India's North & South - Premium Adventure

5.0Based on

Carbon neutral

15 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

16 peopleMaximum group size

16 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Easy

Light physical activity suitable for most people with average fitness levels.

Starts

New Delhi, India

Ends

Kovalam, India

Highlights

Experience the diverse cultures of North and South India

Explore the Delhi backstreets with people who lived within them as children

See architectural wonders, including the Taj Mahal

Enjoy a nature walk and afternoon boat cruise in Periyar National Park

Cruise the Kerala backwaters from the comfort of a traditional houseboat

Itinerary

India’s North & South – Premium Adventure is a captivating 15-day journey that invites travelers of all ages to experience the astounding diversity of India—from the bustling cities of the Golden Triangle to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. Begin in Delhi, marvel at the Taj Mahal in Agra, and wander the palaces of Jaipur. Then, fly south to tea plantations, cruise the serene backwaters of Alleppey, and spot wildlife with local guides.

This easy-paced tour includes top-tier accommodations, expertly curated off-the-beaten-path experiences, and seamless transport, making it ideal for young adults, seasoned explorers, and seniors alike. The USP is its comprehensive coverage and handpicked local adventures, promising a rich, immersive introduction to India’s cultural, natural, and culinary wonders.

day 1 - Arrive in the bustling city of Delhi

The adventure begins in Delhi, one of the three cities that comprises the Golden Triangle. There are free arrival transfers available for any flight, provided you have supplied your sales representative with your flight details in advance and have requested one.

Relax this evening and get to know your guide and travel companions over a welcome dinner in the hotel or at a local restaurant before a restful night’s sleep.

Meals:Dinner

Others:Ambassador, New Delhi (or similar)

day 2 - Delhi; New to Old, experience the delights off the beaten path. Afternoon visit Humayun’s Tomb

Your journey through India starts with a jam-packed tour around the frenetic city of Delhi. We start in Old Delhi this morning, exploring the sights and sounds of Delhi in ways that support local communities and charities. You’ll see a side of Old Delhi few tourists get to visit on a walking tour led by guides who lived on the street as children. Curious and enthusiastic, they’re just as likely to ask questions as to answer them as you make your way around the hectic streets and bustling alleyways.

We then visit Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, a Sikh place of worship, before stopping at their community kitchen to meet the people who serve food to thousands of the most impoverished Delhi citizens every day. We then see the Raj Ghat (the cremation ground of Mahatma Gandhi) before finishing the morning at Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in Old Delhi.

This afternoon we drive past fine colonial buildings, including the official residence of the President of India, Parliament House, and India Gate, a memorial to soldiers who died in the First World War. We end the day visiting Humayun’s Tomb, this World Heritage site was built by Hamida Banu Begam, the widow of Mughal emperor Humayun.

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Ambassador, New Delhi (or similar)

day 3 - To Agra; afternoon visit of Agra Fort

After breakfast, we drive (four to five hours, traffic dependent) to Agra, our second point in the Golden Triangle, and arrive at our hotel to freshen up. This afternoon, we visit Agra Fort, which was built by the third Mughal emperor Akbar. Its mighty red sandstone walls protect the white-marble Pearl Mosque within, plus the palace, courtyards and gardens.

Accommodation: Trident Hotel (or similar)

Upgrade to a room with a private patio today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals:Breakfast

Accommodation:Trident Hotel (or similar)

day 4 - Sunrise at the Taj Mahal before travelling to Jaipur, stopping at the Abhaneri Step Well en route

Wake early to visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise, when the white-marble exterior is illuminated by the soft early light, the crowds are smaller and the birds chatter among themselves. After admiring it from the outside, we head inside, with a chance to explore the beautiful inner chambers and mausoleum, while our tour leader shares the history of this New World Wonder. Please note, if there is morning fog expected, then instead of sunrise, we visit the Taj Mahal after an early breakfast.

Late morning, we complete the Golden Triangle, driving to the 18th-century city of Jaipur (approximately five to six hours’ drive). Along the way, we’ll stop at Abhaneri Step Well. Not your ordinary water well, this architectural treasure is one of the oldest and deepest stepwells in Rajasthan.

