Day 1: Australia - - Delhi

Depart Australia today on your

flight to Delhi (please note, some flight

may depart 1 day before). You will

arrive at New Delhi International

Airport. Following customs,

immigration formalities and baggage

collection, a Webjet representative will meet

you as you exit the arrivals hall.

India’s capital and a major gateway to the country, contemporary Delhi is a bustling

metropolis, which successfully combines in its folds – the ancient with the modern.

Amidst the fast spiraling skyscrapers, the remnants of a bygone time, in the form of its

many monuments, stand as silent reminders to the region’s ancient legacy. Delhi is a

food-lovers haven and has something to please every palate. There is an unlimited

variety available across cuisines, across price-brackets and across experiences – from

street food of North India to International cuisine and from road-side dhabas to fine-

dining – Delhi has it all.

Day 2: Delhi (B,D)

Today we head out on a full day to explore Delhi. Begin your day with a guided tour

of the Old City of ‘Shahjahanabad’. Your introduction to the city will start with a visit

to Raj Ghat - the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi, drive past the Red Fort—the

magical monument in red sandstone built at the pinnacle of the Mughal Empire. From

here proceed by bicycle rickshaws through the bustling streets to Jama Masjid, the

largest mosque in Asia built by Shahjahan.

Continue on a guided tour of New Delhi, which reflects the legacy the British left

behind. You will visit Qutab Minar, the tallest stone tower in India built to establish

the might of Islam and onset of Muslim rule in India and Humayun’s tomb, the first

great example of a new distinctive style, which developed to become the hallmark of

the Mughal Dynasty. We also drive past the imposing India Gate (War Memorial

Arch), the Parliament buildings and the Rashtrapati Bhawan (the President’s

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residence) before returning to the hotel. Tonight, get to know your fellow travellers with a

welcome dinner.

Day 3: Delhi - Mandawa (B)

After breakfast, we drive to Mandawa (245 km/ 7 hrs drive). In the heart of the Shekhawati

region of Rajasthan is the beautiful small town of Mandawa, known throughout the state

for its forts and havelis. The structures of this place are a reminder of the cultural and social

hotspot this place used to be in the bygone era. This afternoon we explore the magnificent

Frescoes Havelis. The beautiful havelis, painted predominantly in vibrant colours, have

beautiful wall paintings that adorn their walls in this semi-desert region.

Day 4: Mandawa - Bikaner - Gajner (B)

After breakfast, you will be driven to Bikaner (245 km / 5 hrs drive). On arrival we head

out for a sightseeing tour of Bikaner. Lying in the north of the desert state of Rajasthan, the

city of Bikaner is dotted with many sand dunes. More popularly called the camel country,

the city is renowned for the best riding camels in the world. Bikaner’s forts, palaces and

temples are magnificent creations in red and yellow sandstone and are living manifesta-

tions of its rich historical and architectural legacy. We visit one of the most interesting forts

in Rajasthan, with its sumptuously decorated interiors. Junagarh Fort built in 1588 by Raja

Rai Singh it is unusual in the sense that it was one of the few major forts of Rajasthan that

was not built on a hilltop. Instead, it was built on the desert plains; its rugged sandstone

bastions and graceful pavilions and balconies are silhouetted against the sky. Following

Junagarh Fort, we go for a walk around the local bazaars of Bikaner. Before continuing our

drive to Gajner for our overnight.

Day 5: Gajner - Jaisalmer (B)

After breakfast we begin our drive to Jaisalmer (297 km/ 6.5 hrs drive).

Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert like a golden mirage is the city of Jaisalmer found-

ed by Rao Jaisal. A commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone stands, with all its

awesome splendour, dominating the amber-huedcity. The name Jaisalmer evokes a vivid

picture of sheer magic and brilliance of the desert. Famous for the Jaisalmer Fort, sand

dunes, and ideal for camel rides and safaris. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure.

