Tour
Best of India with Kerala
All the treasures of India on one epic trip. From the captivating energy of Delhi to the tranquil backwaters and lingering spice aromas of Kerala. Journey to the jungles of Ranthambore, crisscross ...
All the treasures of India on one epic trip. From the captivating energy of Delhi to the tranquil backwaters and lingering spice aromas of Kerala. Journey to the jungles of Ranthambore, crisscross the Golden Triangle and admire India’s legendary palaces, forts and monuments along the way.
(from USD 3,430)
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Dining Summary
- 12 Dinner (D)
- 15 Breakfast (B)
- 4 Lunch (L)
Must-see Highlights
- Explore Delhi, Jaipur and Varanasi
- Visit Jama Masjid, Raj Ghat, Humayun's Tomb and Qutub Minar in Delhi, the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort in Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Ranthambore National Park, Amber Fort and the City Palace in Jaipur, Sarnath and Varanasi
- View the Palace of Winds in Jaipur
- See the Red Fort, Parliament House and India Gate in Delhi
Iconic Experience
- Delhi: Take a rickshaw ride through Old Delhi.
- Jama Masjid: Admire the red sandstone and marble details of Jama Masjid during your visit to one of the largest mosques in the country.
- Delhi: Visit Agrasen Ki Baoli and take in the arched niches of this citybound step well.
- Delhi: See Old Delhi's Red Fort.
- New Delhi: During your orientation of New Delhi, visit Humayun's Tomb, and see India Gate and the Qutub Minar complex.
- Taj Mahal: Admire the Taj Mahal, one of the most iconic treasures of world heritage.
- Agra: Inside Agra’s red sandstone fortress, witness the fairytale palaces, audiences halls and mosques of the Mughal rulers.
- Agra: See the imposing gate to the Jama Masjid and gain insight into life in Fatehpur Sikri, now a deserted ''ghost town.''
- Ranthambore National Park: Tour Ranthambore National Park for a chance to glimpse the resident animals and birdlife.
- Jaipur: Visit a local market in Jaipur.
- Jaipur: Discover the vibrant craft of block-printing in Jaipur with a Local Specialist. You’ll get a live demonstration before learning about this centuries-old art form, then roll up your sleeves and create your own masterpiece using the carved wooden blocks.
- Jaipur: During an orientation of Jaipur, visit the Amber Fort, City Palace and Jantar Mantar Observatory.
- Varanasi: Cruise down the Ganges and delve into local tradition as you witness the ritual of Aarti.
- Varanasi: As the sun rises over Varanasi, view the banks of the River Ganges come to life during a morning boat ride.
- Varanasi: Explore Varanasi on foot through its old lanes and temple precincts, where daily life and devotion sit side by side. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of Hinduism’s most important sacred sites, known for its gold-plated spire and domes.
- Periyar National Park: Witness the ancient art of Kalarippayattu as Kalari warriors dazzle you with leaps and somersaults. Afterwards, you’ll discover the discipline and skill behind this tradition with a hands-on martial arts lesson. This is your chance to channel the spirit of Kerala’s heritage in the most exciting way.
- Kumarakom: Discover rural life on a walking tour with a local market visit.
- Kumily: Learn about time-tested customs and the cultural significance of spice cultivation during your visit to Kumily Spice Garden.
- Kerala Backwater Day Tours: Cruise the backwaters of Kerala on a traditional houseboat. Get an insider's look at the day-to-day activities of locals as you journey along Kerala's waterways.
- Kochi: See the unique Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
- Delhi: The Delhi City Walk tour explores lesser-known attractions around Paharganj and New Delhi Railway Station, guided by a Young Adult at the Trust who once lived and worked on the streets of Delhi. This personal touch makes the tour special and gives you a view of the tour guide's world through their eyes. City Walk is an example of how a volunteer's creativity can translate into a unique and enduring program, which is both popular and economically viable. This experience directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education.
