Mughal Monuments, Temples & Kerala Backwater

Duration 24 Nights / 25 Days

Starting From On Request

Destination India

Tour Code AGORA718

Embark on an extensive 25-day journey across North, East, and South India, beginning in Delhi with its iconic Mughal landmarks before traveling to Agra to witness the Taj Mahal, continuing through Orchha and Khajuraho to explore historic temples, then experiencing the spiritual essence of Varanasi and Bodhgaya, followed by cultural exploration in Kolkata and temple architecture in Bhubaneswar and Puri, and further journeying into South India through Chennai, Pondicherry, Thanjavur, and Madurai to admire Dravidian temple heritage, before entering the scenic landscapes of Kerala with visits to Munnar, Thekkady, and the serene backwaters of Alleppey, finally concluding in Cochin, offering a perfect combination of heritage, spirituality, cultural diversity, and natural beauty.

Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

Upon arrival at Delhi International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take time to relax and recover from your journey. Delhi offers a fascinating mix of history and modern life, making it a perfect starting point. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore nearby areas such as Connaught Place or local markets. You may also enjoy local cuisine at nearby restaurants. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing

After breakfast, begin the city tour of Old and New Delhi. Visit the Red Fort and Jama Masjid, followed by a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk. Continue to Raj Ghat, Humayun’s Tomb, and Qutub Minar, showcasing Mughal and Indo-Islamic architecture. Drive past India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan. The day offers a comprehensive overview of Delhi’s rich heritage. Return to the hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 3: Delhi – Agra (210 km / approx. 4 hrs)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Agra. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. Begin sightseeing with Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later, visit the Taj Mahal at sunset and admire its architectural beauty. The monument stands as a symbol of love and craftsmanship. Explore local markets if time permits. Overnight at hotel.

Day 4: Agra – Gwalior – Orchha (220 km / approx. 6–7 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Orchha via Gwalior. En route, visit Gwalior Fort, known for its impressive architecture and panoramic views. Explore Sas Bahu Temple and Teli Ka Mandir. Continue to Orchha and check in at the hotel. Later, visit Jehangir Mahal, Ram Raja Temple, and enjoy views of the Betwa River. Overnight at hotel.

Day 5: Orchha – Khajuraho (180 km / approx. 4 hrs)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Khajuraho. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. Visit the Eastern and Western Group of Temples, famous for their intricate carvings and sculptures. These temples depict mythology, daily life, and artistic expressions. Spend time exploring the heritage complex. Overnight at hotel.

Day 6: Khajuraho – Varanasi (Flight)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. In the evening, visit the ghats to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. The spiritual atmosphere and rituals offer a unique experience. Enjoy the vibrant surroundings along the Ganges. Overnight at hotel.

Day 7: Varanasi Sightseeing

Early morning, enjoy a boat ride on the Ganges during sunrise. Observe rituals and daily life along the ghats. After breakfast, visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Banaras Hindu University. Later, drive to Sarnath to explore Buddhist sites and museums. Return to Varanasi for evening exploration of markets. Overnight at hotel.

Day 8: Varanasi – Bodhgaya (255 km / approx. 6 hrs)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Bodhgaya. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. Visit the Mahabodhi Temple Complex and Bodhi Tree. The site holds immense spiritual significance for Buddhists worldwide. Spend time exploring monasteries and meditation areas. Overnight at hotel.

Day 9: Bodhgaya – Kolkata (Flight via Patna)

After breakfast, drive to Patna and board your flight to Kolkata. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in. Later, begin a brief city exploration if time permits. Kolkata’s colonial charm and vibrant culture provide a unique experience. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 10: Kolkata Sightseeing

After breakfast, begin the city tour visiting Victoria Memorial and Indian Museum. Continue to Howrah Bridge and Dakshineswar Temple. Visit Belur Math and Mother House. Explore local markets and colonial architecture. Return to the hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 11: Kolkata – Bhubaneswar (Flight)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bhubaneswar. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. Begin temple visits including Lingaraj, Mukteshwar, and Rajarani temples. These represent classic Kalinga architecture. Return to the hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 12: Bhubaneswar – Puri (100 km / approx. 2 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Puri. En route visit Dhauli and Konark Sun Temple. Continue to Puri and check in at the hotel. Relax on Puri Beach in the evening. The coastal setting adds a peaceful touch to the journey. Overnight at hotel.

Day 13: Puri – Chilika Lake – Puri (55 km one way / approx. 1.5 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Chilika Lake and enjoy a boat ride. Spot dolphins and migratory birds in this serene lagoon. Spend time appreciating the natural surroundings. Later return to Puri. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 14: Puri – Bhubaneswar – Chennai (Flight)

After breakfast, transfer to Bhubaneswar Airport. Fly to Chennai and check in at your hotel. Later visit Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, and Fort St. George. Chennai offers a vibrant cultural experience. Overnight at hotel.

Day 15: Chennai – Pondicherry (290 km / approx. 6–7 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Pondicherry via Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram. Visit temples in Kanchipuram and explore UNESCO monuments in Mahabalipuram. Continue to Pondicherry and check in at the hotel. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 16: Pondicherry Sightseeing

After breakfast, visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville. Explore the French Quarter and Promenade Beach. Visit local churches and colonial buildings. Enjoy the relaxed coastal ambiance. Overnight at hotel.

