Transport

TRANSPORT IN INDIA: Main roads in India are usually very busy with an assortment of vehicles from the biggest trucks (who always have right of way) down to bikes (and animals!). Overtaking on blind corners at speed is common as is the total use of the horn as a form of communication. Our leaders have complete authority to remove groups from local transport if the driver is not driving safely. Drivers of our private vehicles are experienced and well trained. If you are uncomfortable with your driver, please always let your tour leader know immediately. Please ensure you wear your seat belt at all times. TRAVEL TIMES: Distances in India do not reflect the driving time and to cover 100km may take much longer than you would expect at home, even if much of the route is on a highway. TRAINS: India has a massive network of trains and millions of people travel by rail every day. Trains often travel the length of the country over several days. Trains are a great way to see the countryside and get you away from the busy road system. Delays and cancellations are common on trains. Your tour leader will check the train status to see if there are delays and will do their best to keep you informed of any changes. From December to February, delays are more common, especially in the north of the country due to fog. It’s not uncommon for trains to be delayed for up to 12 hours. On occasion, your trip may need to be rerouted to allow for these delays. Your tour leader in conjunction with our local office will advise any changes to the itinerary. FLIGHTS: Airlines in India are of excellent quality. Airports are becoming more modern (especially in the major and tourist cities). To enter the airport, you must have a copy of your flight ticket and passport. Schedule changes and delays do occur, especially when weather conditions make visibility poor. AUTO RICKSHAWS: On this trip we may travel in a local style of transport called an auto-rickshaw. These small, motorised three-wheeled vehicles are a common form of transport in India and do not have seatbelts. Auto rickshaw , Boat , Cycle rickshaw , Metro , Plane , Private vehicle , Ferry , Train

Meals

21 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 7 dinners

Guide

All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leader or local representative. The aim of the group leader or local representative is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced group leader or local representative however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your group leader or local representative is new to a particular region or training other group leader or local representative. Your group leader or local representative will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your group leader or local representative can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.

Others

Complimentary Arrival Transfer Varanasi - Leader-led Old City walking tour Varanasi - Sunset candle flower ceremony Varanasi - Sunrise Ganges boat trip Jaipur - Orientation walk with a local guide Jaipur - Amber Fort Jaipur - Cooking Class with Dinner Abhaneri - Chand Baori stepwell Agra - Agra Fort Agra - Taj Mahal Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple) Mamallapuram - Shore Temples guided tour Puducherry - Leader-led French Quarter walking tour Karaikudi - Havelis Karaikudi - Leader-led village walk Madurai - Sri Meenakshi Temple guided tour Madurai - Leader-led walking tour Periyar - Spice plantation visit Periyar - Guided nature walk Periyar - Home-cooked meal Kochi - Leader-led Fort Kochi walking tour Kochi - Kathakali performance Kochi - Jewish Synagogue Kochi - Dutch Palace Kochi - Ferry to Mattancherry Kochi - Ayurvedic cooking demonstration with lunch Kumarakom - Backwaters boating excursion Kovalam - Leader-led walking tour

Accommodation

The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we’re arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn’t always possible which means we won’t be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available. ACCOMMODATION: The hotel accommodation on this trip is in air-conditioned rooms. Some areas of India experience daily load shedding. This is where the power may be turned off at certain times of the day and usually occurs for a few hours in the early afternoon. Most hotel properties have a restaurant or cafe serving local meals. Many restaurants and hotels do not serve alcohol for religious reasons or due to local laws. SHOWERS: Showers at some hotels only have hot water at peak times (usually morning and evening). Outside of these times, you may need to speak to reception to obtain hot water. WIFI: Generally, WiFi is available in most parts of India and at most of the accommodation we use. Sometimes it’s free in the room, other times only available in reception or public areas. A general rule of thumb is the more expensive the hotel, the higher charge for WiFi access. Your group leader or local representative can assist locally in accessing the internet. ISSUES: If you have any issues with your room, please speak to the hotel and your group leader or local representative right away rather than your travel agent so that the problem can be addressed without delay. Hotel (19 nights), Resort (2 nights)

Not included:

Insurance

Insurance is not included. Travel insurance is required for this tour. Please make sure you are adequately covered. If you require travel insurance, TourRadar has partnered up with World Nomads to provide a hassle-free experience. More information can be found here (https://www.tourradar.com/travel-insurance).

Optional

Other activities and services not included

Flights

International flights not included.

