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India North to South: Goa & The Golden Triangle

28 days, Delhi to Kochi

Itinerary

Day 1Delhi

Arrive at any time and welcome to India's bustling capital - Delhi!

Tonight, wander through the electric Karol Bagh market for your first night out; pick the best looking spot and cheers to new adventures and friends!

Please note this tour departs Delhi early on Day 2, so book pre-accommodation if you would like to explore the city more in depth. Opt to wander through the heart of India's capital city and explore Old and New Delhi. Travel by the new metro or auto rickshaws and visit the famous Jama Masjid (Great Mosque) where you can climb the minaret for a bird's eye view of the old city. Explore Chandni Chowk, one of India's oldest and busiest markets or head to the colourful spice market -- a great photo opportunity.

Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends

Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.

Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group

Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Accommodation

Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.

Hotel Metropolitan (or similar)
Hotel

Day 2Delhi/Āgra

Relax on the morning train to Agra while admiring the arid terrain and small towns. On arrival, check the famous Taj Mahal world wonder off your bucket list as you marvel at the iconic Mughal architecture. Immerse yourself in a guided tour and learn of the mausoleum's unique history. Opt to visit Baby Taj and the Agra Fort, the Taj’s less famous—but no less impressive—sister monument, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Train
Delhi – Āgra2h-3h

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Each ticket corresponds to an assigned seat. If the group travels on the early morning train, a basic, local breakfast will be served.

Taj Mahal Guided Tour
Tāj Mahal1h-3h

We will aim to experience the Taj Mahal at either sunset or sunrise, depending upon our train tickets and travel schedule.

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Optional Activities - Day 2 HideShow

Agra Fort Visit
Āgra1h-3h
650INR per person

Enjoy a visit to this impressive Mughal fort made of red sandstone and white marble.

Baby Taj Visit
Āgra
310INR per person

Visit this mausoleum that looks like a jewel box, built before the Taj Mahal by Queen Nur Jahan for her father. Enjoy the intricate details of the structure; it was the first Mughal building faced with white marble and where "pietra dura" (precious stones inlaid into marble) was first used.

Accommodation

Crystal Inn Agra (or similar)
Hotel

Day 3Āgra/Jaipur

Today we take a bus (always an adventure itself in India) to the capital of Rajasthan — Jaipur. Clothed in sandstone pink stucco, Jaipur is known as the "Pink City" and is one of the most important heritage cities in India. It's home to India’s second most visited site, the Hawa Mahal, or "Palace of the Winds." Ride a cycle rickshaw to the markets and enjoy an orientation walk through the stalls. In your free time, opt to visit the City Palace, the observatory, or check out a song-and-dance Bollywood film in India's largest movie theatre.

Orientation Walk – Agra
Āgra

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Local Bus
Āgra – Jaipur7h

There will be a stop around the half-way point for snacks and toilets.

Accommodation

Rawla Mrignayani Palace (or similar)
Hotel

Day 4Jaipur

Embark on a guided tour of Amber Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site to check off your list. The Fort's sandstone walls are perched on a hill almost blending in with the terrain, besides perfectly reflecting in Maota Lake creating a mirage effect (and perfect photograph). Wander through the halls, courtyards, and palaces inside and admire the intricate details. Afterward, head back to Jaipur and spend the free afternoon exploring with your fellow travellers and see where the night takes you.

Admire the city from above by pre-booking the Jaipur Balloon Ride when booking your tour.

Amber Fort Guided Tour
Amber Fort

Explore this magnificent fort overlooking an artificial lake, famous for its unique mixture of Hindu and Muslim architecture. The Fort's sandstone walls are perched on a hill almost blending in with the terrain, besides perfectly reflecting in Maota Lake creating a mirage effect (and perfect photograph). Wander through the halls, courtyards, and palaces inside and admire the intricate details.

Free Time
Jaipur Afternoon

Enjoy free time to relax, shop, visit landmarks like the Palace of the Winds or the Jaipur Observatory, or soak up some pop culture at a Bollywood movie.

