Cultural Tour of India

Tips for Travellers for Planning their Tour

1. Research Before You Go

• Understand the Culture: Familiarize yourself with the customs, traditions, and social norms of the regions you plan to visit.
• Learn About Festivals: Check the local calendar for festivals during your visit, as they provide unique cultural insights.

2. Dress Appropriately

• Modesty is Key: Wear modest clothing, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid shorts.
• Comfortable Footwear: Bring shoes suitable for walking, as you may need to explore temples, markets, and other sites on foot.

3. Stay Hydrated and Eat Smart

• Drink Bottled Water: Avoid tap water and opt for sealed bottled water to stay hydrated.
• Enjoy Local Cuisine: Try local dishes, but choose reputable restaurants and eateries to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.

4. Engage with Locals

• Learn Basic Phrases: Knowing a few phrases in Hindi or the regional language can help break the ice and show respect.
• Participate in Local Activities: Engage in workshops, cooking classes, or community events to immerse yourself in the culture.

5. Respect Local Customs

• Observe Etiquette: Follow local customs, such as removing shoes before entering homes or temples and greeting with “Namaste.”
• Ask Before Taking Photos: Always seek permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas.

6. Plan Your Itinerary Wisely

• Mix of Activities: Balance your itinerary with cultural, historical, and leisure activities for a well-rounded experience.
• Travel Time Considerations: Factor in travel times between destinations to avoid rushing.

7. Use Trusted Transportation

• Domestic Flights and Trains: Book in advance for better rates and availability. Trains can be a scenic way to travel.
• Local Transport: Use rideshare apps like Uber or Ola for convenience, or hire local taxis for a more authentic experience.

8. Stay Connected

• Get a Local SIM Card: Having a local SIM can help with navigation and staying in touch with family or friends.
• Download Offline Maps: These can be invaluable in areas with limited internet connectivity.

9. Be Mindful of Scams

• Stay Alert: Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals that seem too good to be true.
• Negotiate Prices: If shopping in local markets, be prepared to negotiate prices.

10. Health and Safety Precautions

• First Aid Kit: Carry a basic first aid kit with medications for common ailments.
• Know Emergency Numbers: Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers for police, fire, and medical services.

11. Embrace Flexibility

• Be Open to Changes: Plans may change due to weather or local events, so be adaptable and open to spontaneous experiences.

12. Enjoy the Journey

• Take Time to Reflect: Slow down and take in the sights, sounds, and experiences around you. Enjoy the richness of India’s cultural diversity.

Itinerary

DAY 1 : Arrive in Chennai

On arrival at Chennai airport, meet our representative who’ll guide you to Hotel Check-in at the hotel. The day is to be spent resting and relaxing. In the evening take a leisurely walk to explore the nearby places of Chennai. Overnight stay at the hotel.

DAY 2 : Chennai

The next day after breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Chennai. The major tourist attractions to visit include the Fort St. George, St. Thomas Mount, San Thome Cathedral, Kapaleeswar Temple and the National Art Gallery. In the evening visit the Marina beach that is both beautiful and inviting tourist from around the world. We will advise against swimming at Marina beach since there are strong currents present along the shoreline and no rescue equipment or lifeguards are available at this beach. Overnight stay at the hotel.

DAY 3 : Chennai - Kanchipuram - Mahabalipuram

After Breakfast check out & proceed for Mahabalipuram via. Kanchipuram. Kanchipuram;s major tourist attractions include the Kailasanthar Temple, Ekambareshwarar Temple, the Vardarajanperumal Temple and the Sakkiswarar Temple. Later, resume with your drive to Mahabalipuram. This 7th century former port city is famous for its rock-cut shore temples. On arrival, check-in at one our listed hotels. Later in the day visit the shore and the Five Ratha temples on it. Also visit other major attractions like Arjuna’s Penance and Tiger caves. Overnight at the hotel.         

DAY 4 : Mahabalipuram - Chennai - Madurai

Freshen up breakfast check 0ut and Drive back to Chennai. & Drop at the Chennai airport to board a flight to Madurai. On reaching Madurai-“The City famous for Meenakshi Temple”, check-in at one our listed hotels. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Meenakshi Temple for its intricate architectural design and beauty. In the afternoon,  enjoy a half-day trip to  Tirumala Palace and the Gandhi Museum. Spend overnight at Madurai hotel.

