Golden Triangle with Goa & Kerala

Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, you’ll be greeted by our representative who will assist with your transfer to your hotel. After checking in, the remainder of the day is at leisure to rest after your international flight or begin exploring the surrounding area. Delhi, India’s cosmopolitan capital, offers a fascinating blend of ancient monuments and modern infrastructure. Overnight in Delhi.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day exploration of Delhi, beginning with New Delhi’s impressive landmarks. Visit the peaceful Laxmi Narayan Temple (Birla Mandir), dedicated to the goddess of wealth. Continue to India Gate, a memorial to Indian soldiers who died in World War I, and drive past the massive Parliament House and Presidential Palace (Rashtrapati Bhavan).

In the afternoon, discover the contrasting world of Old Delhi with its narrow lanes and historic monuments. Visit Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque that can accommodate 25,000 worshippers, and the magnificent Red Fort (Lal Qila), a UNESCO World Heritage site built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. Pay your respects at Raj Ghat, the simple but moving memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.

In the evening, experience the captivating sound and light show at the Red Fort, which brings to life the history of Delhi through dramatic narration, music, and illumination. Overnight in Delhi.

After breakfast, drive to Agra along the Yamuna Expressway. Upon arrival in Agra, check into your hotel before visiting the city’s iconic monuments in the afternoon. Begin with Agra Fort, a massive red sandstone fortress that served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until 1638. The fort offers magnificent views of the Taj Mahal across the river.

Later, visit the incomparable Taj Mahal, Emperor Shah Jahan’s enduring monument to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. This perfectly symmetrical ivory-white marble mausoleum is considered the greatest architectural achievement in the whole range of Indo-Islamic architecture. Spend time exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site as the changing light creates different moods throughout your visit. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay in Agra.

After breakfast, check out and begin your journey to Jaipur. En route, visit Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned red sandstone city built by Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century. Explore this remarkably well-preserved complex of palaces, mosques, and courtyards, including the tomb of Sufi saint Salim Chishti, the grand Jama Masjid mosque, and the intricately carved five-story Panch Mahal palace.

Continue your drive to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan known as the “Pink City” for its distinctive rose-colored buildings. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the evening at leisure, perhaps taking a gentle stroll through the nearby markets to get a first taste of this vibrant city. Overnight in Jaipur.

Start your day with breakfast before enjoying the unique experience of riding a decorated elephant up the hill to Amber Fort (subject to availability; jeep rides are an alternative). This magnificent hilltop fortress combines Rajput and Mughal architectural styles with its imposing gateways, elegant courtyards, and mirrored halls.

After lunch, explore Jaipur’s city attractions, beginning with the City Palace complex that continues to be the residence of the royal family. Visit the Royal Observatory (Jantar Mantar), a collection of architectural astronomical instruments built by Maharaja Jai Singh II. Marvel at the intricate honeycomb façade of the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), designed to allow royal ladies to observe street festivities while remaining unseen. Also visit the serene Jal Mahal (Water Palace) situated in the middle of Man Sagar Lake, and the Central Museum with its extensive collection of art, carpets, paintings, and costumes.

In the evening, explore Jaipur’s bustling bazaars, known for textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts. This is the perfect opportunity to purchase souvenirs such as blue pottery, block-printed fabrics, and traditional Rajasthani puppets. Overnight in Jaipur.

After breakfast, transfer to Jaipur International Airport for your flight to Goa. Upon arrival at Goa’s Dabolim Airport, our representative will greet you and assist with your transfer to your beach resort. Check in and spend the remainder of the day at leisure, perhaps taking a stroll along the beach or enjoying the resort’s facilities. Goa, with its Portuguese heritage and laid-back atmosphere, offers a striking contrast to the architectural splendors of North India. Overnight in Goa.

Following breakfast, embark on a guided tour of South Goa, known for its pristine beaches and Portuguese colonial heritage. Visit the Pilar Monastery, an important religious center established in 1613. Continue to Margao, Goa’s second-largest city, to explore its colonial-era buildings and bustling market. Relax at Colva Beach, a long stretch of white sand fringed by coconut palms.

Visit the port city of Vasco da Gama, named after the Portuguese explorer, and see Mormugao Harbour, one of India’s major ports. In the afternoon, explore Panaji (Panjim), Goa’s capital, with its Mediterranean atmosphere and colonial architecture. Visit the peaceful Miramar Beach and the scenic Dona Paula viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the Arabian Sea. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay in Goa.

Today is entirely at your disposal to enjoy Goa’s famous beaches and relaxed lifestyle. You might choose to simply relax on the golden sands, swim in the warm waters of the Arabian Sea, or try water sports such as parasailing or jet skiing. Alternatively, explore the local markets, sample Goan cuisine with its unique blend of Indian and Portuguese flavors, or take an optional excursion to spice plantations or the magnificent Dudhsagar Waterfall (seasonal).

In the evening, you might wish to experience Goa’s legendary nightlife, with options ranging from quiet beachfront restaurants to vibrant clubs and bars. Overnight in Goa.

