Mumbai, Backwater & Golden Triangle

Day 1: Arrive in Mumbai

Upon arrival at Mumbai International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take time to relax and recover from your journey. Mumbai, the financial capital of India, offers a fascinating blend of colonial heritage and modern lifestyle. In the evening, you may step out for a leisurely walk along Marine Drive, enjoying panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the city skyline illuminated at dusk. This gentle introduction sets the tone for your journey ahead. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Mumbai City Tour

After breakfast, begin the city tour of Mumbai with an excursion to the UNESCO-listed Elephanta Caves, reached via a scenic ferry ride across the harbour. Explore the ancient rock-cut caves dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for their impressive sculptures and carvings. Return to the city and visit the iconic Gateway of India, followed by a drive past the historic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. Continue to Dhobi Ghat, an open-air laundry showcasing local life, and explore Crawford Market’s vibrant atmosphere. End the day at Marine Drive, witnessing a beautiful sunset before returning to your hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 3: Mumbai – Fly to Cochin

After breakfast, explore the unique lanes of Dharavi, gaining insight into one of Asia’s most industrious communities known for recycling, pottery, and leather work. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Cochin. Upon arrival, drive to your hotel and check in. Cochin, a historic port city, reflects a blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps exploring local cafés or enjoying a sunset along the waterfront. Overnight at hotel.

Day 4: Cochin – Drive to Alleppey (60 km / approx. 1.5 hrs) – Houseboat Experience

After breakfast, drive to Alleppey, famously known as the “Venice of the East.” Upon arrival, board your traditional Kerala houseboat and begin a serene backwater cruise. Sail through narrow canals, palm-fringed lagoons, and lush paddy fields, witnessing authentic village life along the waterways. Observe fishermen at work and locals going about their daily routines. Enjoy freshly prepared Kerala cuisine onboard as the boat gently glides through tranquil surroundings. This immersive experience offers a peaceful escape into nature. Overnight on houseboat.

Day 5: Alleppey – Cochin – Fly to Delhi

After breakfast onboard, disembark and drive back to Cochin. Begin the city tour visiting St. Francis Church, one of the oldest European churches in India, followed by the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets along the coast. Continue to Mattancherry Palace, known for its detailed murals depicting Hindu epics. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 6: Delhi City Tour

After breakfast, begin a comprehensive city tour of Delhi covering both Old and New Delhi. Start with a visit to the grand Jama Masjid followed by a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, experiencing its bustling bazaars and spice markets. Drive past the Red Fort and continue to New Delhi. Visit Humayun's Tomb, a precursor to the Taj Mahal, followed by the serene Lotus Temple. Conclude with the towering Qutub Minar. This day offers a perfect blend of Mughal grandeur and modern architecture. Overnight at hotel.

Day 7: Delhi – Drive to Agra (204 km / approx. 4 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Agra via expressway. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Begin sightseeing with a visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, built by Emperor Shah Jahan. Continue to Agra Fort, a grand Mughal fort that served as the royal residence. Later, visit Itmad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj), admired for its delicate marble inlay work. In the evening, explore local markets known for handicrafts and marble souvenirs. Overnight at hotel.

Day 8: Agra – Fatehpur Sikri – Abhaneri – Drive to Jaipur (245 km / approx. 5–6 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Jaipur. En route, visit Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned Mughal capital showcasing grand palaces and courtyards. Continue to Abhaneri village to explore Chand Baori, an ancient stepwell with remarkable geometric architecture. Proceed to Jaipur and check in at your hotel. Jaipur, known as the Pink City, welcomes you with its royal charm and vibrant culture. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 9: Jaipur City Tour

After breakfast, begin the city tour with a visit to Amber Fort, located on a hilltop overlooking Maota Lake. Explore its grand courtyards, palaces, and intricate mirror work. Continue to the City Palace, still home to Jaipur’s royal family, followed by the astronomical observatory Jantar Mantar. Stop for photographs at the iconic Hawa Mahal. Later, explore Jaipur’s vibrant markets known for textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts. Overnight at hotel.

Day 10: Jaipur – Drive to Delhi (268 km / approx. 5–6 hrs) & Departure

After breakfast, drive back to Delhi. Upon arrival, transfer to the airport for your onward journey. If time permits, you may explore nearby markets or relax before departure. Your journey concludes with unforgettable memories of India’s diverse culture, heritage, and landscapes.

• Assistance on arrival and departure at all airports
• 9 Nights accommodation in selected category hotels
• 1 Night deluxe houseboat stay in Alleppey with all meals (lunch, dinner, breakfast)
• Daily buffet breakfast at all hotels
• Private AC vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary
• Domestic airport transfers with assistance
• English-speaking local guides in Mumbai, Cochin, Delhi, Agra & Jaipur
• Monument entrance fees as per itinerary
• Rickshaw ride in Old Delhi
• Bottled drinking water during travel
• All applicable government taxes and parking/toll charges

Hotels used or similar for 9 night accommodation

Mumbai x 2 nights
3* - Hotel Suba Palace/ BW Hotel Sahil
4* - Sun-N-Sand Hotel/ Fariyas Hotel
5* - Trident Hotel/ ITC Grand Central

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

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

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 night
3* - Howard Plaza the Fern/ Atulyaa Taj
4* - Prime Plaza/ 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

• Domestic flights (Mumbai–Cochin–Delhi & Jaipur–Mumbai/Delhi)
• International airfare and visa charges
• Any camera/video fees at monuments
• Lunch & dinner except on houseboat stay
• Personal expenses such as tips, laundry, beverages, telephone, etc.
• Optional activities (elephant ride, boat rides, cultural shows, etc.)
• Travel insurance
• Early check-in / late check-out at hotels (subject to availability)
• Any services not mentioned under inclusions