India Experience
18 Days Starting in Delhi and ending in Kovalam
Visiting: Delhi, Delhi , Agra, Agra/ Ranthambore NP , Ranthambore NP , Jaipur, Jaipur , Jaipur/ Panna Meena Stepwell & Amber Fort , Kochi , Kochi, Munnar , Periyar , Kumarakom , Kovalam , Departure
Tour operator:
Tour code:
HHKZC
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
18-99 years
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Tour Overview
Experience the real India on this comfortable introduction to the cultures of the north and the natural beauty of the south. Travelling from Delhi to Kovalam, see what India has to offer on an 18-day adventure. The country’s highlights and hidden jewels are revealed against a backdrop of green through the Western Ghats and in the vibrant towns of Rajasthan. Visit India's bustling cities contrasted with quiet tiny fishing villages, along with tea gardens, tribal homes and historic enclaves. This wonderful introduction to India includes lavish palaces, vibrant bazaars and the incomparable Taj Mahal – one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Delhi
Location: Delhi
Namaste! Welcome to India. When you arrive at Delhi Airport, you’ll be collected by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. Your adventure then begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. After, feel free to explore lively Delhi at your own pace, perhaps by heading to the Red Fort, the Lotus Temple or Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Later, why not get your new group together to sample of this country’s famed food?
Included Activities:
-
Day 2: Delhi
Location: Delhi
Meals Included: breaksfast
Get your bearings in Delhi by starting your day with a leader-led tour of the oldest part of the city – aptly called Old Delhi. Your leader will help you navigate the metro system so you can explore the impressive Mughal architecture on foot. It’s not Delhi without a traffic jam, so hop aboard a traditional rickshaw and weave your way around the streets surrounding the Chandi Chowk marketplace. Stop by India’s oldest and largest mosque, the Cheraman Jama Masjid, before heading into the Sikh temple of Sheeshganj Gurudwara to observe the
capital’s spiritual side. Enjoy a traditional Thali lunch with your group before a free evening to wander the city as you wish. Tap into your leader’s local expertise for food and activity recommendations that match your mood.
Included Activities:
-
-
-
-
-
Optional Activities:
-
Day 3: Agra
Location: Agra
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
Board the Agra Express and journey to the city best known for housing one of the Seven Wonders of the World. After you settle into your hotel, head out for lunch in a cafe run by women who have survived acid attacks. After, take in the sights as you head to the Taj Mahal in a rickshaw. A tribute to his belated wife, Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned this famous monument in 1632 to house her remains. Stroll through the gardens and learn more about its history at the Museum. You can also sign up to an optional demonstration on hand knotted carpets – a craft that dates to the Mughal era – or explore Agra at your own pace.
Included Activities:
-
-
Optional Activities:
-
Day 4: Agra/ Ranthambore Np
Location: Agra/ Ranthambore NP
Meals Included: breaksfast
If you fell in love with the Taj Mahal yesterday, you can opt to visit again today. There is plenty more to see, like the mosque and its symmetrical jawab building on either side of Main Mausoleum. Then, you will visit Agra Fort. Learn how Akbar built a fortress and prison out of red sandstone in 1565, and then Shah Jahan converted and added to the fort to transform it into a palace. In the afternoon, take a private transport to your next location, the Ranthambore National Park, where you’ll stay for two nights. As this is the longest journey on the trip, your leader will help you secure some snacks and drinks for the ride.
Included Activities:
-
Optional Activities:
-
Day 5: Ranthambore Np
Location: Ranthambore NP
Meals Included: breaksfast
Begin your day with an adrenaline rush by embarking on a morning safari. As one of the biggest national parks in northern India, Ranthambore is home to a huge variety of mammals, birds and reptiles. Although it’s primarily known for housing the Royal Bengal Tigers, you might also be able to spot leopards, sloth bears and crocodiles when you’re cruising along.
Enjoy a free afternoon before setting out on safari again in the evening for more wildlife watching.
