Highlights of India - From the Golden Triangle to Kerala
21days from
£3,740*per person
Overview
In celebration of the BBC’s Race Across the World series, Newmarket Holidays is offering 15% off all India and Nepal tours until Wednesday, 11 June.
Itinerary
- Fly to Delhi - Board your overnight flight to India.
- Arrive in Delhi and afternoon at leisure - After your overnight flight, you’ll arrive in Delhi, and be welcomed by your friendly, local tour manager. Check into your hotel and enjoy an afternoon at leisure, perhaps exploring the surrounding area or taking advantage of the outdoor swimming pool.
- Included morning tour of Old Delhi, rickshaw ride and drive past the Red Fort, the India Gate and government buildings - Following breakfast, set off on a morning sightseeing excursion of Old Delhi, where you’ll witness its vibrant culture and rich history. This enlightening tour encompasses all the city’s major historical landmarks, including the Jama Masjid Mosque, one of the largest in India, Raj Ghat, the majestic Humayun's Tomb, a stunning example of Mughal architecture Gandhi’s cremation site, and Agrasen-Ki Baoli, a centuries-old step well. An exhilarating rickshaw ride around Chandni Chowk, known for its markets and street food, will provide another memorable highlight. Later, you’ll pass by the UNESCO-listed Red Fort, known as the Lal Qila, deriving its name from the red sandstone that embellishes its soaring walls. This historic fortress is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. The journey then takes you to the India Gate, modelled after the grandeur of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. It serves as a memorial dedicated to the soldiers who fought during World War I. Lastly, you'll drive by the grand government buildings, including the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India, and the impressive Parliament House. These colonial-era architectural marvels blend British and Indian design influences. After a full day, join your fellow travellers for dinner at the hotel.
- Rail Chandigarh, drive to Shimla and afternoon at leisure - Breakfast will be followed by a journey by express train to Chandigarh. Rail travel in India is always a colourful and entertaining experience! You’ll be met on arrival in Chandigarh and driven to Shimla, set in the foothills of the Himalayas. You’ll then arrive at the next hotel, a landmark colonial-era property dating from 1884. Given Shimla’s hillside location, this is the perfect place to stretch your legs, and maybe make a loop around the town’s streets, scattered with relics of the past and colonial-style buildings. When you’ve had your fill of wandering, return to the hotel for dinner, further enhanced by an arresting vista of the Shimla Valley.
- ‘Toy train’ journey to Tara Devi and included tour of Shimla - A hearty breakfast is up for grabs before you embark on your day of sightseeing in Shimla. Serving as the former summer retreat for the British colonial government, this hill station is where they would escape to, avoiding the sweltering Delhi heat in the 1860s. Shimla’s cool climate meant it became their ‘Summer Capital’, and it still exudes quintessential British charm as seen in the architecture today. You'll then head for Shimla Railway station, where you'll board the 'toy train' for a one-hour ride through stunning mountain scenery to Tara Devi station. Here, you’ll visit the famous Tara Devi Temple – a holy Hindu temple constructed within the Himalayan peaks in the 18th century and inspired by a vision of the goodness of Tara before heading back into the city to continue your sightseeing. The Viceregal Lodge is next, and this former British summer retreat of teak-panelled interiors was where the map of the Indian Partition was drawn up in 1947 by Lord Mountbatten. You’ll then stop over at the Indian Institute of Advanced of Studies, a research institute housed in a historical building of Indo-Gothic style. Later in the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll to Scandal Point, which is positioned on the western edge of Shimla where two of the city’s roads meet – The Ridge and Mall Road. This traditional meeting place for locals features a small square with a mock-Tudor state post office. You’ll then pass the Gaiety Theatre, boasting colonial architecture and have a chance to browse an assortment of handicraft shops along the Mall, a pedestrian avenue. Later in the evening, return to the hotel for dinner.
- Fly to Jaipur - After breakfast, you'll be driven to Chandigarh airport to board your flight for Jaipur, the ‘Pink City’. Once you've landed, you’ll be picked up and driven to the hotel, which is located across from Man Sagar Lake and backed by the Aravalli Range. There will be time to settle in before dinner.
