India South & North

Intrepid Travel · 29 days

4.5

6 Reviews

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Duration

29 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

This extensive 29-day adventure through India takes you from bottom to top, revealing the icons and local secrets of this diverse country.

Highlights

Explore seaside Mamallapuram on a bicycle tour, pedalling to the eighth-century Shore Temple and incredible seventh-century stone carving known as Arjuna’s Penance.
Carve through the iridescent hills of Ootacamund (Ooty) on the vintage Nilgiri Mountain Railway, then visit a lush tea plantation.
Spot tigers, elephants, sloths, and birds on safaris and nature walks in three of India’s wildlife viewing hotspots – Mudumalai, Periyar, and Ranthambhore national parks.
Cruise the winding backwaters of Kerala and further immerse yourself in life on the water with an island homestay in this idyllic region.
Learn about life in the Rajasthani desert on a walking tour around the bustling ghats and temples of Pushkar followed by lunch with a local family.

Trip Details

Duration

29 days

Transportation

4x4 Safari Vehicle,Auto rickshaw,Boat,Bus,Cycle rickshaw,Ferry,Jeep,Metro,Overnight sleeper train,Private vehicle,Shuttle Bus,Taxi,Train,Van,Plane

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Kochi, India

Finishes

Delhi, India

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Kochi

Namaste! Welcome to India. Your adventure starts today in Kochi with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, there are plenty of things to see and do. Once an important spice-trading centre, Kochi has been under Portuguese, Dutch and British rule at various times throughout history. Explore with one of our Urban Adventures or wander down to the shore and seek out the huge Chinese fishing nets dotted along the coast of Fort Cochin.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Kochi

This morning, take on Kochi with a leader-led orientation walk and city tour. Take a local tuk-tuk to Mattancherry and drop by the Dutch Palace, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century before it was renovated and presented to the Rajas of Cochin by the Dutch. Maybe visit the Paradesi Synagogue – the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth and home to many rare antiques. Then, amble around the spice bazaars and antique stores of Fort Cochin. In the evening, experience a Kathakali performance – this Keralan dance is an ornately costumed display of storytelling, requiring complete control of the body.

Included Activities:

Kochi - Leader-led Fort Kochi walking tour
Kochi - Dutch Palace
Kochi - Kathakali performance

Optional Activities:

Kochi - Jewish Synagogue (5 INR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Conoor

Buckle up, because most of today is spent travelling. Catch a train to Coimbatore, then when you arrive, hop in your private vehicle to Conoor – known for its tea estates in the surrounding Nilgiri hills. Watch the lush scenery pass you by, get stuck into a good book or play road trip games with your fellow travellers. When you arrive in Conoor, you’ll sit down for a group dinner at your accommodation.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Ootacamund – Conoor

Spend the morning in Conoor with an orientation walk and a visit to a tea plantation to learn about the history of tea production. Later, board Ooty’s renowned toy train for a ride along the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. Be sure to get a window seat for great views over the lush countryside. Spend the rest of the day exploring Ooty’s Botanical Gardens, which are home to over 650 species of plants and trees. You can also opt to turn on the romance with a boat ride on the lake.

Included Activities:

Ooty - Nilgiri Mountain Railway & Tea Plantation visit

Optional Activities:

Ooty - Botanical Gardens (50 INR)
Ooty - Boat ride (200 INR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Mudumalai National Park – Bandipur

Take a private vehicle for the short drive to Bandipur today. Set against the backdrop of the Nilgiri Hills, Mudumalai National Park was once the Mysore Maharaja's private hunting ground. In 1974 it was brought under Project Tiger and is now one of the best sanctuaries in India to observe wildlife in close proximity. Embark on a short safari in search of tigers, leopards, elephants, sloth bears, sambars, spotted deer and much more. There's also an amazing variety of birdlife in the park. Tonight’s family-run accommodation in Bandipur is a mixed-gender dormitory style with a common bathroom. This dorm room is only open to your group.