Day 6: Jaisalmer (B)

After breakfast, proceed on a tour of Jaisalmer including a visit to Jaisalmer Fort – built in

1156 the fort stands proudly amidst the golden stretches of the great Thar Desert. Located

on the top of the Trikuta Hill, the ramparts, bastions and the long-stretching walls of the

fort dazzle gloriously during early morning and at sunset. Continue on to Gadsisar Lake, a

rain water lake, adorned with an arched gateway. Many small shrines and temples are

festooned all around the lake.

Continue on a visit to some of the most exquisitely carved havelis of Jaisalmer. Built in the

19th Century by wealthy merchants, these havelis (or mansions) are intricately carved in

yellow sandstone. The entrances of the havelis are raised high above the street to prevent

sand from blowing into rooms; jharokhas (projecting balconies), jails (latticed stone

screens) and the inner courtyards, which were protected places for the children to play and

women to go about their chores, are some of the characteristic features of these mansions.

Later in the afternoon, drive to the outskirts to view the sunset on the picturesque sand

dunes. The ripples on the wind-caressed dunes creating an enchanting mirage are surely a

delight. An exciting camel ride on the sandy terrain will allow you to get the real feel of the

desert.

Day 7: Jaislamer - Jodhpur (B)

In the morning, you will be driven to the blue city of Jodhpur (303 Km/ 7 hours drive).

Jodhpur, also called the ‘Blue City’ located on the edge of the Thar Desert was once the

capital of the former princely state of Marwar state founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha and is

now the second largest city of Rajasthan. Flanked on its western side by the Mehrangarh

Fort, and on the eastern side by the stately sandstone Palace of Umaid Bhawan; the

monuments temples and gardens of Jodhpur depict a multi-faceted grandeur.

On arrival, we’ll begin with an in depth tour of Jodhpur starting at the magnificent

Mehrangarh Fort, one of Rajasthan's finest forts, looks down protectively over the city,

from the hilltop. Still run by the Maharaja of Jodhpur, this 5 km long majestic fort on a 125

metre high hill is one of the most impressive and formidable structures. There are seven

gates that lead into the fort. Inside the fort is a series of courtyards and palaces. The palace

apartments with marvellously carved panels, latticed windows have evocative names such

as Sukh Mahal (Pleasure Palace), Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), the Phool Mahal (Flower

Palace) and the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors). These palaces house a fabulous collection

of trappings of Indian royalty including a superb collection of palanquins, elephant

howdahs (used when the Maharajas rode their elephants in processions), miniature

paintings, musical instruments, costumes and furniture.

Optional Tour: Zipping At Mehrangarh Fort [Not Operational from May to July]

During your visit to the Mehrangarh Fort, which has been described by Rudyard Kipling as “the

creation of angels, fairies and giants”, enjoy a thrilling experience of zipping on 6 separate zip lines.

Catch the breath-taking views of the forbidding ramparts of this fort as you indulge in this aerial

adventure of rolling away and hooting in excitement!

We continue to Jaswant Thada, located a short distance from the fort, just off the fort road,

is a white marble memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. The cenotaph built in 1899, was

followed by the royal crematorium and three other cenotaphs that stand nearby. There are

some beautiful marble jali (lattice) work and fine views from the terrace in front of the

cenotaphs. The rest of the evening is at leisure.

Day 8: Jodhpur—Udaipur (B)

This morning after breakfast, you will be driven to the ‘City of Lake’ Udaipur (280 Km/ 7

hrs drive) en route visit the beautiful Ranakpur Jain Temples.

Deep in the forest, tucked away in a remote and quite valley of the Aravalli Range, some 90

km from Udaipur is Ranakpur. It boasts of some of the most exquisite Jain temples in the

country famous for their intricate friezes and sculptures. The main shrine of Adinath, with

its 1444 exquisitely carved columns is the largest and most complex Jain temple in the

country. Two Jain temples dedicated to Neminath and Parsvanath and a Sun Temple a little

distance away are also noteworthy.

