India Encompassed

Delhi

Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included through the G Adventures-supported Women With Wheels project.

Arriving early with a free day in Delhi? Opt to add the "Half Day Culinary Tour of Delhi" extra to your tour.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Women With Wheels Transfer

Indira Gandhi International Airport - Delhi

Transfer by a G Adventures-supported project, Women With Wheels. This program provides safe and reliable transport for travellers, while providing a dignified livelihood for local women who once lacked financial opportunities.

Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group

1h

Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

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Optional Activities for Day 1
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Half Day Culinary Tour of Delhi
Delhi
On this half-day adventure that will leave you in food heaven, visit age-old markets and landmark food joints around the city and indulge your tastebuds. Walk with an experienced foodie-guide who will teach you about the intricacies of cuisine from various parts of the country. Highlights on the tour can include; Chandni Chowk, filled with bustling markets and shops, enjoy a steaming cup of Chai tea in an authentic terracotta cup, Kebabs with a recipe that stretches throughout generations, and indulge in local sweets and flatbreads. Perhaps also visit a chaat street chef and stop by Gurdwara Bangla Sahib Sikh Sikh House of Worship which hosts the world's largest community kitchen.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Delhi

Enjoy a youth-led morning walk through Delhi by G Adventures-supported City Walk project offering a unique perspective of Delhi while supporting at-risk youth. Later, visit Delhi's famous Jama Masjid (Great Mosque) and climb the minaret for a bird's eye view of Old City. Walk through Chandni Chowk, one of India's oldest and busiest markets, and learn the history of the Sikh religion at Gurdwara. Stop for photos at the colourful market before finishing at Connaught Place, one of the most prominent architectural remnants of British rule.

Exclusive Inclusions:

City Walk

Delhi 1h - 2h 2km

Explore the streets of Delhi with a youth-led tour guide from the G Adventures-supported City Walk project. As a former at-risk youth, your local guide will have a unique perspective on the city and can provide more information on the life of a child in India. The guided tour helps support the guide's college or university tuition.

Jama Masjid Visit

Delhi 0.5h - 1h

Travel through the winding roads of Old Delhi to visit the gorgeous Jama Masjid, the Great Mosque of Delhi. Commissioned by Shah Jahan, the Mughal emperor who also commissioned the Taj Mahal, it is the best-known and largest mosque in India. Explore the stately structure, which was completed in 1656, and enjoy its massive courtyard, which can hold 25,000 worshippers.

Gurdwara Sis Ganj Visit

Delhi 0.5h - 1h

Learn the history of the Sikh religion at this historically significant Gurdwara, which is a Sikh place of worship.

Connaught Place Visit

Delhi 1h 3km

Explore the Victorian architecture of Connaught Place, which is a giant circle at the centre of any map of Delhi. Buy trinkets and textiles at the market on Janpath, which came into being when refugees from Pakistan began peddling their wares on this road after Partition in 1947. It remains one of Delhi's most colourful markets, and is very popular with tourist and locals alike.

Chandni Chowk Visit

Delhi 1h - 2h

Enjoy a stroll through Chandni Chowk, one of India's oldest and busiest markets. Be sure to stop and try one of the many types of paranthas (stuffed Indian bread) sold in stalls lining the streets.

Delhi/Jaipur

Drive to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, to start exploring the Pink City. Along the way, try your hand at block printing with the women of the Anoothi Project. Later, opt to visit the Jantar Mantar, or Royal Observatory. Don't miss the opportunity to see a Bollywood film at the famous Art Deco Raj Mandir cinema.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Private Vehicle

Delhi - Jaipur 5h - 6h 260km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Anoothi Block Printing Experience

Jaipur

Women from marginalised communities outside Jaipur came together to create the Anoothi Project. In Hindi, Anoothi means 'unique and extraordinary' and by teaching these women to master the traditionally male handicraft of block printing, the collective shines a light on the unique and extraordinary within each individual. At this G for Good visit, engage in a hands-on block printing activity with the local women as you indulge in some local snacks prepared by your hosts.

