Golden Triangle with Goa, Hampi & Kerala Backwater

Day 1: Welcome to Delhi

Upon arrival at Delhi Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Delhi is a city where history and modern life coexist beautifully, making it an excellent starting point for this grand journey. The rest of the day is at leisure, allowing you to rest after your journey or take a gentle walk around the nearby area. You may also enjoy the energy of the capital city through its markets and local surroundings. Overnight at hotel in Delhi.

Day 2: Discover Delhi

After breakfast at the hotel, begin the city tour of Delhi. Start in Old Delhi with visits to Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, and the historic Red Fort, a symbol of Mughal power and grandeur. Continue to Raj Ghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi, before moving into New Delhi. Here, visit India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, and the Lotus Temple, each reflecting a different layer of the city’s heritage. Drive past the Parliament House and other government buildings, witnessing the elegant colonial planning of Lutyens’ Delhi. Return to the hotel after sightseeing. Overnight at hotel in Delhi.

Day 3: Delhi to Agra

After breakfast, drive to Agra covering approx. 210 kms / 4–5 hours. Upon arrival, begin your sightseeing with the world-famous Taj Mahal, a masterpiece of marble and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Continue to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the power and elegance of the Mughal era. Later, visit Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, often referred to as the Baby Taj, admired for its refined marble inlay work and graceful design. Spend some time exploring the local atmosphere of Agra before returning to the hotel. Overnight at hotel in Agra.

Day 4: Agra to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri & Abhaneri

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Jaipur covering approx. 245 kms / 5–6 hours. En route, stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the former Mughal capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its palaces, courtyards, and Buland Darwaza. Continue to Abhaneri to visit the remarkable Chand Baori stepwell, one of the deepest and most impressive stepwells in India. Resume your journey to Jaipur, the Pink City, and check in at the hotel upon arrival. In the evening, you may enjoy shopping in the local bazaars known for handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles. Overnight at hotel in Jaipur.

Day 5: Jaipur Highlights

After breakfast at the hotel, begin a full-day sightseeing tour of Jaipur. Visit Amber Fort, a hilltop fortress known for its grand courtyards, mirror work, and scenic views. Continue to Jaigarh Fort, famous for its military design and the world’s largest cannon on wheels. Explore City Palace, a splendid blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, followed by Jantar Mantar, the fascinating astronomical observatory. Stop for photographs at Hawa Mahal, the graceful Palace of Winds, and later visit Sisodia Rani Garden and Birla Temple. Return to the hotel after a day immersed in Jaipur’s royal heritage. Overnight at hotel in Jaipur.

Day 6: Jaipur to Goa (By Flight)

After breakfast, transfer to Jaipur airport for your flight to Goa. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel or resort and check in. Goa offers a refreshing contrast to the heritage cities, with its palm-lined beaches, relaxed pace, and coastal charm. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, perhaps enjoying a walk on the beach or simply relaxing at the resort. The evening is free to absorb the easygoing Goan atmosphere. Overnight at hotel in Goa.

Day 7: Goa Cultural Tour

After breakfast at the hotel, begin exploring Goa’s cultural treasures. Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in India. Continue to Se Cathedral, one of Asia’s largest churches, and then visit the Latin Quarter of Fontainhas, known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses and narrow lanes. Explore Panaji’s local market and take in the city’s relaxed colonial character. Later, visit Shri Mangueshi Temple, an important spiritual site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Return to the hotel after sightseeing. Overnight at hotel in Goa.

Day 8: Goa to Badami

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Badami covering approx. 184 kms / 4–5 hours. The route takes you through scenic landscapes and rural Karnataka, offering glimpses of everyday life along the way. Upon arrival in Badami, check in to the hotel and relax. Badami is known for its sandstone cliffs, ancient cave temples, and deep historical significance. The rest of the day is free to rest and prepare for the heritage explorations ahead. Overnight at hotel in Badami.

Day 9: Badami Historical Treasures

After breakfast, begin your full-day sightseeing of Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal. Visit the Badami Cave Temples, carved directly into red sandstone cliffs and dedicated to Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist traditions. Continue to Aihole, often called the cradle of Indian temple architecture, where early temple styles and experimental designs are visible in a remarkable cluster of monuments. Proceed to Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its Chalukyan temples and architectural harmony. Also visit Badami Fort and Agastya Lake for scenic views and historical charm. Return to the hotel after a rewarding day of exploration. Overnight at hotel in Badami.

Day 10: Badami to Hampi via Gadag & Lakkundi

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Hampi covering approx. 180 kms / 4–5 hours. En route, stop at Gadag to explore its temples and heritage structures, then continue to Lakkundi, known for its beautifully carved temples and stepwells. Proceed to Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Upon arrival, check in to the hotel and relax. The evening is at leisure to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this historic landscape. Overnight at hotel in Hampi.