- Ranthambore National Park: Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at Dhonk Textile Studio, where local women produce handcrafted textiles as part of a conservation initiative that provides ethical livelihoods and deters tiger poaching. Meet the artisans, learn about their work and see how your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 5 & 15: Gender Equality and Life on Land.
- Varanasi: Visit Weavers Village in Varanasi, where you’ll see how local artisans keep the city’s silk weaving tradition alive. With a Local Specialist, watch the process behind the famous Banarasi saris and learn how this long-held craft continues to support the community. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality.
Trafalgar Difference
- Ranthambore National Park: This family-run hotel near Ranthambore National Park was built by a former souvenir seller who grew up just outside the park. Simple and welcoming, it reflects the local way of life and supports jobs for the surrounding village. It’s a stay that brings you closer to the community, and the story behind it.
Be My Guest
- Jaipur: Join your hosts, Jaideo and Devika, for a memorable evening, where you’ll share dinner with their family and explore their beautiful home, gaining an insider's view of life in Jaipur. Listen to personal stories and hear about India’s rich history directly from those who live it, all while savoring the incredible flavors of local cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes like daal (lentil curry), laal maans (spicy meat curry), bati (baked bread with ghee), and phenni (crispy dessert), each prepared with authentic spices and love.
- Kochi: Dine with a local family in their home in Kochi and gain a fascinating insight into their lifestyle.
- Tour
- India
- Trafalgar
- Asia
Details
- Tour Operator
- Trafalgar
- Start City
- New Delhi
- End City
- Varanasi
- Duration (Days)
- 16
Highlights
- Asia
Pricing & departures
| Option | From | Departs | Returns |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twin | USD 3,995 | January 2, 2027 | January 17, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 3,975 | January 2, 2027 | January 17, 2027 |
| Single | USD 4,945 | January 2, 2027 | January 17, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 3,995 | January 16, 2027 | January 31, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 3,975 | January 16, 2027 | January 31, 2027 |
| Single | USD 4,945 | January 16, 2027 | January 31, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 3,995 | January 30, 2027 | February 14, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 3,975 | January 30, 2027 | February 14, 2027 |
| Single | USD 4,945 | January 30, 2027 | February 14, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 3,995 | February 13, 2027 | February 28, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 3,975 | February 13, 2027 | February 28, 2027 |
| Single | USD 4,945 | February 13, 2027 | February 28, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 4,125 | February 25, 2027 | March 12, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 4,105 | February 25, 2027 | March 12, 2027 |
| Single | USD 5,135 | February 25, 2027 | March 12, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 3,995 | March 6, 2027 | March 21, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 3,975 | March 6, 2027 | March 21, 2027 |
| Single | USD 4,945 | March 6, 2027 | March 21, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 3,995 | March 15, 2027 | March 30, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 3,975 | March 15, 2027 | March 30, 2027 |
| Single | USD 4,945 | March 15, 2027 | March 30, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 3,995 | March 27, 2027 | April 11, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 3,975 | March 27, 2027 | April 11, 2027 |
| Single | USD 4,945 | March 27, 2027 | April 11, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 3,450 | April 10, 2027 | April 25, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 3,430 | April 10, 2027 | April 25, 2027 |
| Single | USD 4,120 | April 10, 2027 | April 25, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 3,450 | April 24, 2027 | May 9, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 3,430 | April 24, 2027 | May 9, 2027 |
| Single | USD 4,120 | April 24, 2027 | May 9, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 3,450 | May 8, 2027 | May 23, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 3,430 | May 8, 2027 | May 23, 2027 |
| Single | USD 4,120 | May 8, 2027 | May 23, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 3,450 | May 22, 2027 | June 6, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 3,430 | May 22, 2027 | June 6, 2027 |
| Single | USD 4,120 | May 22, 2027 | June 6, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 3,995 | October 2, 2027 | October 17, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 3,975 | October 2, 2027 | October 17, 2027 |
