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Independent Highlights Of Northern & Southern India

With KUMARAKOM extension
DelhiKumarakom
Overview
  • Overview
  • Highlights
  • Itinerary
  • Personalise Your Trip
  • Tour Director
Download Itinerary
DOWNLOAD ITINERARY
INDEPENDENT HIGHLIGHTS OF NORTHERN & SOUTHERN INDIA
IAI3DELHIKUMARAKOM
Leisurely On the go
Meals
Breakfast: 13 Lunch: 6 Dinner: 2
Transport
Travel by air and private car; all intercity transfers
Accommodation
Superior to Superior First-Class with private bath or shower. Includes hotel taxes, porterage, tips and service charges
HighLights
  • Amber Fort, Jaipur
  • DAY 1:   ARRIVE IN DELHI, INDIA
    Welcome to India! Your hotel is available for mid-afternoon check-in.
  • DAY 2:   DELHI
    Your private guided sightseeing tour starts with a drive to see the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace. Take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, a captivating local bazaar. Ancient alleyways are lined with quaint shops selling goods and souvenirs-from silver and saris to spices and electronics. (B,L)
  • DAY 3:   DELHI-AGRA
    This morning, explore Delhi on a private guided tour. Start at Qutub Minar, the world's tallest brick minaret constructed in the early 13th Century. Visit Humayun's Tomb and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Delhi's largest and most prominent Sikh gurudwara (house of worship). After lunch, drive to Agra, a city where much of the city's impressive past is still evident in the majesty of her buildings. (B,L)
  • DAY 4:   AGRA
    Meet your Local Guide for a special visit to the captivating Taj Mahal at sunrise. This extravagant marble monument was built by Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his beloved wife, who died during childbirth. In the afternoon, a private guided tour brings you to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Moghul Emperor Akbar, this impressive fortress of red sandstone conceals the imperial city of the Moghul rulers and its many palaces. Today's I-Time Tips Explore more on your own or join an optional excursion to Itmad-ud-Daula, the city's beautiful "Baby Taj." (B)
  • DAY 5:   AGRA-JAIPUR
    Today, drive to Jaipur, often referred to as the "Pink City." After lunch, visit Jantar Mantar and explore the City Palace Museum with its collection of paintings, carpets, weapons, and costumes. Lastly, visit Ladli, a training program teaching orphaned and destitute children valuable skills to keep them off the streets. Here learn about the project, interact with the children, and help them practice their English skills. (B,L)
  • DAY 6:   JAIPUR
    Visit the legendary Amber Fort, known as the "Sleeping Beauty of Rajasthan." This fortress-palace was built entirely of white marble and red sandstone, and features intricate mosaics, carvings, paintings, and mirror works. Today's I-Time Tips Join a guide for a walking tour through old Jaipur. (B)
  • DAY 7:   JAIPUR-MUMBAI
    Fly to Mumbai, a multicultural metropolis with a fascinating history. This vibrant city is now India's premier seaport, centre of culture and industry, and home to the "Bollywood" movie industry. (B)
  • DAY 8:   MUMBAI
    Your private guided sightseeing starts with an orientation for photos at some of the city's famous sites, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Gateway of India. Then, witness Mumbai's fascinating tiffen lunch box delivery system. At Churchgate Station, the dabbawalas (box carriers) transfer the lunch boxes onto a wooden cart on a local train. Board the train for the short ride to Mahalaxmi Station where you'll disembark and watch the boxes being sorted by colour for final delivery. Lastly, stop to see a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat) and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. (B,L)
  • DAY 9:   MUMBAI
    Today, enjoy an excursion to Elephanta Island to visit the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dating back to the mid-5th century. Start with a ferry ride to the island where you'll have ample time to explore the seven caves rock cut caves and the carvings and sculptures within them. One of the highlights is the beautiful Sadashiva, which represents three aspects of Shiva: the creator, the preserver, and the destroyer. (B)
  • DAY 10:   MUMBAI-KOCHI
    Today, fly to Kochi, the "Gateway to Kerala," India's southernmost state known for its natural beauty. (B)
  • DAY 11:   KOCHI
    Your private guided sightseeing tour starts with a visit to the Chinese fishing nets that are the livelihood of many fishermen in the area. You'll also take a walk through the Jewish Quarter. Then, visit the Kerala Folklore Museum, which aims to educate people about the unique culture and heritage of South India. (B)
  • DAY 12:   KOCHI-KUMARAKOM
    Today, drive out of the city and embark on an unforgettable private afternoon cruise on the backwaters of Kerala. Explore and witness local life along these serene waterways surrounded by lush palm trees and paddy fields. Transfer to your lakeside resort. (B,L,D)
  • DAY 13:   KUMARAKOM
    A full day at leisure to explore the area or enjoy resort amenities. Today's I-Time Tips Consider a trip to visit a local village, relax by the pool, or pamper yourself with a spa treatment. (B,L,D)
  • DAY 14:   KUMARAKOM
    Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
View Map
Map
BookDates & Prices
Eclectic temples and imposing forts. Pristine wildlife refuges and lively metropolises. Pink cities and golden triangles. Fairytale monuments and tantalising cuisine. There’s no better introduction to India than this incredible Independence by Globus journey. In the capital city of Delhi, enjoy a rickshaw ride through the famed Chandni Chowk bazaar—a market that’s been around for more than three centuries. Spend time here shopping for exotic spices, gold, fabrics, and a host of trinkets and souvenirs. You’ll also visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, the largest Sikh house of worship in Delhi; and explores the lavish, 16th-century garden-tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun (a precursor to the Taj Mahal). Southeast in Agra, be sure your cameras fully charged for your private guided sightseeing tour that begins with a truly unforgettable sunrise visit to the incomparable Taj Mahal. Then, visit the ancient red sandstone Agra Fort, which guarded the imperial city of the Moghul rulers. In the “Pink City” of Jaipur, your private sightseeing takes you to the amazing Amber Fort with the glittering walls and ceilings in the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), the City Palace, and the fascinating bigger-than-life Jantar Mantar astronomical observatories.