- Included tour of Jaipur and evening at leisure - Rise this morning and head for the former Rajput capital, Amber. Board your Jeep and climb to the city's vast sixth-century hilltop fort as part of a captivating tour of its Royal Halls. You can then take in the magnificent views over Maota Lake from the ramparts. In the afternoon, head off to the City Palace, a red-hued intricate complex of temples, courtyards, pavilions and gardens, and a major heritage landmark. The Jantar Mantar, an observatory constructed in 1724 is the following highlight. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located outdoors and features expansive geometric ‘toys’, the world’s largest sundial and an assortment of 19 astronomical instruments. While returning to the hotel, you’ll pass by another poignant palace, Hawa Mahal. Also known as the ‘Palace of the Winds’, this 18th-century building is constructed from red and pink sandstone and lined with ornate windows and screened balconies. This evening will be free to visit one of the many atmospheric local markets in the heart of Jaipur before dinner at the hotel.
- Drive to Ranthambore and afternoon at leisure - Following breakfast this morning, you’ll be driven to Ranthambore – one of the largest and most famous national parks in Northern India. This former royal hunting ground is now a key centre for ‘Project Tiger’, and its grasslands, streams and pools are home to striped hyenas, sambar deer, sloth bears and of course, the elusive and still endangered tigers of Ranthambhore. Lunch will be served upon arrival at the jungle resort, which is surrounded by lush green forests and a natural water lake. The afternoon will be free to enjoy the resort’s amenities including an outdoor swimming pool and spa.
- Included morning and afternoon safaris in Ranthambore National Park - Wake early this morning and board your vehicle to explore the wilderness of Ranthambore National Park, an opportunity to explore the untamed landscapes alongside your knowledgeable naturalist guide. As the sun rises over the treetops, you’ll venture off to witness the park’s incredible biodiversity. Keep your eyes peeled for the Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, jackals, wild dogs, and hyenas that call Ranthambore National Park home. Your naturalist will share their expertise, providing insights into the behaviour, habitats, and unique characteristics of the animals you encounter. Breakfast will then be served back at the resort followed by some time to relax, perhaps by the swimming pool before lunch. In the afternoon, gear up for a safari, another chance to spot more animals on your wish-list and survey more of the prey-rich woodlands and bird species before dinner in the evening.
- Visit Chand Baori Stepwell and continue to Agra - After breakfast, board the coach for Agra, taking in the Indian countryside as you go. On the way, you’ll pass the Chand Baori Stepwell in Abhaneri, which was built over 1,000 years ago and is one of the biggest stepwells in the world. With intricately geometrically designed staircases, this architectural wonder serves as a source of water and a place of respite in the desert heat. A stop for lunch will be enjoyed at a local restaurant before you arrive at the hotel, situated close to the Taj Mahal. The rest of the day will be free for you to unwind, perhaps by the outdoor swimming pool. Dinner will be served at the hotel.
- Included sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, visit to Agra Fort, afternoon at leisure - Start your day in a truly unforgettable way by visiting the Taj Mahal at dawn, a chance to get to see the famed monument of love up close, glistening as the sun rises. This ivory-white marble mausoleum and UNESCO World Heritage Site, encircled by expansive Mughal gardens, is one of the greatest architectural achievements and a wish-list spectacle. Completed in 1648 and built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, it’s renowned for its Mughal design and elements, including a central dome, minarets, and a reflecting pool. The guide will bring to life the love story which resulted in the Taj being built. Later, the group will be taken to the Agra Fort, a grand red sandstone fortress that served as the residence of Mughal emperors for over three centuries. Here, you can explore the intricate maze of courtyards, palaces, and mosques within the fort as your tour manager shares stories and historical insights about this impressive monument. You’ll then return for breakfast at the hotel and afterwards, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing before dinner.
- Drive to Delhi and fly to Kochi - Once you’ve had breakfast, you’ll journey to Delhi airport for the flight to Kochi, a port city in Kerala known as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’. After you’ve settled into your hotel, a tropical oasis near the harbour, you can take the evening to relax and have dinner.