Included Activities:
-
-
Day 6: Jaipur
Location: Jaipur
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
Stop at a rural village in Sawai Madhopur on your commute to Jaipur and admire the ancient sacred temples erected around the vicinity. When you arrive in Jaipur, also known as the ‘Pink City’ due to its pink buildings, join your leader on an orientation walking tour. The city has been ranked as one of the most pedestrian friendly cities in India so feel safe as you wander through the busy streets and colourful alleyways. After, immerse yourself in the culture by opting to go to a Bollywood movie screening or enjoy some free time this evening.
Included Activities:
-
-
Optional Activities:
-
Day 7: Jaipur
Location: Jaipur
Meals Included: breaksfast
Your leader will show you around more of Jaipur this morning, maybe starting with the City Palace – a building that wouldn’t look out of place in a Wes Anderson film. Although the royal family of Jaipur still occupy the palace, some gardens and courtyards are open to the public. The rest of the day is yours to explore as you wish. Perhaps visit Jantar Mantar – an observatory filled with instruments to track the stars, built by the founder of Jaipur, Maharaja Jai Singh. Or you can opt for a hot air balloon ride and gain a whole new perspective on the city.
Included Activities:
-
Optional Activities:
-
-
Day 8: Jaipur/ Panna Meena Stepwell & Amber Fort
Location: Jaipur/ Panna Meena Stepwell & Amber Fort
Meals Included: breaksfast
Explore a lesser-known side of Jaipur by visiting Panna Meena Kund Stepwell. Stepwells like this one were used to collect rainwater, as well as serve as spaces for rituals and gatherings. After, head to the nearby and more well-known Amber Fort, located on a hilltop, giving you a good view of the city. Take in the Rajput and Mughal architectural styles as you explore the various halls and palaces on the grounds with a local guide. Don’t miss the sparkling Mirror Palace – covered floor-to-ceiling in thousands of reflective tiles, the hall becomes a dazzling fantasy with the light of a single match. Then, enjoy the afternoon exploring more of Jaipur and
discovering anything you may have missed yesterday. Finish your day with a cooking class in a local home and tuck into your traditional homemade food for dinner with your group.
Included Activities:
-
-
-
Day 9: Delhi
Location: Delhi
Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch
Head back to Delhi this morning in a private transfer. The afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure. There are plenty of sites you may have missed the first time around, like Humayun’s Tomb – a garden tomb dating back to 1570 – or Qutb Minar, the highest tower in India. Your leader can help you book any activities you wish to do. In the evening, perhaps gather your group together for a farewell dinner, where you can reminisce about your Indian adventure.
Optional Activities:
-
-
-
-
Day 10: Kochi
Location: Kochi
Accommodation: Hotel
Today, take a flight from Delhi to Kochi to join the second stage of your trip. This flight is unaccompanied, but your leader will provide you all the details, plus where to meet a representative on arrival in Kochi to be transferred to your accommodation. Kochi (also known as Cochin) is a port city on the southwestern coast of India that has been a vibrant hub since 1341, shaped by the historic interactions with traders from Portugal, China and Britain.
There will be a group meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary and you're welcome to attend, as this is a great chance to meet your new fellow travellers and your new Indian leader.
Optional Activities:
-
Day 11: Kochi
Location: Kochi
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
Begin your day with a tour of Kochi with your leader, exploring the city before heading to Fort Kochi on the coast. Look out for evidence of different cultures on Indian soil, like Santa Cruz Basilica, one of the country’s oldest Catholic Churches, and St. Francis Church, believed to be the first Church built by the Europeans. Explore the remnants of Portuguese influence at Mattancherry Palace, originally constructed in the 16th century and later renovated by the Dutch. Visit the oldest functioning Jewish synagogue nearby with insights from your guide, followed by a performance of Kathakali – a traditional form of dance based on Hindu legends that puts costume and colour centre stage. It can take students over a decade to perfect the movements necessary to perform the artform, so prepare to be impressed.
