Complete India Tour
Destination
Delhi – Agra – Khajuraho – Varanasi – Kolkata – Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry – Thanjavur – Madurai – Periyar – Alleppey – Cochin – Goa – Mumbai
Duration:
24 Days / 23 Nights
Overview of Complete India Tour
This 24-day journey through India combines culture, history, and natural beauty across iconic destinations. Starting in Delhi, explore the vibrant contrasts of Old and New Delhi before heading to Agra to witness the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Continue to Khajuraho for its intricate temples, then on to the sacred city of Varanasi for a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges and the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Fly to Kolkata for a glimpse into its colonial heritage, then travel south to Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry to experience Dravidian temple architecture and French colonial charm. Visit Thanjavur and Madurai for historical temples and palaces before entering Periyar‘s lush spice plantations and taking a tranquil backwater cruise in Alleppey.
Arrive in Cochin to explore its multicultural heritage and iconic Chinese fishing nets, and then move to Goa for a blend of beach relaxation and Portuguese-inspired sights. The tour concludes in Mumbai, where you’ll discover Elephanta Caves, colonial landmarks, and the bustling streets of India’s largest city. This itinerary offers an immersive journey through India’s spiritual, architectural, and natural wonders, leaving travelers with unforgettable memories.
Highlights:
- Delhi: Dive into the contrasts of Old and New Delhi, visiting historic sites like the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, and India Gate.
- Agra: Witness the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise, explore the imposing Agra Fort, and visit the elegant Itmad-ud-Daula tomb.
- Khajuraho: Discover the intricately carved UNESCO World Heritage Temples, famous for their sensual sculptures and remarkable architecture.
- Varanasi: Experience the spiritual energy of the Ganga Aarti ceremony, a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River, and visits to sacred temples.
- Kolkata: Explore the cultural heart of Kolkata, including the Victoria Memorial, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the lively New Market.
- Mahabalipuram: Marvel at ancient rock-cut temples like the Shore Temple and the Five Rathas, showcasing unique Dravidian architecture.
- Pondicherry: Enjoy the serene beaches, colonial charm of the French Quarter, and the spiritual ambiance of Auroville.
- Thanjavur: Visit the grand Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO site renowned for its Chola dynasty architecture.
- Madurai: Explore the legendary Meenakshi Temple, a vibrant complex with intricate sculptures and a lively atmosphere.
- Periyar: Walk through lush spice plantations and spot wildlife in Periyar National Park, known for its scenic landscapes.
- Alleppey: Drift through Kerala’s scenic backwaters on a traditional houseboat, surrounded by coconut palms and rustic villages.
- Cochin: See the famous Chinese Fishing Nets, visit Mattancherry Palace, and explore the quaint Jewish Quarter.
- Goa: Relax on stunning beaches, explore Basilica of Bom Jesus, and enjoy the unique blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures.
- Mumbai: End the journey with a visit to the Elephanta Caves, the bustling Gateway of India, and a city tour of historic and modern landmarks.
This itinerary brings together India’s most captivating cultural and natural attractions, offering a diverse and memorable experience across the country.
Day 1: Arrive in Delhi
Welcome to India! Upon arrival, get a greeting and transfer to the hotel.
Day 2: Explore Delhi
Exploring Old Delhi, including the Red Fort (from outside), Jama Masjid, and a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk.
Continue to Raj Ghat and the National Gandhi Museum, then visit New Delhi’s Parliament, Rashtrapati Bhawan, and India Gate, with Humayun’s Tomb.
Day 3: Delhi to Agra
Drive to Agra, visit the iconic Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, followed by a heritage walk in Tajganj.
Day 4: Agra to Khajuraho (via Jhansi & Orchha)
Take a train to Jhansi, then drive via Orchha’s historic sites before reaching Khajuraho.
Day 5: Khajuraho to Varanasi
Tour the famed temples of Khajuraho before flying to Varanasi for the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dasaswamedh Ghat.
Day 6: Varanasi to Kolkata
Enjoy a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, visit an Indian wrestling school, then fly to Kolkata.
Day 7: Discover Kolkata
Visit Mother Teresa’s House, Howrah Bridge, St. John’s Church, and the Victoria Memorial.
Day 8: Kolkata to Mahabalipuram
Fly to Chennai, then transfer to Mahabalipuram.
Day 9: Mahabalipuram
Explore Mahabalipuram’s temples, including Arjuna’s Penance and the Shore Temple.
Day 10: Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry (via Kanchipuram)
Drive to Pondicherry with a stop at a silk workshop in Kanchipuram.
Day 11: Pondicherry
Tour Aurobindo Ashram, Auroville, and the Pondicherry Museum; enjoy a walk along Beach Road.
Day 12: Pondicherry to Thanjavur (via Kumbakonam)
En route to Thanjavur, visit Kumbakonam’s temples, followed by Brihadeeswara Temple and Thanjavur Palace.
Day 13: Thanjavur to Madurai (via Trichy)
Explore the Rock Fort in Trichy, then continue to Madurai.
Day 14: Madurai to Periyar
Visit Meenakshi Temple and Thirumalai Nayak Palace, then drive to Periyar and tour a spice plantation.
Day 15: Periyar
Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Periyar and a nature walk.
Day 16: Periyar to Alleppey
Drive to Alleppey and experience a houseboat cruise along Kerala’s backwaters.
Day 17: Alleppey to Cochin
Drive to Cochin, visit Kumbhalgani Fisherman Village, and learn Indian cooking.
Day 18: Explore Cochin
Tour Fort Cochin, St. Francis Church, Mattancherry Palace, and watch a Kathakali dance performance.
Day 19: Cochin to Goa
Cycle through Fort Cochin, then take an overnight train to Goa.
Day 20-21: Goa
Explore South and North Goa’s beaches, churches, and local culture; enjoy a beach day at leisure.
Day 22: Goa to Mumbai
Fly to Mumbai and relax at your hotel.
Day 23-24: Mumbai
Tour Elephanta Caves, the Prince of Wales Museum, and explore Mumbai’s highlights before your departure.