Upon arrival in Jaipur, we take the Royal Grandeur tour, an exclusive exploration of the Chandra Mahal, the seven-storey private residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur, which sits within the City Palace complex. During the visit you will see various royal residential areas.

Please note: If we are short on time when arriving in Jaipur, this tour will be moved to the evening of Day 5. This evening, we have a special dinner arranged at Baradari, a restaurant within the City Palace.

Accommodation: Narain Niwas Palace (or similar)

Upgrade to a deluxe room today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

Others:Narain Niwas Palace (or similar)

day 5 - Jaipur's Amer Fort, bazaars and foodie tour

After breakfast, we visit the splendid Amber Fort, which rises above a lake a few miles from the main city. Descending from the fort, we reach the City Palace building in the centre of Jaipur. Formerly the residence of the Maharaja, it is now a museum containing rare manuscripts, paintings, royal garments and weapons.

After working up an appetite from our morning sightseeing, we journey through broad pink avenues of sandstone to explore the colourful bazaars of Jaipur for a walking light lunch. Let your Tour Leader guide you on a foodie adventure, feasting on delicious local snacks and street food. The walk ends at Lakshmi Misthan Bhander, popularly known as LMB, one of the most famous sweet shops in Jaipur. Savour mouth-watering Rajasthani snacks and delightful treats.

The rest of your afternoon and evening is free to relax at the hotel or continue roaming around the old city markets. Jaipur is a centre of many handicrafts, including durries (woven rugs), carpets, printed cloth, semi-precious stones and leatherwear. It will be difficult to leave without buying a small memento.

Accommodation: Narain Niwas Palace (or similar)

Upgrade to a deluxe room today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch

Others:Narain Niwas Palace (or similar)

day 6 - Feel like royalty at Neemrana Fort-Palace

We say goodbye to Jaipur and head to the glorious 15th-century Neemrana Fort-Palace, a sprawling resort that extends over nine palace wings. Try not to get lost as you relax and recharge from the first half of your trip.

Neemrana Fort-Palace is not just a hotel though; steeped in more than 500 years of history, it has hanging gardens, pools with views over the hillsides, and dromedaries (Arabian camels) that will take you on an unforgettable ride around the area (optional activity).

As the sun sets over the Aravalli hills, enjoy the magical atmosphere as hundreds of lights sparkle across the resort.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation:Neemrana Fort-Palace Hotel (or similar)

day 7 - Fly south to Kerala

Spend a relaxed morning at the Fort-Palace Hotel as your journey in North India is coming to an end. We leave the palatial surroundings and head to Delhi Airport for a late afternoon flight to Cochin (or Kochi as it’s otherwise known) in the southern state of Kerala. There’s a wild mix of history and culture in Kerala, influenced by more than 600 years of traders and travellers. The Cochin of today is a centre of Keralan arts and wandering the quaint lanes, which are lined with cafes, galleries and handicraft shops, reveals traditional and contemporary art scenes.

If you’re not too tired from the travel, you can join your leader for a waterfront dinner this evening. Enjoy local seafood specialities and curried dishes while gazing over the meeting point of the backwaters and the Arabian Sea.

Meals:Breakfast

Others:CGH Casino (or similar)

day 8 - Morning exploring Fort Kochi

Kochi (Cochin) has been a main port for centuries and although it is blossoming into a cosmopolitan city it still holds a deep-rooted history and old-world charm, particularly on the small coastal islands of Willingdon and Fort Kochi. After an early breakfast, we cross over the harbour for a walking tour of the Fort Kochi district. Stopping first at the Dutch Palace, built by the Portuguese and presented to Raja Veera Kerala Varma of Kochi, the palace was later renovated by the Dutch and is now a museum for the area. Walking along the seafront, we pass many fisherman stalls selling the day’s catch. Stop to try your hand at working the Chinese fishing nets, imposing cantilevered contraptions that are a legacy of ancient traders.

We end the morning tour with a visit to the Jewish Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations, situated down a quaint street full of local embroidery and craft shops.

This afternoon you are free to continue roaming Fort Kochi shops and waterfront area or perhaps head back to the hotel to relax by the pool.