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Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow

Movie at Raj Mandir
Jaipur
200-400INR per person

Visit this spectacular cinema and watch a song-and-dance Bollywood film.

The Jaipur Observatory Visit
Jaipur
202INR per person

Visit one of five astronomical observatories constructed in the early 18th century in India. There are 14 major devices that have been well-preserved that were built to predict eclipses, measure time, and track stars, among other functions. The largest device stands at 27m high.

City Palace Visit
Jaipur
1000INR per person

Explore the courtyards, gardens, and buildings that make up the City Palace. Located in the heart of the Old City, it is a striking blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture. Visit the palace's museum to look at ancient carriages and the former maharaja's gold-embroidered wedding outfit.

Jaipur Balloon Ride
Jaipur

Begin your day at dawn, just as the sun starts to rise. As you drift into the sky, enjoy the silence and serenity of the morning, watching as the day starts for the colourfully dressed inhabitants below. From high in the sky, you may float over rolling hills, villages teeming with life, and a small monastery. You may even spot elephants—if luck is on your side.

Available September 1 - April 30.

Accommodation

Rawla Mrignayani Palace (or similar)
Hotel

Day 5Jaipur/Tordi Sāgar

Ride to peaceful Tordi Sāgar and dive into rural life by visiting local potters, cobblers, and markets on a guided walk through the village. If you're feeling athletic, join in on a cricket match with some local players. For lunch, get a taste of rural village life over a traditional lunch. In your free time, opt to bounce around with your new friends during a jeep safari or camel cart ride to the dunes for sunset. Head out for a hike in the hills or get a henna tattoo from local women. Tordi Sāgar is your oyster!

If you want to see more of Jaipur before departing, pre-book the Cycle Tour and explore the city from a morning perspective.

Tordi Sagar Local Village Tour
Tordi Sāgar1h

Take a tour of this tiny, tranquil village far from the maddening crowds and enjoy its pastoral settings and local hospitality. Also look at its magnificent red sand dunes.

4x4
Jaipur – Tordi Sāgar3h-4h

Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.

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Optional Activities - Day 5 HideShow

Jaipur Cycle Tour
Jaipur

With its many lanes and organized layout, Jaipur is the perfect location to explore by bicycle. Choosing to cycle through the city on this morning tour will introduce you to sights, sounds and smells that a vehicle just can't match, so grab a helmet and jump on your bike! Navigate the streets of the 'Pink City' with the help of your experienced guide, starting the day with a traditional Indian yoghurt drink of Lassi. Marvel at the architectural wonders as you enter the walled part of the city and stop at the City Palace to visit the Govind Dev temple. Wander through the historical spices and sweets market, stopping for tea and a tasty snack of pakoras before heading towards the majestic Albert Hall Museum where the tour ends. Taxi transfers from the hotel to the starting point and from the finishing point back to the hotel are included in the price of this cycle tour.

Tordi Sagar Jeep Safari
Tordi Garh1h-2h
600-700INR per person

Get in a jeep and enjoy a ride in the pastoral settings of this tiny, tranquil village.

Tordi Sagar Camel Cart Ride
Tordi Garh1h-2h
600-700INR per person

Take a ride in a cart pulled by the "desert horse" and explore the pastoral settings of this tiny, tranquil village.

Accommodation

Hotel Tordi Garh (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Lunch | Dinner

Day 6Tordi Sāgar/Pushkar

Travel to Pushkar, often called Tirth Raj or the king of pilgrim centres. Cruise through Ajmer and over Snake Mountain to Pushkar — the site of the world’s only temple to the Hindu god of creation, Brahma. After settling into your accommodation, get your bearings on an orientation walk around the colourful city with cascading architecture and capture a group photo on the lake.

4x4
Tordi Sāgar – Pushkar4h

Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.

