DAY 4 - DELHI - AGRA
 

Breakfast and drive to the city of love - Agra where you will check in at your 5* Taj Hotel & Convention Centre Agra.

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Enjoy an afternoon visit to the world renowned Taj Mahal. Referred to as one of the wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal is the epitome of tourism in India and is celebrated for its architectural magnificence and aesthetic beauty.

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A majestic ode to everlasting love, the Taj Mahal stands as a testament to the profound affection of Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

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This breathtaking masterpiece in white marble was constructed as a poignant memorial to commemorate their enduring bond. Enclosed within the grandeur of the mausoleum are the tombs of both Mumtaz Mahal and Emperor Shah Jahan, forever entwined in the embrace of eternal love.

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Crafted over 22 years by a workforce of more than 20,000 artisans and labourers between 1630 and 1652 AD, this symphony in stone is a testament to meticulous dedication. The central edifice, ensconced within meticulously landscaped gardens, is embraced by towering walls on three sides, while the rear is gracefully bordered by the meandering waters of the Yamuna River.

Take advantage of leisure time exploring the vibrant local bazaars, where the intricate artistry of chiselling on marble is proudly on display through elaborate inlay work.

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Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

DAY 5 - AGRA
 

After breakfast, we will embark on a tour of Agra Fort and Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb. Few forts worldwide encapsulate as compelling a narrative as the Great Fort of Agra—a remarkable showcase of Mughal architecture, serving as the seat and stronghold of the Mughal Empire across successive generations.

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Initially designed by Akbar as an impregnable military stronghold, the Agra Fort transformed over time into a manifestation of imperial opulence, adorned with elegance and grandeur. 

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Positioned 1 km upstream of the Taj Mahal on the right bank of the Yamuna River, the Agra Fort was constructed under Akbar’s guidance by Mohammed Quasim Khan, his Commander-in-Chief and Governor of Kabul, and later expanded by his son Jehangir and grandson Shahjahan.

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Approximately 4 km north of the Taj, on the left bank of the Yamuna River, lies the meticulously proportioned marble mausoleum. Itmad-ud-Daulah, commissioned by Empress Noor Jahan in memory of her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg during 1622-28 AD, stands as the first edifice in pure marble in Mughal India. This two-storey mausoleum, though modest in size, is flawlessly executed, adorned with coloured stone inlay and filigree marble screens.

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Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

 

DAY 6 – AGRA - JAIPUR
 

After a delightful breakfast, you will be chauffeured to Jaipur, with a fascinating stopover at Akbar’s abandoned capital, Fatehpur Sikri.

Situated 40 km from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri was commissioned by the Mughal emperor Akbar in 1571 as a tribute to the Sufi saint, Sheikh Salim Chishti. Serving as the Mughal capital for 14 years, it was eventually deserted due to water scarcity.

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Crafted from red sandstone, the architectural marvel harmoniously blends Hindu and Mughal influences.

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Even today, the entrance to the fort is accessed via the road constructed by Akbar, leading to the Buland Darwaza, an imposing 54-metre gateway.

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Other captivating landmarks within Fatehpur Sikri include the Hiran Minar, a memorial to Akbar’s cherished elephant, the Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti, Birbal’s House, and the Diwan-i-Khas.

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Upon reaching Jaipur, indulge in a check in at the luxurious 5-star Taj Amer Hotel.

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Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

DAY 7 - JAIPUR
 

Indulge in a delightful breakfast as an exhilarating day of exploration unfolds. Your sightseeing adventure commences with a photo visit to the Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds. This five-storied marvel boasts a spectacular pyramidal facade adorned with overhanging windows featuring latticed screens, domes, and spires.

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Next, venture to the ancient capital of Amer, where the magnificent Amber Fort awaits. Perched on a ridge just outside Jaipur city and surrounded by fortified battlements, this architectural gem was initiated by Maharaja Mansingh, the most successful General of Mughal Emperor Akbar, in the 17th century. 