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Optional Activities for Day 3
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Movie at Raj Mandir
200INR Per Person
Jaipur
Visit this spectacular cinema and watch a song-and-dance Bollywood film.
Jantar Mantar Visit
202INR Per Person
Jaipur
Visit the Jantar Mantar observatory for a guided tour and explore the collection of astronomical instruments housed there, some dating back to 1727.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Jaipur

Stop and admire the intricate architecture of Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) before venturing to the ruined city of Amber to explore the famous Fort.

Opt to see the city on bicycle by pre-booking the Jaipur Cycle Tour.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Amber Fort Visit

Jaipur

Take in the Hindu and Muslim architecture of the beautiful Amber Fort. Wander through the halls and courtyards and admire the intricate details.

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Optional Activities for Day 4
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Jaipur Cycle Tour
Jaipur
With its many lanes and organized layout, Jaipur is the perfect location to explore by bicycle. Choosing to cycle through the city on this morning tour will introduce you to sights, sounds and smells that a vehicle just can't match, so grab a helmet and jump on your bike! Navigate the streets of the 'Pink City' with the help of your experienced guide, starting the day with a traditional Indian yoghurt drink of Lassi. Marvel at the architectural wonders as you enter the walled part of the city and stop at the City Palace to visit the Govind Dev temple. Wander through the historical spices and sweets market, stopping for tea and a tasty snack of pakoras before heading towards the majestic Albert Hall Museum where the tour ends. Taxi transfers from the hotel to the starting point and from the finishing point back to the hotel are included in the price of this cycle tour.
Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds)
202INR Per Person
Jaipur
Enjoy a visit to the intricately-carved Hawa Mahal, or "Palace of the Winds," which is named for the cool breeze that comes through the structure and keeps it comfortable, even in the hot Jaipur summers. Admire this architectural wonder and snap some photos.
City Palace Visit
1000INR Per Person
Jaipur
Explore the courtyards, gardens, and buildings that make up the City Palace. Located in the heart of the Old City, it is a striking blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture. Visit the palace's museum to look at ancient carriages and the former maharaja's gold-embroidered wedding outfit.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Jaipur/Dhula Village

Travel to Dhula Village and get a closer look at rural life in Rajasthan during a cycling excursion. Tonight, settle in to your cozy tent, relax by the fire, and take in the starry night sky.

Before saying farewell to the Pink City, admire it from above by pre-booking the Jaipur Balloon Ride when booking your tour.Tonight's accommodation is in spacious and comfortable tents outfitted with beds, lamps, and simple en suite bathrooms.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Private Vehicle

Jaipur - Dhula Village 2h 50km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Village Cycling Excursion

Dhula Village

Set off to discover quaint Dhula on two wheels. Take in the peaceful rhythm of village life and Rajasthan's scenery as you cycle along.

• Meals Included:
• Dinner
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Optional Activities for Day 5
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Jaipur Balloon Ride
Jaipur
Begin your day at dawn, just as the sun starts to rise. As you drift into the sky, enjoy the silence and serenity of the morning, watching as the day starts for the colourfully dressed inhabitants below. From high in the sky, you may float over rolling hills, villages teeming with life, and a small monastery. You may even spot elephants-if luck is on your side. Available September 1 - April 30.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Dhula Village/Agra

Stop by the impressive Abhaneri stepwell en route to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Private Vehicle

Dhula Village - Agra 4h 250km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Abhaneri Stepwell Visit

Abhaneri 0.5h - 1h

Walk around the amazing Chand Baori, a tenth century water tank that's an impressive 6.1m (20 ft) deep. Learn about ancient Indian environmentalism-a "baori" is a unique Indian invention for harvesting rainwater.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
1
Optional Activities for Day 6
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Fatehpur Sikri Visit
500INR Per Person
Fatehpur Sikri
Explore the magnificent red sandstone fort city that was once the capital of India's Mughal Empire and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Keep an eye out for elements of different religions, as King Akbar built three palaces for each of his favourite wives-a Hindu, a Muslim, and a Christian-in the city.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Agra

Visit the sparkling, iconic Taj Mahal for sunrise with time to explore the picturesque grounds. Afterward, take a ride to the walled city of Agra Fort and Baby Taj.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Taj Mahal Visit

Taj Mahal 2h - 3h

Cross one off your bucket list as you visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Explore the gorgeous white marble mausoleum, built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a testament of his love for his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

Agra Fort Visit

Agra 1h - 3h

Enjoy a visit to this impressive Mughal fort made of red sandstone and white marble.