Udaipur – the ‘City of Lakes’, is the capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Mewar, one of the

oldest surviving dynasties in the world and was established around 1567 A.D. The cheq-

uered history of Mewar is showcased in the city of Udaipur, which is akin to an oasis in the

desert state of Rajasthan. It is a rich and beguiling tapestry of lakeside palaces, forts, tem-

ples, havelis and gardens, reflecting the varied influences of the centuries. The rest of the

afternoon is at leisure.

Day 9: Udaipur (B)

This morning we visit Nagda & Eklinji Temples Nagda, located 23 km from Udaipur has

temples dating back to the 6th century, including the famous 11th century Sas-Bahu

(mother-in-law-daughter-in-law) twin temples with intricate architecture and carvings and

the Adbhutji temple. Both temples are at the edge of a lake and submerged within the lake

are several later structures. Following visit, continue to Eklinji, a complex of 108 temples

enclosed by high walls dedicated to Lord Shiva - the deity of the Maharanas of Mewar. Lo-

cated about 22km north of Udaipur, the Shiva temple here was originally built in 734 AD.

The walled complex includes an elaborately pillared hall under a large pyramidal roof and

features a four-faced Shiva image of black marble.

Later this afternoon, we delve further into the ‘city of lakes’ with a visit to the City Palace

which stands on a hill on the banks of Lake Pichola, surrounded by crenulated walls. Built

in 1567, it is composed of 4 major palaces and several minor palaces that form a single fa-

cade. Its main entrance is through a triple arched gate, the Tripolia, built in 1725. The gate

leads to a series of courtyards, corridors and gardens.

Continue on to Saheliyon-ki-Bari (Garden of the maids of honour), a small ornamental gar-

den which was a popular relaxing spot where royal ladies came for a stroll and hence the

name. The garden has many fountains in its four delightful pools, chiselled kiosks and

marble elephants.

No trip is complete without a tour of the colourful Spice Market of the Old city. India - the

land of spices plays a significant role in the global spices market. No country in the world

produces as many kinds of spices as India. The climate of the country is suitable for almost

all spices.

Optional Tour: Folk Music & Dance at Bagore Ki Haveli This evening, proceed for an interesting

dance performance at the 18th-century haveli museum, on the water’s edge near Gangaur Ghat.

Built by a former prime minister and has been carefully restored, the upper courtyard here makes an

atmospheric setting for fabulous Rajasthani dance performances.

Day 10: Udaipur - Jaipur (B)

In the morning, we drive to the pink city of Jaipur (415 Km/ 7 hrs drive).

Jaipur, one of the most enticing places in India, is nestled between mighty forts and the rug-

ged Aravalli Hills. It is known as ‘the pink city’ as its prominent buildings are washed in

this colour. Founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in 1727, Jaipur is steeped in Rajput histo-

ry and is characterised by sites such as the City Palace with its astronomical Observatory,

Hawa Mahal and the beautiful Amber Fort. Jaipur is a bustling capital city and a business

centre with all the trappings of a modern metropolis yet flavoured strongly with an age-old

charm that never fails to surprise a traveller. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure.

Optional Tour: Interaction followed by Dinner with Indian Family Familiarise yourself with the

climatic, cultural and historical influences that make India so diverse. Experience culinary delights,

savour the tantalizing flavours and bask in a blend of aromas of Indian cuisine. Celebrate the love of

food and listen to secrets from your hosts who are highly inspired from the rich traditions and exu-

berant hospitality that India is famous for!

Day 11: Jaipur (B)

An exciting day awaits you as begin your sightseeing tour with a photo visit at the Hawa

Mahal (Palace of Winds) - a five-storied wonder with a spectacular pyramidal facade and

overhanging windows with latticed screens, domes and spires. Continue your tour as you

drive to the ancient capital of Amer to see the fabulous Amber Fort, situated on a ridge just

outside Jaipur city, surrounded by fortified battlements. Maharaja Mansingh, Mughal

Emperor Akbar’s most successful General, started the construction of Amber Fort in the

17th century. Before the City Palace was constructed in Jaipur, Amber was the seat of

power. The fort is surrounded by fortified battlements and overlooks the Moat Lake. Ruins

and remains are spread over the Aravalli hills and sprawling crenellated walls lattice the

surrounding area.