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Before the construction of the City Palace in Jaipur, Amber held the seat of power. The fort, encompassed by fortified battlements, commands views of the Moat Lake. Ruins and remnants grace the Aravalli hills, and expansive crenellated walls define the surrounding landscape. Explore the unique Anokhi Museum of hand block printing, where traditional textile printing techniques come to life. Uphill elephant ride and downhill by jeeps at Amer Fort.

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In the afternoon, journey to the Pink City, known as the “abode of rajahs.” Visit the City Palace Museum, home to an impressive collection of Rajasthani costumes and an armory featuring weapons of various shapes and sizes with intricately chiseled handles. The museum houses antiques and artifacts from the ruling family, along with a remarkable art gallery displaying miniature paintings, carpets, royal paraphernalia, and rare astronomical works in Arabic, Persian, Latin, and Sanskrit. Continue your tour with a visit to the awe-inspiring Jantar Mantar Observatory, an 18th-century stone astrological and astronomical marvel built by Maharaja Jai Singh.

Conclude your day with a leisurely exploration of the local market.

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Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

DAY 8 - JAIPUR
 

Savour a delectable breakfast, preparing you for a delightful morning walking tour through the Bazaars and Cuisine Crafts of Old Jaipur. Commence your journey from Sanganeri Gate, strolling through the vibrant fruit and vegetable market and lively alleyways adorned with original havelis — many still inhabited by traditional merchant families.

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Pause at the family-owned temple of Siddhi Ganesh, a sacred space dedicated to Lord Ganesh, the embodiment of good luck in Hinduism. Immerse yourself in the intricate artistry of gold painting and enamelling on marble, skillfully demonstrated by a local artist. Witness the exquisite ‘gota’ embroidery, a form of gold and silver thread embroidery applied to saris and traditional Indian attire.

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Embark on a visit to a fifth-generation Meenakari craftsman, recipient of the prestigious President’s award, in his workshop. Join him for tea in his 200-year-old residence, a direct descendant from a family of chief hakims (physicians) who served the Emperors during the Mughal Dynasty.

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His traditional haveli, adorned with fine chandeliers, period furniture, and traditional carpets, stands out as a highlight of the walk. Marvel at his rare art collection, a true spectacle.

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For food enthusiasts, Ghee Walon ka Rasta beckons — an entire street dedicated to gastronomic delights! Indulge in a variety of Indian savoury snacks, including samosas, kachoris, and pakoras.

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Proceed to Gopal Ji Ka Rasta, the epicentre of Jaipur’s renowned jewellery shops, nestled amidst a bustling atmosphere with enthusiastic bargain hunters.

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Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

DAY 9 – JAIPUR – BENGALURU
 

Breakfast and transfer to airport for your flight to Bengaluru. Upon arrival transfer to your 5* Taj MG Road Hotel for check in.

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Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

DAY 10 – BENGALURU - MYSURU
 

Have breakfast in the morning, and then drive past the Bangaluru city, and later continue drive to Mysuru enroute visiting Srirangapatnam, the former capital of two of South India’s most powerful 18th century rulers, Haider Ali and his son Tipu Sultan. The fort was besieged and stormed by the British in 1782 and again in 1799.

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After this visit continue your drive to Mysuru. Upon arrival, check in at the 5* Radisson Blue Plaza.

Mysuru, a city in India’s southwestern Karnataka state, was the capital of the Kingdom of Mysuru from 1399 to 1947. In its centre is opulent Mysuru Palace, seat of the former ruling Wodeyar dynasty. The palace blends Hindu, Islamic, Gothic and Rajput styles. Mysuru is also home to the centuries old Devaraja Market, filled with spices, silk and sandalwood. 

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Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

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DAY 11 – MYSURU

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After a delightful breakfast, proceed to sightseeing tour which includes visit to Mysuru Palace - The Maharajah’s Palace, completed in 1912, dominates the centre of Mysuru. The building is a synthesis of Hindu and Saracenic architecture, designed by Henry Irwin, a British Architect. It is topped with a single brass-plated dome, surrounded by turrets, giving it a fairytale appearance, which is further enhanced on holidays when it is lit up by approximately 10,000 light bulbs.

