Grand India Tour (from Mumbai to Kochin)
(28 Days / 27 Nights)
(Mumbai – Udaipur – Deogarh – Jaipur – Fatehpur Sikri – Agra – Sikandra – Delhi – Varanasi – Kolkata – Hyderabad – Chennai - Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry – Chidambaram – Kumbakonam – Tanjore – Trichy – Madurai – Thekkady – Alleppey – Kochi)
(to view the route of this tour on a Map please click here)

Day 01. Flight to India (Mumbai)
Around Midnight arrive in Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay). The cosmopolitan City and capital of Maharashtra is the main gateway for the travelers to India. Upon arrival, you will be met by an Indo Vacations representative and transferred to the hotel.

Day 02. Mumbai: Excursion
After having our breakfast we have sightseeing in Mumbai. Today in our sightseeing we visit the Gandhi Museum, Hanging Garden, City Museum, Marine Drive Flyover, St. Thomas Cathedral, Chhatrapati Shivaji terminus, Rajabai Tower, Kamala Nehru Park, Hanging Gardens, Mumbai University, High Court, Oval Maidan and Gateway of India. We have a walk through the harbor area and visit the Gateway of India built in 1927 to commemorate the visit of George 5th from England. We have a Boat Ride at Gateway of India. In the afternoon we visit the laundry people on the shore (Dhobi Ghat) and later we will also learn about the art of Dabbawalas. A dabbawala is a person who is part of a delivery system that collects hot food in lunch boxes from the residences of workers in the late morning, delivers the lunches to the workplace by various modes of transport, mostly bicycles and the railway trains, and returns the empty boxes back to the customer's residence that afternoon. They are also made use of by prominent meal suppliers in Mumbai where they ferry ready, cooked meals from central kitchens to the customers and back.

Day 03. Mumbai - Elephanta - Mumbai (excursion)
Today we have an excursion to the Elephanta Island which is in Mumbai Harbour, east of Mumbai. Elephanta island is located about 10 km from the south east coast of Island city. Elephanta Island is a very famous tourist destination due to the island's cave temples, the Elephanta Caves, that have been carved out of rock. The Elephanta Caves are a network of sculpted caves which are siotuated on Elephanta Island. Rock cut architecture of the caves dates back between the 5th and 8th centuries. The island was called Gharapuri and was a Hindu place of worship until Portuguese rule began in 1534. This cave was restored and renovated in the 1970s after years of neglect, and was included in UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 to preserve the artwork. Presently it is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Day 04. Mumbai - Udaipur (by air)
Today we have flight from Mumbai to Udaipur. Arrival in Udaipur and transfer to the hotel.
Udaipur is called the romantic city of Rajasthan. A city built around shimmering, clear, blue water lakes which reflect the green hills of the Aravali ranges.

Day 05. Udaipur
Today we visit Udaipur, also known as the city of sunrise. We start our sightseeing with the visit of Sahelion-Ki-Bari. This Garden of the Maids of Honor is well laid out with extensive lawns and shady walks. After the visit of Garden of Maids we visit a Museum of folk art. This museum has a rich collection of Folk dresses, ornaments, puppets, masks, dolls, folk musical instruments and paintings on display. After a break we proceed to City palace, the biggest Palace in India, where 4 generations of Maharajas added their contribution, is so carefully planned and integrated with the original buildings that it is difficult to believe that it was not conceived as a whole. The museum of the palace includes the beautiful peacock mosaic and miniature wall paintings of Indian mythology. Today we have an opportunity to visit a traditional painting school and see the famous miniature paintings done. In the evening we have a Boat ride on the lake Pichola. The famous Lake Palace of Udaipur was the summer residence of the former rulers. The James bond Film Octopussy was shot here and made this palace more known in the west.

Day 06. Udaipur - Nagda - Deogarh (about 135 kms / 3.5 hrs)
Today we proceed to Deogarh. En route we visit Nagda. In Nagda we visit the temples. At the temple of Nagda we experience scenes from the epic Ramayana. After Nagda we proceed to Deogarh. In Deogarh we enjoy the overnight stay in a Maharaja Palace which has been converted into a Hotel. Rest of the day at leisure and therefore enough time to relax and have a walk in the Bazaar of this small town.

Day 07. Deogarh - Jaipur, the Pink City (about 275 km / 6 hrs)
Early in the morning we drive to the Pink City, Jaipur. This city owes its name, foundations and careful planning to the great warrior and astronomer, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and famous for its handicrafts and precious and semiprecious stones. Arrival in Jaipur. Rest of the time free for leisure at the hotel.

