Essence of India - with South India Extension

DAY 1 Delhi, a Rich Melting Pot

Your luxury tour from Delhi begins with a traditional welcome scarf before a private chauffeur takes you to your elegant hotel, situated in the leafy Lutyens’ diplomatic quarter amidst six acres of landscaped grounds. Step outside to take in Delhi’s bustling backstreets, rich history and wealth of colours before dining on fine Indian cuisine as the sun sets over Delhi.

Included Dining: Dinner

Accommodation: The Leela Palace, Delhi.

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DAY 2 Delhi Sightseeing

Take in Delhi’s fascinating top sites including the sprawling sandstone Red Fort, the main residence of the Mughal dynasty until 1856, and Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Curate your exploration joining a well-known chef for a foodie walk in Old Delhi enticing your senses on the colour and aromas of the famous local street food and sampling Indian delicacies. Or, visit the 12th-century Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world. Feel the city’s energy on an exhilarating rickshaw ride through the winding streets of Chandni Chowk before visiting a Sikh temple and its community kitchen where vegetarian meals are prepared and served to locals, travellers and those in need. Conclude your Delhi discovery viewing the President Palace, India gate and the circular and colonnaded Parliament House.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: The Leela Palace, Delhi.

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DAY 3 An Agra Adventure

Journey to Agra, the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty and a historical fort of impressive buildings. Stand in awe of Sheesh Mahal, the “glass palace” dazzling you with light from the glittering mirrors and mosaics that decorate the walls and ceilings, and the spacious pavilion of gilded copper dome-topped Musamman Burj. Personalise your afternoon connecting with members of the local community: Set out on an eye-opening Mughal heritage walk meeting the locals to learn about their lives in the shadows of India’s famous monument. Alternatively, visit a private colonial bungalow for an indulgent high tea as you meet the host family and hear their captivating stories about the British Raj and today's Indian culture and society.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Taj Hotel and Convention Centre, Agra.

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DAY 4 The Taj Mahal and Ranthambore

Experience an unforgettable sunrise basking in the majesty of the Taj Mahal framed in warm hues of pink, orange and yellow as you greet the first light of day. Reflect on this monument of love and flawless architecture built by an emperor in memory of his beloved queen. Inspired by the morning’s beauty, travel to the historic town of Bharatpur for lunch at the lavish Laxmi Niwas Palace before boarding the Jan Shatabdi Express, the Express Train to Ranthambore. Take in the views as you relax in your air-conditioned carriage. Arrive at your hotel, Nahargarh Ranthambhore, nestled in the foothills of the Aravalli Range near the Ranthambore National Park built in the style of a traditional Rajput hunting palace.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Nahargarh Ranthambore.

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DAY 5 In Search of Tigers in Ranthambore

Experience the beauty of Ranthambore partnering with a Local Expert on a quest for the elusive tiger within the former private hunting grounds of the maharajahs of Jaipur. Should the tiger elude you, keep watch for sightings of wild boars, monkeys, spotted deer and antelopes. Relax and lavish in the comforts of your resort before enjoying another foray into the national park with an Expert Naturalist at dusk. In addition to the wildlife, gain an insider’s understanding of the lakes, palace ruins, traditional Chhatri dome-shaped pavilions, old fortifications and a majestic 1,000-year-old fort within the park.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Nahargarh Ranthambore.

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DAY 6 Jaipur, the Pink City

After a relaxed morning at your hotel, ravel through the countryside of green fields dotted with brightly coloured flowers to the Rajasthan capital of Jaipur, the Pink City. As soon as you step within the old city walls, you’ll understand why Jaipur earned its name - given after a visit from Queen Victoria in 1876 when all its buildings were painted pink as a sign of hospitality. Tonight is free for independent activities.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Taj Devi Ratn, Jaipur.

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DAY 7 Jaipur Sightseeing

Curate your morning seeing highly skilled artisans or focus on the art of block printing and blue pottery at a workshop. Attend a special blessing ceremony at Amber Fort, seek a blessing from the Gods in this unique experience. Locals believe that it can help alter the flow of “prana” or life energy in one’s body, drawing awareness to deeper spiritual realms and, hence releasing more positive beliefs. Toast to your travels with a dinner at 1135 AD restaurant tonight.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Taj Devi Ratn, Jaipur.