Pushkar Orientation Walk
Pushkar1h 3km

Join your CEO for an orientation to explore key parts of this desert city, including beautiful lakes and ghats. Visit the famed Brahma temple, meet a local pandit and understand/take part in the ancient rituals

Accommodation

Hotel New Park (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 7Pushkar

Before dawn, climb to the hilltop Savitri Temple and catch the sun rising over the towering Thar Desert mountains. Afterward, reflect on the serenity at one of the many cafés in town, stretch and meditate during a calming yoga session, or scour the markets. Opt for an unforgettable evening by dressing in traditional Indian clothing and partake in an authentic dinner cooked by cameleers in the desert, all with live entertainment!

Savitri Temple Sunrise Hike
Pushkar1h-2h

Climb a hilltop to get to this temple honouring Savitri, the wife of the Hindu god, Brahma. Witness a gorgeous sunrise over this holy place while drinking a warm cup of chai.

Free Time
Pushkar Afternoon

Enjoy free time to explore town after returning from the sunrise temple climb. Opt to take a yoga class, scour the markets, or relax with a massage.

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Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow

Massage

Revive sore muscles with a relaxing massage.

Yoga Class
Pushkar

Stretch and hold poses in this gentle but effective form of exercise.

Traditional Dinner in the Desert
Pushkar2h30m-4h 10km
1200INR per person

Try on traditional Indian clothes and head out to the desert for an evening you won't soon forget. Enjoy a delicious traditional meal prepared and served by local cameleers. Get into the spirit with music, dancing, and entertainment presented by a group of Roma people before returning to Pushkar at night.

Accommodation

Hotel New Park (or similar)
Hotel

Day 8Pushkar/Udaipur

Continue south to Udaipur, famous worldwide for its plethora of breathtaking lakes and Raj-era palaces. It certainly lives up to its reputation as India's most romantic city (wink, wink). With its own famous style of painting and plenty of artisans, Udaipur is a great place to stroll through. After the orientation walk, opt to take a boat ride on Lake Pichola with your fellow travellers.

Train
Pushkar – Udaipur7h-8h

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Be prepared for a hot ride today. Bring some snacks and beverages.

Udaipur Orientation Walk
Udaipur

Go on a guided orientation walk and get to know local markets and key places.

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Optional Activities - Day 8 HideShow

Boat ride on Lake Pichola
Udaipur
500INR per person

Board a boat and cruise around Lake Pichola, taking in views of Udaipur from the water and getting a closer view of the spectacular Lake Palace, which was voted the most romantic hotel in India.

Accommodation

Hotel Royal Dezire Udaipur (or similar)
Hotel

Days 9–10Udaipur

Free time to explore "Venice of the East" with its plethora lakes, palaces, and narrow lanes. Wander around solo or see who wants to join you on an adventure.

Discover the early morning serenity of the city by pre-booking the Udaipur Sunrise Cycle tour, or opt to sharpen your culinary skills by pre-booking the Udaipur Cooking School class.

Your Discover Moment
Udaipur Full Day

There's plenty to see and do in Udaipur, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like visiting the Monsoon Palace, learning about Rajasthani cuisine with a cooking class, and visiting the Saheliyon-ki-Bari Garden. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

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Optional Activities - Days 9–10 HideShow

Jagdish Temple Visit
Udaipur

Visit the intricately-carved Jagdish Temple, which pays homage to Vishnu, the Hindu god of preservation. Make sure to take a peek at the black stoned image of Vishnu that's housed inside the shrine.

Shopping

Scour the local shops and stalls for unique wares to remind you of your travels to the region.

City Palace Visit
Udaipur1h-2h
450INR per person

Visit Rajasthan's largest palace to get a sense of how royalty lived. Take in the view from one of its many intricately-decorated balconies, with one side facing the stunning Lake Palace.

Monsoon Palace Visit
Udaipur
505INR per person

Hop in an auto rickshaw and head outside of Udaipur to the stunning Monsoon Palace, perched high above town. Enjoy sweeping views of the city and surrounding lakes and countryside. Consider visiting at sunset for an unforgettable view.