Day 08. Jaipur
After breakfast we drive to the ancient capital of Amber, laying 11 km. away from Jaipur. Amber was the ancient capital of Kachhawaha dynasty for 6 centuries before it was moved to newly created Jaipur. We will ascend to the Palace Fortress on the back of an Elephant. Enroute to Amber we will visit the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), built in 1799 AD, it contains 953 small casements with each having its own balcony. The windows enabled cool air to circulate and the ladies to watch processions below without being seen. In the afternoon we visit the City Palace that is still the formal residence of the royal family, built in a blend of the Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. In the museum of the City Palace we visit the private collection of the Jaipur Maharajas. We continue to Jantar Mantar, a stone observatory, and the largest of Jai Singh's five remarkable observatories. Its complex instruments reveal us the secrets of medieval Indian astronomy. Later we have a walk through the colourful Bazaar of Jaipur and visit a factory to see the famous block printing work being done since centuries in Jaipur. In the evening we drive through the new city of Jaipur and visit "Laxmi Narayan Mandir", a Hindu temple made out of white marble. We might have an opportunity here to observe a prayer ceremony. Today we have dinner with a presentation of Indian music and dance.

Day 09. Jaipur - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra (about 260 km / 5-6 hrs)
Today we leave Rajasthan, the biggest state in India and drive through a series of fields, small towns and villages to Agra. Enroute we make a stop and visit Fatehpur Sikri, which was once an imperial capital frozen in time, constructed by Akbar the Great in the 16th century. This wonderful city constructed by red sand stones was abandoned as abruptly as it had been built. It has been generally stated that it was due to failing in the water supply. Late evening arrival in Agra. Rest of the day at leisure.

Day 10. Agra
Today very early in the morning after taking a cup of coffee in the hotel, we left the hotel and proceed to Taj mahal. We have sunrise visit of the most beautiful and famous building of India, the Taj Mahal, an enduring monument of love, with a continually fulfilling beauty. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1631-52, as a tomb and memorial to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal (Jewel of the Palace), who died at the age of 39 giving birth to her 14th child. We spend enough time at Taj Mahal to take this impressive memory home. Then drive back to the hotel and take breakfast. After a short break in the afternoon we visit Agra Fort, built by three of the greatest Mughal emperors. The construction of this massive structure began in 1565 under Akbar's reign and continued till the time of his grandson's reign, Shah Jahan who built the impressive imperial quarters and mosque. Then we drive to Itmad-ud-Daulah which was built by Nur Jahan for his father Ghias-ud-Din Beg. Itmad-ud-Daulah was built between 1622 and 1628 A.D. on the banks of Yamuna River. The tomb is not as big as Taj Mahal but the inlay designs and carvings are not less than Taj Mahal. After this there is the opportunity to look at the famous fine marble inlay work which is still being done in Agra by the descendants of the families of builders and artists of the Taj Mahal.

Day 11. Agra - Sikandra - Delhi (200 km / 03½ hrs)
Today after breakfast we drive to Delhi. En route we visit Sikandra. After sightseeing of sikandra we drive to Delhi. In the afternoon we visit the National Museum of Delhi. This museum in the Janpath (south of Raj Path) contains a good collection of Indian bronzes, Terracotta and wooden sculptures from the Moorish period (2nd-3rd century BC.), Pieces from the Vijayanagar period in South India, miniatures, murals and garments of different strains. All these makes a visit to this museum worthwhile.

Day 12. Delhi
In the morning we have sightseeing in Old Delhi. We take a Rickshaw Ride parallel to the Red Fort through the old city and famous Silk Road and Silver Bazaar. Sightseeing of Old Delhi includes "Rajghat", the site where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated and Jama Masjid, the great mosque of old Delhi. Today we also visit the famous "Humayun Tomb" which is the first substantial example of Mughal architecture in India and "Qutub Minar". "Qutub Minar" is 71 meter high and consists of five stories. In 1199 work began on this tower which was intended to be the most glorious tower of victory in the world. This tower was damaged twice and repaired in 1326 and 1368. Before we proceed to the Hotel we drive through the embassy area in New Delhi where we visit the India Gate and see some impressive Government Buildings.

Day 13. Delhi - Varanasi (by air): Sarnath
In the morning we have flight to Varanasi. Varanasi is most sacred city of India and thus visited by over one million people. Varanasi is also called the city of light. Buddha visited this city in 500 BC.
Arrival in Varanasi and transfer to the hotel. After a short break a drive can be organized to Sarnath (10 km). Sarnath is the place where Buddha delivered his first sermon at deer park. After visiting Varanasi we drive back to the hotel.