Included Activities:
-
-
Day 12: Munnar
Location: Munnar
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast
Today, journey west to Munnar – a picturesque town sitting among the mountains. Tea enthusiasts will find Munnar particularly fascinating for its integral connection to the beverage. Learn more about this on a visit to the Tea Museum, an institution that recalls the history of the plantations. This evening is free to spend as you wish – consider utilising your leader’s local knowledge by asking for recommendations on dining and activities.
Included Activities:
-
Day 13: Munnar
Location: Munnar
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
Armed with your new insights into Munnar’s tea industry, you’ll begin your day with a visit to a tea plantation to see the tea-making process first-hand. Stroll along the rolling hills of tea bushes, appreciating the harmony between human cultivation and the natural world. After, take in the view from a different angle during a boat ride on Mattupetty Dam – a reservoir that often attracts wild elephants and bison. Finish your group outing at Echo Point Hill for the best view of the dam before enjoying a free evening to unwind.
Included Activities:
-
-
-
Optional Activities:
-
Day 14: Periyar
Location: Periyar
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast
Munnar is not just known for its tea, it's also renowned for cultivating a wide range of spices. Dive deeper into this trade at the local spice plantation, where you’ll learn about the region’s diverse plant life, spices, herbs, fruits and flowers and their significance in Ayurvedic medicine. You can also enjoy an optional lunch here, where you’ll get to try the fresh spices. Later, watch a demonstration of Indian martial arts (kalarippayattu) widely believed to be the oldest surviving martial art in the world. After, continue your journey south to Periyar.
Included Activities:
-
-
Optional Activities:
-
Day 15: Periyar
Location: Periyar
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast
Explore the heart of Periyar by beginning your day with a guided walk of its National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary. This protected habitat sits within the Western Ghats so enjoy the view while searching for wild tigers and elephants. The afternoon is yours to explore – perhaps opt for an Ayurveda massage to soothe your body post jungle trek. In the evening, learn about Kerala cuisine at a cooking class and then enjoy your home-cooked meal with your group, discovering the flavours that define Kerala food.
Included Activities:
-
-
Optional Activities:
-
Day 16: Kumarakom
Location: Kumarakom
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
Visit the renowned Kerala Backwaters with your group this morning – a serene set of lakes, canals and lagoons. After, immerse yourself in nature with a guided walk in Kumarakom. Located on the shores of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is teeming with diverse fish and bird species. Set sail on the backwaters and experience the sunset aboard. Finish your day with a group dinner at a restaurant that provides employment and training to local women, where you might try traditional dishes like fish curry, meen pollichathu (fish marinated with spices and wrapped in banana leaves) and avial (a vegetable dish with coconut).
Included Activities:
-
-
Day 17: Kovalam
Location: Kovalam
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
This morning, continue your journey further south to Kobalam. Once a quiet coastal village known for exporting fresh fish and coconuts, Kovalam has transformed into one of India’s beloved beach resorts. In the afternoon, visit Positive Change for Marine Life – an NGO collaborating with locals to reduce plastic use. Maybe gather your group for a farewell meal together tonight – the local cuisine is known for its use of coconuts, curry leaves and fresh seafood, so dig in while you have the chance.
Included Activities:
-
Day 18: Departure
Location: Departure
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast
Your trip comes to an end after breakfast and you’re free to leave the accommodation at any time.