Others

Other activities and services not included

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: Delhi
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Delhi

Namaste! Welcome to India. Your adventure begins in Delhi, where you’ll have a complimentary airport transfer to the hotel. Tonight, meet your group and trip leader at a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, get out and explore at your own pace. Filled with historical sites from different eras, museums, galleries and endless bazaars, this thriving capital has plenty to do and see. Maybe head to the Red Fort or the Lotus Temple, get a photo at India Gate or explore the World Heritage-listed Humayun’s Tomb. Later, why not get your new group together for a welcome meeting and sample of this country’s famed food.
Day 2 Day 2: Varanasi
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Varanasi

Early this morning, you’ll take a train to Varanasi. This holy city is awash with shrines and temples and is the ultimate destination for Hindu pilgrims who travel from far and wide to experience the spirituality of this haven. When you arrive this afternoon, you’ll head out on a walking tour of the Old City, through narrow laneways packed with stalls and shops, past the dhobi wallahs and the endless temples that echo with bells and permeate the aroma of incense. This evening, soak up the unique atmosphere with a candle flower ceremony at dusk. A beautiful ritual to witness, you’ll watch on as locals give offerings of small candles cradled by leaves and flowers to the Goddess Ganga – then float the glowing hand-made pieces down the river as the sun sets in the background.
Day 3 Day 3: Varanasi
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Varanasi

Today starts early, but it’s very much worth it – you’ll take a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, where you can watch the light gradually illuminate the many ghats and temples along the river. After, there’s the option to take a trip to nearby Sarnath – one of the four main Buddhist pilgrimage destinations. The site is where Buddha preached his message of the path to enlightenment and features a number of stupas and museums to explore. Your afternoon is free to spend how you wish – maybe explore the laneways and alleys behind the ghats or pick up some keepsakes from the array of excellent local silk. For dinner, you’ll enjoy a group meal of vegetarian thali at a local restaurant. A thali is a popular style of serving food in India, offering a selection of dishes, sides and condiments on a single large plate.
Day 4 Day 4: Delhi
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Delhi

This morning, take a flight back to India’s buzzing capital. When you arrive, check in to your accommodation, freshen up and then enjoy a free afternoon to spend how you wish. Maybe visit Swaminarayan Akshardham, set on a vast 100 acres of gardens. Maybe just go searching for the perfect street food snack or go on a photo-taking walk.
Day 5 Day 5: Jaipur
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Jaipur

Today you’ll head to Jaipur, Rajasthan’s capital, by private vehicle. Arrive in the Pink City and discover its trademark pink hues on a walking tour with a local guide. Navigate crowded streets packed with cars, camel carts, rickshaws, trucks and bicycles, past traditionally dressed Rajput men wearing colourful turbans and sporting magnificent moustaches. Make a photo stop at India’s most photographed building after the Taj Mahal – the Hawa Mahal or ’Palace of the Winds’. You will also have the option of visiting Jantar Mantar – an observatory filled with instruments to track the stars, built by the founder of Jaipur, Maharaja Jai Singh. Tonight, maybe continue to indulge in the wonders of Indian culture by watching a Bollywood blockbuster – an elaborate combination of action, romance, drama and music, at the spectacular Raj Mandir Cinema.
Day 6 Day 6: Jaipur
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Jaipur

An optional early morning hot air balloon experience is the perfect way to start the day – wake early for a breathtaking overhead view of the Pink City bathed in early morning light. Later, climb the twisting roads of the Aravalli Hills and round the final bend to see the massive Amber Fort loom into view. You’ll head on a walking tour to explore the Amber Fort with a local guide – the legacy of a fallen empire, the opulent palace is a superb example of Rajput architecture and is packed with elaborate rooms of lavish murals, frescoed arches, and delicate jali work. Don’t miss the sparkling Mirror Palace, covered floor-to-ceiling in thousands of reflective tiles, the hall becomes a dazzling fantasy with the light of a single match. The afternoon is free to explore more of Jaipur that you might have missed yesterday. This evening, meet your group and leader for a special cooking class in a local home for dinner. You’ll learn the secrets, flavours and spices of traditional specialities from your welcoming hosts and then feast on your creations.
Day 7 Day 7: Agra
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Agra

Leave the Pink City behind and travel by private vehicle to Agra. Along the way, stop at Chand Baori stepwell – built over 1000 years ago, this is one of the largest stepwells in India. The architectural wonder was once a gathering place for locals and royals alike. The series of narrow steps creates a beautiful pattern that leads to a body of water below. When you arrive in Agra, you’ll visit one of the finest forts in India – Agra Fort. Enter the dark red sandstone stronghold of the fort, part fortress, part palace and part prison, and search through throne rooms and tiny but incredibly decorated mosques. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you please. Maybe ask your leader for the best dinner spots for a local feed.
Day 8 Day 8: Delhi
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Delhi