- Included tour of Kochi and evening Kathakali dance performance - Today, after breakfast, you’ll get to discover the highlights of Kochi with a guided tour. The Dutch Palace, also known as Mattancherry Palace, is the first stop. Originally built by the Portuguese in 1555 as a gift to the Raja of Kochi, Veera Kerala Varma, this double-storied structure was later renovated by the Dutch in 1663. You’ll observe its Kerala architecture mixed with colonial influences, as well as a collection of mural paintings illustrating scenes from local legends and artefacts belonging to the Kochi royal family. The Jewish Synagogue or Paradesi Synagogue is next and one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth dating back to 1568. Inside, the interior is decorated with hand-painted Chinese porcelain tiles, a gold pulpit, and Belgian crystal chandeliers. Your tour manager will also point out the ancient Torah scrolls and the clock tower, which was built in the mid-18th century. Leaving the Jewish Quarter of Kochi, you’ll walk to Fort Kochi to get a clear view of the Chinese fishing nets in the sea below. These expansive, shore-operated nets require a team of people to lower them into the water and lift back with the catch. As you observe the fishermen at work, you’ll learn about how these nets are now an iconic symbol of the city dating back to the 14th century. As night falls, you’ll enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a classical Indian dance-drama that is over 300 years old. During this colourful showcase, the performers will wear elaborate costumes and headgear while enacting stories to the backdrop of live traditional music. When the performance is over, return to the hotel for dinner.
- Drive to Periyar and afternoon at leisure - This morning, breakfast will be followed by a drive to Thekkady, a town and natural haven near Periyar National Park. You’ll then check into a resort hotel located on a forested hill looking out over Periyar Lake and have a free afternoon to enjoy the on-site amenities. Take a guided walk around the sprawling grounds, book a treatment at the spa, or cool off in the infinity swimming pool. Dinner will be served at the hotel.
- Included visit to a spice plantation and wildlife cruise across Lake Periyar - Take a relaxed breakfast before heading to a nearby spice plantation for a tour. Start with a walk through the plantation as the guide describes the different types of spices grown in the region, including popular varieties, such as black pepper, cardon and cinnamon. You’ll then learn about the cultivation techniques, and culinary and medicinal uses, and have a chance to taste and smell the fresh spices. In the afternoon, the tour will take to the waters of Periyar on a scenic cruise in search of the local wildlife. This is the perfect way to experience views of the Western Ghats and the surrounding forest landscape. As you float, keep your eyes peeled for elephants, wild boards and bison. Back on land, you’ll travel to the hotel in time for dinner.
- Drive to Alleppy and board the houseboat - Have breakfast and then head to the coastal city of Alleppey or Alappuzha, known for its labyrinth backwaters and houseboats. You’ll get the chance to board one of these charming vessels for a special one-night stay. Commonly known as kettuvallam, traditional houseboats are constructed from natural materials, like wood, bamboo and coconut fibre. Each boat has a gently curved roof made up of palm leaves and bamboo, with open sides and large windows, giving it a unique design. Embrace some time to settle in and unwind in-between lunch and dinner onboard. Your personal chef will provide a cookery demonstration before being on hand to prepare your meals. The vessel will cruise during daylight hours and moor at night. This allows you to take a seat at the front, and take in the peaceful backwaters, coconut groves, green paddy fields, and small villages with local fishermen casting their nets.
- Included visit to Marari, the Arthunkal Church and Hindu temple - After breakfast on the backwaters, you’ll return to shore and be driven to the coastal village, Marari with its beautiful beach. A stop along the way will include the Arthunkal Church or St. Andrew’s Basilica, a famous pilgrim centre known for its annual feast, which draws thousands of devotees. This church, with a traditional Christian design, was originally built by Portuguese missionaries in the early 16th century and is dedicated to St. Andrew. You’ll also get to see a nearby Hindu temple, with its towering gateway, large open hall, intricate carvings, and colourful paintings. Later in the day, check into a hotel in a beachfront resort in the centre of lush grounds. Spend the afternoon enjoying the outdoor infinity swimming pool, wellness centre and the sandy beach before dinner.