Day 14. Varanasi
Varanasi is also known under the names of Kashi and Banaras. Its present name means the city between two rivers; these are the Varuna and Asi. For Hindus Varanasi has always been a very sacred place. The city is not only a famous place of pilgrimage, but also a popular place to die, because that will ensure immediate entry into heaven. In the early morning we take a boat ride on the Holy River Ganges and enjoy sunrise on the boat. Ghats (flight of steps) and the activities of pilgrims on that are the principal attraction for visitors to Varanasi. Thousands of pilgrims and devotees visit this city to make holy prayers, to meditate and to purify themselves through taking a bath in the holy river Ganges. In the noon we visit the city of Varanasi. In the afternoon we visit the temple of "Bharat Mata". After that we an Evening Aarti on the ghats of Varanasi.

Day 15. Varanasi - Kolkata (by flight or overnight train with an extended day)
In the morning we have flight to Kolkata (formerly. Calcutta). Kolkata is India’s largest city and one of the biggest city in south Asia. Historically, Kolkata was one of the first English settlements in India, and the capital of the British Crown Colony for a long time. Today we take a long walk through the bazaars of Kolkata.

Day 16. Kolkatta
Today we explore this vibrant and lively city during the whole day tour. We visit the Victoria Memorial and magnificent buildings in the area of Chowringhee and Dalhousie Square. We also visit the Jain Temple and the Fort Williams. In the area of Joransanko we have the opportunity to visit the family house of the famous Indian writer Rabindranath Tagore.

Day 17. Kolkatta - Hyderabad (by air)
Today morning we have flight to Hyderabad. Arrival in Hyderebad and transfer to the hotel. After a short break, we explore the markets and bazaars of Hyderabad. The area around the Bazaar is beautiful and attractive. Here you can see the shops of silver and Metalwork. Then we walk further to visit the Kalibari temple of Hyderabad, kalibari temple is famous throughout India for its excellent cuisine and there are many good restaurants around. Our local guide will give you more tips on the spot.

Day 18. Hyderabad - Golconda - Hyderabad
After having breakfast, we drive to visit the impressive fort at Golconda. This fort is entered through gateways which have relief ornamentation of birds and animals. The Fateh Darwaza or Victory Gate is made of teak with an engraved Hindu deity studded with iron spikes. Within the ramparts lie the mosques, temples, the 3 storeyed armoury, the harem, the Hall of Public Audience and the Rani Mahal with the royal baths. After visiting the Golconda fort we visit the Qutub Shahi Tomb. Each tomb is made of black granite or green stone with fine sculpture, inscriptions and remains of glazed decoration. Overnight in Hyderabad.

Day 19. Hyderabad - Chennai (by air)
Today we have flight to Chennai. Chennai (formerly known as Madras) is the largest cosmopolitan and capital city of Tamil Nadu. Chennai is located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal. This city was developed after 1639 when the East India Company established a fort and trading post at the small fishing village of Chennai.
Arrival in Chennai and transfer to the hotel. After a short break we have sightseeing tour of Chennai.
We visit the Fort St. George near the harbour area of Chennai which was built by the British in the 17th century and St. Mary's church which was the first English church in India. We also visit "Government Museum" of Chennai and Kapaleeswarar cave-temple chennai, a Shiva shrine which dates back to 16th century. Overnight stay in Chennai.

Day 20. Chennai - Mahabalipuram (about 58 km / 1 hrs)
Today morning we drive to Mahabalipuram. Mahabalipuram is a historical retreat set amidst natural beauty, about 58 km south of Chennai. Mahabalipuram is also known as Mamallapuram, the city of Bali. This ancient city is located on the shores of the Bay of Bengal. This ancient place was the major seaport of the Pallava dynasty and was the second capital of the Pallava kings of Kanchipuram. Mahabalipuram is globally known for the famous shore temples. In the afternoon we have sightseeing of Mahabalipuram. We visit some of the 14 cave temples and 9 monolithic rathas (temple chariots). Pallavamala was the ruler who made the famous port in the 7th century and was largely responsible for building the temples. Overnight stay at the Beach resort.

Day 21. Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry (about 132 km / 3 hrs)
After having breakfast we drive to Pondicherry. Pondicherry was retained as French colony until 1954. Pondicherry has even today the French atmosphere amidst the surrounding Tamil country. We visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, which is a world famous Yoga and philosophy center.