DAY 5 : Madurai

Next day is to be spent at your own discretion. You have the option to explore Rameshwaram- the holy sea. This town has a significant connection to the legend of Ramayana. Pay a visit to the famous temple, situated on the seaside. Spend overnight at a hotel, in Madurai.

** Rameshwaram Visit will add one day to the tour program

DAY 6 : Madurai - Periyar

In the morning post breakfast, leave for  a three hour long drive to Periyar. While on the drive to Periyar enjoy the drive as the road winds through the thick jungles and rich plantation. Upon arrival, check-in at one of our enlisted hotels in the city. In the afternoon proceed to Periyar Wildlife Tiger Reserve to enjoy a jeep safari.  Periyar is the haven of Asiatic elephants. Later in the evening you may enjoy a boat ride at Periyar Lake. Overnight stay at the hotel.

DAY 7 : Periyar - Kumarakom

In the morning post breakfast, drive towards Kumarakom from Periyar. On reaching Kumarakom check-in at the hotel. Rest and relax for the day in your room. In the evening take a leisurely walk to explore Kumarakom for its seamless beauty and quiet environment. Overnight stay at Kumarakom.

DAY 8 : Kumarakom

Next morning post breakfast, start early for Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. This sanctuary is the perfect paradise for bird watchers. After bird watching head to the hotel for check-in and breakfast. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay is arranged in Kumarakom.

DAY 9 : Kumarakom - Kottayam - Alleppey

Post breakfast leave for Alleppey in a houseboat for an overnight cruise via Kottayam. Kerala backwaters have been known for their mesmerizing and alluring backdrops. While cruising along the backwaters, feast your eyes on lush green padded fields, palm fringed costal lines and enjoy the majestic scenery. Witness the sunset, lounging on this floating villa. Enjoy an overnight stay on the houseboat.

DAY 10 : Alleppey - Cochin

After enjoying a sumptuous breakfast, start your drive to Cochin. Being one of the finest harbors on the Arabian coastline, Cochin has been a major commercial hub for many centuries. On arrival check-in at one of our listed hotels. The day is to be spent at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.

DAY 11 : Cochin - Mumbai

In the morning after breakfast embark on a sightseeing tour of Cochin which will include visits to places like the famous Mattancherry Palace, St. Francis Church and the Jewish Synagogue.  Also see the giant Chinese Fishing Nets being lowered on the famous Vasco-da-Gama Square, offering a spectacular view to its visitors. In the evening transfer to Cochin airport to board a flight to Mumbai. On reaching Mumbai , transfer to one of our listed hotels. Overnight in Mumbai.

DAY 12 : Mumbai

In the morning after breakfast, proceed towards Elephanta caves for a sightseeing tour. These caves are located on an island that is a few miles away from the Gateway. These caves can be reached by Ferry from the Gateway of India. This rock-cut cave temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Elephanta caves comprise of seven caves of which Mahesh Murti cave is of great importance. In this cave Lord Shiva is  shown as a creator, protector and destroyer. Later in the day move out on an excursion to the sightseeing of Mumbai. The major hotspots to visit include Prince of Wales Museum, Hanging Gardens, Juhu Beach, Gateway of India and Marine Drive etc. Overnight stay in Mumbai.

DAY 13 : Mumbai - Udaipur

Post breakfast, drive straight to Udaipur- “ Venice of the East”. On arrival check-in at one of our enlisted hotels. Rest and relax for the day. In the evening enjoy a boat ride at the Pichola Lake. Also visit the Lake Palace, one of the finest examples of architectural and cultural brilliance. Overnight stay at the hotel.

DAY 14 : Udaipur

Post breakfast, embark on a city tour of Udaipur. Visit some of the major tourist hotspots covering the City Palace Museum, Sahelion Ki Bari, Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal, Folk Art Museum and Jagdish Temple. In the evening visit the The Grand City Palace located on the banks of Lake Pichola and also enjoy boat ride at the lake , subject to water level in the lake. Enjoy comfortable overnight stay at the hotel.