- Day at leisure - A free day awaits today allowing you to take advantage of the resort’s amenities. Spend time lounging on the beach or by the swimming pool, enjoy an Ayurvedic massage at the spa, or set off on a gentle cycle around the area.
- Fly to Mumbai - Check out of the resort after breakfast and travel to Kochi airport for a flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival, a coach will pick you up and take you to your final hotel as you drive through the heart of Mumbai, passing its major attractions. Dinner will be served at the hotel.
- Morning at leisure and included tour of Mumbai - Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a free morning before a guided tour of Mumbai, visiting several of the city’s historical and cultural landmarks. You’ll begin with the Prince of Wales Museum, an ornate building with detailed lattice work, housing around 50,000 artefacts. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, formally known as the Victoria Terminus Station, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another striking structure, with its Victorian Gothic Revival architecture built over 10 years. Mani Bhavan, a museum, and historical building dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, will follow. Serving as Gandhi’s headquarters for around 17 years, this mansion houses a library, a photo gallery, and a room where Gandhi stayed. You can view his spinning wheel and bed on the floor, as well as the terrace where he was arrested in 1932. As you move on, you'll experience the unique spectacle of Dhobi Ghat, an open-air laundry where skilled dhobis (laundry workers) wash, dry, and press clothes in a traditional manner. Originally constructed in 1890, the site is made up of more than 700 washing stations and from the sides, you can observe the massive scale of this age-old practice. The day’s exploration ends at the Gateway of India, a grand arch monument located on the waterfront of the city. It was constructed to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911 and served as the exit point for the last British troops leaving India. Tonight, there will be a farewell dinner with your fellow travellers, allowing you to reflect on your holiday. Continue to the airport to check in for your overnight flight to the UK
- Return flight and arrival in the UK - Land back in the morning.
What's Included
Holiday Highlights
- Fly to Jaipur, the ‘Pink City’ and head for the former Rajput capital, Amber and its fort
- Explore the tiger-rich wilderness of Ranthambore National Park with morning and afternoon safaris
- Stay overnight on a traditional Kerala houseboat and glide through the tranquil backwaters
- Travel by ‘toy train’ to Tara Devi and venture on a tour of Shimla, covering the Viceregal Lodge, Scandal Point and the Mall
- Set off on a tour of Old Delhi, where you’ll see its most famous landmarks, including Jama Masjid Mosque, Humayun's Tomb, and the Red Fort
- Journey by rail and road to Shimla, set in the foothills of the Himalayas
- Discover Jaipur’s City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and Hawa Mahal, the ‘Palace of the Winds’
- Pass by the Chand Baori Stepwell in Abhaneri, one of the biggest stepwells in the world
- Spend time in Agra and watch the sunrise behind the Taj Mahal, the ivory-white marble mausoleum of love
- Gain a glimpse into India’s past with a visit to the red-sandstone Agra Fort
- Join an optional excursion to see the Taj Mahal while the sun sets
- Fly to Kochi in Kerala, the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’ and home of the famous Chinese fishing nets
- Visit a spice plantation in Periyar followed by a wildlife cruise across Lake Periyar
- Embrace a day of leisure in beachfront in Marari, taking advantage of the resort’s amenities and private beach
- Fly to Mumbai and discover the city’s highlights, like the Prince of Wales Museum, Mani Bhavan, and the open-air laundry, Dhobi Ghat
Our Price Includes
- 18 nights' half-board accommodation in a series of good-quality accommodations Delhi (2 nights), Shimla (2), Jaipur (2), Ranthambore (2), Agra (2), Kochi (2), Thekkady (2), Kerala houseboat (1), Marari Beach (2), Mumbai (1), plus two nights on the aircraft
- 18 breakfasts and dinners, four lunches, and a farewell dinner
- Porterage at all hotels
- Tour of Old and New Delhi with a rickshaw ride
- Rail journey from Delhi to Chandigarh
- ‘Toy train’ ride to Tara Devi and Shimla city tour
- Jaipur city tour and visit to the Amber Fort
- Morning and afternoon safaris in Ranthambhore
- Visit to Chand Baori Stepwell
- Sunrise visit and guided tour of the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort in Agra
- Kochi city tour
- Kathakali dance performance
- Visit to a spice plantation
- Lake Periyar wildlife cruise
- Beach stay in Marari
- Mumbai city tour
- Internal flights in India
- Return flights to Delhi, returning from Mumbai
- Comfortable, air-conditioned coach travel and transfers throughout
- Fully escorted by a friendly, experienced tour manager
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Dates and Prices
Other Information
Hotel transfer times
The transfer time from airport to your hotel is approximately 1 hour.