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DAY 8 In Jaipur

Enjoy a city tour of Jaipur and luxuriate in a VIP Indian high tea at The City Palace, the home of the royal family of Jaipur since 1732 AD. Learn about the large gold vessels filled with water from the river Ganges which the Maharaja of Jaipur would carry on his trips. See the Diwan-i-Aam and hear fascinating tales of the artefacts of the place. In the evening visit the Spice market and flower market during the Pink Rickshaw ride - learn about Indian spices, vegetables, flowers, and experience the locals selling their products. Or experience the spiritual side of the locals - visit the splendid Birla Mandir, also known as Lakshmi Narayan Temple, to witness the ‘Aarti’, a traditional prayer ceremony. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Afternoon Tea, Dinner

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DAY 9 Fly to Kochi via Mumbai

Upon arrival for your India luxury tour in this port city of tiny islands and peninsulas along the Arabian Sea, check into luxury your waterfront hotel on Bolgatty Island. Relax with a cocktail by the outdoor pool or at the poolside Thai Soul restaurant, tempting you with cuisine inspired by the vibrant streets of Bangkok. Begin your discovery of Kochi’s culture and design that have been shaped by other nations including the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, China and Portugal.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Crowne Plaza

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DAY 10 Kochi Sightseeing, Cooking School and Kathakali

Discover Kochi viewing the oldest Jewish synagogue in the commonwealth. Step back further in time at the Portuguese Mattancherry Palace -- also known as Dutch Palace for its later updates -- where murals depicting of Hindu mythology and legends enchant you along the spacious hallways. Stop by India’s oldest European church of St. Francis built in 1503 by Portuguese Franciscan friars to see the tombstone of Vasco de Gama, buried here in 1524 before his remains were returned to Lisbon. Lunchtime brings a colourful feast of traditional Kerala home cooking with a local instructor who shows off the region’s specialties. The day ends with a performance of traditional Kathakali dance where you experience a captivating story through an elaborate display of costumes, facemasks, make-up and dance.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Crowne Plaza

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DAY 11 Kumarakom and the Alleppey Backwaters

Make your way to Alleppey jetty cruising the tranquil waters aboard a private waterwheel houseboat past picturesque villages, green paddy fields and a coconut plantation. Linger over a gourmet lunch on board taking in enchanting Kumarakom and its tropical paradise of beautiful little islands on Vembanad Lake. The day ends at your lakeside retreat built from preserved mansions of the nobility’s family homes.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Coconut Lagoon - CGH Earth Resort

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DAY 12 Kumarakom and Vaikom Village

Should you like, rise early to view the area’s vibrant migratory birds on a tour at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Within lush acres of woodland, seek out the rare resident wetland birds such as Indian Darter, Little Cormorant, different species of egrets and herons, White Ibis and several species of kingfishers. You’re also likely to spot waterfowl, cuckoo, owl, water duck, Siberian Cranes, parrots, teal, and larks are some of the migratory birds that flock to the Himalayas. After a leisurely breakfast, discover one of the oldest townships in Kerala cruising waters lined with hyacinths and lilies down the canals of Vaikom village, one of the oldest townships in Kerala. Meet the residents and try your skills at weaving from wild pineapple leaves or coconut husks before lunch at a local’s home.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Coconut Lagoon - CGH Earth Resort

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DAY 13 Relaxing Kumarakom

Personalise your day in tranquil Kumarakom. Harmonise your mind and body in a rejuvenating body or foot massage. The day ends with a delicious dinner of fresh, local seafood.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Coconut Lagoon - CGH Earth Resort

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DAY 14 Magical Mumbai

Journey north to Kochi for your flight to vibrant Mumbai, originally a collection of seven islands. Settle into your deluxe hotel – an ideal getaway within the city – offering enticing views of the ocean and 'Queen’s Necklace' lights along the shoreline. Get acquainted with the culture of Mumbai as a financial capital as well as the home of Bollywood film.

Included Dining: Breakfast

Accommodation: The Oberoi, Mumbai.

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DAY 15 Mumbai Sightseeing

Uncover the alluring sites of Mumbai starting with learning the intricate details of the magnificent, 130- year-old Dabbawalla lunchbox delivery service over an immersive talk. Then get an insider’s look at the headquarters in Dadar where you have an opportunity to sort each ‘Dabba’ or ‘Tiffin’ yourself and follow the tiffin men en route. Continue your discovery cruising to Elephanta Island to visit the massive complex of ancient cave temples, the abode of the Mahesamurti – an enormous threefaced statue of Shiva – and UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, raise a glass to your journey over an elegant dinner.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: The Oberoi, Mumbai.

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DAY 16 Depart Mumbai

Your luxurious journey comes to an end as you are escorted to Mumbai Airport for your onward flights.

Included Dining: Breakfast

Accommodation: The Oberoi, Mumbai.