13-Day Golden Triangle & Kerala Backwaters Tour

As per flight time TravelAstu representative will be there on Delhi airport to receive you.

After receiving, we will welcome you and then transfer you to hotel. Check-in to hotel. Then start Delhi tour, visiting -

LOTUS TEMPLE: Lotus temple (Monday Closed) located in south of Delhi. It is lotus shaped and has rightly been given the name. It is made of marble, cement, dolomite and sand. It is open to all faiths and is an ideal place for meditation and obtaining peace and tranquillity. Its founder, Bahaullah (1817-1892), is regarded by Bahai as the most recent in the line of Messengers of God that stretches back beyond recorded time and that includes Abraham, Moses, Buddha, Zoroaster, Christ and Muhammad.

Then – INDIA GATE, PRESIDENT HOUSE, and PARLIAMENT BUILDING.

Evening Activity: A standout cultural highlight of your time in Delhi is an invitation to the Family Table India experience. Hosted by a local Hindu family, this is more than just a meal; it is a deep dive into Indian traditions. You will participate in a live cooking demonstration, enjoy an authentic home-cooked dinner, and engage in memorable cultural fun—from Henna (Mehendi) art and Sari-draping for women travelers to lighthearted music and dance.

Back to hotel and relax.

Night in the hotel.

Breakfast at hotel. After breakfast, around 8:30 check-out and start sightseeing tour of Delhi with English speaking guide. Visit –

JAMA MASJID: One of Asia’s largest mosques. People stream in and out of the mosque continuously and the presence of a nearby bazaar means that the area is rarely quiet.

Then visit Asia’s largest spice and dry fruit market (Biggest of Asia) in old Delhi by walking, also visit Chandani chowk bazar by walk.

QUTUB MINAR: Imperial Delhi will include the QUTUB MINAR, the tallest stone tower in India. Qutb-Minar in red and buff standstone is the highest tower in India. It has a diameter of 14.32 m at the base and about 2.75 m on the top with a height of 72.5 m. Qutbu'd-Din Aibak laid the foundation of Minar in AD 1199 for the use of the mu'azzin (crier) to give calls for prayer and raised the first floor, to which were added three more floors by his successor and son-in-law, Shamsu'd-Din Iltutmish (AD 1211-36). All the storeys are surrounded by a projected balcony encircling the minar and supported by stone brackets, which are decorated with honeycomb design, more conspicuously in the first floor. IRON PILLAR also is inside Qutub premises.

AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE: SWAMINARAYAN AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE (Monday Closed) in New Delhi epitomizes 10,000 years of Indian culture in all its breathtaking grandeur, beauty, wisdom and bliss. It brilliantly showcases the essence of India’s ancient architecture, traditions and timeless spiritual messages. The Akshardham experience is an enlightening journey through India’s glorious art, values and contributions for the progress, happiness and harmony of mankind.

After full day tour of Delhi, drive to Agra (4 hrs).

Hotel check-in and relax.

Night in Agra.

Early morning sunrise visit to Incredible Taj Mahal (5:30 AM). (Friday Closed)

TAJ MAHAL - Little needs to be said about this architectural wonder which is always the soul raison-de-etre for every tourist's visit to Agra. Built by Shah Jahan, the Taj is a white marble memorial to his beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal. This monument took 22 years to be completed and was designed, and planned by Persian architect Ustad Isa. Apart from its stunning design balance and perfect symmetry, the Taj is also noted particularly for its elegant domes, intricately carved screens and some of the best inlay work ever seen.

After Taj Mahal, back to hotel for breakfast, have breakfast.

Then check-out and proceed for the sightseeing of Agra.

AGRA FORT – The red sandstone structure is surrounded by chahar-bagh, a four-square formal garden. Built by the famed Mughal emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, the fort is predominantly of red sandstone.  Ensconced within is the picture-perfect Pearl Mosque, which is a major tourist attraction. It lies on the bend of the river Yamuna, almost in the heart of the town. Akbar built it as his citadel over the years 1563-73 in the finest architectural style. It has imposing gates and walls of red sandstone and a moat.

