Classic Golden Triangle and Kerala

This classic itinerary takes you from the Golden Triangle of Rajasthan to the golden beaches of Kerala providing a fantastic combination of culture and relaxation. The Golden Triangle is teeming with the sights, sounds and experiences that make India such a mesmerising place from the forts and palaces to the local markets and Kerala provides the ideal spot for some R&R with palm fringed beaches and boutique accommodation.

1. Days 1-3: Delhi

   Start the vacation in Delhi, a unique patchwork of changing architectural delights from the Mughal heart of Old Delhi where the Red Fort dominated an area of medieval streets and markets. The British built their capital to the south, in ‘New Delhi’ and Lutyen’s grand plans offer an insight into imperialistic thinking and Rajesque grandeur. What strikes you about Delhi is how easily you can glimpse and embellish yourself in a particular segment of its colorful history, yet feel its modern dynamism at the same time. It is a truly mesmerising city. You will have two nights here to soak up the city before heading to one of India’s most iconic landmarks.

   Accommodation: The Imperial (2 nights)

2. Days 3-4: Agra

   From Delhi, the best way to reach Agra is by train which will take you just under one and a half hours and you’ll have one night in the city to experience the immortal Taj Mahal. Built as a monument of love by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal in 1653, this building is truly spectacular. Seen at sunrise, this grand edifice of architectural radiance seeps its time old story that is always reminisced and enjoyed time and time again. Shah Jahan was overthrown by his son Aurangzeb and locked in the Agra Fort in 1658. Its red sandstone exterior is always worth a visit, as too the Itimad-Ud-Daulah or ‘Baby Taj’.

   Accommodation: The Oberoi Amarvilas (1 night)

3. Days 4-7: Jaipur

   From Agra you will drive just under five hours to Jaipur, which is an experience in itself as you pass through the beautiful countryside.  With three nights in Jaipur you will have plenty of time to uncover the historical gems of the capital of Rajasthan and so called the ‘Pink City’ due to the painting of the city to welcome the Prince of Wales (later Edward VII) in 1876. There is plenty to see and do in Jaipur, from the stunning fort at Amber to the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), City Palace and Jantar Mahar (Royal Observatory). The endless shopping opportunities in Jaipur warrants an afternoon’s gander through the shops.

   Accommodation: Rajmahal Palace (3 nights)

4. Days 7-9: Cochin

   Next you will fly via Mumbai to Cochin, and you will feel like you have landed in a different country.  Cochin, or Kochi as it is now called, was the former hub of the spice trade and has witnessed Portuguese, Dutch and British influences over its long and colorful history. You will have two nights on arrival here to relax and unwind on the beach by day and by night enjoy the harbor.

   Accommodation: Old Harbour Hotel (2 nights)

5. Days 9-10: Backwaters

   Drive south for about two hours, where you will reach Allepey and the gateway to your next adventure on board your own private houseboat in the backwaters. Spend the day passing local villages and smiling people as your chef prepares a raft of delicious meals whilst you are on board before you dock for the night in a quiet corner of the backwaters.

   Accommodation: Houseboat Lakes and Lagoons (1 night)

6. Days 10-13: Backwaters

   Your final three nights will be spent in Kumarakom on the banks of Lake Vembenad and a delight for those wanting a chance to sit back and enjoy for ebbing moments in the subcontinent.

   Accommodation: Coconut Lagoon (3 nights)

Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Cochin, Backwaters & Lake Vembenad