At the foot of the hill you will be taken on the jeep up to the main gate. Tour the chambers

and hallways of the palace, famous for the excellence of its design and decoration. Within

the complex is Ganesh Pol, an imposing gateway painted with the images of the elephant-

headed god, Ganesh. The merging of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles is captured in

the Sukh Niwas and Jas Mandir apartments, and the Charbagh garden with its perfectly

proportioned landscaping. Pierced screen windows offer views from different vantage

points and shimmering mirrors encrust the walls of Sheesh Mahal.

Optional Tour: Elephant Trek followed by Lunch Experience a unique and interesting insight into

rural Rajasthan as you drive through the countryside to the starting point of your trek. Beautifully

decorated elephants await the arrival of the guests and the safari commences as the elephant and his

well-dressed mahout salute the guests. You will be taken through a series of farms and fields and a

few quiet villages tucked away in the countryside. Following which, a sumptuous lunch awaits

amidst the rustic environs.

This afternoon, enjoy a tour of the Pink City, an “abode of rajahs”. The highlights of the

tour include a visit to the City Palace Museum, which has a superb collection of Rajasthani

costumes, and armory of Mughals and Rajputs including swords of different shapes and

sizes with chiseled handles. Many antiques and artifacts belonging to the ruling family

are housed here, including a collection of weaponry. It also has an art gallery with an

excellent collection of miniature paintings, carpets, royal paraphernalia and rare

astronomical works in Arabic, Persian, Latin and Sanskrit. Proceed to the aweinspiring

Jantar Mantar Observatory, a stone astrological and astronomical Observatory built by

Day 12: Jaipur—Agra (B)

After breakfast, we head to the Mughal city of Agra (237 Km / 7 hrs drive) en-route

visiting Akbar’s abandoned capital, Fatehpur Sikri. Located 40 km from Agra, Fatehpur

Sikri was built by Mughal emperor Akbar in 1571 in honour of the Sufi saint, Sheikh Salim

Chisti. It was the Mughal capital for 14 years after which it was abandoned due to paucity

of water. It is made of red sandstone and combines influences from both Hindu and

Mughal architecture. Even to this day, the entrance to the fort is through the road that

Akbar built which leads to the Buland Darwaza, a huge 54 metres gateway. Other inspiring

monuments in Fatehpur Sikri are the Hiran Minar that Akbar built in memory of his

favourite elephant, Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti, Birbal's House and the Diwan-i-Khas.

On arrival in to Agra, we check in to the hotel.

Get ready! Tomorrow morning we head to the splendid Taj Mahal.

Day 13: Agra - Orchha (B)

This morning we head out for the big one! The Taj Mahal, for a spectacle not to be missed—

a sunrise visit to the legendary Taj Mahal. Witness the dramatic interplay of light as the

sun rises and casts its golden rays over the pearl white tomb, recreating the magic of the

Taj.

Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century as a mausoleum for his wife Mumtaz

Mahal, a masterpiece in marble and one of the world’s most famous landmarks. The

monument was commissioned in 1631 and took 20,000 artisans, 22 years to complete.

As the sun sets, a chaste and secretive image of the Taj starts to emerge, casting a very soft

light illuminating the contours of this enchanting monument in marble. Referred to as one

of the wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal in Agra is the epitome of tourism in India and is

celebrated for its architectural magnificence and aesthetic beauty.

There is plenty of time to explore the grounds of the Taj Mahal gardens before returning to

the hotel for breakfast. Post breakfast we make our way to Orchha (202 Km/ 4 hrs drive).

This historic village on the banks of the Betwa River showcases a supreme display of

Mughal architecture, some of which is similar to that of nearby Khajuraho with much

grander palaces and cenotaphs dotting the pastoral landscape as well. The atmosphere in

Orchha, though, is far more laid-back and hassle-free, which makes for a relaxing stay.