After Agra Fort, we will visit BABY TAJ or the ITMAD-UD-ULLAH – The interiors of which are considered better than the Taj. One of the most beautiful Mughal tombs, Itmad-Ud-Daulah's Tomb was built by Nur Jahan, the Empress of Jahangir for her father in 1628. The tomb is a resting place of the powerful personality in Mughal Court, Itmad-Ud-Daulah, whose life is very interesting. Formerly a very poor Persian merchant then named Mirza Ghiyas or Ghiyas Beg he became a minister and a trusted treasure in Akbar's court. After Akbar's death in 1605, his son Jahangir rose into power. Jahangir made Ghiyas Beg his chief minister and honored him with the title of Itmad-Ud-Daulah, the Pillar of State. Later, Jahangir met a beautiful daughter of Ghiyas Beg named Mehr-Un-Nissa and married her. Mehr-Un-Nissa soon played a significant role in the Jahangir's court and was called Nur Mahal, the light of the Place. Owing to her influence, her father and brother were granted with privileges in the court. When Ghiyas beg (Itmad-Un-Daulah) dies in 1622, Nur Mahal decided to build a mausoleum for him. Queen Mumtaz Mahal or the lady of the Taj was also from this prevailing family. The mausoleum is entirely made of white marble and graced with intricate decoration of inlay work, and marble-screen work belonging to the Islamic style. With its tranquil, small garden on the bank of Yamuna River, the tomb stands impressively elegant from a distance.

In evening visit MEHTAB GARDEN - This garden is very famous for spotting Taj Mahal from a distance with view of Yamuna River. The garden is square shaped and perfectly aligned with the wonder, which is found on the other side of the river.

We will also take you MOHABBATE-A-TAJ SHOW (KALAKRITI SHOW), (if you will be interested & depends on time). This is highlight of Agra. You will must love this beautiful show. As Poppy have birthday today so it will be great lifetime memory with this show so I will highly recommend this.

Back to hotel.

Night in Agra.

After breakfast, check-out and drive to Jaipur.

On the way Visit FATEHPUR SIKRI.

Fatehpur Sikri, a hidden gem on the outskirts of Agra. It’s a Heritage Site that stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. Fatehpur Sikri is an ancient town steeped in history and architectural splendour. It’s an entire complex of historical Mughal monuments, sitting majestically on a rocky ridge. You can explore many places in Fatehpur Sikri, like Jodha Bai’s Palace, Panch Mahal, Buland Darwaja, Jama Masjid, Diwan-e-Khas, Diwan-e-Aam, Birbal’s House, Daulat Khana, Anup Talao, Karawan Serai, Hiran Minar, Rang Mahal, Naubat Khana, Samosa Mahal, and the tomb of Salim Chishti. The town boasts an extraordinary blend of Islamic, Hindu and Persian architectural styles. Each destination has its own allure and significance.

After Fatehpur Sikri tour, drive to ABHANERI STEP-WELL VILLAGE.

En-route stops at Abhaneri. Visit the famous stepwells.

ABHANERI VILLAGE: This village situated on the Jaipur / Agra Highway in Dausa District. It is an ancient village in Rajasthan famous for its post Gupta or early medieval monuments. The sculpture and architecture of Abhaneri suggests that it must have been a great center of art and architecture. The sculptures of Abhaneri are the best example of Gurjar Pratihari art. This flourishing town has ruined by the Mughal Empror Mahmud Ghaznavi in one of his invasions. The village has contributed numerous pieces of sculpture to various museums worldwide. The name of the village Abhaneri is so called because the local Goddess Harshat Mata is shown portrayed in a joyous mood and spreads brightness or “abha” all around. The village’s original name was Abha Nagri. The village is said to have been founded by the legendary King Raja Chand and thus the village could be over three thousand years old. It is however felt that the mythological Raja Chand could be King Bhoja, who ruled GUJJAR Kingdom in the ninth century AD.  

CHAND BAORI: This Baori (water step well) about 100 feet deep open well with flights of steps on three sides is another 10th century monument. The stairs of the chand Baori are in the shape of an inverted English letter “V” in sets of 4-5 steps. This Baori is not an ordinary structure, but is a marvel of Architecture. The chand Baori has beautiful carved panels inserted into the sides. Nobody has been able to count the steps. One can see the two royal toilets with carved windows and Jharokhas, which were used by the then Kings & Queens. The water for the royal toilets was used to be pulled from the Baori with the help of bulls. The carved stone pillars, which have now been damaged, were once strong enough for supporting pulleys to draw water. One can also witness all 24 Avtars of Lord Vishnu which were carved on the stone inside one of the cenotaph. There are three tunnels which have opening of about 20 Km away from Chand Baori, were being used by the rulers as escape routes in care of attack by the enemies. An encyclopedia of stone architecture showing a fine degree of craftsmanship lies strewn all around the village. In fact, Chand Baori is a unique example of its own kind of stone architecture where one can see the ladies figures with various kinds of musical instruments and the dancing possess.

