Best of North and South India

Best of North and South India

75 Views
13 Days From

$1889

Best of North and South India

13 Days Starting in Delhi, India and ending in Cochin, India

Visiting: Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore National Park, Ranthambore, Jaipur, Alleppey, Cochin

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Tour code:

IndTur8

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 22

Physical rating:

Easy

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Safari Tours

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $1889

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of India with the "Best of North and South India" tour. Begin your adventure in the bustling metropolis of Delhi, exploring the rich history of Old and New Delhi. Marvel at the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra and search for Royal Bengal Tigers in Ranthambore National Park. Discover the vibrant culture of Jaipur, the Pink City, and its stunning palaces. Travel south to the serene backwaters of Alleppey and stroll through the lively streets of Cochin, admiring its European architecture. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and seamless transportation throughout this culturally immersive experience.

Highlights

  • Explore the counterparts of Old and New Delhi in the capital of India

  • Discover the Taj Mahal in Agra, one of India's top tourist destinations

  • Search for Royal Bengal Tigers in their natural habitat in Ranthambore

  • Enjoy a tour of Jaipur, the famous Pink City home to incredible palaces

  • Travel through the backwaters of Alleppey, a charming town in the south

  • Walk through the lively streets of Cochin; admire the European architecture

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Delhi Arrival

Location: Delhi

Accommodation Name: hotel

Welcome to Delhi! The capital of India is a bustling metropolis that successfully combines ancient and modern in its folds. Delhi can broadly be divided into two parts — Old Delhi and New Delhi. Old Delhi was the capital of Delhis Muslim rulers, notably the Mughals between the 17th and 19th centuries. New Delhi on the other hand is referred to as the Imperial City when the British decided to move their capital from Calcutta in 1911. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a non-alcoholic welcome drink.




Overnight in Delhi

Day 2: Delhi (B/-/-)

Location: Delhi

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. From there you will head out to explore Old Delhi, the Mughal capital established by Shah Jahan in 1638. Drive past the famous Red Fort, where Jawaharlal Nehru unfurled the flag of newly independent India on August 15th, 1947 and trade the vehicle for bicycle rickshaws. Weave through the warren of crooked, congested alleys off Chandni Chowk, one of Indias oldest and busiest bazaars, where you will see the traditional workmanship for which India is known for and continues to thrive. Visit Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhis serene and evocative cremation site and the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. The majestic Jama Masjid — meaning world reflecting mosque — is Old Delhis principal place of worship and the largest and most renowned of its kind in the country. Built-in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shahjahan — who also built the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort — it is an elaborate structure featuring an expansive geometric base topped with globe-shaped minarets crafted from strips of red sandstone and white marble, and a massive courtyard that can hold up to 25,000 people. This afternoon you will visit the Qutab Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This magnificent structure is a breathtaking 240-foot minaret, the tallest in the world, surrounded by an elaborate complex built in the Indo-Islamic architectural tradition. 




Overnight in Delhi

Day 3: Delhi €” Agra (232 Kms / 05 Hrs) (B/-/-)

Location: Agra

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning you will drive to Agra, a medieval city home to the world-famous Taj Mahal. Agra is one of Indias prime tourist destinations for specifically this reason, although its attractions also extend to a wide range of other historical sites. The Taj, however, is in a league of its own and is a must-see for any visitor to the city. Commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 15th century as a memorial to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the structure stands as an architectural masterpiece of exquisite craftsmanship and perfect proportions. Spend your afternoon at leisure or perhaps book an optional tour to the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah.




Overnight in Agra

Day 4: Agra (B/-/-)

Location: Agra

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Visit the Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays). Considered the pinnacle of Mughal art in India, the Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. When declaring it a World Heritage Site, UNESCO described it as “the jewel of Muslim art in India”. Few words can describe the magnificence of this monument. Marvel over the transforming light and colors of this breathtaking monument under the sun's rays. Return to your hotel for breakfast. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure or perhaps book an optional tour to the Agra Fort.