Included Activities:

Bandipur - National Park Safari

Accommodation:

Jungle Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Mysore

Travel by private vehicle across the scenic Karnataka plains to Mysore – an easy-going town with a pleasant climate, perfect for wandering around on foot. When you arrive, you’ll head to local family’s home for a home-cooked lunch of traditional favourites. Get to know the family, who will show you the practise of making incense – one of the traditional arts from Mysuru. Learn about how it’s made and maybe even have a go yourself! Then, head out on an orientation walk around the town to get your bearings. No visit to Mysore is complete without a look around Mysore Palace – one of the most ornate palaces in India, its interior is full of colour, mosaics and mirrors.

Included Activities:

Mysore - Home cooked lunch & family visit
Mysore - Maharaja's Palace
Mysore - Leader-led walking tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Mysore – Overnight train

This morning, head out to climb Chamundi Hill to the Sri Chamundeswari Temple, dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Durga. After, continue to the Keshava Temple in the small town of Somnathpur – an excellent example of Hoysala architecture. You’ll also have some time to visit to Tipu Sultan’s mausoleum in Sriranga Patna. You can also opt to return to Mysore for a palm reading catch a film at the local cinema. Tonight, board an overnight sleeper train to Chennai.

Included Activities:

Mysore - Keshava Temple
Mysore - Chamundi Hill & Temple

Optional Activities:

Mysore - Cinema (200 INR)
Mysore - Tipu Sultan's Mausoleum (200 INR)

Accommodation:

Overnight Sleeper Train (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Mamallapuram

After arriving in Chennai, take a private vehicle along the scenic East Coast Road to Mamallapuram. Explore this ancient seaport town by tuk tuk, paying a visit to the seventh-century Shore Temple and the enormous bas-relief rock carving, known as Arjuna's Penance. There will also be time to inspect the town’s numerous mandapams (pillared temple pavilions), watch local stonemasons at work, or just to kick back and relax at a beachside restaurant.

Included Activities:

Mamallapuram - Shore Temples guided tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Puducherry

Travel by private vehicle today through palm trees and rice paddies to Puducherry (Pondicherry). When you arrive, head out with your group and leader on a walking tour to see local temples, the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and the French Quarter. Once a French colony, you’ll see the evidence of French influence in Puducherry's architecture, its wide town squares and even in the police uniforms!

Included Activities:

Puducherry - Leader-led French Quarter walking tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Madurai

Drive to the temple city of Madurai today. Madurai’s Tamil roots stretch back 2500 years, making it one of the oldest cities in India. Wander the lamp-lit labyrinth of the Sri Meenakshi Amman Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and goddess Meenakshi. Visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum, which displays a detailed account of India’s struggle for independence along with the bloodstained dhoti the famous leader wore when he was assassinated.

Included Activities:

Madurai - Sri Meenakshi Temple

Optional Activities:

Madurai - Gandhi Museum - Free

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Periyar

This morning, travel by private vehicle along a winding road to the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. High in the ranges of the Western Ghats, the park is set among stunning scenery and is the most popular wildlife sanctuary in Southern India. Both today and tomorrow, you’ll get to explore the national park on foot and will understand why Periyar is a popular wilderness sanctuary, with its lush surroundings. Enjoy a tour of a local spice plantation, then join your local family hosts to try some authentic home-cooked flavours of Southern India.

Included Activities:

Periyar - Spice plantation visit
Periyar - Home cooked meal

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Periyar

Venture back into the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary today for a guided nature walk. Encounters with animals in the wild are never guaranteed, and this is more of a jungle walk than an animal spotting tour, but do look out for tiger tracks, spotted deer, Indian elephants or gaur – the world's largest species of buffalo. In the afternoon, unwind with an optional ayurvedic massage at your accommodation, or just relax in this scenic setting with a drink.

Included Activities:

Periyar - National Park
Periyar - Guided nature walk

Optional Activities:

Periyar - Boat trip (650 INR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Kerala Backwaters

Today, drive through the rubber, tea and coffee plantations on the way to the backwaters of Kerala. When you arrive, you’ll board a motorboat to cross to the island village where you’ll stay with a local family tonight. In the late afternoon, explore the island with a local English-speaking guide (and sometimes, your homestay host). This is a great chance to meet locals and learn more about their unique way of life. Take a leisurely punt boat ride around the waterways and enjoy the scenery. Tonight, share stories over a traditional home-cooked Keralan meal with your host family.

