Uncover the delights of India’s famed Golden Triangle - Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, then head south to tropical Kerala. Visit historic Fort Kochi and the picturesque hill station of Munnar with its verdant tea plantations, relax in sleepy Kumarakom and spend a night aboard a house-boat, gliding along the palm fringed backwaters.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Delhi sightseeing
Today we enjoy a full day of sightseeing in India’s capital. In Old Delhi we visit Humayun’s Tomb and Jama Masjid - the largest and oldest mosque in India. Continue to Raj Ghat, the site of Gandhi’s cremation and enjoy an exhilarating rickshaw ride around the Chandni Chowk bazaar. In New Delhi we stroll down the ceremonial Rajpath and see the India Gate monument. This evening we enjoy a group Namaste dinner at our hotel.
Overnight: Delhi | Breakfast, Dinner
The Pink City of Jaipur
Delhi - Jaipur. On day 3 we leave Delhi and travel to the UNESCO-listed Pink City of Jaipur. Explore highlights of the city including the impressive City Palace and UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar space observatory, home to the world’s largest stone sundial.
On the morning of day 4 you may wish to join our Balloon Over Jaipur add-on. Climb into a hot air balloon and sail over forts, temples and palaces with Jaipur in the background. Later we take a jeep ride up to the 16th century Amber Fort, a well-preserved fortress laid out over four levels and set on the shore of the shimmering Maota Lake. Enjoy a guided tour of the fortress before we continue to a local cotton weaving house on our way back to Jaipur.
Overnight: Jaipur | Breakfast x 2
Chand Baori step well & Keoladeo Ghana National Park
Jaipur - Abhaneri - Bharatpur. Leave Jaipur today as we discover the remarkable Chand Baori step well in Abhaneri, where 13 stories climb down to the water’s edge. The well also featured in the hit movie ‘Batman: The Dark Knight Rises’.
We then visit a local school (if open) to meet the pupils and teachers. We operate our Change for Children programme here and any donations you make are greatly appreciated. You may also wish to bring some educational gifts from home to give to the pupils (see trip notes). Continue to Bharatpur and check in to our hotel before we visit the Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Enjoy a bicycle rickshaw ride around this bird-watchers paradise and important wetland reserve. We'll be escorted by a knowledgeable guide who will be able to identify the species you spot. After our visit, we return to the hotel.
Overnight: Bharatpur | Breakfast, Dinner
The Taj Mahal
Bharatpur - Agra. Our first stop of today is the former Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri, which was abandoned more than 400 years ago but remains fantastically preserved. Continue to Agra and visit striking Agra Fort before we arrive at the most famous site in India - the Taj Mahal. Enjoy a guided tour of this legendary white mausoleum, commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century to commemorate his beloved wife. The Taj Mahal is perhaps the most extravagant monument to love ever built and remains in all its glory.
Overnight: Agra | Breakfast
Return to Delhi
Agra - Delhi. We return to Delhi this morning where the rest of the day is at leisure. You may wish to visit Red Fort and enjoy its famous Sound and Light Show this evening.
Overnight: Delhi | Breakfast
Delhi to Kochi
Delhi - Kochi. This morning we fly to Kochi, on the Arabian Sea coast. The afternoon is free to relax before we enjoy an entertaining Kathakali dance show this evening. Admire the colourful costumes and extensive use of make-up as we watch this traditional Keralan performance.
Overnight: Kochi | Breakfast
Kochi sightseeing & Munnar
Kochi - Munnar. On day 9 we enjoy a guided tour of historic Fort Kochi, the old part of the city. See the iconic Chinese fishing nets and stroll down narrow, winding streets. Our tour will take in St. Francis’ Church - the oldest European church in India and the Paradesi Synagogue. After our tour we drive to scenic Munnar in the Western Ghats Mountains.
On day 10 we take a guided walk through one of Munnar’s many tea plantations with our guide and visit a bustling local market. The rest of the day is free to explore. There are numerous trails in the region that you may wish to hike - any of these will be rewarded with breath taking mountain views.
Overnight: Munnar | Breakfast x 2, Dinner x 2
Kerala Backwaters
Munnar - Alleppey - Keralan backwaters. Today we embark on a picturesque 4-5 hour drive to Alleppey and board our deluxe furnished rice boat. Enjoy a cruise through the famous Kerala Backwaters, a chain of lakes and rivers which run parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. Pass bustling local villages and green vegetation on either side as we sail. We watch the beautiful sunset onboard and all of your meals will be prepared with fresh local produce by our chef.
Overnight: Deluxe Rice Boat | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Kumarakom
Keralan Backwaters - Kumarakom. On day 12 we arrive in the village of Kumarakom and disembark our rice boat. Kumarakom is built on a cluster of islands on Lake Vembanad - the longest lake in India. Spend two days relaxing or exploring the charming surroundings at leisure. Take a boat ride on the lake if you wish and perhaps visit the local bird sanctuary, which is a famous stopover for migratory birds and home to species including eagles, owls and storks.
