The Golden Triangle & Kerala Backwaters

While Old Delhi unravels the old charm and speaks volumes about India’s history, culture, and tradition, enchanting New Delhi exhibits the picture of modern India.

The tour will begin with a visit to the Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques. It was built in red sandstone and marble by more than 5000 artisans. Later, visit Chandni Chowk, Asia’s largest wholesale market, a massive area packed with shops, bazaars, and people (most of the shops remain closed on Sundays). Drive past the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. Also, visit the Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.

Proceed towards New Delhi, which reflects the legacy the British left behind. The first stop will be a UNESCO World Heritage site – Qutub Minar, the second tallest minar in India. It is made of red stone and marble, covered with intricate carvings and verses from the Qur’an.

Later, visit the 16th-century Humayun’s Tomb, the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent, an outstanding monument in the Indo-Persian style and a precursor to the Taj Mahal. The tour of Imperial Delhi will also include a drive past India Gate, the 42m high War Memorial Arch, the Parliament House, the Secretariat buildings, and the Vice Regal Palace, now the official residence of the President of India.

It is fitting to witness the extraordinary monument, the Taj Mahal (closed on Friday), during the first light of day, as its exemplary beauty is truly awe-inspiring and will leave an indelible memory. This early time of day is when the site is least crowded, providing a peaceful and serene experience of the world’s most romantic landmark.

Known as the Red Fort of Agra, this walled imperial city was founded in 1565 by the Emperor Akbar (1556-1605). It’s a well-deserving UNESCO World Heritage site located just 2.5 kilometres from the famous Taj Mahal. The palaces, grand mosques, and elaborate public halls within the fort are crafted from pink-red sandstone, bearing testament to an era when Indo-Muslim art, strongly influenced by Persia, flourished. Emperor Shah Jahan, known for constructing the Taj Mahal in memory of his deceased wife, was later imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb within the Agra Fort. Shah Jahan is said to have passed away in the Musamman Burj, a marble tower he himself had built, providing one of the most captivating views of the Taj Mahal.

The City Palace is a captivating architectural marvel that seamlessly blends elements from various styles, such as Mughal, European, Rajput, and the Indian Shilpa Shastra. This exquisite design is evident in its array of palaces, pavilions, gardens, and temples. The palace complex now houses the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, a significant cultural repository. Among the many striking structures within the complex, the Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Mukut Mahal, Maharani’s Palace, and Shri Govind Dev Temple stand out as prominent and frequently visited highlights.

The journey to the fort through Amber village is truly picturesque and offers a glimpse into the vibrant Rajasthani culture. Upon reaching the summit of Amer Fort, take a leisurely stroll through the expansive complex of courtyards and halls.

The Amer Fort, constructed by Raja Man Singh I in the 16th century and later completed by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in the 18th century, boasts grand architecture. Its expansive ramparts, sequence of gates, and cobblestone pathways provide a commanding view over Maota Lake. Prominent structures within the fort include the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), Jai Mandir, and the Sukh Niwas (Hall of Pleasure).

After breakfast you’ll cross Lake Pichola by boat and go on foot to explore the City Palace and museum. You’ll have a private guided tour of the palace before moving on down the hill to the 17th century Jagdish temple. You’ll catch up with your driver who will take you around Fatehsagar Lake and then on to the Kahelion ki Bari (or the Garden for the Maids of Honour) which is a beautiful garden replete with fountains and marble kiosks.

Embark on a full day adventure setting off to discover the Ancient Landscape of the Muziris, the first communities to settle in this corner of India as far back as 1000BC. Amazingly, Kochi was the cradle of religion in India with the first Jewish, Christian and Muslim settlements springing up here.  The afternoon will bring an altogether different experience setting off by tuk-tuk to discover the old fort area which passed through the hands of various European powers until independence. Today, the legacy of European influence is still evident through architectural landmarks which your expert guide will explore with you along the way.

Visit a tea factory to learn about the processes behind the nation’s favourite drink and, of course, have an opportunity to sample the golden nectar.

Venture into the plantation: a morning stroll in the crisp mountain air is invigorating, and it is all the more interesting, when you get the opportunity to try your hand at tea plucking (subject to the growth of the leaves) and interact with the workers who do this as their daily work.

Board a private houseboat for an overnight cruise on Lake Vembanad and in the backwaters. Your personal crew will tend to your every need, and produce your meals, as they navigate this unique waterway ecosystem ensuring you can relax and savour this very special overnight experience.