Overnight in Agra

Day 5: Agra - Ranthambore (280 Kms / 06 Hrs) (B/L/D)

Location: Ranthambore National Park

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, you will drive to Ranthambore National Park. With a size of 150 square miles, this may be one of Indias smallest tiger reserves, but it boasts one of the largest tiger populations in the country with an impressive range of other animals and birdlife (over 270 species of birds have been documented). It is situated between the Aravalli and Vindhya Mountain ranges, forested with deciduous trees, dotted with natural and manmade lakes and spectacular ancient ruins. An abundance of wildlife can be found including leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, langur nilgais, sambars, and chital inhabiting the park. Crocodiles can be found in some of these lakes, which are also seasonally rich in water birds.




Overnight in Ranthambore

Day 6: Ranthambore (B/L/D)

Location: Ranthambore

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Your day will begin with pre-dawn coffee and biscuits before setting off on an early morning game drive, lead by a park guide, in search of the Royal Bengal Tiger. Return to your hotel for lunch. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure or perhaps return to the park for an optional afternoon game drive.




Overnight in Ranthambore

Day 7: Ranthambore - Jaipur (180 Kms / 04 Hrs) (B/-/D)

Location: Jaipur

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

In the morning we will depart for the “Pink City” of Jaipur. This magnificent city serves as Rajasthans capital, and the origin of Jaipurs nickname will become immediately apparent as we enter the old city walls and greet the pink-colored buildings rising at every turn. Jaipur is an excellent place to enjoy unparalleled shopping opportunities and people-watching. You may choose to spend time in the oldest and busiest markets in the walled city, a true feast for the senses. Aromatic spices fill the air, while oxcarts, rickshaws, cows, bejeweled women, and men with shocking pink turbans jostling through the labyrinthine streets. You will get an opportunity to watch Saree Draping and Turban Tying demonstrations. While Sarees are widely worn by women in India, Colorful Turbans are commonly worn by local forks of Rajasthan.




Overnight in Jaipur

Day 8: Jaipur (B/-/-)

Location: Jaipur

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast you will head on a half-day tour of the city, visiting the Maharajas City Palace where you will see the Mubarak Mahal, the Museums of Textiles, the Diwan-e-Khas, and Diwan-e-am. The City Palace forms one of the most famous tourist attractions and a major landmark in Jaipur. The beautiful palace was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh during his reign. Among the various forts and palaces of Jaipur, the City Palace stands apart, with its outstanding art and architecture. Afterwards, you will drive past the Hawa Mahal — an impressive beehive-like tower with a beautiful façade for a photo stop. Spend your afternoon at leisure or perhaps pre-book one of our optional tours.




Overnight in Jaipur

Day 9: Jaipur - Cochin (Flight) - Alleppey (55 Kms/ 1.5 Hrs) (B/-/-)

Location: Alleppey

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will be transferred to Jaipur International Airport for your flight to Cochin, the commercial capital of Kerala with its modern part Ernakulum and the old peninsular district of Fort Cochin and Mattancherry. Cochin is situated on the southwest coast of the Indian Peninsula. Upon arrival, depart for Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha. Alleppey is an easy-going market town surrounded by coconut plantations. With its large network of canals, it serves as a major center for backwater cruises and the venue for spectacular snake boat races. Also called the “Venice of the East”, the town serves as the headquarters for Keralas coir industry and is significant for cashew nut processing. 




Overnight in Alleppey

Day 10: Alleppey (B/-/-)

Location: Alleppey

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast you may enjoy your day at leisure; perhaps book one of our optional tours.




Overnight in Alleppey

Day 11: Alleppey - Cochin (55 Kms/ 1.5 Hrs) (B/-/D)

Location: Cochin

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

In the morning we will drive back to Cochin. Over the years, Cochin has emerged as the commercial and industrial capital of Kerala and is perhaps the second most important city on the west coast of India (after Mumbai/Bombay). Cochin was an important spice-trading center on the Arabian Sea coast from the 14th century onwards. It was the first European colonial settlement in India. First, the Portuguese followed by the Dutch and the British ruled here until the 19th century. Visit the old part of Fort Cochin and Mattancherry. See the Jewish Synagogue (closed on Saturdays) at the heart of what is locally known as Jew Town. Discover the St. Francis Church, the oldest European Church in India, the Santa Cruz Basilica originally built in 1557 by the Portuguese, the Dutch Palace (closed on Fridays) built by the Portuguese and presented to the Cochin King in the 16th century, the fish market, and the famous Chinese fishing nets, which are huge, cantilevered nets believed to have been brought to Kochi by Chinese traders from Kublai Khans court in China. In the evening you will enjoy an authentic South Indian dinner.




Overnight in Cochin

Day 12: Cochin (B/-/-)

Location: Cochin

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, spend your day at leisure; perhaps book one of the following optional tours.




Overnight in Cochin

Day 13: Cochin - (B/-/-)

Location: Cochin

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, transfer back to Cochin International Airport for your return flight home.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    12 nights' accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar.

  • Meals

    Daily breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 4 dinners.

  • Airport Transfers

    Arrival and departure airport transfers.

  • Transportation

    Transportation in an air-conditioned deluxe vehicle.

  • Arrival Assistance

    Arrival meeting and assistance by our representative.

  • Tour Guide

    Services of an English-speaking tour guide.

  • Audio Guide

    Audio guide headphones for a group of over 8 passengers.

  • Sightseeing

    Sightseeing as per the itinerary.

  • Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees as per the itinerary.

  • Visits

    Visit to Qutab Minar and Taj Mahal.

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What's Not Included

  • Personal Expenses

    Items of a personal nature, tips, and gratuities.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance.

  • Optional Tours

    Optional tours.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees, if applicable.

  • International Airfare

    International airfare for land-only passengers.

  • Transfers for Land-Only Passengers

    Arrival and departure transfers for land-only passengers.

  • Unmentioned Items

    Items not mentioned as being included.

Mode of Transport

Travel in an air-conditioned deluxe vehicle, with airport transfers included, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey across various destinations.

Accommodation

Enjoy 12 nights of accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey.

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Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    Travel is provided in an air-conditioned deluxe vehicle, with airport transfers included, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey across various destinations.

  • What type of accommodation is included in the tour?

    The tour includes 12 nights of accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, daily breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 4 dinners are included in the tour package.

  • Is there a tour guide provided during the trip?

    Yes, the services of an English-speaking tour guide are included in the tour.

  • Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour cost?

    Yes, entrance fees as per the itinerary are included in the tour cost.

  • What kind of activities are included in the tour?

    The tour includes various activities such as sightseeing as per the itinerary, a visit to Qutab Minar and Taj Mahal, an excursion to Maharajas City Palace in Jaipur, and a safari at Ranthambore.

  • Are airport transfers included for all passengers?

    Arrival and departure airport transfers are included, but not for land-only passengers.

  • What is the policy on optional tours?

    Optional tours are not included in the tour package and would need to be booked separately.

  • Is travel insurance included in the tour package?

    No, travel insurance is not included in the tour package.

  • What should I expect on the first day of the tour?

    On the first day, you will arrive in Delhi, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a non-alcoholic welcome drink. You will spend the night in Delhi.

  • What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Ranthambore National Park?

    In Ranthambore National Park, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including Royal Bengal Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, langur nilgais, sambars, chital, and over 270 species of birds.

  • What are some of the key attractions in Jaipur that are included in the tour?

    In Jaipur, the tour includes a visit to the Maharajas City Palace, the Museums of Textiles, the Diwan-e-Khas, and Diwan-e-am. You will also drive past the Hawa Mahal for a photo stop.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Cochin?

    In Cochin, you will visit the old part of Fort Cochin and Mattancherry, the Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, the Dutch Palace, the fish market, and the famous Chinese fishing nets. You will also enjoy an authentic South Indian dinner.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Terry Kratz (Google Reviewer)  

Thanks to Indus and Nicko...

13-Sep-2024

Thanks to Indus and Nicko Cruise for a great trip down the Danube. I had not been on a river cruise prior to this and found it a very relaxing way to travel and see some European highlights. The ship was superb. The staff served great meals, were friendly and accommodating. As far as the tours and city visits, they all gave us a reasonable amount of time and insight into the location we were visiting to come away with a sense that we had a good glimpse of the city and were able to spend some free time in the city as well. A special thanks to Dhruv our fearless leader from Indus who was a great organizer. Lastly - nice to meet all of you in our group. terry

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
Kim Eisnor (Google Reviewer)  

We had an absolutely amazing...

12-Sep-2024

We had an absolutely amazing experience on our first ever river boat cruise. The itinerary and ports were incredible, the ship was beautiful, the food was great (especially Mario’s Grill), the excursions were excellent and the staff was lovely. We had such a memorable trip with our group and made lots of memories that will last a lifetime.

DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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