Included Activities:

Kerala Backwaters - Pole boat ride
Kerala Backwaters - Village walk

Accommodation:

Homestay (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Kochi

Wake early this morning, before crossing the backwaters by private boat to Alleppey. From here, take a local bus back to Kochi. The rest of the day is free for you to choose your own adventure. Perhaps you’d like to stroll down Princess Street for a spot of shopping, or book yourself into a southern Indian cooking class – your group leader will have some other recommendations, so be sure to ask them. Tonight, why not gather with your group for a night out at a local restaurant and maybe try some pazham pori (fried banana or plantain fritter).

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Delhi

Take your included (but unescorted) flight from Kochi to Delhi today for the second part of your Indian adventure. There will be a meeting at 6 pm to welcome any new travellers joining you on the next stage of your adventure. After the meeting, choose whether to join the group for an optional dinner.

Optional Activities:

Delhi - Qutub Minar (600 INR)
Delhi - Humayun's Tomb (600 INR)
Old Red Fort (600 INR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Delhi

This morning, you'll navigate the city’s metro system and discover Old Delhi on a walking tour with your leader. Hitch a ride on a traditional cycle rickshaw through a classic Indian traffic jam in the streets around the Chandni Chowk marketplace. Visit Delhi’s oldest mosque Jama Masjid, which is also India’s largest. Then, escape the city streets by ducking into the Sikh temple of Sheeshganj Gurudwara, to experience the spiritual side of this bustling metropolis. The communal kitchen welcomes all and you can have a simple meal here together. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy the sights of Delhi.

Included Activities:

Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour
Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Agra

Travel to Agra by one of India's express air-conditioned trains. Steeped in Mughal heritage, Agra has a wealth of gardens, temples and open rooftops. When you arrive, you’ll visit the Taj Mahal – one of the Seven Wonders of the World – and learn why Emperor Shah Jahan built it as a memorial to his wife Mumtaz. Head inside the spectacular sandstone walls of the Red Fort, built to encompass the imperial city of the Mughal rulers in the 16th century. If you have time, move on to Akbar's Mausoleum. Tonight, consider visiting Sheroes Hangout – this social enterprise supports survivors of acid attacks – for a meal with a difference.

Included Activities:

Agra - Taj Mahal
Agra - Agra Fort
Agra - Red Fort guided tour

Optional Activities:

Agra - Additional entries to Taj Mahal (1300 INR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 18: Madhogarh

Take a private bus to Madhogarh this morning. When you arrive, walk through the village and see the local craftspeople at work making resin bangles. These families are from the Lakhera community – in Hindu mythology, Lakheras are created by Lord Shiva for making bangles for Goddess Parvathy. This practice is a traditional art, and you can see for yourself how they heat the resin and shape it with handmade tools. In the evening, stay in the beautiful heritage property of Fort Madhogarh, which has belonged to one of Rajasthan’s royal families for centuries.

Included Activities:

Madhogarh - Leader-led village walk
Madhogarh - Dinner at Fort Madhogarh

Accommodation:

Heritage Property (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 19: Jaipur

Travel on by private vehicle to Jaipur. When you arrive, walk around the ‘Pink City’ with your leader. Get among the crowds of the city’s bazaars to shop for artisan goods and semi-precious stones. Visit the Amber Fort – an excellent example of Rajput architecture, set on a hilltop overlooking Maota Lake. The Sheesh Mahal inside the fort is must-see. As the walls are completely covered in little mirrors, the hall illuminates with the light of a single match. After, you'll have free time to explore at your own pace.

Included Activities:

Jaipur - Amber Fort
Jaipur - Leader-led walking & market tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 20: Jaipur

Today is a full free day to take on any optional activities or independent exploration that you wish. This morning, you could take an optional hot air balloon ride – floating across the skyline of Jaipur in a hot air balloon is a highlight of the trip for many travellers. Jump on a rickshaw to Hawa Mahal, also known as the 'Palace of the Winds’. Alternatively, head to Jaipur's Royal City Palace or the observatory of Jantar Mantar to see a collection of intriguing astronomical instruments. After a long day of exploration, perhaps head to the Raj Mandir Cinema to see a Bollywood film.