After finishing sightseeing of both places, drive to Jaipur.

JAIPUR: Jaipur is the capital of the state of Rajasthan a romantic realm of resplendent palaces, mighty fortresses and regal Maharajahs that lies in the western deserts and is an utterly unique part of India. Proudly belonging to the KSHATRIYA warrior caste and fiercely independent, the Rajput princes made fearsome foes. However, many of them realized that to maintain their wealth and authority locally, it was expedient to proclaim allegiance to the central power. Thus, many enjoyed a privileged position under the Mughal emperors and also the British Raj that followed.

The bustling Rajasthan capital of Jaipur takes its name from its venerated founder Jai Singh II, who was given the title Sawai Maharaja by the Mughal. Literally translated this would mean ’one and a quarter’, suggesting that the Mughal thought this emperor to be more valuable than just ‘one’. Jaipur is known as the ’Pink City’ on account of the distinctive color of its buildings. This did not, however, form part of the original plan, but dates back to 1856, when the city was given a wash of pink in honor of a state visit from Prince Albert.

Hotel check-in and relax.

Tonight, your buffet dinner is included in heritage restaurant with live traditional Rajasthani dance and music. Enjoy dinner in Jaipur style.

Night in Jaipur.

Breakfast will be at hotel. Proceed for a morning excursion will be taken to the Amber Fort.

Enjoy the fort ascent on elephant back in a royal manner. (Elephant ride in Amber Fort, if you like to have. If not than we will take you directly to fort. )

AMBER FORT PALACE - Amber is the classic romantic Rajasthani fort palace. Its construction was started by Man Singh I in 1592, and completed by his descendent Jai Singh I.

Its forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds its ultimate expression.

After Amber, go down by walk and see.PANNA MEENA KA KUND STEPWELL: The Panna Meena Ka Kund or PANNA MEENA KI BAORI (STEP-WELL) is a unique architectural marvel in India, visited annually by thousands. In addition, the 200-meter deep stepwell attracts attention from tourists globally.

Also stop in JAL MAHAL (WATER PALACE) to click some photos.

Afternoon sightseeing tour of Jaipur visiting...

CITY PALACE - A delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture, the City Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area in the walled city. It houses the Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple and the City Palace Museum.

JANTAR MANTAR - This is the largest and the best preserved of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II in different parts of the country. It’s also called Solar Observatory. This observatory consisting of outsized astronomical instruments is still in use.

ALBERT HALL MUSEUM: One of the best museums in India. Historic, well curated and we'll maintained. It houses carpets, metal art, European art, miniature paintings, Egyptian gallery and many more things to see. The Albert Hall Museum in Jaipur is the oldest museum of the state and functions as the state museum of Rajasthan. Established in 1887 by Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II, the museum was named after the Prince of Wales, Albert Edward, who visited Jaipur in 1876.

This evening is free for you to relax or explore independently. Shopping is superb in Jaipur, particularly for gold and silver jewellery, pottery, tie-dye materials, silk, saris, wooden handicrafts and carpets.

Overnight in Jaipur.

Relax breakfast at hotel. After breakfast check-out and half day tour of Jaipur, visiting -

PATRIKA GATE: Patrika Gate to do photography because it’s very famous between instagramer and photography lovers.

HAWA MAHAL - The ornamental facade of this "Palace of Winds" is a prominent landmark in Jaipur. It is a five-storey structure of sandstone plastered pink encrusted with fine trelliswork and elaborate balconies. The palace has 953 niches and windows. Built in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the Mahal was a royal grandstand for the palace women.

After then, transfer to Jaipur airport.

Your Golden Triangle tour ending here and fly to Kerala where our travel representative and driver waiting for you in the airport.

WELCOME TO GOD’S OWN COUNTRY.

Receive and transfer to hotel.

COCHIN (KOCHI):
Cochin is part town since many centuries, also a part of what used to be called 'The spice cost of India' attracted traders and invaders from the world over. Needless to say, Cochin offers you some fascinating snippets of history and culture.

Spend the rest of the day free to relax.

Night in Cochin.

Relax breakfast at hotel.

After breakfast, check-out and proceed to Munnar.

MUNNAR:
Munnar where is unforgettable greenery waiting for you,  a town situated at the confluence of three mountain steams - Muthirapuzha Nallathanni & Kundala, with vast expanses of tea plantations, rivulets, waterfalls and cool weather and ideal for trekking and mountain biking.

 The Hill Station of Munnar once used to be the summer resort of the erstwhile British administration in South India and the town has many remnants of colonial architecture.

Arrive and check into the resort and unwind.