This morning is a real treat – bright and early, you’ll pay a visit to the spectacular Taj Mahal, one of the famed Seven Wonders of the World. Best known as a monument to love and loss, the 17th-century wonder is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture and is surrounded by trimmed English gardens. Take your time here, snap your bucket list photos and take in the majesty of one of the most famous buildings in the world. After, you’ll take an express train journey to Delhi. When you arrive, maybe head to the legendary Connaught Place for some souvenir shopping or take the chance to rest and recharge. This evening, maybe head out for a streetside chaat or ask your leader for the best spot for aloo kulche and chole (flatbread with a spiced mashed potato filling served with chickpea curry) with a side of pickles (and a mango lassi if the spice gets a bit much).
Day 9 Day 9: Delhi
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Delhi

After breakfast this morning, your leader will take you to the city’s historic heart with a guided walking tour of Old Delhi. Set off on the city’s modern metro system, then get a taste of India’s famed public transport with an optional cycle rickshaw ride through chaotic streets, such as the famous Chandni Chowk. Visit the Jama Masjid – Delhi’s oldest mosque and one of its most impressive buildings, then visit the Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple) to learn about the Sikh religion. After a jam-packed morning of sightseeing adventures, rest your feet and refuel over a lunch of local favourites. The rest of the day is free for further exploration – maybe wander around Humayun’s Tomb, the first garden tomb in India built in 1570, if you haven’t already. Tonight, why not head out to a farewell dinner with your group and hit the nightlife of Delhi to celebrate a trip well-travelled.
Day 10 Day 10: Chennai
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Chennai

Today, take a flight from Delhi to Chennai to join the second stage of your trip. This flight is unaccompanied, but your leader will provide you all the details, plus where to meet a representative on arrival in Chennai to be transferred to your accommodation. Chennai – previously known as Madras – is South India’s largest, and the perfect place to dive straight into the culture, religion and cuisine of the region. There will be a group meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary and you’re welcome to attend, as this is a great chance to meet your new fellow travellers and your new Indian leader.
Day 11 Day 11: Mamallapuram – Puducherry
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Mamallapuram – Puducherry

From Chennai, drive along the scenic East Coast Road to the fishing village of Mamallapuram. Join a local guide for a tour around the town’s laidback beaches and temples, keeping an eye out for the sculptures and carvings dotted around the place. Visit the incredible 8th-century Shore Temple and its mandapams (carved pillars) to pay your respects to the deity Shiva. Continue onto Puducherry (Pondicherry) in the late afternoon and enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the White Town area of the city. Known for its French colonial-era villas and leafy streets, a post-dinner stroll along the beachfront promenade is a lovely way to end your day.
Day 12 Day 12: Puducherry
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Puducherry

Explore Puducherry, which was under French rule until 1954, and the European style of the town extends from beautiful colonial architecture right down to the uniforms of the police. Enjoy a walking tour to see local temples, the French Quarter, and the spiritual community of Sri Aurobindo Ashram. The rest of the day and evening is free. Puducherry’s food scene is truly unique, as Indian classics have a distinctly French spin on them – be sure to ask your leader for tips on the best places to grab dinner this evening.
Day 13 Day 13: Karaikudi
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: Karaikudi

Drive to Karaikudi today. On arrival, check into your heritage property accommodation, an elegantly decorated mansion built in 1902. After settling in, take a walk around the village with your leader to learn about the lives of the local communities. Along the way, you’ll stop off to admire havelis – these old mansions were ornately decorated as a display of wealth, and many remain around this region today.
Day 14 Day 14: Madurai
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 14: Madurai

Continue on to Madurai. Here you will wander through the colourful markets and bazaars, then visit the Sri Meenakshi Temple in the city’s centre. Still in use today, this ancient temple is a maze of lamp-lit corridors leading to shrines where traditional rituals take place, including the remarkable thousand pillar hall. You might also like to explore the National Gandhi Museum (optional), dedicated to the life and achievements of the ’Father of the Nation’ and the leader of India’s fight for independence. Your evening is then free to spend as you please.
Day 15 Day 15: Madurai
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 15: Madurai

The day is yours for your own explorations of one of India’s oldest cities. Madurai has a wealth of treasures to uncover, from buzzing bazaars and tailors’ markets to roadside stalls selling cold glasses of jigarthanda and savoury idli rice cakes. Perhaps visit the Art Museum to see a superb collection of carvings, or check out the Tirumalai Nayak Palace. Be sure to ask your leader where to find local favourites like crispy dosa, fluffy idiyappam and sweet halwa.
Day 16 Day 16: Periyar
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 16: Periyar