Baby Taj Visit

Agra

Visit this mausoleum that looks like a jewel box, built before the Taj Mahal by Queen Nur Jahan for her father. Enjoy the intricate details of the structure; it was the first Mughal building faced with white marble and where "pietra dura" (precious stones inlaid into marble) was first used.

Private Vehicle

Agra

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Agra/Alipura

Board a morning train then transfer to a private vehicle for a ride across rough Indian roads to Alipura. This friendly village will be our base for two days where you'll stay in a heritage property with time to wander the town and interact with local people.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Train

Agra - Jhansi 3h

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Private Vehicle

Jhansi - Alipura 2h - 2.5h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time

Alipura Afternoon

Enjoy some free time to meet the locals and check out village life.

Alipura

Enjoy a day trip to Khajuraho, where India's largest group of medieval temples reside, known for their Kama Sutra statues. Learn the history of these world-famous temples on a guided tour and enjoy a taste of a little erotica from the Middle Ages. After, opt to watch an evening dance performance.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Private Vehicle

Alipura - Khajuraho 1.5h - 2h 96km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Khajuraho Temples Visit

Khajuraho

Get ready to be impressed by the beautiful temples of Khajuraho during this guided tour. Not intended for the bashful, these erotic carvings are similar to style of the Kama Sutra. These Hindu temples were build over a span of a 100 years, and while originally there were more than 80 of them, only 22 currently remain.

Private Vehicle

Khajuraho - Alipura 1.5h - 2h 96km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Alipura/Orchha

En route to Orchha, visit a unique paper making plant, set up to assist tribal women from the area. All the paper is made from recycled clothing and wood pulp. Continue on to Orchha and embark on an orientation tour of this small town. Set on the banks of the Betwa River, it is the perfect antidote to the chaos of India's cities. Later, attend an evening puja ceremony at the Ram Raja Temple.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Private Vehicle

Alipura - Orchha 2.5h - 3h 96km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Tarragram Visit

Orchha 1h

Enjoy a visit to this unique paper-making plant, set up to assist tribal women from the area. All the paper is made from recycled clothing and wood pulp.

Puja Ceremony

Orchha 1h

Experience a Hindu prayer ceremony presenting flowers, incense, and food to an image or idol representing a deity.

Orchha/Varanasi

Visit the Orchha Palace complex and enjoy free time before the overnight train to Varanasi.

Opt to sharpen your culinary skills by pre-booking the Orchha Cooking School extra when booking your tour.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Orchha Palace Visit

Orchha 1h - 2h

Visit the three separate palaces, or "mahals," in this complex: the Raj Mahal, Jehangir Mahal, and Rai Parveen Mahal. Enjoy the medieval architecture and learn about its rich history.

Free Time

Orchha Afternoon

Enjoy free time to check out the local markets.

Private Vehicle

Orchha - Jhansi 0.25h - 0.5h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Basic Overnight Train (beds)

Jhansi - Varanasi 13h

Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.

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Optional Activities for Day 11
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Orchha Cooking School
Orchha
As a place of spiritual importance and impressive architectural sites, it's not hard to see what makes Orchha so unique. This is your chance to also taste what makes this town so special. You'll learn how to concoct a warming cup of masala chai and a tasty snack of vegetable pakoras. Enjoy this as your hosts demonstrate how to make three different curries. Indulge in these delicious dishes with the accompaniments of raita, mango and guava chutneys, chapatis and puris, as you get to know your hosts some more.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Varanasi

Disembark the train in legendary Varanasi - the quintessential Indian holy city where millions of Hindus visit for pilgrimage, to worship, to mourn, or to die. Take an orientation walk through the oldest continually inhabited city in the world. There is time here to shop, wander, and absorb the atmosphere of this unique city. Marvel at the ghats from the River Ganges as you enjoy an evening boat trip to witness a mesmerizing candle-lit flower ceremony.

Pre-book the Varanasi Heritage Walk and enjoy a guided tour that focuses more on the local life in Varanasi and its philosophical and cultural values. Witness pilgrims singing and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of Varanasi in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Evening Ganges Boat Tour

Varanasi 2h - 3h

Enjoy a boat ride on the sacred Ganges River, where Hindu pilgrims from all over the world come to wash away their sins and cremate their loved ones. Participate in a candle and flower ceremony while on the water.

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Optional Activities for Day 12
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Heritage and Spiritual Walk in Old Benaras
Varanasi
Set off an engaging walking tour of Old Varanasi City. Wander through puzzling alleys, vibrant bazaars, explore temples, and gain a deeper understanding of Varanasi's history, culture, and spirituality. The Varanasi Heritage Walk begins from the Godaulia intersection and our first visit is to the Mata Kali Temple, one of the highest revered places of worship in the city. It was built by the Maharaja of Varanasi in 1885 and features carved pillars that capture visitors' attention. Then we will visit the Ganesh temple before heading to the Tedhi Neem Gali for a walk through the colorful market dotted with many different shops. Afterward, we will go towards the Kashi Vishwanath corridor and witness Varanasi's principal cremation site - the Manikarnika Ghat. The sacred fire here has been alive for the last 3000 years. Next, we'll walk past the Alam Gir mosque, visit the shrine of a Hindu Yogi and mystic Guru Shri Tailang Swami, the Mangla Gauri Temple, and the Sankatha Mata Temple. Towards the end of the walk, we will try the famous white butter toast with tea at Laxmi Chai shop or Dwarika Lassi. During the walk our guide will focus more on the local life in Varanasi and its philosophical and cultural values. Witness pilgrims singing or chanting and gain an understanding of the importance of Varanasi in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Varanasi

Watch the sunrise from a boat along the Ganges. Spend the rest of the day getting to know this holy city. Opt to visit the monasteries and ruins of nearby Sarnath, the site of the Buddha's first sermon.

Pre-book the Guided Visit of Sarnath and learn about the life of the Buddha. Discover the archeological ruins of the monastery. Explore the museum at Sarnath and the sacred Maha Bodhi Tree. Visit temples constructed by the buddhist people of Sri Lanka, Thailand and Japan and stop to admire the Buddha statue during the three hours of guided exploration.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Morning Ganges Boat Tour

Varanasi 1h

Catch the sunrise from a boat cruising the sacred Ganges River, where Hindu pilgrims from all over the world come to wash away their sins and cremate their loved ones. Witness locals participating in dawn rituals of bathing and burning at the river.

Free Time

Varanasi Afternoon

Explore all this famous city has to offer.

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Optional Activities for Day 13
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Guided Tour of Sarnath
Varanasi
A day of exploration begins with a tuk-tuk ride from Varanasi towards Sarnath, where your local guide awaits. One of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world, Sarnath is the birth place of Buddhism where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon. For nearly 1700 years the site remained a centre for great learning, a place of pilgrimage, and a Vihara (Monastery) for monks and scholars. Guided by a local expert, discover the archeological ruins of the monastery, the ancient Dhamek stupa. Explore the museum at Sarnath and the sacred Maha Bodhi Tree. Visit temples constructed by the buddhist people of Sri Lanka, Thailand and Japan. Stop to admire the Buddha statue located at the Thai Buddha vihara. Some eighty feet tall, it is considered to be the tallest standing Buddha statue at Sarnath. After three hours of guided exploration, your guide will bring you back to your awaiting tuk-tuks bound for your hotel.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Varanasi/Delhi

Soak up some free time this morning and continue exploring Varanasi. Later, cut out the travel time with a flight back to bustling Delhi.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Free Time

Varanasi Morning

Do some last minute sightseeing with free time in the morning.

Delhi/Kochi

Fly to the port city of Kochi. Settle into your hotel and enjoy free time to relax the rest of the day. Opt to catch the sunset over the Arabian Sea, framed by hundreds of boats and fishing nets.