Day 11: Hampi UNESCO Wonders

After breakfast, begin your discovery of Hampi’s most remarkable monuments. Visit Virupaksha Temple, one of the oldest functioning temples in India, followed by the Vittala Temple Complex, famous for its Stone Chariot and musical pillars. Continue to the Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stables, and Hazara Rama Temple, each reflecting the artistic brilliance of the Vijayanagara period. Explore Hampi Bazaar and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this ancient trading town. End the day with a sunset visit to Hemakuta Hill for panoramic views of the ruins. Overnight at hotel in Hampi.

Day 12: Hampi to Cochin via Hubli

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Hubli covering approx. 170 kms / 4 hours and board your flight to Cochin. Upon arrival in Cochin, transfer to your hotel and check in. In the evening, if time permits, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance, a vibrant classical art form of Kerala known for its expressive gestures and colorful costumes. This offers a graceful introduction to Kerala’s cultural heritage. Overnight at hotel in Cochin.

Day 13: Cochin to Munnar

After breakfast at the hotel, begin a short sightseeing tour of Cochin. Visit Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, the Jewish Synagogue, and the famous Chinese Fishing Nets, all of which reflect the city’s colonial and maritime heritage. Later, drive to Munnar covering approx. 130 kms / 4–5 hours. As you ascend into the Western Ghats, the scenery changes to rolling hills and endless tea plantations. Upon arrival in Munnar, check in to the hotel and relax in the cool mountain air. Overnight at hotel in Munnar.

Day 14: Munnar’s Natural Beauty

After breakfast, begin a full-day tour of Munnar. Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and known for its scenic mountain slopes. Continue to the Tea Museum to learn about the region’s tea-growing history and processing methods. Explore Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Pothamedu Viewpoint, each offering beautiful landscapes and fresh mountain air. Spend time enjoying the tea gardens and the peaceful atmosphere of this hill station. Return to the hotel after sightseeing. Overnight at hotel in Munnar.

Day 15: Munnar to Thekkady

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Thekkady covering approx. 110 kms / 3–4 hours. En route, stop at Ramakkalmedu to enjoy sweeping views and the breezy hilltop setting. Upon arrival in Thekkady, check in to the hotel and relax. The region is well known for its wildlife sanctuary and spice plantations. In the evening, witness a Kalaripayattu martial arts show, a thrilling display of Kerala’s traditional combat art. Overnight at hotel in Thekkady.

Day 16: Thekkady Wildlife and Nature

After breakfast, proceed for a boat safari on Periyar Lake inside the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary offers a chance to observe elephants, deer, birds, and other wildlife in a peaceful natural environment. After the safari, enjoy a walk through the spice plantations and learn about cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. You may also visit viewpoints such as Chellarkovil for panoramic views of the valleys and distant plains. Return to the hotel after a day immersed in nature. Overnight at hotel in Thekkady.

Day 17: Thekkady to Alleppey

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Alleppey covering approx. 130 kms / 4 hours. Known as the Venice of the East, Alleppey welcomes you with tranquil waterways and lush green surroundings. Board your traditional houseboat and begin a serene cruise through Kerala’s backwaters. Glide past coconut groves, paddy fields, and village life while enjoying delicious Kerala cuisine on board. The experience offers a peaceful and unforgettable finale to your journey through South India. Overnight on the houseboat in Alleppey.

Day 18: Alleppey to Cochin Departure

After breakfast on the houseboat, disembark and drive to Cochin covering approx. 60 kms / 1.5–2 hours. Upon arrival, transfer to Cochin Airport for your onward journey. Your tour concludes with beautiful memories of Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Goa, Badami, Hampi, and Kerala’s natural and cultural treasures.

• Meet and greet assistance on arrival
• 17 nights accommodation in selected category hotels
• Daily breakfast at hotels
• All meals during the Alleppey houseboat stay
• Private air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers, sightseeing, and excursions
• English-speaking local guides during sightseeing as per itinerary
• Monument entrance fees and activity charges mentioned in the itinerary
• 1-time boat safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary with naturalist
• Bottled drinking water in the vehicle throughout the journey
• All toll taxes, parking charges, driver allowances, and government taxes

Hotels used or similar for 17 night 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* - Four Point by Sheraton/ Crystal Sarovar Premier
5* - Mansion Grand/ Courtyard by Marriott

Jaipur x 2 nights
3* - Redfox Hotel/ Park Ocean
4* - Fortune Select Metropolitan/ Lemon Tree Premier
5* - ITC Rajputana/ Hilton Jaipur

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

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 2 nights
3* - Abad Green Forest/ Hotel Treetop
4* - The Elephant Court/ Cardamom County
5* - Spice village/ Cardamom County

Alleppey x 1 night
3* - Deluxe Houseboat (ATDC Houseboat/ Dream Boats)
4* - Premium Houseboat (Abad Premium Houseboats/ Rainbow Premium Houseboats)
5* - Luxury Houseboat (Xandari Riverscapes/ Lakes & Lagoons)

• Jaipur – Goa and Hubli – Cochin flight fare per person in economy class
• Any additional domestic or international flights not mentioned
• Meals other than those mentioned in the inclusions
• Personal expenses such as liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet, and shopping
• Camera charges at monuments, if applicable
• Gratuities and optional activities
• Anything not specifically mentioned in the inclusions