Drive through rubber and pineapple plantations to Thekkady. Your accommodation here is on the outskirts of Periyar National Park, perched lakeside in the ranges of the Western Ghats. The sanctuary surrounds a picturesque lake, which was formed as a result of a dam that was built in 1895. It ambles through the contours of the wooded hills and is a permanent source of water for local wildlife. This afternoon, take a tour of a local spice plantation. Here you’ll gain insight on the plant life, spices, herbs, fruits and flowers of the region, and how they are used in Ayurvedic medicine. Find out how the spices are grown, harvested, dried and prepared. Later in the day, you may like to attend a demonstration of Indian martial arts (kalaripayattu) at the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre.
Day 17 Day 17: Periyar
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 17: Periyar

In the morning, take a guided nature walk in the acclaimed Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (approximately 3 hours). If you’re lucky, you could spot tiger tracks, spotted deer, Indian elephants and gaur – the world’s largest species of buffalo. You may also have the chance to see Bonnet macaques and the Malabar giant squirrel, a species native to India. In the afternoon, unwind with an optional ayurvedic massage or just relax in this scenic setting. Be welcomed into a local home this evening, for a dinner cooked with fragrant local produce by a palate that is finely tuned to the pepper, cloves and cinnamon that are prevalent in many Keralan dishes. Sure to be a highlight of your trip, don’t forget to ask for tips on how to recreate these delicious dishes in your own home.
Day 18 Day 18: Kochi
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 18: Kochi

In the morning, drive to Kochi, aka Cochin. Today is a long driving day, but your journey will be broken up with plenty of stops, and the fantastic scenery is sure to keep your occupied. Kochi is a veritable melting pot of Portuguese, Dutch, Chinese and British influences. On arrival, you may like to stretch your legs and wander along the beach at sunset.
Day 19 Day 19: Kochi
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 19: Kochi

Visit the Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace), which was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese before the Dutch renovated it. Then check out the oldest functioning Jewish synagogue in India, the Paradesi Synagogue. For lunch today, you’ll meet a local expert and learn all about Satvik Bhojan, the ayurvedic diet. Take part in a cooking demonstration using the methods and recipes discussed, then enjoy the dishes for lunch. In the evening witness a classic Kathakali performance, a dramatic dance that combines storytelling with physical technique.
Day 20 Day 20: Kerala Backwaters
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 20: Kerala Backwaters

Drive from Kochi to Kumarkom to your resort along the riverside. This sleepy village is quintessential Kerala backwaters, with its shady palm trees, winding waterways and traditional houseboats. On arrival, get out on the water and take a short cruise around the backwaters. Sail under palm trees and weave in between the rice fields while you see local residents going about their daily lives in this unique and tranquil environment. Dinner tonight is at a women-run restaurant, serving up fish curries, dal and idli. This venue is a favourite for its excellent local flavours and for the training and employment opportunities it provides to local women.
Day 21 Day 21: Kovalam
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 21: Kovalam

In the morning, drive to Kovalam via Kerala’s capital, Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram). Kovalam was once a quiet coastal village known for its export of fresh fish and coconuts, but is now one of India’s more popular beach resorts. Visit the ancient temple of Attukal Bhagavathy in the afternoon. If you have free time, explore the old signaling station of Anchuthengu Fort or the 16th-century Koyikkal Palace. Head out with the group for a farewell meal together tonight – the local cuisine is known for its use of coconuts, curry leaves and fresh seafood, so dig in while you have the chance.
Day 22 Day 22: Kovalam
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 22: Kovalam

Your trip comes to an end after breakfast and you’re free to leave the accommodation at any time.

+19

22 days tour

India Experience

This tour includes:

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Itinerary of your trip India Experience

Day 1: Delhi

Day 2: Varanasi

Day 3: Varanasi

Day 4: Delhi

Day 5: Jaipur

Day 6: Jaipur

Day 7: Agra

Day 8: Delhi

Day 9: Delhi

Day 10: Chennai

Day 11: Mamallapuram – Puducherry

Day 12: Puducherry

Day 13: Karaikudi

Day 14: Madurai

Day 15: Madurai

Day 16: Periyar

Day 17: Periyar

Day 18: Kochi

Day 19: Kochi

Day 20: Kerala Backwaters

Day 21: Kovalam

Day 22: Kovalam

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