Golden Triangle with Architecture & Backwater of South India
This comprehensive 25-day journey showcases India’s iconic Golden Triangle along with the architectural richness of South India and the serene landscapes of Kerala. From Mughal grandeur and Rajput heritage to colonial influences and ancient temple architecture, every destination offers a unique perspective. The itinerary seamlessly blends city exploration, cultural immersion, scenic drives, and leisure experiences, making it ideal for travelers seeking an in-depth exploration of India. With carefully planned routes, comfortable stays, and guided experiences, this tour ensures a memorable and enriching travel experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel in a private air-conditioned vehicle. After check-in, relax and recover from your journey or explore nearby markets at leisure. You may visit Connaught Place, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere. This day allows a gentle introduction to India’s capital city. Overnight at hotel.
Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing
After breakfast, begin the city tour of Delhi covering Old and New Delhi. Visit Jama Masjid and enjoy a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk’s bustling lanes. Continue to Red Fort (drive past), India Gate, and Humayun’s Tomb. Explore Qutub Minar and drive past government buildings like Parliament House. The day offers a blend of Mughal and colonial heritage. Overnight at hotel.
Day 3: Delhi – Agra (210 km / 3–4 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Agra via Yamuna Expressway. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Begin the city tour with a visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal, followed by Agra Fort showcasing Mughal architecture. You may also visit Mehtab Bagh for sunset views of the Taj. Overnight at hotel.
Day 4: Agra – Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri (245 km / 5 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Jaipur with an en route visit to Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned Mughal capital. Explore Buland Darwaza and Jama Masjid before continuing the journey. Upon arrival in Jaipur, check in at your hotel and relax. In the evening, explore local bazaars famous for handicrafts and textiles. Overnight at hotel.
Day 5: Jaipur Sightseeing
After breakfast, begin the city tour of Jaipur with a visit to Amber Fort, enjoying its grand architecture and hilltop views. Continue to City Palace and Jantar Mantar, followed by a photo stop at Hawa Mahal. Explore local markets or visit Albert Hall Museum. Jaipur offers a rich experience of royal heritage and culture. Overnight at hotel.
Day 6: Jaipur – Mumbai (Flight)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in. Spend the evening at leisure or enjoy a walk along Marine Drive. Mumbai introduces a vibrant contrast with its modern skyline and colonial heritage. Overnight at hotel.
Day 7: Mumbai – Goa (Flight)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport to board your flight to Goa. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and relax. Spend the rest of the day enjoying the beach or resort facilities. Goa offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Overnight at hotel.
Day 8: Goa Sightseeing
After breakfast, begin the city tour of Goa exploring Old Goa churches including Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral. Visit Fort Aguada for scenic coastal views and explore Panaji’s Latin Quarter. Spend time at popular beaches like Baga or Anjuna. Return to your hotel after sightseeing. Overnight at hotel.
Day 9: Goa – Badami (184 km / 5–6 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Badami through scenic countryside and forested regions. En route, visit Tambdi Surla Temple surrounded by lush greenery. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Badami offers a glimpse into ancient rock-cut architecture. Overnight at hotel.
Day 10: Badami Sightseeing (Aihole & Pattadakal)
After breakfast, begin the city tour of Badami exploring its cave temples carved into sandstone cliffs. Continue to Aihole and Pattadakal, renowned for early temple architecture and UNESCO heritage status. Admire intricate carvings and temple designs. Return to your hotel in Badami. Overnight at hotel.
Day 11: Badami – Hampi (180 km / 5 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Hampi enjoying scenic rural landscapes. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. In the evening, explore nearby ruins or enjoy sunset views over the Tungabhadra River. Hampi’s unique terrain creates a surreal atmosphere. Overnight at hotel.
Day 12: Hampi Sightseeing
After breakfast, begin the city tour of Hampi visiting Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, Lotus Mahal, and Elephant Stables. Explore ancient bazaars and royal enclosures reflecting the Vijayanagara Empire. Your guide will share fascinating historical insights. Return to your hotel after sightseeing. Overnight at hotel.
Day 13: Hampi – Hassan (170 km / 5 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Hassan with en route visits to Belur and Halebidu temples. Admire the intricate carvings of Hoysala architecture. Continue your journey through scenic landscapes to Hassan. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Overnight at hotel.
Day 14: Hassan – Mysore (140 km / 3–4 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Mysore with a visit to Shravanabelagola en route. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and explore Mysore Palace. Visit Chamundi Hills and local markets. In the evening, enjoy Brindavan Gardens’ musical fountain show. Overnight at hotel.
Day 15: Mysore – Bangalore (140 km / 3 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Bangalore. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and begin a short city tour. Visit Lalbagh Botanical Garden and Bull Temple. Explore local markets and cafes. Bangalore offers a mix of modern and cultural experiences. Overnight at hotel.
Day 16: Bangalore Sightseeing
After breakfast, continue the city tour visiting Bangalore Palace, Cubbon Park, and Tipu Sultan’s Palace. Enjoy free time for shopping or café hopping. The city’s pleasant climate and vibrant culture make it enjoyable. Overnight at hotel.
Day 17: Bangalore – Cochin (Flight)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Kochi. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and relax. In the evening, explore Fort Kochi or enjoy a Kathakali dance performance. Overnight at hotel.
Day 18: Cochin – Munnar (130 km / 4 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Munnar through scenic hills and waterfalls. En route, visit Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax amidst tea plantations. Enjoy the cool climate and peaceful surroundings. Overnight at hotel.