Overnight: Kumarakom | Breakfast x 2
Kochi
Kumarakom - Kochi. Friday. Our Indian adventure comes to an end today. We leave Kumarakom and transfer to the airport in Kochi - flights from Kochi should depart after 2pm.
Breakfast
Extend Your Stay At The Beach
Extend your stay in sun kissed Kerala with a relaxing beach break. Located in the picturesque fishing village of Mararikulam near Alleppey, Marari beach is fringed by limitless lines of coconut palms. Ideal for some rest and relaxation! Please contact us for details.
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Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 persons. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to those who don’t have anyone to share a room with or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room.
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Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Vivanta by Taj Dwarka, Delhi
Vivanta by Taj Dwarka is a modern, luxury hotel located in Dwarka, on the outskirts of New Delhi, just a 15-minute drive from the airport. Spread over 7 acres, this striking hotel has a unique angular design and offers 250 luxurious rooms and suites. All tastes are catered for at the hotel's multi-cuisine restaurant, while the Indus Express restaurant serves mouth-watering Punjabi cuisine. Head to the popular Tipple bar for a delicious array of heady cocktails or relax by the poolside with a refreshing smoothie from the Celsuis Pool Bar. The nearby Sector 21 Metro station provides direct access to the heart of the city and after a day of sightseeing you can cool off with a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool or relax in the sauna and massage parlour.
Hotel Jivitesh, Delhi
The Jivitesh Hotel is centrally located in the heart of Karol Bagh, a popular neighbourhood of Delhi renowned for its excellent shops and vibrant street markets. The Jivitesh offers comfortable and spacious guest rooms, with modern amenities such as free WiFi, and you can be assured of a warm welcome and excellent customer service from the hotel staff. Enjoy authentic Indian vegetarian cuisine at the hotel's restaurant and take a refreshing dip in the outdoor swimming pool after a day of sightseeing in the capital. Please note: The swimming pool at the Jivitesh hotel is currently under renovation and is expected to be finished by September 2020.
Crowne Plaza New Delhi Rohini, Delhi
Located just footsteps from the nearest metro station, the Crowne Plaza New Delhi offers a beautiful blend of contemporary facilities and warm Indian hospitality. Each en-suite guestroom features traditional wood furnishings and a minibar, free WiFi and a flat screen TV. Guests can unwind in the Adya Spa which features a mix of Asian and European therapies or take a swim in the outdoor pool to escape the heat. The hotel prides itself on its range of dining options including the Spice Art restaurant, which serves delicious North Indian cuisine, and Moasic, where you’ll find a range of international dishes.
Mandawa Haveli, Jaipur
Made of pink and red sandstone, the beautiful heritage-style Mandawa Haveli is a fine example of typical Rajasthani architecture. All rooms are well appointed with intricately carved wooden beds and king-size royal portraits, with modern amenities such as free WiFi and ensuite bathrooms. Spend an evening dining on continental, Indian or Rajasthani cuisine on the outdoor terrace or request a private, candlelit dinner on the rooftop under a star-studded sky. Well located in the heart of Jaipur city on Sansar Chandra Road, this hotel is just a few minute’s drive from the Palace of the Winds.
Udai Vilas Palace, Bharatpur
Set amongst 2 acres of landscaped gardens, the Udai Vilas Palace is a traditional hotel located right in the heart of Bharatpur city. Guest rooms are spacious and well equipped with comfortable beds and large windows. The hotel is famous for its barbecue nights and Rajasthani folklore evenings, where you will be enthralled by traditional music and dance performances. Keoladeo National Park, one of the most well-known bird sanctuaries in India, is also just a five-minute drive away.
Hotel Royale Residency , Agra
Situated a stone’s throw away from the legendary Taj Mahal, the Royal Residency Hotel is perfectly located for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in Agra’s famous monuments. Each comfortable air-conditioned room features a minibar with tea and coffee making facilities, satellite TV as well as excellent en-suite facilities. Guests can enjoy an array of flavours around the world in the multi-cuisine restaurant, or perhaps sip on a cocktail next to the outdoor pool.
Casino Hotel, Kochi
Casino Hotel is a modern hotel located on Willingdon island, set in tropical gardens it is a beautiful blend of art deco and colonial Indian architectural styles. With a large pool and and spacious comfortable rooms this hotel offers a fantastic experience when in Kochi. Casino Hotel boasts 2 restaurants, a 24-hour health club as well as free wifi in public areas.
