Best of North and South India
Best of North and South India
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:
Tour code:
IndTur8
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 22
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
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
Itinerary
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.
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.
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
1 Select your preferred date
Thursday - Tuesday
Nov 21, 2024 - Dec 03, 2024Thursday - Tuesday
Jan 16, 2025 - Jan 28, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Jan 30, 2025 - Feb 11, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Feb 06, 2025 - Feb 18, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Feb 20, 2025 - Mar 04, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Mar 06, 2025 - Mar 18, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Mar 20, 2025 - Apr 01, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Apr 03, 2025 - Apr 15, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Apr 17, 2025 - Apr 29, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
May 08, 2025 - May 20, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
May 22, 2025 - Jun 03, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Jun 05, 2025 - Jun 17, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Jun 19, 2025 - Jul 01, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Jul 03, 2025 - Jul 15, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Jul 17, 2025 - Jul 29, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Aug 07, 2025 - Aug 19, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Aug 21, 2025 - Sep 02, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Sep 04, 2025 - Sep 16, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Sep 18, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Oct 09, 2025 - Oct 21, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Oct 23, 2025 - Nov 04, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Nov 06, 2025 - Nov 18, 2025Thursday - Tuesday
Nov 20, 2025 - Dec 02, 2025Book 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.