After breakfast, transfer to Goa’s Dabolim Airport for your flight to Cochin (Kochi). Upon arrival at Cochin International Airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. After checking in and refreshing, begin exploring this historic port city with its unique cultural influences from Dutch, Portuguese, British, and Jewish settlers.

Visit the Dutch-era Mattancherry Palace (also known as the Dutch Palace) with its remarkable murals depicting scenes from Hindu epics. Continue to St. Francis Church, India’s oldest European church where explorer Vasco da Gama was originally buried. Explore the 16th-century Jewish Synagogue in Jew Town, decorated with hand-painted Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers.

Witness the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets along the harbor—massive cantilevered structures introduced by traders from the court of Kublai Khan. In the evening, attend a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, Kerala’s classical dance-drama known for its elaborate makeup, costumes, and stylized gestures. Overnight in Cochin.

After breakfast, journey east into the Western Ghats mountains toward Periyar National Park. The scenic drive takes you through changing landscapes of tea, coffee, and spice plantations. Upon arrival, check into your jungle resort or hotel.

In the afternoon, explore nearby spice plantations to learn about the cultivation of cardamom, pepper, cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla that have made this region famous for centuries. Your guide will explain the various spices and their medicinal properties. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy the natural surroundings of your accommodation. Periyar offers a refreshing contrast to the urban and coastal environments you’ve experienced thus far. Overnight in Periyar.

Rise early for a boat safari on Lake Periyar within the national park. This tranquil boat ride offers excellent opportunities to observe wildlife coming to the water’s edge, including wild elephants, sambar deer, gaur (Indian bison), and numerous bird species. While tiger sightings are rare, the lake setting with its partially submerged trees and forested shores creates a memorable wildlife viewing experience.

After breakfast, drive to Kumarakom, situated on the banks of Lake Vembanad. The journey takes you through the cardamom hills and rubber plantations of the Western Ghats before descending to the backwater region. Upon arrival, check into your lakeside resort. Spend the remainder of the day relaxing and enjoying the peaceful backwater views from your accommodation. Overnight in Kumarakom.

After breakfast, visit the renowned Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, spread across 14 acres. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wetland birds, both resident and migratory. Between November and May, birds such as egrets, darters, herons, teals, waterfowls, cuckoos, and Siberian storks visit the sanctuary. A guided walk through the sanctuary offers excellent birdwatching opportunities.

The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy optional water sports activities (direct payment) or simply relax at your resort. You might choose to indulge in an Ayurvedic treatment, a specialty of Kerala, or take a sunset boat ride on the lake. Overnight in Kumarakom.

Following breakfast, drive to Alleppey (Alappuzha), known as the “Venice of the East” for its network of backwater canals. Upon arrival, board your private traditional houseboat (kettuvallam). These rice barges have been converted into comfortable floating accommodations while retaining their traditional charm.

Begin your cruise through the peaceful backwaters, a network of canals, rivers, and lakes that run parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. Observe rural Kerala life unfolding along the shores—farmers working in emerald paddy fields, women washing clothes, children playing, and birds soaring overhead. Your onboard chef will prepare authentic Kerala cuisine using fresh local ingredients, which you’ll enjoy on deck while watching the serene landscape pass by.

As evening approaches, witness a spectacular sunset over the palm-fringed waterways before retiring to your cabin for the night. The gentle rocking of the boat and natural sounds of the backwaters provide a uniquely peaceful overnight experience.

Wake to the gentle sounds of the backwaters and enjoy breakfast on deck before disembarking. Begin your journey south to Kovalam, a beach destination renowned for its crescent shores and laid-back atmosphere. Upon arrival, check into your beach resort.

In the afternoon, visit Kovalam Beach with its three distinct coves: Lighthouse Beach with its distinctive red and white lighthouse, Hawah (Eve’s) Beach, and Samudra Beach. Enjoy time at leisure to stroll along the shoreline, swim in the Arabian Sea (where safe), or simply relax on the golden sands. The area offers the perfect setting to unwind after your journey through India’s diverse landscapes. Overnight in Kovalam.

Today is entirely at your disposal to enjoy Kovalam’s beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. You might choose to simply relax on the golden sands, swim in the warm waters of the Arabian Sea, or try water sports such as surfing or paddleboarding. Alternatively, indulge in an Ayurvedic treatment, a specialty of Kerala, or explore the local markets for souvenirs.

For lunch, sample the excellent seafood for which Kerala’s coast is famous, prepared with fragrant local spices. As evening approaches, find a perfect spot to watch the sunset over the Arabian Sea, perhaps while enjoying a refreshing coconut water or local beverage. Overnight in Kovalam.

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to Trivandrum International Airport for your flight to Delhi, from where you’ll connect to your international departure. If time permits, a brief city tour of Trivandrum can be arranged, including views of the impressive Padmanabhaswamy Temple (exterior only, as entry is restricted for non-Hindus) and a visit to the Napier Museum with its unique architectural style.

Depart with memories of India’s remarkable diversity—from the imperial monuments of the north to the palm-fringed beaches of Goa and the serene backwaters of Kerala.