beautiful backwaters which includes spending a night on a houseboat. To conclude your stay in India you spend a couple of nights on the rustic south coast beaches of Marari.

Please note this is a suggested itinerary and can be altered to meet your specific holiday requirements.

Itinerary

Day 1 London to Delhi

Fly from home to Delhi on an overnight flight.

Day 2 Arrive Delhi

Arrive in Delhi, where you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel and assisted with check in. Relax and enjoy the Delhi at leisure. Delhi is the capital of the country and offers you plenty of historic sights, museums, parks, shops, bars and restaurants. Delhi is also known often known as The Mecca for food lovers and you have plenty of amazing restaurants to choose from.

Day 3 Delhi

Today enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Delhi, enjoy the contrasts of old and new parts of Delhi. Enjoy a visit to Old Delhi, travel through the old town, markets and experience the chaos and charm of the old city. In the afternoon you will explore parts of New Delhi. A visit to the busy shopping areas is great to explore Delhi and it's people. Plenty of markets to choose from, you can head to the shops around Siri Fort, Hauz Khas Village, a trip to Khan market or head to the heart of the cit

Day 4 Delhi - Agra

After an early breakfast, you will drive to Agra for approximately 4 hours, on arrival check in to your hotel. Proceed to a tour of Agra once you have freshened up. In the afternoon you can enjoy a guided tour of the city. Highly recommend visiting the Taj Mahal in the evening from Mehtaab Bagh for some amazing photographs at sunset. You can also enjoy an evening visit to the Taj Mahal with your guide.(Please do note that the Taj Mahal remains shut on Fridays).

Day 5 Agra- Jaipur

One of the best times to visit the Taj is at sunrise. If you don't mind waking up early, head straight to the Taj Mahal to catch the morning sun. It is one of the most memorable experience, Taj Mahal glowing against the backdrop of the sun and you know why it is known as Paradise. After breakfast you checkout and head to Jaipur. En route you have an option of visiting the abandoned Mughal capital city of Fatehpur Sikri, one of the best preserved collections of Mughal architecture in India.

Day 6 Jaipur

Today you enjoy guided tour of Jaipur. One of the best times to visit the Amber Fort is in the morning as it is always less crowded. This beautiful fort can be reached by elephant or jeep, walk around the complex of courtyards and halls, visiting in particular the Sheesh Mahal or Hall of Mirrors. Further you continue to visit the old city, the City Palace and cover the main highlights of the city. Witness the colour and chaos of an old city.

Day 7 Jaipur - Delhi/ Mumbai - Cochin

Morning you will be transferred well in time for your flight to Cochin. Arrive in Cochin where you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Stay at Malabar House for two nights. In the evening, go on a walk around Fort Cochin area. Alternatively, indulge in an optional culinary experience.

Day 8 Cochin

Cochin, also known as the "Venice of the East", has wonderfully diverse influences from the Portuguese to the British. Today you will visit enjoy sightseeing in the Fort Cochin areas. In the evening stroll around the fort or enjoy a Kathakali dance performance or enjoy a sunset harbour cruise.

Day 9 Drive to Allepey

Today you will enjoy the backwaters on your very own private boat. After breakfast you will drive to Allepey and board your houseboat around 12 and cruise through the beautiful maze of backwaters. These house boats are available in one or two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and come with a kitchenette, an open lounge, deck and a three crew member team- the oarsmen, a cook and guide. All meals will be served on board the house-boat.

Day 10 Kumarakom

Morning after breakfast, you will disembark from your houseboat and drive to Kumarakom. Possibly this is one of the loveliest villages in Kerala. Arrive at your charming, boutique styled accommodation and get checked-in to God's own Country. Stay for two nights at your lovely resort.