Meals:Breakfast

Others:CGH Casino (or similar)

day 9 - Drive to Munnar; walk through hillside tea plantations

After breakfast we will drive to the tea hills of Munnar (approximately four to five hours’ drive). The drive to Munnar winds up from the lowlands and backwaters through spice and tea plantations towards the Western Ghats. Entering Munnar, we marvel at the endless rolling hills covered in tea plants. This afternoon we stretch out after the journey and walk among the beautiful hillside tea plantations. Watch the pickers working and learn the local history and tea-making process from your local guide.

Meals:Breakfast

Others:The Munnar Queen (or similar)

day 10 - On to Thekkady; afternoon spice plantation visit and cooking demonstration with a local family

This morning we head to Thekkady, driving through the Kerala countryside out of the tea hills and into the spice plantations (approximately four to five hours). Enroute, your leader will arrange lunch stop at a local restaurant.

We stay at CGH Spice Village, a unique property modelled on the villages of the indigenous Manan community from this region. A representative from CGH Spice Village will take you on a short tour around the hotel’s spice plantation, farm and paper-making station, where you can also try to make paper. During your stay in Thekkady, you may also want to take in a Kathakali (traditional dance form of Kerala) or Kalaripayattu (oldest martial art form of Kerala) live performance if time. Please speak to your Leader on when the best time to book these in will be.

Late afternoon, we head to a local spice plantation for a tour and insight into the variety of spices and plants grown in the region. Kumily is known as the heartland of spices due to the large number of plantations spread across the region. You can’t help but feel nature’s power walking between the cardamon leaves, pepper vines, turmeric roots and many more, smelling the aromatic air. This will give an insight into the growing, harvesting and processing of spices.

To finish the day, we are welcomed into a family home with a special cooking demonstration and dinner.

Accommodation: CGH Spice Village

Upgrade to a garden cottage today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Others:CGH Spice Village

day 11 - Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary; morning jungle walk; free afternoon or optional activities

It’s an early start today. We join an indigenous guide at Periyar National Park for a nature walk through the evergreen and moist deciduous forests, which are interspersed with marshy grasslands. On this gentle trek, we come across many different species of birds and butterflies, while looking for some of the rarer wildlife here, including elephants, sloth bears and elusive leopards and tigers. After our walk, there is free time to wander through the shops and stalls in Thekkady.

This afternoon, you have some free time to explore Thekkady village, or consider optional activities like a relaxing Auyvedic massage or return to Periyar National Park for a boat cruise (sharing basis) on Periyar Lake, an opportunity to see the wildlife that comes near to the lake for water and fodder.

Dinner this evening will be at 50 Mile, a restaurant in the CGH Spice Village where all ingredients are sourced within 50mi (80km) of the property.

Accommodation: CGH Spice Village

Upgrade to a garden cottage today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

Others:CGH Spice Village

day 12 - Wake up with yoga; continue to Alleppey and overnight on a houseboat

Early risers can join a yoga session within the hotel grounds to wake up and feel ready to start the day.

After a relaxed breakfast, we head to Alleppey (approximately four to five hours’ drive), where we cruise the Kerala backwaters on a houseboat. These enchanting boats, built of anjili (wild jack) wood and bamboo, transported goods for hundreds of years. Now they have been decorated and made into comfortable cruise boats.

As you meander through tropical vegetation while relaxing on deck, you can observe the daily activities of people living beside the backwaters. There is also a prolific display of bird life, including kingfishers, kestrels and herons. Lunch and dinner are served on board; in the evening, the boat is anchored by a bank and we watch the sun set over paddy fields.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Others:Deluxe houseboat

day 13 - Leave the houseboat and drive to Kovalam

We enjoy breakfast on board before we arrive back in Alleppey and it’s time to leave our houseboat and start the drive along the scenic Malabar Coast to the beachside destination of Kovalam (approximately four to five hours’ drive). Passing through Quilon for a tea break en route, we make it to our last destination of this epic journey.

Once a relaxing hideaway on the old hippie trail, Kovalam has now been discovered, but the influx of tourism has not diminished this beautiful setting.