What's Included
-
Accommodation
Hotel (15 nights), Resort (2 nights) -
Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
-
Varanasi - Leader-led Old City walking tour
-
Varanasi - Sunset candle flower ceremony
-
Varanasi - Sunrise Ganges boat trip
-
Jaipur - Orientation walk with a local guide
-
Jaipur - Amber Fort
-
Jaipur - Cooking class in a local home
-
Abhaneri - Chand Baori stepwell
-
Agra - Agra Fort
-
Agra - Taj Mahal
What's Not Included
-
Tipping and Gratuities
-
International Travel
Included Activities
Complimentary Airport Arrival TransferDelhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tourDelhi - Jama MasjidDelhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)Agra - Taj MahalAgra - Agra FortJaipur - Leader-led walking & market tourJaipur - Bollywood Movie at Raj Mandir CinemaJaipur - Amber FortVaranasi - Leader-led Old City walking tourVaranasi - Sunset candle flower ceremonyVaranasi - Sunrise Ganges boat tripComplimentary Airport Arrival TransferMamallapuram - Shore Temples guided tourPuducherry - Leader-led walking tourKaraikudi - HavelisKaraikudi - Leader-led village walkMadurai - Sri Meenakshi Temple guided tourMadurai - Leader-led walking tourPeriyar - Spice plantation visitPeriyar - Guided nature walkKochi - Leader-led Fort Kochi walking tourKochi - Kathakali performanceKochi - Jewish SynagogueKochi - Dutch PalaceKumarakom - Backwaters boating excursionKumarakom - Leader-led village walkKovalam - Leader-led walking tour
Transport
TRANSPORT IN INDIAMain roads in India are usually very busy with an assortment of vehicles from the biggest trucks (who always have right of way) down to bikes (and animals!). Overtaking on blind corners at speed is common as is the total use of the horn as a form of communication. Our leaders have complete authority to remove groups from local transport if the driver is not driving safely. Drivers of our private vehicles are experienced and well trained. If you are uncomfortable with your driver, please always let your tour leader know immediately. Please ensure you wear your seat belt at all times.TRAVEL TIMESDistances in India do not reflect the driving time and to cover 100km may take much longer than you would expect at home, even if much of the route is on a highway.TRAINS:India has a massive network of trains and millions of people travel by rail every day. Trains often travel the length of the country over several days. Trains are a great way to see the countryside and get you away from the busy road system. Delays and cancellations are common on trains. Your tour leader will check the train status to see if there are delays and will do their best to keep you informed of any changes.From December to February, delays are more common, especially in the north of the country due to fog. It’s not uncommon for trains to be delayed for up to 12 hours. On occasion, your trip may need to be rerouted to allow for these delays. Your tour leader in conjunction with our local office will advise any changes to the itinerary.FLIGHTSAirlines in India are of excellent quality. Airports are becoming more modern (especially in the major and tourist cities). To enter the airport, you must have a copy of your flight ticket and passport. Schedule changes and delays do occur, especially when weather conditions make visibility poor.AUTO RICKSHAWSOn this trip we may travel in a local style of transport called an auto-rickshaw. These small, motorised three-wheeled vehicles are a common form of transport in India and do not have seatbelts.
Accommodation
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.ACCOMMODATIONThe hotel accommodation on this trip is in air-conditioned rooms. Some areas of India experience daily load shedding. This is where the power may be turned off at certain times of the day and usually occurs for a few hours in the early afternoon. Most hotel properties have a restaurant or cafe serving local meals. Many restaurants and hotels do not serve alcohol for religious reasons or due to local laws.SHOWERS:Showers at some hotels only have hot water at peak times (usually morning and evening). Outside of these times, you may need to speak to reception to obtain hot water.WIFI:Generally, WiFi is available in most parts of India and at most of the accommodation we use. Sometimes it's free in the room, other times only available in reception or public areas. A general rule of thumb is the more expensive the hotel, the higher charge for WiFi access. Your group leader or local representative can assist locally in accessing the internet.ISSUES:If you have any issues with your room, please speak to the hotel and your group leader or local representative right away rather than your travel agent so that the problem can be addressed without delay.
Important Information
1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.2. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.3. This trip includes domestic flights as indicated on the trip map. The luggage allowance is 15kg for check in luggage and 7kg for carry on.4. Please provide your full name exactly as it appears on your passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for flight tickets. Fees may apply for adding or amending details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases, you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket.
