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.