Clouds Valley Leisure Hotel, Munnar
Set in the valley of the Kennan Devan Hills, the Clouds Valley Leisure Hotel is a contemporary accommodation. Guest rooms are bright and spacious with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Rooms are also all en suite, have modern amenities and comfortable beds. The hotel benefits from an onsite restaurant that serves up a tasty selection of both Indian and South Indian food as well as Chinese and European dishes.
Deluxe Houseboat, Alleppey
There are few things as serene and tranquil as floating along the Keralan backwaters in the comfort of a luxurious houseboat. Deluxe houseboats are elegantly furnished, with up to four bedrooms, equipped with modern en suites, an open lounge, dining area and a deck to relax and admire the beautiful views of the lush green palms and rice paddies. Air conditioning operates in the bedrooms between 9pm to 6am only. The cruises are full board, with tasty meals freshly prepared by the onboard chef.
Eastend Lakesong, Kumarakom
Nestled among the serene backwaters of Kumarakom, Eastend Lakesong comprises of 8 acres of facility packed leisure land. Guests sleep in villas and cottages, which are all well furnished with colourful interiors and comfortable beds. The onsite restaurants offer an excellent selection of local and international cuisine. Why not treat yourself to a relaxing massage at the Ayurveda on site Spa? It is the perfect way to unwind after a long day of exploring in the fierce Indian heat.
Had an amazing holiday and very much enjoyed both the Golden Triangle & Kerala. They were two very different tours, with the hustle & bustle of Delh and many cultural sights in the North, including the Taj Mahal, and then a more relaxed pace in Kerala, but an equally interesting itinerary, our highlight being the stay on the Riceboat, followed by 2 nights at a luxury resort.
Both guides were superb - friendly, courteous & knowledgeable.
A fantastic experience.”
Overall the tour was excellent. The Golden Triangle sector of the tour in northern India was very busy as expected and moving hotels each night was exhausting. The selection of places to visit was very good and all the accommodation was fine.
Kerala by contrast was beautiful and relaxing, the boat trip and the Lakesong Hotel were excellent. Our extended stay at the Marari Beach Resort a wonderful estate with over 70 species of resident birds was superb.
Our main guide in the north, Satendra, was very well organised and well informed about the main sites. ”
This was our first time with On the Go so we weren't sure what to expect. However from our initial transfer at New Delhi airport we felt very happy with our choice of tour and company. Our guide Sat was very personable and helpful with requests. His knowledge of his home country was very extensive and relayed the information in The Golden Triangle part of the tour ( 19 people) was very much "on the go" however there was a lot of area to cover in this week. When we flew to Kerala the pace was a lot slower and as there were only 3 people we did not have a guide, just a driver. But this was not a problem and he was very professional and gave us a wide range of information. It was great to see both the northern and southern parts of India, such a range of intensity, sights, food and cultures. We would definitely recommend On the Go to others and are looking forward to doing another tour with this company next year. ”
Sat was brilliant. Knowledge and context of the sites visited was detailed and interesting. His overall manner was very engaging and nothing was too much trouble. Extemely flexible and approachable. First rate”
Satish was an excellent guide. He was very knowledgeable and was able to answer our questions about the city and culture. He was also very good at providing practical tips where appropriate (eg: max prices to pay, where to buy things (and where not to buy)) to ensure we had an enjoyable trip.
The Golden Triangle part of the tour felt very rushed. It would have been nice to have a bit of spare time to explore the cities.
Kerala was very relaxing and all that we had expected from the 2nd leg of our trip. The level of hotel/hotel-restaurant service was lacking overall during this week however when we were staying in Munnar and also at the resort (after the boat cruise). This was noted in the feedback form completed at the end of our tour.”
Yogi was very nice and a good knowledge about what we saw, the whole tour was jam packed.
The hotel we stayed in in Delhi was not very good for food and the area was not nice
Alex was very good also!!
Overall a very good trip, and would use you again!!”
Yogi was a great tour guide interesting and knowledgable and he interacted well with the members of the group. The tour was well arranged and had a degree of fleability. ”
Both the tour and the guide were excellent.”
We both really enjoyed the tour, The company was great, tour guide brilliant. We were a little anxious about going to India but had a fantastic time and can't wait to go somewhere else. ”
Satendra was an absolute pleasure. He was friendly, organized, reliable, carine and a great leader. He showed compassion and was quick to think of alternate activities when things did not go as scheduled. He showed genuine interest and I was thoroughly impressed. He is a fantastic guide and i felt secure. Would definitely recommend this company. ”
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Had an amazing holiday and very much enjoyed both the Golden Triangle & Kerala. They were two very different tours, with the hustle & bustle of Delh and many cultural sights in the North, including the Taj Mahal, and then a more relaxed pace in Kerala, but an equally interesting itinerary, our highlight being the stay on the Riceboat, followed by 2 nights at a luxury resort.
Both guides were superb - friendly, courteous & knowledgeable.
A fantastic experience.”