Mode of Transport
TRANSPORT IN INDIAMain roads in India are usually very busy with an assortment of vehicles from the biggest trucks (who always have right of way) down to bikes (and animals!). Overtaking on blind corners at speed is common as is the total use of the horn as a form of communication. Our leaders have complete authority to remove groups from local transport if the driver is not driving safely. Drivers of our private vehicles are experienced and well trained. If you are uncomfortable with your driver, please always let your tour leader know immediately. Please ensure you wear your seat belt at all times.TRAVEL TIMESDistances in India do not reflect the driving time and to cover 100km may take much longer than you would expect at home, even if much of the route is on a highway.TRAINS:India has a massive network of trains and millions of people travel by rail every day. Trains often travel the length of the country over several days. Trains are a great way to see the countryside and get you away from the busy road system. Delays and cancellations are common on trains. Your tour leader will check the train status to see if there are delays and will do their best to keep you informed of any changes.From December to February, delays are more common, especially in the north of the country due to fog. It’s not uncommon for trains to be delayed for up to 12 hours. On occasion, your trip may need to be rerouted to allow for these delays. Your tour leader in conjunction with our local office will advise any changes to the itinerary.FLIGHTSAirlines in India are of excellent quality. Airports are becoming more modern (especially in the major and tourist cities). To enter the airport, you must have a copy of your flight ticket and passport. Schedule changes and delays do occur, especially when weather conditions make visibility poor.AUTO RICKSHAWSOn this trip we may travel in a local style of transport called an auto-rickshaw. These small, motorised three-wheeled vehicles are a common form of transport in India and do not have seatbelts.
Accommodation
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.ACCOMMODATIONThe hotel accommodation on this trip is in air-conditioned rooms. Some areas of India experience daily load shedding. This is where the power may be turned off at certain times of the day and usually occurs for a few hours in the early afternoon. Most hotel properties have a restaurant or cafe serving local meals. Many restaurants and hotels do not serve alcohol for religious reasons or due to local laws.SHOWERS:Showers at some hotels only have hot water at peak times (usually morning and evening). Outside of these times, you may need to speak to reception to obtain hot water.WIFI:Generally, WiFi is available in most parts of India and at most of the accommodation we use. Sometimes it's free in the room, other times only available in reception or public areas. A general rule of thumb is the more expensive the hotel, the higher charge for WiFi access. Your group leader or local representative can assist locally in accessing the internet.ISSUES:If you have any issues with your room, please speak to the hotel and your group leader or local representativer right away rather than your travel agent so that the problem can be addressed without delay.
Check out our Q&As
-
Is this trip right for you
Don’t underestimate the weather at any time of year in India. The weather also varies greatly from north to south. In the summer months, the heat can be extreme. In winter, some travellers have been surprised by the cool evenings. A hat, sunscreen, and clothing that can be layered will serve you well year-round.
This trip has some early starts, allowing you to see more of the country in the captivating morning light. Please refer to the Itinerary for more details.
Flights and trains can be delayed in northern India between December and February due to fog.
We’ll be visiting multiple temples during the trip and during these visits, you must wear clothing that covers the arms, legs, and shoulders.
As we'll be walking through varying terrain in national parks and villages, a basic level of fitness and comfortable walking shoes are essential. Leech socks will be provided for the Periyar nature walk. -
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
Reviews of this operator
Save on this tour
Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!
Send me one now.1 Select your preferred date
Sunday - Wednesday
Jan 26, 2025 - Feb 12, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Feb 02, 2025 - Feb 19, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Feb 16, 2025 - Mar 05, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Feb 23, 2025 - Mar 12, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Mar 02, 2025 - Mar 19, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Mar 09, 2025 - Mar 26, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Mar 16, 2025 - Apr 02, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 24, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Sep 21, 2025 - Oct 08, 2025Thursday - Sunday
Oct 02, 2025 - Oct 19, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 29, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Oct 19, 2025 - Nov 05, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Oct 26, 2025 - Nov 12, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Nov 02, 2025 - Nov 19, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Nov 09, 2025 - Nov 26, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Nov 16, 2025 - Dec 03, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Nov 23, 2025 - Dec 10, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Dec 07, 2025 - Dec 24, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Dec 14, 2025 - Dec 31, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
Dec 21, 2025 - Jan 07, 2026Book with Confidence
-
Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Terms and Conditions
Enquire for huge savings
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.