Ranakpur Jain Temples Visit
Ranakpur1h-2h
200-300INR per person

Enjoy a visit to this magnificent white marble temple devoted to Adinath, a god in the Jain religion. Jains believe in "ahimsa," non-violence to all living beings. Built in the 15th century, the temple has 1444 individually carved pillars.

Udaipur Sunrise Cycle Tour
Udaipur3h-3h30m 20km

Discover the early morning serenity of Udaipur with a ride along the city's picturesque lakes as the sun rises. Embark in the village of Kalarohu, travelling towards Fateh Sagar Lake to observe the lake's three islands as the birds flock to the tranquil waters. Cycle past agricultural workers in action in the lush farming communities of Badi and Hawala before making a loop around the hilltop palatial residence, Monsoon Palace. Travel on through more villages to reach Tiger Lake, this morning's setting for a picnic breakfast. The tour offers ample opportunities for photographs and to learn more about Indian history so don't forget your camera! The journey concludes with a downhill ride towards our finishing point.

Rajasthani Cultural Show
Udaipur 1km
250INR per person

Enjoy an evening cultural show that includes traditional music and dancing from the state of Rajasthan.

Udaipur Cooking School
Udaipur2h-3h

This your chance to learn from the locals how to make authentic Rajasthani dishes. Start the class with a warming cup of masala chai as your hosts introduce you to the range of ingredients and spices that will formulate your lunch menu. Watch as they demonstrate how to make rice, curries, and chapatis or opt to get hands-on and join them in cooking up these tasty dishes. Tuck in and enjoy your creations for lunch.

Accommodation

Hotel Royal Dezire Udaipur (or similar)
Hotel

Day 11Udaipur/Ahmedabad

Take a local bus to Ahmedabad and explore the famous Gandhi Ashram at Sabarmati. Immerse yourself in the peaceful environment of the riverside home that played an important role in India's freedom and learn of the sites unique history.

Local Bus
Udaipur – Ahmedabad5h-6h

Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Gandhi Ashram Visit
Ahmedabad

Explore the famous Gandhi Ashram at Sabarmati, once home to Mahatma Gandhi for nearly 12 years.

Day 12Ahmedabad/Mumbai

Rise and shine early to catch a train to Mumbai. Upon arrival choose to grab lunch with your CEO and explore the city.

In the evening, opt for a cup of tea at the famous Taj Hotel and people-watch on Chowpatty Beach or visit Crawford Market, one of South Mumbai's most famous. Sample some local specialties at one of Mumbai’s many top-notch restaurants as you go out on the town with your fellow travellers and sample the city’s famed nightlife firsthand.

Free Time
Mumbai Full Day

Opt to go on a taxi tour around town, visit Elephanta Island.

Local Train
Ahmedabad – Mumbai7h30m-8h Morning

Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.

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Optional Activities - Day 12 HideShow

City Tour
Mumbai4h-8h
1100-1300INR per person

Visit the main highlights of Mumbai on either a half-day or full-day driving tour of this lively city. Tours will visit the Victoria Terminus Train Station (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Chowpatty Beach, Marine Drive, and Dhobi Ghat, the largest open-air laundry area in Mumbai, among other highlights.

Accommodation

Garden Hotel (or similar)
Hotel

Day 13Mumbai

Mumbai is your oyster today. Tour the impressive Elephanta caves or continue exploring the city at leisure. This evening, regroup with your CEO and fellow travelers for an overnight train to Goa.

Basic Overnight Train (beds)
Mumbai – Goa9h-10h

Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.

Free Time
Mumbai

Enjoy free time to explore Mumbai on your own.

Day 14Goa

Enjoy a free day to wind down in the paradise that is Goa. Relax on the beaches with your favourite drink in hand or mingle in the many beach bars. Scour the markets, and be sure to try some delicious Goan cuisine and fresh seafood. Get ready to dance the night away for your big night out as a group.

Free Time
Goa

Explore the beaches and markets of charming Goa at leisure. Chow down on seafood, relax at the beach-bliss!

Your Big Night Out Moment: Dance the Night Away

Goa is overflowing with prime nightclubs and bars. Your CEO will take you to the best one to dance the night away.