After check-in formalities and refreshment proceed to visit MATTUPEETY DAM and KUNDALA DAM known for its storage masonry dam and a beautiful lake where you could go on pleasurable boat rides, enjoying the surrounding hill and landscape. 

Spend the rest of your stay in Munnar, walking through the enchanting tea estates enjoying the tranquillity.

Overnight at the resort.

After breakfast proceed to visit TEA MUSEUM, the Museum house curios, photographs and machinery, all of which have a story to tell on the origins and growth of tea plantations in Munnar.

Later you will visit the ERAVIKULAM NATIONAL PARK TO DO TREKKING - located about 15 KM from Munnar, the park is famous for its endangered inhabitant – the Nilgiri Tahar (a Mountain Goat unique to the area). Spread over an area of 97 Sq.km, this park is also home to several species of rare butterflies, animals and birds. A Great place for trekking the park offers a magnificent view of the tea plantations and rolling hills caressed by blankets of mists. The Park become a popular destination when the hill slopes here are covered in a carpet of blue due to the flowering of Neelakurinji Plant endemic to this part of the Western Ghats, once every twelve years. Night in Munnar.

After breakfast and check-out the hotel and proceed to Periyar.

THEKKADY (PERIYAR):
Periyar, one of the finest wildlife reserves in India, spread across the entire Periyar district are picturesque plantations and hill town that hold great opportunities for treks and mountain walks. One the of the 27 Tiger reserves in India, the Periyar valley in Thekkady is the oldest.

On arrival check-in to your resort. Spend the rest of the day at leisure or go on a SPICE PLANTATION TOUR where you will be enticed by not only the aroma of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, pepper and nutmeg but will also get to know how they are grown, harvested and proceed before the reach the supermarkets.

In the evening you could go for BOAT RIDE ON THE PERIYAR RIVER, where you will have the opportunity to sight elephants and other animal song the banks.

Overnight at the resort.

After breakfast, visit the PERIYAR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY, which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thekkady. Take a boat ride on the Periyar Lake to spot various species of birds, reptiles, and animals in their natural habitat. If you're lucky, you might even spot a herd of elephants.

After the boat ride, explore the SPICE PLANTATIONS that are spread across Thekkady. Here, you can learn about the different spices grown in Kerala and their uses in Indian cooking.

In the evening, attend a MARSHAL ARTS PERFORMANCE, which is a traditional form of Kerala. The performance usually lasts for an hour and provides a glimpse into the culture and heritage of the state.

Overnight stay at Thekkady

After breakfast check-out and proceed to Alleppey.

BACKWATER HOUSEBOAT: HOUSEBOAT CRUISE, Present day houseboat, huge, slow moving exotic barges used for leisure trips are in fact reworked version of the traditional  “Kettuvallams” that were used to carry rice and spices before the advent of alternative forms of transportation.

The houseboat contains all the creature comforts of a good hotel including furnished bedrooms, modern toilets, cozy living room, a kitchen and even a balcony for angling. Parts of the curved roof of wood or plaited palm open out provide shade and allow uninterrupted views.

Meals would be cooked on-board and supplemented with freshly cooked fish from the backwaters.

On this cruise you will enjoy vignettes of the ethnic life of rural Kerala beside the backwaters, you will encounter locals travelling in canoes and vegetable sellers, fishermen and other traders bringing house hold goods in small wooden boat.

En-route your captain will anchor the boat at nearby villages, paddy fields, temple and other palaces.

Overnight stay at Houseboat

Morning you will be transferred to Mararikulam.

MARARI:
The name 'Marari' is short for Mararikulam, which is a beautiful fishing village lying along this coast. The swaying coconut palms and golden sands of the beach are perfect companions for those who want to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Marari Beach is an endless vista of sand and surf, but it is more. An authentic experience of the world of Kerala's traditional fishing villages, and a recreation of an ancient, harmonious way of life.

RELAX ON MARARI BEACH.

Overnight at Marari.

After breakfast, check-out and drive to Cochin. Today you have Cochin tour.

Visit ST. FRANCIS CHURCH - the oldest European Church in India. Then SANTA CRUZ BASILICA built in 1557 by the Portuguese, then DUTCH PALACE, the SPICE MARKET and the 15th century CHINESE FISHING NETS believed to have been brought by Chinese traders and after then visit of a JEWISH SYNAGOGUE in what is locally called the JEW TOWN.

As per your flight time, we will transfer you to airport. Fly back home or another destination with incredible memories of Golden Traingle North India & Kerala with Team Travel Astu.

Tour Ends!!