Your afternoon is free to relax at the hotel, spend time at the beach or rejuvenate with an Ayurvedic massage. This evening, your leader invites you to join him for a farewell dinner as the sun sets at your hotel with your fellow travellers.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

Others:Gokulam Grand Turtle On The Beach (or similar)

day 14 - Free day to relax on the beach or optional day trip to Kanyakumari

Today is free to unwind after a whirlwind journey through India. Walk along the soft, sandy beach or visit the shops for last-minute souvenirs. This is a great chance to enjoy fresh seafood from one of the many small beach restaurants. Try tandoori dishes – the clay ovens add an exquisite taste to bread and curries.

Alternatively, if you still have some energy left you could choose the optional day trip to Kanyakumari, the end point of India where 3 oceans meet, the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. Take a ferry over to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, visit the Gandhi Memorial where the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi were kept before immersing them into the waters and finally see the Kumari Amman temple. Spend some time at the Kanyakumari beach and witness confluence of Indian Ocean, bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea. This is a full day trip, usually leaving the hotel after an early breakfast and returning between 6pm and 7pm traffic dependent.

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Gokulam Grand Turtle On The Beach (or similar)

day 15 - Ends in Kovalam

The adventure ends today. Begin your return journey home or, if you’d like a bit more time to explore Kovalam, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

Please note, airport security does not permit any spices/pepper to be carried in hand luggage so please pack these in your main luggage. Electronic devices and batteries should be packed in hand luggage as these are not permitted in your hold/main luggage.

Meals:Breakfast

India's North & South - Premium Adventure

Get Trip Brochure & Exclusive Discount

Download a detailed PDF brochure and unlock an exclusive discount for this tour

What's Included

Accommodation

All accommodation

Meals

All breakfasts, three lunches, seven dinners

Transport

All transport and listed activities (including one internal flight)Arrival and departure transfers

Guide

Expert tour leader, chosen for their experience and great customer feedback

Others

Tips for local staff

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

Read what other travelers have to say about India's North & South - Premium Adventure

5.0

based on 8 reviews

Tour Availability

Select your preferred departure date and secure your spot

Christmas Super Sales Extended SalesUp to 24% off

Loading availability...

Monthly Price Comparison

Good to Know

Cancellation

Payment

Travel Insurance

Visa

Do you need help from our trip consultants?

If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Our travel experts are ready to help.

Why Book with Bookmundi

Earn USD 150+ in travel credits.

Best price guaranteed.

No credit card or booking fees.

100% financial protection.Bookmundi is a member of the Danish Travel Fund which guarantees for any payment made via us. Our guarantee covers all travelers, irrespective of nationality.

Carbon neutral tours.Algorithms and machine learning enables Bookmundi to calculate the carbon footprint for each tour. We then subsequently offset carbon emissions for all tour bookings on Bookmundi via investments in carbon reduction projects to help combat climate change.

25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.

What are customers saying about Bookmundi

4.67/5

Excellent based on 808 customer reviews from

Anonymous

Sistema di prenotazione semplice e intuibile. In caso di necessità le istruzioni presenti sul sito sono risultate utili e chiare. Nessun problema riscontrato

1 week ago

Similar Tours You Might Like

Discover our top tours similar to India's North & South - Premium Adventure that you might like.

Journeys: Discover India

5.0(12 reviews)

India’s vibrant soul is yours to discover on the "Journeys: Discover India" tour, a 15-day exploration from New Delhi to Varanasi and Jaipur to Agra. Immerse yourself in the majesty of the Taj Mahal, unravel spiritual traditions along the Ganges, and witness rural life in Rajasthan. Visit bustling markets, savor Lucknow’s renowned cuisine, and connect with locals through unique cultural initiatives. The USP? This small group tour package offers in-depth cultural immersion and exclusive experiences—such as a youth-led tour through Delhi—unlocking a side of India few travelers ever see.

15 days

Northern India: Riverside Safaris, Ancient Fortresses & The Taj Mahal

5.0(8 reviews)

Northern India comes alive in vivid color on this 15-day journey from New Delhi to Mumbai, blending riverside safaris, ancient fortresses, and iconic sights like the Taj Mahal. Designed for travelers seeking cultural depth and adventure, this tour weaves through Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and more, offering a rich tapestry of experiences. Cycle through historic cities, hike across timeless landscapes, and discover the wildlife of Ranthambore National Park. The energetic atmosphere of Delhi’s bazaars, the majesty of Mughal architecture, and the peaceful rhythms of local villages create lasting memories. The unique selling point is the trip’s dynamic blend of traditional culture and active exploration, making it ideal for those who want to see India from every angle. Accommodation, transport, and meals are seamlessly included for a worry-free, immersive adventure.