Tour bustling Mumbai and witness its tiffin lunch box delivery system and visit the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. You’ll also explore the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tour the highlights of Kochi and cruise the backwaters of Kerala to witness life along the scenic and serene waterways. Enjoy the I-time you crave with free time and optional excursions to experience this fascinating destination in your own way.

Traveller Notes
- Transportation: Private vehicle for all sightseeing and transfer from Delhi to Agra/Agra to Jaipur/Kochi/Kumarakom; private cruise on backwaters of Kerala; private transfers to/from airport for all intra-holiday flights; intra-tour flights and taxes included.
- Guides: Local Hosts in each city
- The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays. In these instances, it will be visited in the morning prior to transferring to Jaipur.
- Elephanta Caves is closed on Mondays. Mumbai sightseeing days will be flipped in these instances.

Please note: Itinerary is based on 2024, and is subject to change. Full details will be confirmed in 2024.

Map

Leisurely On the go

14
Days
1
Country
Country
Meals
13breakfasts;
6lunches;
2dinners;
Transport
Travel by air and private car; all intercity transfers
Accommodation
Superior to Superior First-Class with private bath or shower. Includes hotel taxes, porterage, tips and service charges
Tour Code
IAI3
Tour Style
Independence by Globus
Highlights
Amber Fort, Jaipur

Itinerary

EXPAND ALL DAYS
Day 1

ARRIVE IN DELHI, INDIA

Welcome to India! Your hotel is available for mid-afternoon check-in.

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 0, Lunch: 0, Dinner: 0

ACCOMMODATION *

No accommodation info at this time.

SHOW
Day 2

DELHI

Your private guided sightseeing tour starts with a drive to see the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace. Take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, a captivating local bazaar. Ancient alleyways are lined with quaint shops selling goods and souvenirs-from silver and saris to spices and electronics. (B,L)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 0

ACCOMMODATION *

No accommodation info at this time.

SHOW
Day 3

DELHI-AGRA

This morning, explore Delhi on a private guided tour. Start at Qutub Minar, the world's tallest brick minaret constructed in the early 13th Century. Visit Humayun's Tomb and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Delhi's largest and most prominent Sikh gurudwara (house of worship). After lunch, drive to Agra, a city where much of the city's impressive past is still evident in the majesty of her buildings. (B,L)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 0

ACCOMMODATION *

No accommodation info at this time.