Day 14: Orchha - Khajuraho (B)

This morning we explore Orchha village. Orchha's fort complex, the entrance of which is a

multi-arched bridge, has three impressive palaces placed in an open quadrangle. The first

of these is the Jehangir Mahal, built by Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo in the 17th century, to mark

the occasion of Emperor Jehangir's visit to the city. Fragile chhatries and ornate trellis work

heighten the effect of artistic richness. The Raj Mahal was built by Madhukar Shah, the reli-

gious predecessor of Bir Singh Ju Deo. The interiors boast of intricate murals, depicting var-

ious religious themes. The Rai Praveen Mahal was built for the famous musician-poetess

paramour of King Indramani, Rai Praveen, as a mark of admiration by Emperor Akbar.

There are 14 cenotaphs or chhatries to the rulers of Orchha, across the Kanchana Ghat of

the Betwa River.

We then continue our journey to Khajuraho (172 km/ 4 hrs drive). In the afternoon we ex-

plore Khajuraho’s Eastern Group of temples. This group comprises of two historic Jain tem-

ples – the Adinath Temple lavishly embellished with sculpted figures, and the Parsvanath

Temple, the largest Jain temple, sculpted with charming detail. There are other shrines such

as the Vamana Temple with apsaras in sensuous poses, and the Javari Temple that has a

richlycarved

doorway. Continue to the Western Group of temples which are entirely Hindu, and

constitute some of the finest examples of Chandela art at its peak. The largest being the

Kandhariya Mahadev dedicated to Lord Shiva, followed by a granite temple - Chaunsath

Yogini. The Chitragupta Temple is dedicated to the Sun God, while the Vishwanath Tem-

ple sports a three-headed image of Brahma – the Creator of the Universe. The Lakshmana

Temple is superbly decorated, while the Devi Jagdambi Temple is dedicated to Goddess

Kali. Other temples in the Western Group include the Varaha Temple with a nine-foot high

boar-incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the Matangeshwara Temple with an eight-foot high lin-

gam, and the Brahma Temple.

Day 15: Khajuraho - Allahabad (B)

After breakfast we leave Khajuraho behind us and continue our journey east to Allahabad

(276 km/ 7 hrs drive).

Allahabad is among the largest and holiest cities in Uttar Pradesh. It stands at the

confluence of two of India's holiest rivers, the Ganges and the Yamuna. Sangam, as the

confluence is called, is the venue of many sacred fairs and rituals and attracts thousands of

pilgrims throughout the year. This number swells to millions during the world famous

Kumbha Mela. A third mythical river, the Saraswati, believed to flow underground

towards the Sangam, gives the confluence its other name 'Triveni'. On arrival, the rest of

the afternoon is free to explore this holy city at your own pace.

Day 16: Allahabad - Varanasi (B)

This morning enjoy a tour of Allahabad including a visit to the Fort, built from 1583

onwards by Akbar at the confluence of the two great Rivers Ganges and Jamuna. The

largest of Akbar’s forts, although most of its original form has been impaired by poor early

restoration work. The fort consists of a beautiful zenana palace with a fine baradari or

pavilion with a central square hall, carved on 64 columns surrounded by a deep veranda of

double columns with clusters of four in each corner. Continue to the Khusrau Bagh, once

the pleasure garden of Jahangir, son of Akbar. It houses the tomb of Prince Khusrau, elder

son of Shah Jahan, who died in 1615. His tomb was completed seven years later and is a

large domed structure in Mughal style. Built in the garden enclosure, the actual burial

chamber is underground with enriched decorative plasterwork. The complex has two other

tombs, one of Khusrau’s sister and the other of his mother.

We then continue on to one of India’s holiest meccas, Varanasi (121 kms/ 3 hrs drive).