Accommodation

Alor Holiday Resort (or similar)
Hotel

Day 15Goa

Goa is a town with endless options for fun. Continue exploring the beaches, city life and exciting nightlife that Goa has to offer!

Free Time
Goa Full Day

Continue to explore the fun beach town of Goa!

Accommodation

Alor Holiday Resort (or similar)
Hotel

Day 16Goa/Hampi

Head inland to Hampi on a train this morning. Then jump into a tuk-tuk to the hotel for the next two nights. With free time this evening, opt to catch the sunset or explore Hampi.

Transport
Goa – Hampi

Settle in and scan the scenery as you journey to your next destination.

Free Time
Hampi

Enjoy a free evening in Hampi.

Accommodation

Dream Hampi Villa & Home Stay (or similar)
Hotel

Day 17Hampi

Explore the ancient ruins of Hampi. This UNESCO World Heritage site was built in the mid 1300's. Rome through the ruins and royal structures. In the afternoon, visit the local women's initiative, Kishkinda Foundation. Meet the women, shop in their handicraft store and have a delicious lunch together.

Hampi Ruins Walking Tour
Hampi2h

Explore the spectacular ruins of Hampi Palaces, Hazararama Temple, and the boulders on the river on this walking tour.

Free Time
Hampi Full Day

Explore the ruins of the ancient city of Hampi how you wish.

Kishkinda Foundation Visit
Hampi

Visit the Kishkinda Foundation, an organization dedicated to the development of local children's education, and women's employment. Browse through their handicrafts, meet the local women and buy some beautifully handmade souvenirs.

Anjaneya Temple Sunset
Hampi

Visit the temple on top of the hill, the Anjaneya Temple. Enjoy a perfect sunset view and explore the complex.

Accommodation

Dream Hampi Villa & Home Stay (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Lunch

Day 18Hampi/Mysore

This morning, opt to rise early for a hike up Mantanga Hill and enjoy a stunning sunrise over the rocky hill. Spend the day at leisure exploring of Hampi what you might have missed the day before. This evening, take a tuk-tuk to the train station for an overnight train to Mysore.

Basic Overnight Train (beds)
Hampi – Mysore14h15m-14h30m680km

Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.

Free Time
Hampi Full Day

Enjoy a free day in Hampi to explore the bazaar or the other sites you missed yesterday.

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Optional Activities - Day 18 HideShow

Matanga Hill Hike
Hampi

Rise early this morning to hike from the Hampi Bazaar to Mantanga Hill for a beautiful sunrise. Admire the deep red hues over the unique boulder formations.

Day 19Mysore

Pull into Mysore this morning as you wake up on the train. Then drop your bags, freshen up and head out for an adventure in Mysore. Walk through the Devaraja Market, Chamundi Hills and the Monolithic Bull. In your free time, opt to visit the extravagant Mysore Palace. In the evening, you won't want to miss the chance to see a Bollywood movie in your free time.

Devaraja Market Visit
Mysore

Visit the Devaraja Market and wander through the bazaar. Shop through the stalls of local flowers, herbs and spices, and vegetables.

Chamundi Hills Visit
Mysore1h

Enjoy a visit to the gorgeous temple devoted to the Hindu goddess, Chamundi, located on Chamundi Hill.

Monolithic Bull Visit
Mysore

Visit the giant Nandi Bull of Mysore, considered one of the most impressive Nandi figures in India. This icon, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is over 350 years old. Sitting atop Chamundi hills, visit the Monolithic bull and learn about Hindu mythology.

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Optional Activities - Day 19 HideShow

Mysore Palace Visit
Mysore

This stunning palace was the home of the Maharajas of Mysore, the former royal family, which ruled from 1399 to 1950. Learn about the rich history of Indian royalty and soak in the splendor of an era long gone.

Accommodation

Treebo Hotel Komfort Suites (or similar)
Hotel

Day 20Mysore/Ooty

Take a tuk-tuk to the bus station this morning and join the locals on a public bus south to Ooty. Take an orientation walk with your CEO after arrival and then enjoy some free time in the beautifully green town of Ooty.

