21 Day Rajasthan & Kerala
This tour is categorised as 4 out of 5
Packed itinerary with maximum exploration: Embark on a whirlwind sightseeing tour with minimal downtime. This tour maximises your exploration, keeping you on the move and ticking off must-see locations. A good fitness level and mobility are required to keep pace with this action-packed adventure!
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your tour includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.
River cruises are a relaxed, informal way to travel - there are fewer passengers on board compared to an ocean cruise, which means ample opportunity to make lifelong friends. You will pass through the world's most loved cities and towns; disembark and enjoy a shore excursion or two, or simply wander around and explore on your own.
Expect a memorable stay throughout with hotels often centrally located, with creature comforts and unique features.
Hotel stars are based on local ratings provided and the expected standard may differ depending on the destination. Hotels listed within the itinerary are indicative of the typical hotel we intend to use for that package but is subject to change.
✓ Return international airfares with full-service airline
✓ Return airport transfers
✓ Internal flight from Delhi to Kochi
✓ 19 nights in deluxe 5-star accommodation
✓ Daily breakfast
✓ Trace India’s famous Golden Triangle
✓ Cruise through the famed Kerala backwaters
✓ Fully escorted tour with an English-speaking guide
✓ Incredible sightseeing including entry fees – See the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal, imposing forts and beautiful palaces and temples
✓ Comfortable, dedicated private transportation throughout
✓ 24/7 customer service and your own Dedicated Support Agent
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Today, board your international flight to India’s capital Delhi! Arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport and be meet by our representative who will assist by transferring you to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a welcome briefing session with the tour manager.
Please note: Some flights may depart the night prior to day 1.
Check in: Passengers will be arriving at various times throughout the day from as early as 6am through to late evening. If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available, as there are generally no scheduled activities on Day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.
After breakfast, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Old Delhi beginning with a photo stop at the Red Fort. The walls of the massive Red Fort rise a daunting 33 metres (108 ft) above the bustle of Old Delhi as a reminder of the magnificent power of former emperors. Very near the fort is the 17th-century Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Walk through the famous bazaars of Old Dehli, to experience the hustle and bustle of a crowded bazaar. Also visit Raj Ghat, the Mahatma Gandhi memorial, a simple black marble platform that marks the spot of his cremation. In New Delhi, visit the India Gate, the memorial of the First World War and the road that leads from there to the President House, flanked by the houses of Parliament, the Secretariat building, the Birla Temple and Lotus Temple.
Enjoy an included Welcome Dinner this evening, to get to know your fellow travellers.
Today, we make our way to Agra. Agra rose to fame in the 17th century as the capital of the Mughal Empire and was beautified with gardens, waterfalls, bathhouses and canals. In modern times, the city houses a thriving crafts industry, including marble inlay work and carpets. In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Agra which includes many people's highlight, the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal. Go inside this iconic monument. Built in the mid-17th century by Shah Jahan following the death of his queen, this mausoleum is an eternal love poem written in stone. During the visit, you can admire the intricacy of the work of the 20,000 craftsmen who were brought from Persia, Turkey, France and Italy to build this astonishing monument.
Visit Agra Fort, whose forbidding red sandstone battlements hide a number of majestic Mughal palaces. Explore the delightful Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience) where the emperor once sat on his throne to address his subjects, and the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) where he hosted kings and foreign dignitaries. The white marble Mina Masjid (Heavenly Mosque) stands in contrast to the rest of the Red Fort.
Starts: approx: 4.30pm
Duration: approx: 1 hour
Please note the start and duration times outlined are subject to change based on factors beyond our control such as traffic and weather conditions. Your Tour Guide will confirm operation times with you whilst on-tour and can answer any further questions you may have.
After breakfast at the hotel, we depart Agra and head to Jaipur, arriving in the ‘Pink City’ in the afternoon. Check-in on arrival with the remainder of the day at leisure.
Wandering the ‘ghost city’ of Fatehpur Sikri is to go back five centuries in time to the height of the Mughal Empire. This monumental walled city was built by the third emperor Akbar the Great as his capital, but it was abandoned within a few years of completion due to a lack of water. Today, it is a remarkably well-preserved collection of red sandstone palaces, pavilions and mosques. The buildings here present a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, and include the Panch Mahal, the Buland Darwaza and the Dargah of Sheikh Salim Chisti, which speak of the grandeur and splendour of the Mughals.
Starts: approx: Between 9:30am-10:00am
Duration: approx: 2 hours
Please note the start and duration times outlined are subject to change based on factors beyond our control such as traffic and weather conditions. Your Tour Guide will confirm operation times with you whilst on-tour and can answer any further questions you may have.