Located along the west bank of the holy River Ganges in the state of Uttar Pradesh, the city

of Varanasi is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site and is one of the oldest. It is a city, which

enshrines the very essence of Hinduism—temples, shrines and devotees, sunrise boat rides,

flower ceremonies with traditional music and walks on the ghats. A city of colourful

bazaars exquisite and bright silks, festivals - all centring around the teeming ghats of the

Holy Ganges. This evening we head to the Daswamedha Ghat along the River Ganges to

witness the special Hindu Aarti ceremony performed. Every evening at 1730 hour (in Win-

ter), a magical Aarti is performed at Dashwamedha Ghat. Halt your boat right at the steps

for the best view. The presiding priests stand on a wooden chauki in the water. To the

chant of Sanskrit mantras, and the clash of cymbals and drums, the river is worshipped

with flowers, incense, sandalwood, milk and vermilion. First the blazing camphor lamp

and then the many- flamed aarti lamps are raised high and then arched back to the water,

the dark river reflecting the golden flames as Ganga accepts the worship.

Day 17: Varanasi (B)

Varanasi's principle attraction is the string of bathing ghats, which line the western ghats of

River Ganges. The spectacular 4 Km sweep of the Ghats is a unique sight, best viewed at

dawn. This morning we take a boat cruise on the Ganges to soak in the vibrant colour and

life of Varanasi (subject to water levels). An early morning boat ride presents an incredible

scene as the multitudes of devotees come to the river to pay homage to the Sun God. Pass

the bathing ghats where thousands of pilgrims immerse themselves in the holy water of the

Ganges River and the burning ghats where cremations are conducted. On our return we

visit the bazaars (local market) and Kashi Vishwanath Temple – the most sacred of the

shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. We then return to the hotel for breakfast where to morn-

ing is at leisure.

This afternoon, we visit the site where Lord Buddha had preached his first sermon or in

religious language, set in motion the Wheel of Law (Maha-Dharmachakra-Pravartan) en-

shrining the principles of his teaching into laws. 200 years later, in 3rd century BC, the

Mauryan Emperor Ashoka who spread the Buddha's message of love and compassion

throughout his vast empire, built massive stupas, viharas and monasteries making it the

centre of the Buddhist world. Several Buddhist structures were raised at Sarnath between

3rd century BC and 11th century AD and today it presents the most expansive ruins

amongst places on the Buddhist trail.

Day 18: Varanasi - Lucknow (B)

This morning we leave Varanasi behind us and head to Lucknow (300 kms/ 7 hrs drive).

For all its modernity, Lucknow remains true to its cultural past, impeccable manners, a

courtly diction, and a love for the arts and all beautiful things. The capital city of Uttar

Pradesh, Lucknow, the erstwhile Awadh or Oudh still preserves the spirit of the past era.

On arrival the afternoon is free to explore and enjoy this old World city.

Day 19: Lucknow (B)

This morning we make the most of Lucknow and head out to discover its treasures. We

begin with Bara Imambara, built by Nawab Asafuddaula to provide relief to his subjects

during the famine of 1784. The splendor of this edifice is a reminder of the past glory of

Nawab of Oudh. The Imambara is unique for the absence of pillars or supports in the main

hall, which stands 50 feet tall. Continue to the Shah Najaf Imambara, the tomb of Nawab

Ghaziuddin Haider, and his family is housed in this majestic white domed building. The

tombs are plated in silver and gold and the interiors are ornate with floral designs and

chandeliers. Also visit the Jama Masjid, this grand mosque was built by Muhammad Ali

Shah in typical Mughal style with tall minarets and onion-shaped domes; Lucknow

Residency built during 1780-1800, it was once the political residence of the British officials

and Husainabad Picture Gallery, located near the Husainabad Tank houses portraits of the

rulers of Awadh. Following todays sightseeing, enjoy a shopping tour of The city of Nawab

(Lucknow) where you can find that special memento of your time in India. The rest of the

afternoon is then at leisure.

Day 20: Lucknow - - Delhi (B)

After breakfast we have a leisurely morning before making our way to the train station to

board our train to Delhi. No trip the India is complete without experiencing a train journey!