15 days

Journeys: Explore India & Nepal

5.0(12 reviews)

Explore the best of India and Nepal on "Journeys: Explore India & Nepal," a 17-day city sightseeing trip that starts in New Delhi and concludes in Kathmandu. Wander through the famed Golden Triangle—Delhi, Agra, Jaipur—before ascending into the Himalayas for a taste of Buddhist culture and breathtaking mountain scenery. Marvel at the Taj Mahal, navigate the bazaars of Jaipur, and discover Nepal’s carved palaces and monasteries. Unique experiences like a Nepalese dumpling cooking class and a wildlife adventure in Chitwan National Park add depth and authenticity to your journey. The USP here is the seamless combination of iconic landmarks and immersive local activities, offering a rich and varied exploration of two extraordinary countries.

17 days

Imperial Rajasthan

4.5(4 reviews)

Luxuriate in Rajasthan as your dedicated Travel Concierge charts an adventure across Delhi, Jaipur and Agra. Explore India’s capital your way with the choice to tour the UNESCO world Heritage Site at Qutub Minar or treat your taste buds to the Delhi Street Food Tour, joining a well-known local chef for a sojourn through the famous street snacks of the old city. In Jaipur, the VIP Indian High Tea experience unlocks the private living room of the Maharaja with an indulgent menu served alongside the crystal table of artisan - René Lalique. At sunrise, see the iconic Taj Mahal emerge from the dusk before journeying to Udaipur, known as the City of Lakes.

13 days

Taj and Raj - 12 Days

Explore Delhi, the Pink City of Jaipur and the legendary Taj Mahal in Agra and discover the lofty peaks and breathtaking views of Shimla, India's largest hill station and the former summer capital of British India. Ride the narrow gauge railway aboard the Himalayan Queen Toy Train.

12 days

Taj, Tigers and Mumbai - 12 days

Immerse yourself in the colors and contrasts of India on the 'Taj, Tigers and Mumbai' tour, crafted for experienced travelers and seniors seeking an easy-paced adventure. Over 12 days, journey from Delhi’s vibrant streets to Agra’s iconic Taj Mahal, then go on a thrilling safari in Ranthambore National Park for a chance to spot wild tigers. Conclude in Mumbai, exploring everything from bustling markets to the famed Dharavi Slums. The tour’s unique selling point: a rare combination of cultural sightseeing and wildlife excitement, all wrapped in comfort and care.

12 days

Passage to India end in Mumbai - 12 days

Experience the best of northern India with the 12-day 'Passage to India End in Mumbai' tour. Tailored for experienced travelers and seniors, this easy-paced sightseeing journey begins in lively Delhi, taking you through Jaipur’s Pink City, the romance of Udaipur, and the marvel of the Taj Mahal before finishing in Mumbai. Highlights include a jeep ride to Amber Fort, a stroll through flower markets, and time to soak up India’s vibrant culture at every stop. The unique selling point: a thoughtfully curated route blending iconic sights, colorful markets, and authentic local experiences.

12 days

Keep Exploring India

Europe

Asia

South America

Africa

North America

Oceania

Polar

Food, wine, events and nightlife

Adventure and sport

Wildlife, landscapes and nature

Boat tours, water sports and marine wildlife

Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history

Air tours, road trips and transfers

Beach, romance, getaways and relaxation

Special interests and hobbies

Hi there

Highlights

Itinerary

day 1 - Arrive in the bustling city of Delhi

day 2 - Delhi; New to Old, experience the delights off the beaten path. Afternoon visit Humayun’s Tomb

day 3 - To Agra; afternoon visit of Agra Fort

day 4 - Sunrise at the Taj Mahal before travelling to Jaipur, stopping at the Abhaneri Step Well en route

day 5 - Jaipur's Amer Fort, bazaars and foodie tour