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel we head out for a tour of the Amber Fort. Located on a spur overlooking a lake, Amber Fort’s robust, time-ravaged walls appear imposing from the outside but they hide an interior packed with beautifully decorated palaces and temples, and landscaped gardens. Be dazzled by the Sheesh Mahal, a room with its four walls and ceiling completely embedded with glittering mirror pieces. Return to the old city to visit the City Palace and the beautiful palaces within such as the Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal and the intricately decorated Peacock Gate. After, make a stop at the spellbinding Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds and the famous Johari bazaar famous for its jewels and saris, the Tripolia bazaar with bronzes, sculptures and lacquerware, the Bapu bazaar renowned for its perfumes and textiles, and Chandpol bazaar for pottery and bracelets.
This morning we drive to Jodhpur. Jodhpur is the second largest city in Rajasthan and is the gateway to the Thar Desert in the Marwar region. The old city, originally founded in the mid-15th century is familiarly known as the blue city due to its blue-painted buildings and rooftops, and is surrounded by a 10-kilometre long wall that dates from the 16th century. The massive Mehrangarh Fort perched high above overlooks the city and the red sandstone palaces within the fort form one of the most impressive architectural complexes in Rajasthan.
After a leisurely breakfast, proceed for a city tour of Jodhpur starting from the Mehrangarh Fort. One of the largest forts in India, Mehrangarh is the pride of Jodhpur. The main palaces that make up the fort are the Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Takht Vilas and Jhanki Mahal. The fort’s museum displays a rich collection of old royal palanquins, arms, paintings, costumes, and more. There are also a number of galleries and temples inside the fort. Also visit the stunning Jaswant Thada, a royal cenotaph built in the memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. This white marble memorial is adorned with exquisite carvings and intricate detail. Built like a temple, the Thada is a testament of the skill of the Jodhpuri sculptors.
Today, continue the journey driving to Udaipur. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Udaipur was founded in the mid-16th century and became the capital of Mewar. The rulers of Mewar, who belonged to the Sisodia clan of Rajputs, have traced their dynasty back to the year 566. Fiercely independent, they refused matrimonial alliances with the Mughal emperors and took great pride in their reputation as the prime defenders of Rajput honour. Visit Ranakpur Jain temple, often regarded as poetry on marble, this 15th century Jain temple honouring Adinath is a work of architectural genius. The intricate marble carvings boast an enormous degree of skill and delicacy. Another interesting aspect about the temple is its play of shadow and light on the nearly 1,500 pillars, each of which proudly display a different motif.
This morning, visit the Jagdish Temple, a large Hindu temple in the middle of the city. The temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, was built in 1651. Then visit Saheliyon Ki Bari, the garden of maidens, built in the mid-18th century. Stroll by the pools dotted with elegant kiosks, flowerbeds, lawns, fountains, along with an array of trees that make this garden worth visiting. Continue to visit Fateh Sagar Lake. This artificial lake was originally built around the year 1680. Later, explore the grand City Palace, a fusion of mediaeval European and Chinese architecture. This marble monument is situated on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola. The palace’s numerous balconies, towers and cupolas provide a fantastic view of the lake and the city below.
Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on Lake Pichola. With its main attractions being the two palaces on the islands in the lake, Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir, the spectacular views from the lake are sure to impress. Jag Niwas, known as the Lake Palace, was once the summer retreat of the prince of Mewar and is now a 5-star hotel.
Starts: approx: Between 4:00pm - 4:30pm
Duration: approx: 1 hour
Please note the start and duration times outlined are subject to change based on factors beyond our control such as traffic and weather conditions. Your Tour Guide will confirm operation times with you whilst on-tour and can answer any further questions you may have.
After breakfast, we continue to Pushkar. The village of Pushkar lies on the edge of the Thar Desert and located at its heart is one of India's most sacred lakes, Pushkar Lake. Apart from its religious significance, Pushkar is known for its camel fair held every year in the festival month of Kartik (October and November). Being a religious town, alcohol and non-vegetarian food are taboo. You’re free at leisure in the evening, why not take an walk to admire the beautiful Pushkar Lake and colourful Pushkar market.
Today visit the temple of Lord Brahma surrounded by Pushkar Lake. Witness devotees dip into the holy waters and offer prayers on the banks of the lake. Visit the Pushkar fair site and later, transfer to the Ajmer railway station to board the Shatabdi Express for Delhi. Forget what you have seen in social media. Long distance train travel in India is airconditioned, reserved seating and civilised. Enjoy the journey as the countryside zips past out the window. Upon arrival at Delhi railway station, you will be transferred to the hotel.
Today is a free day at leisure to relax or enjoy the sights of Delhi. Why not venture to Delhi Haat market to find the perfect souvenir.