SHOW
Day 4

AGRA

Meet your Local Guide for a special visit to the captivating Taj Mahal at sunrise. This extravagant marble monument was built by Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his beloved wife, who died during childbirth. In the afternoon, a private guided tour brings you to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Moghul Emperor Akbar, this impressive fortress of red sandstone conceals the imperial city of the Moghul rulers and its many palaces. Today's I-Time Tips Explore more on your own or join an optional excursion to Itmad-ud-Daula, the city's beautiful "Baby Taj." (B)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 0, Dinner: 0

ACCOMMODATION *

No accommodation info at this time.

SHOW
Day 5

AGRA-JAIPUR

Today, drive to Jaipur, often referred to as the "Pink City." After lunch, visit Jantar Mantar and explore the City Palace Museum with its collection of paintings, carpets, weapons, and costumes. Lastly, visit Ladli, a training program teaching orphaned and destitute children valuable skills to keep them off the streets. Here learn about the project, interact with the children, and help them practice their English skills. (B,L)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 0

ACCOMMODATION *

No accommodation info at this time.

SHOW
Day 6

JAIPUR

Visit the legendary Amber Fort, known as the "Sleeping Beauty of Rajasthan." This fortress-palace was built entirely of white marble and red sandstone, and features intricate mosaics, carvings, paintings, and mirror works. Today's I-Time Tips Join a guide for a walking tour through old Jaipur. (B)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 0, Dinner: 0

ACCOMMODATION *

No accommodation info at this time.

SHOW
Day 7

JAIPUR-MUMBAI

Fly to Mumbai, a multicultural metropolis with a fascinating history. This vibrant city is now India's premier seaport, centre of culture and industry, and home to the "Bollywood" movie industry. (B)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 0, Dinner: 0

ACCOMMODATION *

No accommodation info at this time.

SHOW
Day 8

MUMBAI

Your private guided sightseeing starts with an orientation for photos at some of the city's famous sites, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Gateway of India. Then, witness Mumbai's fascinating tiffen lunch box delivery system. At Churchgate Station, the dabbawalas (box carriers) transfer the lunch boxes onto a wooden cart on a local train. Board the train for the short ride to Mahalaxmi Station where you'll disembark and watch the boxes being sorted by colour for final delivery. Lastly, stop to see a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat) and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. (B,L)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 0

ACCOMMODATION *

No accommodation info at this time.

SHOW
Day 9

MUMBAI

Today, enjoy an excursion to Elephanta Island to visit the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dating back to the mid-5th century. Start with a ferry ride to the island where you'll have ample time to explore the seven caves rock cut caves and the carvings and sculptures within them. One of the highlights is the beautiful Sadashiva, which represents three aspects of Shiva: the creator, the preserver, and the destroyer. (B)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 0, Dinner: 0

ACCOMMODATION *

No accommodation info at this time.

SHOW
Day 10

MUMBAI-KOCHI

Today, fly to Kochi, the "Gateway to Kerala," India's southernmost state known for its natural beauty. (B)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 0, Dinner: 0

ACCOMMODATION *

No accommodation info at this time.

SHOW
Day 11

KOCHI

Your private guided sightseeing tour starts with a visit to the Chinese fishing nets that are the livelihood of many fishermen in the area. You'll also take a walk through the Jewish Quarter. Then, visit the Kerala Folklore Museum, which aims to educate people about the unique culture and heritage of South India. (B)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 0, Dinner: 0

ACCOMMODATION *

No accommodation info at this time.

SHOW
Day 12

KOCHI-KUMARAKOM

Today, drive out of the city and embark on an unforgettable private afternoon cruise on the backwaters of Kerala. Explore and witness local life along these serene waterways surrounded by lush palm trees and paddy fields. Transfer to your lakeside resort. (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

ACCOMMODATION *

No accommodation info at this time.