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The interior is also lavishly decorated with stained glass, mirrors, pillars, paintings, and jewels. Later continue to Chamundi Hills for a view of Mysuru town.

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Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

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DAY 12 – MYSURU - UDHAGAMANDALAM (Ooty)

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After a nice breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Udhagamandalam known as Ooty (approx. 125 kms/4 hours’ drive). On arrival in Ooty, check in at your 5* hotel The Savoy Ooty, IHCL Selection.

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Located in the Western Ghats at a height of 2240m, Ooty is the headquarters of the Nilgiris district. It is the most popular hill station in the Southern India. Nature has been generous with this region which is by far the most beautiful in the state.

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Apart from coffee and tea plantations, trees like conifers, eucalyptus and pine dot the hillside in Ooty and its environs. 

Rest of the day at leisure to relax or explore the town on your own.

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Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

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DAY 13 –UDHAGAMANDALAM (Ooty)

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Start your day with a delicious breakfast before embarking on a visit to the  Botanical Gardens. Here you will witness a gamut of regionally exclusive and ornamental plants, explore the Government Museum featuring a host of tribal artifacts, district’s ecological details and representative sculptural arts and crafts of region.
 
In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic Toy Train ride. The Nilgiri Mountain railways, built by the British in 1908, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 46-Kilometre toy train operates from Ooty to Mettupalayam but we will partake in a shorter journey on the train i.e from Ooty to Coonoor.

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After deboarding, drive back to hotel on Ooty. 

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Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

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DAY 14 –OOTY - COIMBATORE - ERNAKULAM - KUMARAKOM

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Begin your day with a delightful breakfast before embarking on a scenic drive from Ooty to Coimbatore Railway Station (approx. 90 kms/3 hours drive) to board your train to Kochi.

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Upon arrival in Ernakulam, continue your travels with a beautiful picturesque drive to Kumarakom, covering approximately 52 kilometres and taking around two and a half hours.

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When reaching your destination, the luxurious 5* Gokulam Grand Resort and Spa awaits to welcome you with its impeccable hospitality. 

Indulge in a smooth check in process before settling into your lavish accommodations. 

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Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

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DAY 15 –KUMARAKOM - ALLEPPEY

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Following breakfast, you will go on a scenic drive to Alleppey for backwater Cruise (approx. 35 kms/1 hour drive).
 
Take a cruise in a traditional rice barge through the canals and backwaters where you will see rural life that has remained unchanged for centuries. Rice barges, or ketolases (‘roped-together’) as they are called in Malayalam, are built from jackfruit logs lashed firmly together with coconut fibre and are poled along the waterways by one or two men.

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Previously, these vessels were used for transporting rice, coconuts and other commodities to market. Enjoy a delecable lunch on board as you soak in the tranquil surroundings. Disembark from cruise and drive back to your hotel in Kumarakom.

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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

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DAY 16 –KUMARAKOM

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Have breakfast at the hotel. Today is a day at leisure to relax and enjoy the hotel’s facilities.
 
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

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DAY 17 –KUMARAKOM - KOCHI

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Commence your day with breakfast and check out from the hotel, then drive to Kochi (approx. 60 kms/2.5 hours drive.
 
Kochi (Cochin) is spread across islands and promontories in a stunning location between the Arabian Sea and the Keralan backwaters. The city was formed in 1341 when a flood created a natural safe port, which became the principal harbour for the Malabar Coast’s spice trade. The rulers of Kochi invited people of various religions to settle here, attracting Jews and Christians who built places of worship and created their own communities.

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Upon arrival, check in at the 5* Fragrant Nature Hotel. In the afternoon experience the best of Kochi with the sightseeing tour and explore several famous attractions like historic Fort Kochi, home to colonial-era architecture, churches, and cobblestone streets. Stroll through the bustling spice markets of Mattancherry, where you can buy exotic spices and experience the aromas of Kerala. Visit the Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations, and witness its architecture and interiors.

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Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

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DAY 18 – KOCHI - DUBAI - MALTA

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Transfer to the airport for flight back to Malta via Dubai.