Local Bus
Mysore – Ooty5h30m125km

Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Orientation With CEO
30m-1h

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Free Time
Ooty

Enjoy a free evening in Ooty.

Accommodation

Itsy Hotels Rain Forest (or similar)
Hotel

Day 21Ooty

Feel a sense of accomplishment this morning as we rise early for a picturesque sunrise hike up Dodapetta Peak with a view of the lush green surrounding forrest. Enjoy some free time today and opt to ride the famous toy train. In the afternoon, visit the Dodabeta Tea Factory.

Dodapetta Peak
Ooty

Hike up the highest mountain in the Nilgiris mountain range, Dodapetta Peak, for a perfect sunrise view.

Dodapetta Tea Factory
Ooty

Visit the Dodapetta Tea Factory and learn about the intricate process of tea manufacturing and history in Nilgiri. Admire the beautiful tea plantation and see how its picked. Learn about the process of drying and grinding the tea then have a chance to try some black or chai tea.

Your Big Night Out Moment: Ooty

Get to know your new best friends better at a fun local bar in Ooty!

Accommodation

Itsy Hotels Rain Forest (or similar)
Hotel

Day 22Kochi

A bus, a train and tuk-tuk ride brings us to beautiful port town of Kochi! Spend the afternoon exploring this super cute city, wandering through the cobblestone streets and vibrant culture. Some new travellers may be joining you this evening. Join your CEO to help welcome everyone this evening.

Local Bus
Ooty – Coimbatore2h30m85km

Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Local Train
Coimbatore – Kochi3h45m190km

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Tuk-Tuk
Ernākulam – Kochi

Ride like the locals from Ernakullam Railway Station to Fort Kochi.

Fort Kochi Visit
Kochi1h-2h 2km

Enjoy your stay in charming Fort Kochi, which evokes an era long gone. Walk through the cobblestone streets, visit delightful tea houses, and have a relaxing drink while sitting by the water. Be sure to check out Vasco de Gama's tombstone and the famous blue synagogue.

Accommodation

Hotel Gama Heritage (or similar)
Hotel

Day 23Kochi/Alleppey

Take an orientation walk visiting Fort Kochi, St Francis Church, the Dutch cemetery, and the Jewish Quarter with curio shops and a synagogue more than 400-years-old. Then travel to Alleppey, a golden streak of land woven with rivers, lakes, lagoons, and canals. Enjoy an empowering lunch before checking out the island along the lagoon with a local guide and learn about the way of life here. Settle into a homestay and get to know your hosts.

Orientation Walk
Kochi1h-2h

Get to know the delightful city of Cochin through this guided walk. Walk through the fish market and the famous Chinese fishing net, believed to have been brought by traders from Kubla Khan's court in China.

Private Vehicle
Kochi – Alleppey1h30m

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Alleppey Guided Walk
Alleppey1h-2h

Explore the area, known as the "Venice of the East," on foot with a local English-speaking guide and learn about the way of life here.

Your Local Living Moment: Alleppey Homestay

Enjoy a stay with a local family in Alleppey and get a real taste of the culture and what life on the islands is like. Learn how to cook some delicious Kerala dishes and dig in and enjoy the meal after your lesson.

Your G for Good Moment: Lunch at Theruvarom Women Empowerment Project

Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch prepared by women of the Planeterra Theruvarom Empowerment Project, which provides women from rural areas an alternative source of income by honing their hospitality and culinary skills. Learn about the local cuisine and socio-economic fabric of the region as you get to know the women. All while taking in live entertainment!

Accommodation

Tranquil Heritage Homestay (or similar)
Homestay

Meals included:

Lunch | Dinner

Day 24Alleppey/Kollam

Explore the unique ecosystem of Alleppey backwaters on a morning ferry cruise. Afterward, travel down the coast by bus to the port city of Kollam. On arrival, choose to relax on the beach, climb Thangassery Light House, or peruse the nightlife.