| Single | USD 4,945 | October 2, 2027 | October 17, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 3,995 | October 12, 2027 | October 27, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 3,975 | October 12, 2027 | October 27, 2027 |
| Single | USD 4,945 | October 12, 2027 | October 27, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 3,995 | October 22, 2027 | November 6, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 3,975 | October 22, 2027 | November 6, 2027 |
| Single | USD 4,945 | October 22, 2027 | November 6, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 4,125 | November 1, 2027 | November 16, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 4,105 | November 1, 2027 | November 16, 2027 |
| Single | USD 5,135 | November 1, 2027 | November 16, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 3,995 | November 13, 2027 | November 28, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 3,975 | November 13, 2027 | November 28, 2027 |
| Single | USD 4,945 | November 13, 2027 | November 28, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 3,995 | November 27, 2027 | December 12, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 3,975 | November 27, 2027 | December 12, 2027 |
| Single | USD 4,945 | November 27, 2027 | December 12, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 4,175 | December 15, 2027 | December 30, 2027 |
| Triple | USD 4,155 | December 15, 2027 | December 30, 2027 |
| Single | USD 5,125 | December 15, 2027 | December 30, 2027 |
| Twin | USD 4,595 | December 22, 2027 | January 6, 2028 |
| Triple | USD 4,575 | December 22, 2027 | January 6, 2028 |
| Single | USD 5,785 | December 22, 2027 | January 6, 2028 |
Day by day
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Day 1
Welcome to Delhi
India's vibrant capital extends a lively welcome, launching an unforgettable journey through northern India’s most exquisite sights. On arrival in Delhi, you'll be transferred to your hotel where you'll meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a dinner this evening. Locations: Delhi
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Day 2
Discover the Delights of Old Delhi
Savor the scents of spice as you embark on an exhilarating rickshaw ride, navigating the busy streets of Old Delhi. See the Red Fort, a sandstone fortress which once housed the emperors of the Mughal dynasty for centuries. Next, Dive Into Culture as you ride through the colorful Chandni Chowk market and watch it come to life as the day's trading begins amidst the sounds of enthusiastic salesmen and endless traffic. Visit Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Admire its ornate façades before boarding a waiting vehicle to drive to Raj Ghat, a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Pay tribute to this beloved figurehead, who led the campaign for India’s independence from Britain. You’ll come face-to-face with the site where he was cremated following his assassination in 1948. Today the simple square platform of black marble is surrounded by a tranquil park, befitting of its status as a place of contemplation. Your next stop is Agrasen Ki Baoli, one of the most noteworthy stepwells in Delhi. Hidden amidst the cacophony of Delhi’s streets and business towers, this ancient water reservoir rises from the depths of the earth to stand atop 103 stone steps. Spend a few moments of serenity amidst its centuries-old ornate arches before returning to your hotel for an afternoon of leisure or consider one of our Optional Experiences. Locations: Delhi
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Day 3
See the Sights of Delhi
This morning, embark on a guided walking tour to discover the work done by the Salaam Baalak Trust, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. This non-profit organization that aims to provide a caring environment for street children. Later, we'll walk through the bazaar of Paharganj, rubbing shoulders with the locals who flock to the market to shop everyday. Escape the noise and head to New Delhi, designed and built by the British in the 1920s. Your first stop here is a visit to the UNESCO-listed Humayun's Tomb, the earliest example of Mughal architecture in India. Recently renovated with the gardens restored to their former glory, you’ll see first-hand why it served as the inspiration for the design of the famous Taj Mahal. Enjoy local flavors for lunch at a restaurant near India Gate, then head to the Qutub Minar complex, also a UNESCO listed site. This fluted ‘Victory Tower’ is decorated with elaborate inscriptions, geometric carvings and elegant balconies. Returning to your hotel later, drive past Lutyens' Delhi to view the elegant colonial façades leading British architect Edwin Lutyens left behind on the cityscape. You'll have the rest of the afternoon at leisure, or perhaps join one of our Optional Experiences. Locations: Delhi
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Day 4