Day 19: Munnar Sightseeing
After breakfast, begin the city tour of Munnar visiting tea plantations, Tea Museum, and Mattupetty Dam. Continue to Echo Point and Kundala Lake for scenic views. Learn about tea processing and enjoy panoramic landscapes. Overnight at hotel.
Day 20: Munnar – Thekkady (110 km / 4 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Thekkady, known for wildlife and spice plantations. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and enjoy a boat ride on the lake. Spot elephants, birds, and other wildlife. Overnight at hotel.
Day 21: Thekkady – Alleppey (130 km / 4 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Alleppey and board your traditional houseboat. Cruise through backwaters surrounded by villages and lush greenery. Enjoy meals onboard while experiencing Kerala’s tranquil lifestyle. Overnight on houseboat.
Day 22: Alleppey – Kovalam (160 km / 4–5 hrs)
After breakfast, disembark and drive to Kovalam. Upon arrival, check in at your beach resort and relax. Spend the day enjoying the beach and coastal atmosphere. Overnight at hotel.
Day 23: Kovalam – Kanyakumari Excursion (80 km one way / 2 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Kanyakumari. Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Thiruvalluvar Statue. Witness the confluence of three seas and enjoy coastal views. Return to Kovalam in the evening. Overnight at hotel.
Day 24: Kovalam Leisure Day
After breakfast, enjoy a free day at Kovalam. Relax on the beach, explore local markets, or enjoy optional spa treatments. You may visit Trivandrum attractions if desired. This day offers complete relaxation before departure. Overnight at hotel.
Day 25: Kovalam – Trivandrum Departure (16 km / 30 mins)
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Trivandrum airport. Depending on your flight schedule, you may explore nearby attractions. Your memorable journey through India concludes here. Safe travels ahead.
- Assistance on arrival at airport
- 24 Nights accommodation in selected category hotels
- Daily breakfast at hotels
- Private AC vehicle for transfers and sightseeing
- English-speaking local guides
- Monument entrance fees as per itinerary
- Houseboat stay with meals in Alleppey
- Bottled drinking water
- Government taxes
Hotels used or similar for 23 nights accommodation
Delhi x 2 nights
3* - Madhuban Hotel/ Meridian Plaza
4* - The Royal Plaza/ Country Inn & Suite Saket
5* - Le Meridien/ The Claridges
Agra x 1 nights
3* - Howard Plaza the Fern/ Atulyaa Taj
4* - Radission Hotel/ Crystal Sarovar Premier
5* - Trident Hotel/ Courtyard by Marriott
Jaipur x 2 nights
3* - Redfox Hotel/ Park Ocean
4* - Fortune Select Metropolitan/ Lemon Tree Premier
5* - ITC Rajputana/ Hilton Jaipur
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Mumbai x 1 nights
3* - Hotel Suba Palace/ BW Hotel Sahil
4* - Sun-N-Sand Hotel/ Fariyas Hotel
5* - Trident Hotel/ ITC Grand Central
Goa x 2 nights
3* - Varca Le Palm/ Lambana Resort
4* - Lemon Tree Hotel Candolim/ The Chances Resort & Casino
5* - Zuri Varca Goa White Sand Resort & Casino/ Alila Diwa Goa
Badami x 2 nights
3* - Rajsangam Hotel/ The Heritage Resort
4* / 5* - Badami Court/ Krishna Heritage
Hampi x 2 nights
3* - Krishna Palace/ Kishkinda Heritage Resort
4* - Heritage Resort / Royal Orchid Central Keerti
5* - Hyatt Place/ Hampi Boulders
Hassan x 1 night
3* - Candy Southern Star/ Pavanputra Resort & Spa
4* & 5* - Hosyala Village Resort/ The Ashok
Mysore x 1 night
3* - Southern Star/Sandesh The Prince
4* - Fortune Park JP Palace/ Grand Mercure
5* - Royal Orchid Brindavan Garden/The Windflower Resort & Spa
Bangalore x 2 nights
3* - Ramada/ The Rialto
4* - Fortune Select JP Cosmos/ Lemon Tree Premier Ulsoor Lake
5* - ITC Gardenia, a Luxury Collection/ ITC Windsor a Luxury Collection
Kochi/Cochin x 1 nights
3* - The Dune Hotel/ Abad Plaza
4* - Casino Hotel/ The Avenue Regent
5* - Xandari Harbour/ Le Meridien
Munnar x 2 nights
3* - Fort Munnar/ Abad Copper Castle
4* - Nature Zone Jungle Resort/ Fragrant Nature Munnar
5* - Chandys Windy Woods/ Tea County
Pariyar (Thekkady) x 1 night
3* - Abad Green Forest/ Hotel Treetop
4* - The Elephant Court/ Cardamom County
5* - Spice village/ Cardamom County
Alleppey x 1 night
3* - ATDC Houseboat/ Dream Boats
4* - ATDC Houseboat/ Dream Boats
5* - Xandari Riverscapes/ Lakes & Lagoons/ Spice Route Premium
Kovalam x 3 nights
3* - Harmonia Beach Resort/ Sagara Beach Resort
4* - Estuary Island Resort/Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel
5* - Vivanta by Taj - Green Cove/ The Leela Kovalam Beach
- Domestic flights (Jaipur–Mumbai, Mumbai–Goa, Bangalore–Cochin)
- Camera charges
- Meals not mentioned
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities and optional activities
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions