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Enchanting Himalayas & Vibrant South India: 26 Days of Exploration

0/5
Duration

25 Nights/ 26 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Embark on a breathtaking journey with “Enchanting Himalayas & Vibrant South India: 26 Days of Exploration,” where majestic peaks meet rich cultural heritage. Begin in the vibrant city of Kolkata, exploring its historical landmarks before ascending to the serene hills of Darjeeling and Pelling, renowned for their stunning vistas and monasteries. Traverse through Gangtok and Kalimpong, immersing yourself in picturesque landscapes and Tibetan culture. Fly to Hyderabad to discover ancient fortresses and architectural marvels, then move south to the historic wonders of Hampi and the architectural splendor of Badami. Conclude your adventure in the lush landscapes of Kerala, experiencing the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, the wildlife of Thekkady, and the tea gardens of Munnar before relaxing on the sun-kissed beaches of Goa.

Highlights

  • This is a private tour/activity only for your group.
  • Enhanced cleaning/ traveler safety.
  • In-depth cultural experience.
  • Flexible sightseeing & stopover.
  • Most travelers can participate.

Bulk discount (by Percent)

Bulk discount adult
# Discount group From adult To adult Value
1 Discount on 2-person group 2 2 46.1%
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 44.3%
3 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 51.8%
4 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 51.5%
5 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 56.5%
6 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 55.6%
7 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 60.2%

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Kolkata

On arrival at Kolkata Airport, assistance and transfer to the hotel. Check-in and relax for personal activities. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2: Kolkata

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Fort William, a historic British fort with colonial architecture. Explore Victoria Memorial, an elegant white marble building and museum dedicated to Queen Victoria. Tour Netaji Bhawan, the residence of Subhas Chandra Bose, a leader of the Indian independence movement. See Howrah Bridge, an iconic suspension bridge over the Hooghly River. Visit Dakshineswar Kali Temple, a significant Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kali.

Day 3: Kolkata - Bagdogra (Flight)/ Darjeeling (75kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to Bagdogra by flight. On arrival, drive to Darjeeling and check-in at the hotel. Explore The Mall, a charming promenade with colonial architecture, shops, and cafes.

Day 4: Darjeeling

Breakfast at the hotel. Early morning visit to Tiger Hill to witness a spectacular sunrise over Mt. Kangchenjunga. On the way back, visit Ghoom Monastery, known for its large statue of Maitreya Buddha. Explore Batasia Loop, a scenic railway loop with panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute to learn about climbing history and mountaineering equipment. Tour the Zoological Park, home to rare species like the red panda and snow leopard (closed on Thursday). See Tenzing Rock, a popular spot for rock climbing. Enjoy the Ropeway view point, offering stunning views of the valley and mountains. Visit the Tibetans Refuge Center (closed on Sunday) to learn about Tibetan culture and crafts. View Happy Valley Tea Garden from the outer areas, known for its lush tea plantations. Explore Lloyd Botanical Garden, featuring a variety of exotic plants. Enjoy a scenic ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit local Tibetan villages and Buddhist monasteries, including Chholing and Darli. Evening free to explore Darjeeling's vibrant market.

Day 5: Darjeeling - Pelling (72kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Pelling and check in at the hotel. Visit Pemayangtse Monastery, a prominent Buddhist monastery with intricate carvings. Explore Rabdentse Ruins, the remains of the former capital of the Kingdom of Sikkim. Visit Tashiding Monastery, known for its spiritual significance and panoramic views. Explore Sanga Choeling Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. Visit Rimbi Water Falls, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

Day 6: Pelling - Gangtok (130kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Gangtok via NH 31A, enjoying views of lush forests and tea gardens. Check-in at the hotel in Gangtok. Visit Do Drul Chorten, a stupa surrounded by 108 prayer wheels. Explore the Himalayan Zoological Park, which houses endangered species like the red panda and snow leopard. Visit the Directorate of Handicraft to see local crafts and textiles. Explore Lal Bazaar, a bustling market with local products and souvenirs. Stroll through The Mall, a popular promenade with shops and eateries.

Day 7: Gangtok

Breakfast at the hotel. Excursion to Tsongo Lake, a high-altitude lake popular for bird watching. Visit Rumtek Monastery, the seat of the Karmapa in India and a significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Explore Bakthang Waterfall, a serene and scenic waterfall. Visit Tashi Viewpoint for panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range. Tour Enchey Monastery, a small but important monastery dedicated to the goddess Dudul Chhime.

Day 8: Gangtok - Kalimpong - Bagdogra (60kms)/ Hyderabad (Flight)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Bagdogra, stopping en route to visit Kalimpong. Explore MacFarlane Memorial Church, a colonial-era church. Visit Dr. Graham’s Homes, a school and orphanage founded by a Scottish missionary. Explore Durpin Monastery, known for its stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visit Deolo Park, a hilltop park with panoramic views. Explore Thongsa Gompa and Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Gompa, two important monasteries in Kalimpong. Continue drive to Bagdogra airport for a flight to Hyderabad. On arrival, transfer to the hotel and check-in. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 9: Hyderabad

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Golconda Fort Complex, a grand fortress with historical significance and impressive architecture. Explore Qutubshahi Tombs, a collection of tombs and mausoleums of the Qutub Shahi dynasty. See Charminar, a famous 16th-century mosque with four grand arches. Visit Mecca Mosque, one of the largest mosques in India, known for its beautiful architecture. Explore Salarjung Museum, home to a vast collection of artifacts and artworks. Visit Chowmohalla Palace, a historic palace with stunning courtyards and gardens.

Day 10: Hyderabad - Visit Warangal Unesco World Heritage Sites (300kms round)

Breakfast at the hotel. Full-day excursion to Warangal. Visit the Thousand Pillar Rudreswara Temple, known for its intricate carvings and unique architecture. Explore Warangal Fort, a historic fortification with impressive ruins. See Kakatiya Kala Thoranam, a famous archway and symbol of the Kakatiya dynasty. Visit Ramappa Temple, known for its exquisite sculptures and architectural brilliance. Return to Hyderabad for an overnight stay.

Day 11: Hyderabad - Hampi (flight)

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for a flight to Vijayanagar. On arrival, transfer to the hotel in Hampi. Rest time free and easy to relax. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 12: Hampi

Breakfast at the hotel. Explore Hampi’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visit Hazara Rama Temple, known for its elaborate carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana. See King’s Balance, an ancient weighing scale used for royal ceremonies. Explore Mahanavami Dibba, a large platform with historical significance. Visit the Royal Enclosures, the remains of the Vijayanagara Empire’s royal palace complex. See the Statue of Ugra Narasimha, a massive monolithic sculpture of the deity Narasimha. Explore Virupaksha Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to the deity Shiva. Visit the Vithala Temple Complex, known for its iconic Stone Chariot and musical pillars. Explore Lotus Mahal, a beautiful palace with lotus-shaped pillars. Visit the ASI Museum to see artifacts and sculptures from the Vijayanagara Empire.

Day 13: Hampi - Lakkundi - Gadag - Badami (150kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Badami, visiting Trikuteshwara Temple in Gadag, known for its intricate carvings. Explore the ruined temples in Gadag and Lakkundi, including Mallikarjuna, Virabhadra, and Manikeshwara temples. Continue drive to Badami and check in at the hotel.

Day 14: Badami, Aihole & Pattadakkal

Breakfast at the hotel. Excursion to Aihole, known for its numerous Chalukyan temples and monuments. Visit Pattadakkal, a site with a collection of Hindu and Jain temples from the 7th and 8th centuries. Return to Badami and explore the cave temples, including Cave Temple 1, Cave Temple 2, Cave Temple 3, and Cave Temple 4. Visit Badami Fort, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. Explore Agastya Lake, a serene lake surrounded by historic temples.

Day 15: Badami - Hubli (110kms)/ Cochin (Flight)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Hubli airport and fly to Cochin. On arrival, transfer to the hotel and check in. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional Kerala dance with elaborate costumes and makeup.

Day 16: Cochin - Alleppey (60kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Morning city tour of Cochin, visiting Fort Cochin’s St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. Explore Jewish Synagogue, known for its historical significance and beautiful tiles. Visit Mattancherry Dutch Palace, featuring murals and artifacts from Kerala’s history. See Chinese Fishing Nets, traditional fishing gear that is a symbol of Cochin. Transfer to Alleppey boat jetty to board a houseboat. Sail through the backwaters of Kerala, enjoying the tropical countryside. The houseboat features electricity, dining area, bedroom with attached English toilets, sun deck, and a fully equipped kitchen with a chef and driver. Overnight on the houseboat.

Day 17: Alleppey - Thekkady (160kms)

Breakfast on the houseboat. Disembark and drive to Thekkady. Check in at the hotel. In the evening, attend a Martial Arts and Kathakali Dance show, showcasing traditional Kerala performing arts.

Day 18: Thekkady

Breakfast at the hotel. Explore Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary on a boat ride, spotting wildlife such as tigers, elephants, and various bird species. Visit a spice plantation to see cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, and other spices growing in their natural habitat. Learn about the spice cultivation process and traditional uses.

Day 19: Thekkady - Munnar (100kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Munnar, a hill station known for its tea plantations and scenic beauty. Stop at Ramakkalmedu, known for its panoramic views and wind farms. Visit Frog Rock and Turtle Rock, natural rock formations with unique shapes. See Kuravan & Kurathi statues, two rock sculptures depicting local legends. Check in at the hotel in Munnar.

Day 20: Munnar

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Pothamedu, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the tea plantations. Explore Mattupetty Dam, a popular spot for boating and scenic views. Visit Rajamala Hill, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Explore Eravikulam National Park, known for its rich biodiversity and the Anamudi Peak. See Mattupedi Dairy Farm, where you can observe dairy farming practices. Visit Echo Point, a picturesque spot where your voice echoes back. Explore the Tea Museum to learn about the history and process of tea production.

Day 21: Munnar - Madurai (160kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Madurai, a city known for its ancient temples and cultural heritage. Check in at the hotel. Visit Meenakshi Temple, a grand temple dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi and lord Shiva, known for its intricate sculptures. Explore Thirumalai Nayakar Palace, a magnificent palace with beautiful courtyards and architecture. Visit Alagar Koil, a temple dedicated to the deity Vishnu. Explore Tiruparankundram Murugan Temple, a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Murugan. Visit Palamuthirsolai Murugan Temple, a historic temple dedicated to Murugan.

Day 22: Madurai - Trichy - Thanjavur (190kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Thanjavur, visiting Trichy’s Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, an important Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu. Explore Rock Fort Temple, a historic temple built on a rock formation with panoramic views. Visit Jambukeshwara Temple, a temple dedicated to Shiva. In Thanjavur, visit Brihadeshwara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture. Explore Thanjavur Palace and Museum, showcasing art and artifacts from the region.

Day 23: Thanjavur - Darasuram - Gangaikondacholapuram - Chidambaram - Pondicherry (180kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Pondicherry, visiting Darasuram’s Great Living Chola Temples, including Airavateshwarar Temple, known for its architectural grandeur. Explore Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple complex, a major Chola architectural marvel. Visit Chidambaram’s Nataraja Temple, renowned for its depiction of the cosmic dance of Shiva. Check in at the hotel in Pondicherry.

Day 24: Pondicherry

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Auroville, an international community focused on sustainable living and spiritual growth. Explore Pondicherry Museum, showcasing artifacts from the region’s history. Tour French Quarters, including French consulate, Raj Nivas, Government Square, Churches, and French schools. Relax on the beach, enjoying the serene coastal environment.

Day 25: Pondicherry - Mahabalipuram - Kanchipuram - Chennai (240kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Chennai, visiting Mahabalipuram’s Monolithic Temples, including Five Rathas, Krishna Butterball, and Shore Temple. Explore Kanchipuram’s Kailasanathar Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, and other ancient temples. Check in at the hotel in Chennai.

Day 26: Chennai - Departure (Flight)

Breakfast at the hotel. City tour of Chennai including Fort St. George, a historic fort with colonial architecture. Visit St. Mary’s Church, the oldest Anglican church in India. Explore Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a grand temple dedicated to Shiva with beautiful Dravidian architecture. Visit Vadapalani Murugan Temple, a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Murugan. See Santhome Cathedral, a historic church built over the tomb of St. Thomas. Relax at Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 25 Night's accommodation in 4-Star hotels.
  • Daily breakfast and meal as per day plane.
  • Private air-conditioned deluxe car for airport transfer, sightseeing and excursion as per program.
  • English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.
  • Monuments entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Bottled drinking water in car.
  • Government taxes.
  • Kolkata - Bagdogra - Hyderabad - Hampi & Hubli - Cochin flight tickets approx ₹20500 per person in economy class.
  • Camera charges at monuments.
  • Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc.
  • Gratuities & optional activities.
  • Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

Tour's Location

FAQs

What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

Hotels used or similar for 25 nights accommodation

4-Star Hotels
Kolkata x 2 nights: The Elgin Fairlawn/ ZONE By The Park
Darjeeling x 2 nights: Elgin Hotel/ TRamada by Wyndham
Pelling x 1 night: The Elgin Mount Pandim/ Chumbi Mountain Retreat & Spa
Gangtok x 2 nights: Elgin NorKhill/ Denzong Regency
Hyderabad x 3 nights: The Golkonda Hotel/ Lemon Tree Hotel
Hampi x 2 nights: Heritage Resort/ Royal Orchid Central Keerti
Badami x 2 nights: Morpho Banashree Resort/ WADA1
Cochin x 1 night: The Tower House/ The Killians
Thekkady x 2 nights: Amritara Shalimar Spice Garden/ The Elephant Court
Munnar x 2 nights: Elixir Hills Resort/ Tea County Munnar
Madurai x 1 night: Fortune Pandiyan Hotel/ Regency Madurai by GRT Hotels
Thanjavur x 1 night: GReaT Trails Riverview Resort
Pondicherry x 2 nights: Le Pondy/ Accord Puducherry
Chennai x 1 night: Accord Metropolitan/ The Park Chennai

Can travelers upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels?

Yes, travelers can upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels by paying the supplement. Please send inquiry for same from the booking page to get the price quote.

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