Domestic Flights in India
These are generally provided with airlines such as Air India, Indigo and SpiceJet. Service on board usually includes the option to purchase drinks and snacks. Baggage allowance is 20kgs per person - the opportunity to purchase extra allowance is possible at check in at the airport.
Passports and visas
British citizens require machine-readable passports when travelling overseas. Your passport must contain two blank pages and be valid for 180 days after your return date from India.
British CITIZENS and most other European nationals satisfying certain conditions may use the online e-Tourist Visa application process at a cost of $10 (US) per person for entry to India for arrivals in the months of April, May and June or $25 (US) per person for arrivals in other months. Fees are subject to change. Other passport holders must apply for a full visa.
Note that all travellers of Pakistani descent, regardless of citizenship, will generally be subject to more detailed processing by the Indian authorities, which can take up to four months from application.
Foreign Office Travel Advice
Visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice to find out the latest Foreign And Commonwealth Office travel advice for your holiday destination, as well as information about passports and visas.
Road conditions
In developing countries road networks are continually being improved and expanded, which can mean that, from time to time, roadworks and rough road surfaces can extend journey times. Some journeys are made on winding mountain roads and passes, which may also make for slow travelling - although the scenery is usually worth it! Many roads do not have separate pavements or safety barriers, and great care should be taken when crossing or walking alongside roads.
Special requirements
If you have notified us of any special requirements, please check that they have been noted and acknowledged. This is especially important with any dietary needs you may have.
Assisted travel
The majority of our tours involve a certain amount of walking, including a short walk from the coach stop to the venue you're visiting.
For this tour specifically, it is important to note:
- Anyone with limited mobility may struggle to experience the itinerary to its full.
- Historic sites and temples are not well equipped for those with mobility considerations.
- Should you have walking difficulties, getting around may be harder and, in some cases, impossible.
This tour is therefore not recommended for those with limited mobility.
If you have any queries, please do contact us prior to travel.
Itinerary changes
Occasionally, for operational reasons, we may have to change the order of the excursions on your holiday. The final day-by-day itinerary will be confirmed on your Final Travel Documents, which you will receive approximately three weeks prior to your departure.
Changes to your hotels
Should circumstances require, we reserve the right to accommodate you in alternative hotels, of a similar standard, nearby. Full details of your hotels will be sent with your Final Travel Documents.
Travel vaccinations
Requirements and advice can vary over time, and from person to person, so please contact your GP about eight weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations or any other preventive measures.
Terms and conditions
Terms and conditions: This Race Across The World offer applies to new bookings on our India and Nepal tours only booked between 14th May and 11th June 2025, and cannot be applied retrospectively to bookings already confirmed. This offer does not apply to child pricing. The offer does not apply to holidays with late availability pricing and excludes Tour & Cruise, Exclusively Solos, Premier Collection, Festive, Ocean Cruise, River Cruise, Edinburgh Tattoo, André Rieu events, Lapland and Wimbledon. This offer cannot be combined or used in conjunction with any other discount, promotion or concession. When booking a holiday as described above, prices shown will automatically have the 15% applied. View full terms and conditions here.
Holiday code
N2720Holiday provided by Newmarket Holidays
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE: This holiday is sold and operated by Newmarket Holidays (ABTOT 5509, ATOL 2325, ABTA V7812), you can be 100% sure that your money is safe.