In the evening, there will be a welcome meeting for new travellers joining the group.

You may have one CEO for the North and one for the South. In this case you will be transferred to the airport in Delhi and fly unescorted to Kochi -- either on your own or with any other travellers who are continuing on for the south portion of the tour. Upon arrival to Kochi, there is free time to relax until the welcome meeting in the evening.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Plane

Delhi - Kochi 3h - 3.5h

Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast

Kochi/Bangalore

Walk along the cobblestone streets of Fort Kochi on a sightseeing tour of this historic city. The rest of the day is yours to explore as you wish. Tonight, take an overnight train to Bangalore.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Fort Kochi Visit

Kochi 1h - 2h 2km

Enjoy your stay in charming Fort Kochi, which evokes an era long gone. Walk through the cobblestone streets, visit delightful tea houses, and have a relaxing drink while sitting by the water. Be sure to check out Vasco de Gama's tombstone and the famous blue synagogue.

Free Time

Kochi

Enjoy an afternoon free to explore Kochi.

Basic Overnight Train (beds)

Kochi - Bangalore 12h 635km

Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.

Bangalore

After a night on the train, we'll pull into Bangalore in the morning. The first stop of the day is breakfast. Second stop of the day is to the beautiful Lal Bagh Botanical garden. Walk through the incredible green houses full of colourful flowers and unique sculptures. The remainder of the day is yours to see the city. In the evening, regroup for an orientation walk through the main iconic commercial streets of Bangalore.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Lal Bagh Gardens Visit

Bangalore 1h

Enjoy a visit to the splendid Lal Bagh-literally "red garden"-a delightful botanical garden that was built in the 1760s by Mughal royalty. One of the most famous attractions in Bangalore, it boasts India's largest collection of tropical plants. Walk around the gardens and check out the lake and famous Glass House-a huge greenhouse where a popular flower show is held each year.

Free Time

Bangalore

Spend the day exploring Bangalore on your town terms.

Bangalore Orientation Walk

Bangalore

Take an orientation walk around Bangalore's Mahatma Gandhi Road, Brigade Road and Church Street, the heart of the city's most commercial zone.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
1
Optional Activities for Day 17
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Bangalore Palace Visit
450INR Per Person
Bangalore
Get a taste of life with the royals with a visit to this magnificent palace, built between 1862 and 1944. Owned by the Mysore royal family, it was built in Tudor style architecture that has been said to resemble Windsor Castle in England.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Bangalore/Mysore

Depart from Bangalore and drive to Srirangapatna to visit the incredible Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple and the Tipu Sultan's tomb. Then continue on to Mysore for an afternoon of free time to explore the city before an evening orientation walk in Devraja Market and an optional group dinner.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Devraja Market Visit and Orientation Walk

Mysore

Visit the beautiful Devaraja Market, where fruit and flowers are seemingly arranged in colourful coordination. Get acquainted with the liveliness of the market and the city of Mysore.

Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple Visit

Srirangapatna

Visit the ornately beautiful Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple. Standing over 73 m tall (240 ft), the main structure can be seem from across the city. Visit the colourful temple dedicated with Ranganatha, the resting form of Vishnu.

Tomb of Tipu Sultan

Srirangapatna

Visit the beautiful Tipu Sultan's tomb. Constructed in 1782, Tipu Sultan, known as the Tiger of Mysore, originally built this white mausoleum for his parents' grave. See the amazing architecture, learn of its history and wander the gardens.

Private Vehicle

Srirangapatna - Mysore 1h 20km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Private Vehicle

Bangalore - Srirangapatna 2.5h 135km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Mysore

Explore the best of Mysore today with visits to Chamundeshwari Temple at Chamundi Hills, the Mysore Palace and St. Philomena Cathedral. The rest of the day is yours to explore this historic, opulent city.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Chamundi Hills Visit

Mysore 1h

Enjoy a visit to the gorgeous temple devoted to the Hindu goddess, Chamundi, located on Chamundi Hill.