Alleppey Ferry Cruise
Alleppey2h-3h

Enjoy a morning ferry ride through the backwaters, observing the unique ecosystem with blue-green stretches of water and coconut trees.

Local Bus
Alleppey – Kollam1h30m-2h

Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Orientation With CEO
30m-1h

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Accommodation

Hotel Sea Pearl (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 25Kollam/Varkala

Visit the Kollam Harbour and experience the importance of fishing for the community. Afterward, settle into a private vehicle and see who can count the most palm trees as you cruise down the coast to tropical Varkala. Enjoy lots of free time to explore the town, get treated by local healers, or visit the Varkala Temple.

Note that Kollam Harbour is closed to visitors May through June.

Kollam Fishing Docks Visit
Kollam1h

See where all of the action happens in this busy port city and walk around Kollam's bustling fishing docks.

Neendakara Fishing Harbour Visit
Kollam

Visit the largest wholesale fishing market and harbour on the Arabian Sea, dating back to the sixteenth century. Take in the sights and sound of a busy fish market at work, and check out the morning's fishing haul.

Private Vehicle
Kollam – Varkala5h-6h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

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Optional Activities - Day 25 HideShow

Janardhana Swamy Temple Visit
Varkala

Enjoy a visit to this beautiful temple that gives homage to Janardana Swami, who is a form of Vishnu, the Hindu god of preservation. Pilgrims from the south of India make the trek to visit this 2000-year-old temple and pay their respects.

Accommodation

Nikhil Residence (or similar)
Hotel

Day 26Varkala

Choose your own adventure today, exploring Varkala solo or with your new friends. Spend time wandering the peaceful gardens of an ashram devoted to Kerala's most eminent spiritual and social reformer at the mystical Janardhana Swamy Temple. Or head to the beach and relax while watching the Arabian Sea with a drink in hand.

Free Time
Varkala Full Day

Lots of free time to explore the town, relax with an Ayurvedic massage, get treated by local healers, or visit the Varkala Temple.

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Optional Activities - Day 26 HideShow

Janardhana Swamy Temple Visit
Varkala

Enjoy a visit to this beautiful temple that gives homage to Janardana Swami, who is a form of Vishnu, the Hindu god of preservation. Pilgrims from the south of India make the trek to visit this 2000-year-old temple and pay their respects.

Ayurvedic Massage
Dharamshala1h-2h

Ayurvedic medicine is a system of Hindu traditional medicine, and Ayurvedic massage has been practiced in India for centuries and is viewed as a part of holistic medicine. These massage techniques provide relaxation, improve circulation, and eliminate of toxins. Lie back and enjoy!

Accommodation

Nikhil Residence (or similar)
Hotel

Day 27Varkala/Kochi

Return to Kochi by train. In the late afternoon, continue to wander the streets or opt to catch a traditional Kathakali dance performance. For your big night out as a group, immerse yourself in the exciting Kochi nightlife and reminisce about the life-changing adventures you've shared.

Train
Varkala – Kochi3h30m-4h

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Free Time
Kochi Afternoon

Visit any sites skipped on the first visit to Kochi.

Your Big Night Out Moment: Kochi Nightlife

Whether it’s a pub crawl, drink specials or a bonfire on the beach, celebrate late into the night with your new best friends.

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Optional Activities - Day 27 HideShow

Kathakali Dance
Kochi
500INR per person

Considered one of the oldest dance forms in India, Kathakali is a combination of drama, dance, music, and ritual. Characters with vividly painted faces and elaborate costumes re-enact stories from the Hindu epics, Mahabharata and Ramayana. This dance drama is famous for amazing costumes, extensive makeup, and explosive body movements, and is performed exclusively by men.

Accommodation

Hotel Gama Heritage (or similar)
Hotel

Day 28Kochi

Today is departure day, but do not fear, there is no such thing as goodbye, only until next time. Hug your new friends, exchange contacts, and depart at any time.

Departure Day

Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

India North to South: Goa & The Golden Triangle

| 28 days - Delhi to Kochi - from $2167 USD