Sunset at the Taj Mahal
It’s time to leave Delhi behind, bound for the Uttar Pradesh city of Agra. There are many reasons to love Agra and its own ‘monument to love’, the Taj Mahal, is perhaps the most captivating of all. Marvel at its elegant marble façades awash with the sunset's rose and golden hues. Admire this well-preserved landmark from all sides and take time to contemplate the magnificence of this man-made wonder before re-joining your fellow travelers. This evening, you could choose to end a memorable day at an optional sound and light show prior to dinner. Locations: Delhi, Agra
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Day 5
From the Taj to the Tigers
There’s more to Agra than the Taj Mahal, as you’ll discover during your visit to the UNESCO-listed Agra Fort. Walk through the chambers of this 17th-century residence, once home to Mughal emperors before the capital moved to Delhi. You’ll then explore Fatehpur Sikri, the once-grand 'Ghost Town' built by Emperor Akbar and abandoned soon after. Its red sandstone buildings remain hauntingly intact. After visiting Bharatpur, board a train to Ranthambore: where you’ll stay at The Shergarh Resort, one of our Stays with Stories. This simple, family-run hotel was founded by a local who grew up near the park and now supports his village through tourism. Locations: Agra, Bharatpur, Ranthambore
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Day 6
Roam Ranthambore in Search of Tigers
Head out on an early morning game drive, one of the best times to spot the elusive Bengal tiger. Animals spotted and breakfast eaten, visit Dhonk Textile Studio, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, where local women create handcrafted textiles as part of a conservation initiative that supports ethical livelihoods and protects wildlife. Enjoy some time to unwind before heading back into the park for your second game drive, making the most of your last chance to spot Ranthambore’s incredible wildlife. Locations: Ranthambore, Ranthambore National Park, Ranthambore
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Day 7
Onwards to Jaipur
Continue your journey to Jaipur, the Pink City. After some free time for lunch, join a hand-block printing workshop, one of the most famous traditional art forms of Rajasthan. A Local Specialist will show you the tricks of the trade as you observe how the prints are handmade using small wooden blocks and hone your own block-printing skills. Later, see the talents of local craftspeople on display during a visit to a local market. From beautifully embroidered textiles to exquisite blue pottery, you’ll find plenty of treasures to admire and perhaps a special keepsake to bring home. This evening, enjoy true Indian hospitality at Jaideo and Devika’s guesthouse in Jaipur for a Be My Guest experience. Your hosts, a family from the royal Rajpoot community, welcome you into their home, share stories of life in India and serve traditional dishes like daal and bati for a real taste of Jaipur’s culture. Locations: Ranthambore, Jaipur
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Day 8
Explore Colorful Jaipur
One of today's highlights is a visit to the UNESCO-listed Amber Fort. But first, stop to admire the red and pink façades of the Palace of Winds, whose latticed windows once revealed the outside world to the sheltered ladies of the royal household. Continue with a visit to the ornate City Palace, an impressive complex of buildings from different eras and gardens in the heart of the Old City. Enjoy some time for lunch before visiting the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar Observatory, featuring the world's largest sundial. Later, perhaps join our optional Aarti ceremony, offering a blessing to one of the Hindu deities and hopefully receiving one in return. Locations: Jaipur
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Day 9
Venutre to Varanasi
Depart Jaipur this morning and board your flight to Varanasi, the sacred city at the heart of Hinduism. On arrival, there’s free time for lunch before sightseeing introduces the city’s temples, old ghats and deep connection to the Ganges, where daily rituals and centuries of belief shape life along the riverbanks. Later this evening, cruise along the River Ganges to witness the ritual of Aarti, watching as lamps and flowers are set afloat on the water during this important act of devotion, before returning to your hotel for dinner. Locations: Jaipur, Varanasi
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Day 10
Witness Local Life Along the Ganges
Rise early for a boat ride on the Ganges as Varanasi stirs to life along the riverbanks. Back on land, take a heritage walk through the city’s old lanes and temple precincts before returning to your hotel for breakfast. Later, visit Sarnath, one of Buddhism’s most important pilgrimage sites, to see its sacred monuments and remarkable collection of artifacts. Then join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience to meet local weavers and learn about Varanasi’s centuries-old silk tradition. This evening, perhaps choose an Optional Experience to watch a performance of Indian classical dance before coming together for dinner. Locations: Varanasi