Mysore Palace Visit

Mysore

This stunning palace was the home of the Maharajas of Mysore, the former royal family, which ruled from 1399 to 1950. Learn about the rich history of Indian royalty and soak in the splendor of an era long gone.

St. Philomena's Cathedral Visit

Mysore

Visit the Neo Gothic Catholic church in Mysore, one of the largest cathedrals in all of India. Built in 1936, it was constructed with inspiration of the Cologne Cathedral in Germany.

Free Time

Mysore

Spend the afternoon free to explore Mysore.

Mysore/Mamallapuram

Take a train to Chennai and transfer to a private vehicle to arrive to Mamallapuram by the afternoon. This famous town is steeped in myth and history, so enjoy the opportunity to experience it with a free afternoon.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Train

Mysore - Chennai 6.5h 496km

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Private Vehicle

Chennai - Mamallapuram 1.5h 60km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time

Mamallapuram

Spend the afternoon at leisure in Mamallapuram.

Mamallapuram

An early morning is dedicated to a tour of the Shore Temple, an iconic complex of temples and shrines known to the be one of the oldest stone temples in India, and best viewed at sunrise. After an incredible walking tour, take the remainder of the day for your own exploration of Mamallapuram. Most use this time to enjoy a visit to the beach or a yoga class.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Sunrise Shore Temple Visit

Mamallapuram

Explore this impressive group of monuments that were sculpted during the 7th and 8th century, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, at sunrise. Of these, the Shore Temple stands out for its a marvelous view of the Bay of Bengal's shore. Made of granite, it's actually a twin-temple dedicated both to the Hindu gods, Vishnu and Shiva.

Free Time

Mamallapuram

Enjoy a free afternoon in Mamallapuram.

Mamallapuram/Thanjavur

Leave Mamallapuram and drive to Chennai. Then transfer to a train to arrive in the afternoon to Thanjavur, a town renowned globally for its bronze metal sculptures. After settling in, visit the 200+ foot tall Brihadeeswarar Temple and walk around the markets.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Private Vehicle

Mamallapuram - Chennai 1h 60km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Train

Chennai - Thanjavur 6h 320km

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Bronze Casting Workshops

Thanjavur

Admire the famous Thanjavur bronze statues. Explorethe traditional bronze casting workshops that still follow the age-old "lost wax technique" to cast statues and idols.

Brihadeeswara Temple

Thanjavur

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ancient Hindu temple built in 1010 AD. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this popular pilgrimage site is a stunning example of the Great Living Chola Temples.

Thanjavur/Madurai

This morning, drive to Kanadukathan, known as the land of Chettiars, the collection of over 75 villages. Here we will visit the traditional houses of Chettinad, famous for their spaciousness, opulence and intricate tiles. Afterwards, continue on to Madurai, considered the home of goddess Parvati in her form of Meenakshi - the fish eyed goddess.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Private Vehicle

Thanjavur - Kanadukathan 2h 93km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Chettinad Traditional House Visit

Kanadukathan

Visit the traditional Chettinad houses in Kanadukathan and see the making of the beautiful Athangudi colored tiles on a CEO led tour of this heritage village.

Private Vehicle

Kanadukathan - Madurai 2h 95km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Private Vehicle

Kanadukathan - Madurai 2h 95km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Madurai

Explore the best of Madurai, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with tours of Thirumalai Nayakar Palace and Meenakashi Temple. The afternoon leaves you with time to venture on your own before we hop on a cycle rickshaw for a tour of the city.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Thirumalai Nayak Palace Visit

Madurai 1h

Visit what remains of the 17th century palace of the ruler Thirumalai Nayak -- he contributed extensively to the gorgeous Meenakshi Temple, which is located less than 2km away.

Cycle-Rickshaw Tour

Madurai 2h

Sit back and relax during this eco-friendly tour -- you'll be pulled along by a bicyclist! See the sights at a slower pace and form street level. Check out the fruit and vegetable market, watch the pressing of oil by bullocks, and the famous Gandhi museum and palace.