DAY 15 : Udaipur - Jaipur

Post breakfast, leave for Jaipur by road. Upon arrival check-in at one our enlisted hotels. Later in the day explore the city’s major tourist attractions of the city including the Jal Mahal, Jaigarh Fort, Central Museum and Birla Mandir. Evening to be spent at your own discretion.  Overnight stay at the hotel.

DAY 16 : Jaipur

The next day begins with an excursion to the Amber Fort which is accompanied with an exciting joy ride on an elephant. The afternoon remains busy with the city tour featuring City Palace along with the Royal Observatory and Hawal Mahal. Overnight stay at the hotel.

DAY 17 : Jaipur - Agra

Post breakfast, proceed to Agra. Upon reaching Agra, check-in at one of our listed hotels. After rest and relaxing for a while head to sightseeing tour of Agra covering places like Agra Fort, Itmad-ud-Daula’s Tomb and Taj Mahal that has left tourist spellbound by its beauty. The Taj Mahal was commissioned by  the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.  The mausoleum is located on the right bank of the river Yamuna at a point where it takes a sharp turn and flows eastwards. Return to the hotel in the evening for an overnight stay.

DAY 18 : Agra

Next morning post breakfast, you may embark on a guided tour of Agra fort and the Palace of Jodha Bai. Later in the day visit other major tourist attractions like the Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal, the Itmad-ud-Daula’s Tomb and the Birbal Bhawan. In the evening you may take a leisurely walk to the Agra market to shop for  souvenirs and take back the fond memories of the city. 

DAY 19 : Agra - Jhansi - Orchha

Next morning after breakfast, leave for Orchha. En-route stop at Jhansi to visit the Jhansi Fort and The Government Museum. The museum showcases the weapons, statues and dresses used during the Chandela dynasty. It also features a picture gallery of the Gupta period. After the visit, resume drive to Orchha. Upon reaching Orchha, check-in at one of our listed hotels. After resting and relaxing for a while, step out to visit the major tourist attractions of Orchha like the Jehangiri Mahal, the Raj Mahal and the Laxminarayan temple that are famous for their fine frescoes and mural paintings.  Overnight stay at the hotel.

DAY 20 : Orchha - Khajuraho

On the 20th day of the tour, drive straight to Khajuraho. Upon arrival, check-in at one of our listed hotels. After resting for a while, proceed on a guided tour to Khajuraho. Start driving towards the group of famous Chandela dynasty temples. These temples are known worldwide for their spectacular, erotic sculptures and carvings depicting verses from the Kamasutra. The Western Group of Temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu includes the Kandariya Mahadeo temple, the Matangesvara Temple , the Lakshmana Temple, and the Varaha Temple. Spend overnight at the hotel.

DAY 21 : Khajuraho - Varanasi

In the morning after breakfast, transfer to airport  to board a flight to Varanasi. On arrival , check-in at one of our listed hotels. In the afternoon take an excursion to Sarnath, the buried Buddhist city. Overnight stay in hotel.

DAY 22 : Varanasi

Next morning enjoy the boat ride in the holy river Ganges on a visit to bathing ghats. Later in the day pay a visit to the Stupa, the Buddhist temple and the Museum. Later in the day enjoy a City tour of Varanasi which would cover places like the Bharat Mata Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple and the Alamgir temple. In the evening you have the option of exploring the Banaras Hindu University for visiting the Art Gallery and the Mosque of Mughal Emperor Aurangazeb. Night at the hotel.

DAY 23 : Varanasi - Delhi

In the morning, get transferred to Varanasi airport, to board a flight to Delhi. On arrival, check-in at one of our listed hotels. Rest and relax for the day. In the evening you have the option to explore Delhi’s hyperactive nightlife. Overnight stay at the hotel.

DAY 24 : Delhi

On the 24th day of the tour, move out on a city tour of Delhi. While on the tour visit major tourist attractions like Birla Mandir, Qutab Minar, Red Fort, India Gate, the Jama Masjid, Humanyun Tomb, and President’s House. In the evening visit Red Fort to witness the impressive light and sound show. Overnight stay at the hotel.

DAY 25 : Delhi

In the morning after breakfast, transfer to Delhi airport to board a flight for the onward destination.