Day 17: Pondicherry – Thanjavur (220 km / approx. 5 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Thanjavur via Chidambaram. Visit Nataraja Temple and continue to Thanjavur. Explore Brihadeeswarar Temple and Thanjavur Palace. Check in at the hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 18: Thanjavur – Trichy – Madurai (190 km / approx. 5 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Madurai via Trichy. Visit Rock Fort Temple and Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. Continue to Madurai and check in at the hotel. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 19: Madurai – Munnar (160 km / approx. 4–5 hrs)

After breakfast, visit Meenakshi Temple and Thirumalai Nayakar Palace. Later, drive to Munnar through scenic landscapes. Check in at the hotel upon arrival. Overnight at hotel.

Day 20: Munnar Sightseeing

After breakfast, visit Eravikulam National Park, Tea Museum, and Echo Point. Enjoy panoramic views of tea plantations and hills. Explore local markets and nature trails. Return to the hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 21: Munnar – Thekkady (100 km / approx. 3 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Thekkady. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. Enjoy a boat ride at Periyar Lake and visit spice plantations. Experience the region’s biodiversity and culture. Overnight at hotel.

Day 22: Thekkady Sightseeing

After breakfast, enjoy a guided nature walk in Periyar National Park. Later, participate in cultural activities or cooking sessions. Explore local markets and spice gardens. The day offers relaxation and exploration. Overnight at hotel.

Day 23: Thekkady – Alleppey (160 km / approx. 4–5 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Alleppey. Board a traditional houseboat for a backwater cruise. Enjoy scenic views of canals and villages. Experience Kerala cuisine onboard. Relax in the tranquil environment. Overnight on houseboat.

Day 24: Alleppey – Cochin (60 km / approx. 1.5 hrs)

After breakfast, disembark and drive to Cochin. Visit Fort Kochi, Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, and Jewish Synagogue. Explore colonial heritage and local markets. Optional Kathakali performance in the evening. Overnight at hotel.

Day 25: Cochin – Departure

After breakfast, check out and transfer to Cochin Airport. You may explore Marine Drive if time permits. Depart with unforgettable memories of India’s heritage and landscapes. Tour concludes.

Meet & greet assistance at all airports
24 nights accommodation in selected category hotels + 1 night houseboat stay
Daily breakfast at hotels and all meals on houseboat
Private AC vehicle for entire tour
English-speaking local guides in each city
Monument entrance fees as per itinerary
Boat rides in Varanasi, Chilika Lake, and Periyar
Bottled drinking water in vehicle
All tolls, parking, driver allowance, and fuel
Government taxes

Hotels used or similar for 25 nights accommodation

Delhi x 2 nights
3* - Madhuban Hotel/ Emarald Hotel
4* - The Royal Plaza/ Country Inn & Suite Saket
5* - Le Meridien/ The Claridges

Agra x 1 night
3* - Howard Plaza the Fern/ Atulyaa Taj
4* - Radission Hotel/ Crystal Sarovar Premier
5* - Trident Hotel/ Courtyard by Marriott

Orchha x 1 night
3* & 4* - Orchha Resort/ Amar Mahal
5* - Orchha Palace and Convention Centre x 1 night

Khajuraho x 1 night
3* - Ramada/Clarks Hotel
4* - Radisson Hotel/ Hotel Chandela
5* - The Lalit Temple View

Varanasi x 2 nights
3* - Meraden Grand/ Amaya Hotel
4* - Rivatas by Ideal/ Palace On Ganges
5* - Radisson Hotel/ Gateway Hotel Taj

Bodhgaya x 1 night
3* - Hotel Taj Darbar/ Hotel Mahamaya
4* & 5* - The Royal Residency/ Lotus Nikko Hotel

Kolkata x 2 nights
3* - Regenta Orko's/ The Fern Residency
4* - The Peerless Inn/ The Fern Residency
5* - ITC Sonar, a Luxury Collection/ The Lalit Great Eastern

Bhubaneswar x 1 nights
3* - Kalinga Ashok/ The HHI
4* - Fortune Park Sishmo/ Mayfair Convention
5* - Mayfair Lagoon/ Trident Hotel

Puri x 3 nights
3* - Toshali Sands/ Blue Lily Beach Resort
4* - The Hans Coco Palms/ The Chariot Resort & spa
5* - Mayfair Waves

Chennai x 1 night
3* - Raj Park/ MGM East Woods
4* - The Raintree/ Accord Metropolitan
5* - ITC Grand Chola/ The Leela Palace

Pondicherry x 2 night
3* - Shenbaga Hotel/ Annamalai International
4* - Le Pondy/ The Windflower Resort & Spa
5* - Palais De Mahe/ La Villa

Thanjore x 1 night
3* - Grand Gardenia/ Oriental Towers
4* - Le Pondy/ The Windflower Resort & Spa
5* - Svatma

Madurai x 1 night
3* - Astoria by Sparsa/ Madurai’s Residency
4* - GRT Regency/ Fortune Pandiyan Hotel
5* - Heritage Madurai/ The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai

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 night
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)

Cochin x 1 night
3* - The Dune Hotel/ Abad Plaza
4* - Casino Hotel/ The Avenue Regent
5* - Xandari Harbour/ Le Meridien