Day 22. Pondicherry - Chidambaram - Kumbakonam - Tanjore (about 190 km / 4 hrs)
We drive through the tropical mountains to Chidambaram. Chidambaram lies on the north edge of the coleroon river. In Chidambaram we visit the Natraja Temple which is dedicated to the dancing Lord Shiva, a famous Hindu deity of the Chola Kings. On the way to Tanjore we have a stop over in Kumbakonam. Kumbakonam is famous for its 18 temples in the town centre. After visiting Kumbakonam we drive to Tanjore. The city Tanjore (Thanjavur) is our last destination today. Tanjore was the capital of great chola empire who built more than 70 temples between 10th and 14th century. We visit here one of the world heritage monument, Brihasdisvara Temple (11th century), which is also known as big temple.

Day 23. Tanjore - Trichy - Srirangam - Madurai (about 200 km / 5 hrs)
Today we drive to Trichy; the land near the delta is very fertile and productive. This town Trichy is so ancient that it was mentioned by Ptolemy in the 2nd century BC by Alexandrian geographer. We climb stairs to the famous Rock Fort which was built on 84 m high rock in the centre of town in about 1660. We also visit a Shiva and Ganesha temple and enjoy a wonderful view of the surroundings from the top. Then we drive to Srirangam and visit the Ranganathasvami Temple which is one of the largest temples in India dedicated to god Vishnu. After the visit of Srirangam we proceed to Madurai. After the sightseeing of Srirangam we drive to Madurai. Arrival in Madurai and transfer to the hotel.

Day 24. Madurai
Today we have sightseeing of Madurai. Madurai is situated on the banks of river Vaigai and also referred as the Athens of the East. Madurai has the most outstanding examples of Vijayanagar temple architecture in the Meenakshi temple, a standing monument to the temple builders of the 16th and 17th century. Madurai is also known as the "Pearl of South India". We visit the Thirumalai Nayak Palace which dates back to 17th century. Then we visit the Gandhi Museum which provides information on the life of Mahatma Gandhi, on the colonial history and the independence movement. In the evening we visit the Meenakshi temple and afterwards have a walk through the bazaars of this 2500 years old town.

Day 25. Madurai - Thekkady (about 140 km / 3 hrs)
Today we drive to Thekkady. Thekkady is one of the India's largest wildlife sanctuary. This sanctuary has a large variety of flora and fauna and is the ultimate place of many endangered species and a rich tribal culture. This sanctuary is spread over an area of 780 square kms, surrounded by an artificial lake over an area of 25 square kms. In 1978, Thekkady was declared as Periyar Tiger Reserve, under the Project Tiger Scheme. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 26. Periyar - Alleppey (about 160 kms / 4 hrs)
In the early morning we take a boat ride on the famous Periyar lake which is the central point of the national park and observe the activites of various animals like Elephants, Bison, Wild oxen, Wild boar and Spotted Deer. Afterwards we drive to Alleppey and cruise through the scenic back waters in and around Alleppey. Alleppey, the coastal town on the Arabian Sea is known as the Venice of the East and famous for the numerous backwater canals that meander through the town. This town holds a thrilling event of snake boat race every year during August. It is also known for its cashew nuts. Overnight stay at the houseboat. We experience a magical tropical lagoon landscape on the boat trip through the backwaters of Kerela.

Day 27. Alleppey - Cochin (55 kms / 1 ½ hrs)
In the morning we drive to Cochin. Cochin is the most interesting town in South India at Malabar Coast and is also known as Venice of South. The town of Cochin is divided in different parts namely, Fort Cochin, Willington Island, Ernakulam, Bolghatty Island and Vypeen Island. Most of the historic buildings are in Fort Cochin. We have whole day today at leisure so that we can explore Cochin on our own. In Cochin we visit St. Francis church, the oldest European church in India in which the grave of famous sailor Vasco da Gama can be visited. After the visit of St. Francis Church we have a walk through the Jewish area of Mattancherry. In the late afternoon we visit a Kathakali dance school. Kathakali dances originate from Kerala and in its traditional form relates stories from the Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharata.

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About Hotels:
We provide you the accommodation as per your budget mentioned above in the table of hotels category for any of the booked tour. Hotels provided by us are from budget to luxury class hotels. The criteria for selecting hotels by us remains the best value of your money. We also provide you wherever possible accommodation in heritage hotels. Heritage Hotels are old Palaces, Forts and Grand mansions of Maharajas which have been later renovated and converted into Hotels. Rooms are decorated all individually. Rooms are comfortable, romantic and present the flair of olden Maharaja days.