Originating in the 15th century, Sikhism is the youngest religion in the world and a visit to Gurdwara (Sikh Temple) Bangla Sahib is a truly remarkable experience. One of the most important historical and sacred pilgrimage destinations of the Sikh community, Gurdwara Bangla Sahib is the ‘Haveli’ or palace, where Guru Hari Krishan, the eighth Sikh Guru stayed during his tour to Delhi in 1664. Later the architecturally impressive palace was dedicated to the memory of the Guru and has been a place of worship since then. Inside the Temple, get mesmerized by the melodious hymns praising the Almighty. Also, experience ‘Langar’- the community kitchen that provides free meals to up to 7000 pilgrims or visitors each day.
Starts: approx: Between 9:30am - 10:00am
Duration: approx: 1 hour
Please note the start and duration times outlined are subject to change based on factors beyond our control such as traffic and weather conditions. Your Tour Guide will confirm operation times with you whilst on-tour and can answer any further questions you may have.
At the appropriate time, you will be collected and transferred to the airport to board your flight to Kochi. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Today is a free day at leisure to enjoy this seaside town. Kochi has been a port since 1341 and has cultural influences from all corners of the world.
Today, your guide will take you on a walk through the historic districts of town. The walking tour will allow you to see the different cultural sides of Kochi, from the Jewish area including the Pardesi Synagogue to the Mattancherry Palace, known as the Dutch Palace to the locals.We see Fort Kochi which is reminiscent of European streets and the famous Chinese Fishing Nets, used by the locals for hundreds of years. This evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance show, a traditional dance and costume show from the Kerala region.
After breakfast, we drive inland to the hill town of Munnar, some 1,600m above sea level in the Western Ghats Mountains. The landscape becomes progressively more beautiful as we climb higher. Enroute, we stop at the Athirapally Waterfalls on the River Chalakudy. The waterfall drops from the height of 25m. In the monsoon season, the falls are known as the “Niagara of India” due to the force and volume of water flowing down. From here we can also admire the view of the Sholayar hills before continuing on the Munnar.
This morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of Munnar. The heart of a massive tea industry today, Munnar was a cool summer retreat for the British during colonial days. The hinterland around Munnar is dotted with English cottages amongst rolling hills and untouched forests. Visit the Tea Museum in the Nallathanni Estate to learn about the process of making tea and the old world machinery used in the 1800’s. We visit a local church built by the British before enjoy the afternoon at leisure or a stroll in the quiet pathways crisscrossing the endless tea plantations.
This morning we drive to Alleppey to board a houseboat for a scenic overnight cruise through the famed backwaters. The houseboat is an adaptation of a kettuvallams boat which have been used for generations to transport rice and spices. Amazingly, not a single nail is used to hold the traditional boats together. The serene natural beauty and simple charm of the backwaters surprises at every turn. Enjoy sailing leisurely through canals which crisscross paddy fields and lagoons.
Enjoy breakfast before disembarking driving to Kumarakom on the shore of Lake Vembanad, laced with majestic canals and streams. Kumarakom is a beautiful backwater fishing village and a local bird paradise offering exotic sights. On arrival, check in a enjoy time at leisure, making the most of your final moments in India.
At the appropriate time you will be driven to Kochi to board your homeward flight.
Check out: Passengers will be departing at various times throughout the day. Standard hotel check-out times will apply no matter what time your flight is scheduled to depart. Check-out time is generally anywhere from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at the hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or, alternatively, please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. Please note this service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost. Your tour guide (or hotel staff) will confirm the time of your airport transfer with you directly.
Arrive home today. We hope you have enjoyed your inspiring journey through India.
Deposit & Payments
Booking Process
Airfare Information
Premium Economy or Business Class upgrades
Please specify this as a 'Special Request' when completing your booking and you will be quoted for the additional fare. In the event your selection is unavailable, or that you are dissatisfied with the quote, you will be provided with a full refund.
Land Only discount
A reduction of $800 per person applies if you wish to arrange your own airfares. To purchase a land-only fare, please select this option in the booking process under 'Departure City'.
Please note, if you are not arriving or departing as per the group itinerary, airport transfers are also no longer included. If you would like us to arrange this service for you, please refer to the ‘Extra services’ section for pricing.
Extending Your Stay
Some customers like to enhance their holiday by extending their stay pre- and/or post-tour or including a stopover in another destination. If you wish to do so, please follow these steps:
By choosing to extend your stay, please note that a supplement of $150 per person, plus applicable fare and tax differences will apply. We will contact you via email with a quote and proposed flight itinerary, and then proceed with collecting the additional payment required to confirm your request.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour, adding a stopover package en-route or booking a tour extension. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Airport chauffeur
Take the hassle out of getting to the airport with private chauffeur transfers to and from your home airport. Your personal chauffeur will meet and greet you, attend to your luggage and drive you to your destination in a luxury vehicle.