Without a shadow of a doubt, the best way to see India is not on a plane at 35,000 feet, but

at ground level on the incredible Indian railway system. You can safely forget media

images of overcrowded suburban trains with people sitting on the roof. On a long distance

train in an air-conditioned carriage all seats are reserved and it’s a safe, civilised &

comfortable way to get around India. Our train journey to Delhi takes around 7 hours

giving you time to watch the world go by. On arrival you will be transferred to your hotel

in Delhi.

Day 21: Delhi - - Cochin (B)

After breakfast, you will be met at your hotel by a Webjet representative and assisted with

your transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Cochin. Upon arrival you will be

transferred to your hotel where the rest of the afternoon if free to explore this southern city

at your own pace.

Day 22: Cochin (B)

Today, explore the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’, Cochin. Unravel the ancient treasures of this

quaint harbor port town visiting the fascinating sights partly by boat and partly on foot.

Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets, the St. Francis Church, Mattancherry Palace - built by the

Portuguese for the Raja (King) of Kochi in exchange of trading rights; walk through the

narrow cobbled streets, lined with antique & handicraft shops of the Jew Town to the

Jewish Synagogue, the oldest living synagogue in the world. This evening, watch a

mesmerising Kathakali performance. Kathakali represents a synthesis of all that is best in

dance, drama and music and has been recognized by connoisseurs of art, the world over as

a `total art form of immense sophistication and power’. It is the impression created by

make-up and the costumes that make Kathakali a visual par excellence. Let the magic of

this unique art form envelope you as you watch the emotions displayed by the performing

artists.

Optional Tour: Dinner at Fort Cochin Seafood Specialty Restaurant Considered one of the state's

best seafood restaurants, this casual catch-of-the-day semi-alfresco pad is something of a Kerala

institution. The atmosphere is charmingly rustic. The excellent food is prepared at an open grill

adjacent to a large waist-level fish tank filled with Chinese carp. Tables are set around a huge

banyan tree and under light shades made from Chinese fishing baskets. Rather than a daily menu, a

trolley contains the catch of the day, straight off Cochin's fishing nets.

Day 23: Cochin - Thekkady (B)

After breakfast, we head for Thekkady. Visit a local Spice Plantation and discover crops

such as cardamom, nutmeg, pepper, coffee and tamarind in their native environment and

learn about their varied uses. For centuries Kerala has grown and exported spices around

the world and a walking tour of a plantation will allow you to gain a first-hand experience

of the cultivation, growth and processing of spices.

Day 24: Thekkady - Alleppey (B,L,D)

This morning, we head for Alleppey. Upon arrival, board a traditional houseboat, sail

through and explore Kerala's backwaters. Embark on an enchanting journey across sun-

dappled backwaters on a kettuvallom – fully furnished traditional rice boats. Rightly called

the ‘Venice of the East’, this verdant area surrounded by coconut plantations is famous for

its narrow maze of canals and backwaters. Float through the placid waters passing palm

fringed canals, lakes and villages. Treat yourself to a sumptuous lunch and dinner of local

delicacies.

Day 25: Alleppey - Kumarakom (B)

This morning we disembark from the houseboat. Upon arrival at the hotel in Kumarakom,

the rest of the day is at leisure.

Optional tour : Island Farm visit with Traditional Lunch Proceed by boat to an Island Farm,

situated in the backwaters. Enjoy a traditional lunch, following which your host will escort you on a

tour of the 50-acre farm, as you witness the various farm activities of coconut harvesting or toddy

making, the variety of spices cultivated on the farm.

Day 26: Kumarakom - Cochi - - Delhi

This morning after breakfast we head back to Cochin to board a flight to Delhi. On arrival

into Delhi, be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel where the rest of the

afternoon is at leisure.

Day 27: Delhi - - Australia

Today you’ll have free time to either get in some last minute shopping or re-visit the sights

which you missed. Later you will be met at your hotel by a Webjet representative and

assisted for a transfer to airport for your flight home.

Day 28: Australia

Arrive home today.