Meenakshi Temple Visit

Madurai 2h - 3h

Visit the gorgeous Meenakshi Temple, considered to be the finest in South Indian religious architecture. This enormous temple complex is dedicated to Shiva and his consort Parvati, or Meenakshi. Even before you pass through the massive stone walls of the temple, the nine striking gopurams (monumental gateways covered with stucco figures of deities, mythical animals, and monsters all painted in vivid colours) loom high above.

Madurai/Thekkady

Drive to Thekkady this morning. Thekkady, adjacent to Periyar National Park, is the spice capital of India. Take a guided tour of spice plantations in the Cardamom Hills. Enjoy the rest of the day to explore Thekkady how you wish maybe on a boat tour on Periyar Lake or an ayurvedic massage.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Cardamom Hills Spice Plantation Tour

Thekkady 1h - 2h

Enjoy a guided tour of the plantation and tea factory and learn more about spice and tea production and of this region. You might even get to enjoy a sample or two!

Free Time

Thekkady

Enjoy a free afternoon in Thekkady.

Private Vehicle

Madurai - Thekkady 4h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

• Meals Included:
• Dinner
2
Optional Activities for Day 25
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Ayurvedic Massage
Thekkady
Ayurvedic medicine is a system of Hindu traditional medicine, and Ayurvedic massage has been practiced in India for centuries and is viewed as a part of holistic medicine. These massage techniques provide relaxation, improve circulation, and eliminate of toxins. Lie back and enjoy!
Periyar Lake Boat Ride
1050INR Per Person
Periyar Lake
Enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake -- it's a great way to get to know the region and spot some animals. An early morning provides the best opportunity to catch monkeys, wild boars and elephants starting their day. Periyar National Park is also home to over 200 species of birds and the view from the boat offers a unique perspective for birdwatching.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Thekkady/Kerala Backwaters

Travel down to Allepey and catch a private boat for the short ride to the village homestay. In the afternoon, explore the island with a local person to observe the different facets of local life - it's a great opportunity to meet and talk with the people who live in this unique location. Just before sunset, hop on a small country boat and journey along with the locals to enjoy sunset on the winding backwaters.

For this homestay, you will only need to take a small overnight bag. Your main bags will be transferred directly to the hotel in Kochi.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Private Vehicle

Thekkady - Alleppey 4h - 5.5h 145km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Boat

Alleppey - Kerala Backwaters 0.25h

Climb aboard and get your float on.

Kerala Backwaters Homestay

Alleppey 24h

Enjoy strolling under the palm trees, weaving in between the rice fields that cover the island, and learn more about the lifestyles of the locals. Watch the sunset on the winding backwaters with locals in a small country boat. There may even be time to kick back and enjoy a local toddy (alcoholic drink made from coconut).

• Meals Included:
• Lunch
• Dinner

Kerala Backwaters/Kochi

Spend the morning enjoying your last moments with your host family before departing for Kochi. On the way, stop at your G Adventures-supported project TWE, a coop run by local women, for lunch. Head out for an orientation walk after arrival in Kochi, then enjoy an evening performance of Kathakali, a form of traditional dancing from Kerala.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Boat

Kerala Backwaters - Alleppey 1.5h

Climb aboard and get your float on.

Private Vehicle

Alleppey - Kochi 2h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Lunch at Theruvarom Women Empowerment Project

Alleppey 1h - 2h

Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch prepared by women of the Planeterra Theruvarom Empowerment Project, which provides women from rural areas an alternative source of income by honing their hospitality and culinary skills. Learn about the local cuisine and socio-economic fabric of the region as you get to know the women. All while taking in live entertainment!

Orientation Walk

Kochi 1h - 2h

Get to know the delightful city of Kochi through this guided walk, with a chance to explore St Francis Church, the oldest church in India.

Kathakali Dance

Kochi 2h

Considered one of the oldest dance forms in India, Kathakali is a combination of drama, dance, music, and ritual. Characters with vividly painted faces and elaborate costumes re-enact stories from the Hindu epics, Mahabharata and Ramayana. This dance drama is famous for amazing costumes, extensive makeup, and explosive body movements, and is performed exclusively by men.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch

Kochi

Depart at any time.