SHOW
Day 13

KUMARAKOM

A full day at leisure to explore the area or enjoy resort amenities. Today's I-Time Tips Consider a trip to visit a local village, relax by the pool, or pamper yourself with a spa treatment. (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

ACCOMMODATION *

No accommodation info at this time.

SHOW
Day 14

KUMARAKOM

Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 0, Dinner: 0

SHOW
*

TRIP ACCOMMODATION & OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS

The displayed price is a guide only. You will be able to book most excursions within MyAccount up to 4 days prior to excursion date, where the exact price will be displayed. For Australia and New Zealand tours, optional excursions can be booked on tour with the Tour Director. All excursions are subject to availability.

Personalise your trip

Available extensions (5)

Default
Start trip: Delhi
End trip: Delhi
Add On
Start trip: +4 days in Mumbai
End trip: Delhi

Begin your Independent India holiday with 2 nights each in Mumbai and Varanasi (IAI2)

Add On
Start trip: +6 days in Delhi
End trip: Kumarakom

Extend your Independent India holiday with stays in Mumbai, Kochi and Kumarakom (IAI3)

Selected
Add On
Start trip: +3 days in Delhi
End trip: Kathmandu

Extend your holiday with the Golden Triangle & Kathmandu (IAI4)

Add On
Start trip: +3 days in Dubai
End trip: Delhi

Extend your holiday with Dubai (IAI5)

Add On
Start trip: +6 days in Dubai
End trip: Kathmandu

Extend your holiday with Dubai & Nepal (IAI6)

Tour directors

With Globus, there’s no better way to get to know your destination than through the eyes of your Tour Director. We’d like you to meet a Tour Director who is representative of the type of expert that will be with you on your tour.

Gupta, S.P.

I have been working as a Tour Guide for more than three decades in India. I have a great passion for my work and always look forward to welcoming my guests to my incredible homeland and highlight its unity in diversity.

Eclectic temples and imposing forts. Pristine wildlife refuges and lively metropolises. Pink cities and golden triangles. Fairytale monuments and tantalising cuisine. There’s no better introduction to India than this incredible Independence by Globus journey. In the capital city of Delhi, enjoy a rickshaw ride through the famed Chandni Chowk bazaar—a market that’s been around for more than three centuries. Spend time here shopping for exotic spices, gold, fabrics, and a host of trinkets and souvenirs. You’ll also visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, the largest Sikh house of worship in Delhi; and explores the lavish, 16th-century garden-tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun (a precursor to the Taj Mahal). Southeast in Agra, be sure your cameras fully charged for your private guided sightseeing tour that begins with a truly unforgettable sunrise visit to the incomparable Taj Mahal. Then, visit the ancient red sandstone Agra Fort, which guarded the imperial city of the Moghul rulers. In the “Pink City” of Jaipur, your private sightseeing takes you to the amazing Amber Fort with the glittering walls and ceilings in the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), the City Palace, and the fascinating bigger-than-life Jantar Mantar astronomical observatories.

Tour bustling Mumbai and witness its tiffin lunch box delivery system and visit the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. You’ll also explore the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tour the highlights of Kochi and cruise the backwaters of Kerala to witness life along the scenic and serene waterways. Enjoy the I-time you crave with free time and optional excursions to experience this fascinating destination in your own way.

Traveller Notes
- Transportation: Private vehicle for all sightseeing and transfer from Delhi to Agra/Agra to Jaipur/Kochi/Kumarakom; private cruise on backwaters of Kerala; private transfers to/from airport for all intra-holiday flights; intra-tour flights and taxes included.
- Guides: Local Hosts in each city
- The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays. In these instances, it will be visited in the morning prior to transferring to Jaipur.
- Elephanta Caves is closed on Mondays. Mumbai sightseeing days will be flipped in these instances.

Please note: Itinerary is based on 2024, and is subject to change. Full details will be confirmed in 2024.

Map

Leisurely On the go

14
Days
1
Country
Country
Meals
13breakfasts;
6lunches;
2dinners;
Transport
Travel by air and private car; all intercity transfers
Accommodation
Superior to Superior First-Class with private bath or shower. Includes hotel taxes, porterage, tips and service charges
Tour Code
IAI3
Tour Style
Independence by Globus

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Highlights