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Day 11
Welcome to Kochi, Gateway to the Backwaters of Kerala
It's time to bid farewell to Varanasi. Take a transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Kochi, where your spiritual and cultural encounter with India continues. The bountiful backwaters of Kerala, ‘God’s own country’, welcome you. This slice of southern India is a lush garden filled with spices, brilliant colors and the enchanting sounds of nature. Relax on the tranquil shores of the Arabian Sea and let the freshest seafood melt in your mouth as you sink into a more straightforward way of life – one where nature sets the pace for the day. Locations: Varanasi, Kochi
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Day 12
Nature and Relaxation in Periyar
Today you travel into Kerala’s lush landscapes to Periyar, named after the state’s longest river which winds through the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park. On arrival, you may choose to join an Optional Experience boat ride on Periyar Lake, watching for elephants and sambar deer along the shore and looking out for birdlife and smooth-coated otters in the shallows. Later, you’ll head to your hotel to freshen up before you Dive Into Culture with a Kalarippayattu performance, as trained Kalari warriors demonstrate this ancient martial art and you’ll try a few moves under the guidance of skilled masters. Locations: Kochi, Periyar National Park
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Day 13
Onwards to Kumarakom
The intoxicating scents of cardamom, cinnamon and cloves linger long after today’s encounter with Kerala’s famous spices. Your first stop today is a visit to Kumily Spice Garden. Here you’ll learn how the locals grow and share an astounding variety of flavourful spices, ranging from pepper and ginger to vanilla and cardamom, the 'Queen of Spices'. Gain in-depth insights into the process of spice cultivation and discover how Kerala’s international spice trade has shaped its culture and heritage. There’s more to experience as you head to Kumarakom, a tranquil village set on the peaceful banks of Lake Vembanad, the largest lake in Kerala. Embark on a walking tour and Dive Into Culture as you admire the vibrant day-to-day of village life in the regional market and lively streets. Locations: Periyar National Park, Kumarakom
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Day 14
Cruise the Calm Backwaters
Kerala’s intrinsic relationship with water takes center stage today. But first, perhaps start your morning with an optional yoga session, embracing the tranquility of your surroundings before breakfast. Then, board a traditional houseboat for a cruise through Kerala’s iconic waterways. Take a deep breath and enjoy the slow, sultry pace of life as you wind your way to Alleppey, passing villagers in wooden Shikaras and palm-fringed shores. Even your ride for the day is rooted in history. These houseboats, known as Kettuvalloms, were once used to ferry rice and spices. Upon arriving in Alleppey, disembark and return to Kumarakom for dinner and a relaxing evening. Locations: Kumarakom, Alleppey Backwater, Kumarakom
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Day 15
Explore Multi-Cultural Kochi
The remnants of Kerala's colorful, centuries-old trading history are best explored in the old port city of Kochi. It was here that Chinese, Arab and European merchants came to buy the fragrant spices that found their way to tables all over the world. In turn, they left their mark on Kochi's architecture, cuisine and traditions. Colonial bungalows, Catholic churches, mosques and a European fort season the cityscape that was once known as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea'. Enjoy time for lunch before embarking on a city tour to see first-hand this multicultural center, including views of the Mattancherry Dutch Palace and St. Francis Church, built by Portuguese traders. Visit the Fort Kochi area and see traditional cantilevered Chinese fishing nets unique to this part of Kerala. See how these fixed land installations made on bamboo scaffolding are artfully lowered into the sea to catch the seafood for which Kochi is famous. This evening, enjoy a cooking demonstration with a local family followed by a delicious Be My Guest dinner. Locations: Kumarakom, Kochi
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Day 16
Farewell Kochi
Your epic encounter with Kerala’s culture and natural wonders has come to an end, but your memories will last a lifetime. Say farewell to your travel companions and take an airport transfer for your onward flight. Locations: Kochi