Additional surcharges may apply depending on pick-up time, tolls and government levies.
Airport Chauffeur can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add this service, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance.
Pre and post tour accommodation (deviating from group flights forfeits your group airport transfers)
Arrival and departure airport transfers
Your transfer may be shared with other Inspiring Vacations customers.
Please specify in the 'Special Request' field when making your purchase your preferred travel arrangements and if you would like our team to book additional nights' accommodation and/or airport transfers. The additional cost for these land arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
Airport lounges
Escape busy airport terminals and relax at a cosy and catered lounge instead. Departure lounge access in Sydney $70 per person (up to 6 hours); Melbourne & Brisbane $55 per person (up to 3 hours).
Airport lounge passes can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add this service, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance.
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of 4 optional sightseeing activities:
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online or speaking with your Dedicated Support Agent for assistance.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 65 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a “4”:
4 – Active Tour: A very good level of fitness and mobility is required for you to enjoy all aspects of the itinerary, as this is considered a fast-paced tour. While there is some free time scheduled either in the morning or afternoon, there are many full days of sightseeing with minimal rest and some early starts. You will be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. At the commencement of your tour you will be asked to provide tipping to your guide towards a ‘kitty’, which is then used towards the guide tipping for the services of helpers, hotel staff, restaurants and airport porterage. We recommend AUD$3 per person, per day, to be paid in local currency. Please note that this tipping is not for the guide or driver, merely for the guide to tip the services of other local workers during your tour. While not made compulsory, if you choose not to contribute to the kitty it means that the guide is tipping for these services out of their own pocket. Your cooperation in this instance is most appreciated.
Further, tipping for your guide and driver will be collected at the conclusion of their services. To remove the uncertainty and stress of not knowing how much is appropriate to tip we recommend AUD$6-10 per person per day for your guide and AUD$3-5 per person per day for your driver to be paid in local currency. The amount you wish to contribute is dependent on the services received and at the complete discretion of the guest. Thank you for your understanding.
Any other tipping, such as tips for camera and video fees, bathroom attendants or hotel porters that are taking luggage to your room, is at your discretion as are gratuities for additional requested special services. We encourage passengers to have a supply of small denominations of local currency to distribute for personal tipping.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences however any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single Supplement is $1799pp in addition to the twin share price.
Triple Share
Not Available.
Paired Solo Travellers
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book comprehensive or budget cover simply by clicking HERE to arrange your policy.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months from your intended date of return.
An e-visa is required for entry into India. You will be able to obtain your E-visa when you have your tour documents indicating your date of entry into India, approximately 120 days prior to departure.
Please note, the ETA is limited to 60 days validity from the date of arrival.
You can visit https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/Registration to purchase your visa online. The cost is US$80 per person. We can assist you over the phone as best as possible, however cannot submit the application on your behalf.
Please note that the information provided is subject to change at any time. For the most up-to-date information, we recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au/Pages/default.aspx.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation, including e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Trip Style - Group Tour
Our Group Tours offer unparalleled value for money and are the perfect style of travel for those on a budget, though still eager to pack as much in to their itinerary as possible. These tours tick all the boxes with an abundance of inclusions such as sightseeing highlights, expert tour guides, quality accommodation, transfers, coach transportation, some meals and more. Please note that the maximum group size will vary between deals and will be mentioned within the Fine Print of each deal page.
Group Size
8 - 30 people
Children
Children must be 2 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are the same price as adults.
Tour Length
The total length of the tour in days includes time spent in flight and is subject to change depending on the flight schedule, please refer to the day by day itinerary for the time spent on land.
Refundable deposit within 28 days of purchase:
For cancellations made within 28 days of paying the deposit on any tour, your deposit can be refunded in full or can be transferred to a new booking should you decide to change to another package or destination. Please note this change of mind guarantee does not apply for bookings made within 90 days of departure, after which time our standard 48 hour cooling off period applies. After this time, your booking becomes non-refundable.
All cancellation or change requests must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at support@inspiringvacations.
Refund times will vary and the timeframe of which will be advised at the time of cancellation. Any refund of deposit will be issued back to the original form of payment.
Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.
Transferrable second installment up until 120 days before scheduled departure:
Following the second installment payment and up until 120 days before your departure only, should you wish to postpone your travel or transfer to another package, we can provide you with a credit note of the current balance paid on your booking, to be used to rebook within 18 months of the credit being issued.
Any change request must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at support@inspiringvacations.
Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.
Please refer to our full Terms and Conditions for more details
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