Optional Activities:

Jaipur - City Palace (1200 INR)
Jaipur - Jantar Mantar Observatory (200 INR)
Jaipur - Bollywood Movie at Raj Mandir Cinema (400 INR)
Jaipur - Balloon Safari (280 USD)
Jaipur - Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Wind) (200 INR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 21: Ranthambhore National Park

Today you’ll head to Ranthambhore National Park – once a famous hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur and one of the original Project Tiger reserves. In the evening, you’ll take a 4WD bus safari in search of tigers and other wildlife, like hyenas, jackals, deer, langurs, marsh crocodiles, wild boars and birds. Ranthambhore National Park is closed between 1 July and 30 September each year. On trips departing during this time, you'll visit nearby Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary. Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary is about 16 km from Ranthambhore and, due to its hilly terrain, isn't as affected by the monsoon. Tigers also inhabit this area, and sightings are more favourable at this time of year as they move here away from flooded areas of Ranthambhore.

Included Activities:

Ranthambhore National Park - Evening wildlife safari

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 22: Bundi

Today, you'll travel to Bundi by private vehicle. When you arrive, navigate Bundi's narrow streets on an insightful walking tour, including the downtown market and meeting jewellery merchants, street dentists and fabric dealers. Learn the secret of chai making from a local chai master and try a fresh brew. Stop in at Bundi's intriguing and intricate step wells (baori) – an architectural marvel, and once the source of water for the town. Check out the 16th-century Bundi Palace with its famous murals before checking into our next heritage stay for the night.

Included Activities:

Bundi - Stepwell
Bundi - Bundi Palace
Bundi - Market visit & Chai tasting

Accommodation:

Heritage Property (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 23: Paangarh Lake

Take a local train to Bassi, crossing the Chittorgarh countryside to Paangarh Lake. When you arrive, enjoy the view out to the 15th-century fort and unwind with a cup of chai while watching the sunset over the lake. You'll spend tonight in a beautiful permanent tented camp, right on the lakeshore – this is a truly relaxing experience away from the chaos of India's cities.

Accommodation:

Permanent Tent (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 24: Bijaipur

This morning, drive in an open-top jeep out into the countryside past quiet villages. You might be lucky enough to spot some native wildlife as you go, like jackals, langurs, foxes and hares. When you arrive, meet some villagers and maybe even get a henna tattoo (a temporary but traditional souvenir). After, head to your next heritage stay in Bijaipur and enjoy a meal of authentic local specialties made with seasonal vegetables – maybe try baingan masala (eggplant cooked with tomatoes), okra, kadhi (thick, tangy gravy) or chicken curry.

Included Activities:

Bijaipur - Countryside jeep safari

Optional Activities:

Bijaipur - Henna tattoo (150 INR)

Accommodation:

Heritage Property (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 25: Udaipur

Wake up in your gorgeous heritage stay and enjoy a final breakfast here as you begin your next journey by private vehicle to Udaipur. When you arrive, you’ll head out on a city walk with your leader. Take in the city’s hills, lakes and white marble palaces and delve into the twisting alleys and bazaars filled with silver, leather goods and miniature paintings. A popular centre for artists, dancers, and musicians, there’s plenty to entertain you here. After, the rest of your day is free. Maybe ask your leader for some dinner recommendations.

Included Activities:

Udaipur - Leader-led walking tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 26: Udaipur

Visit Udaipur's City Palace – one of the largest royal palaces in India. After, you’ll have some free time to explore at your own pace. Maybe take an optional boat ride on the picturesque Lake Pichola (seasonal) to see the island palaces off Jag Nivas and Jag Mandir. After, maybe head out to watch a cultural performance that combines seven traditional Rajasthani folk dances – the perfect way to spend an evening in Udaipur.

Included Activities:

Udaipur - City Palace

Optional Activities:

Udaipur - Cultural performance (250 INR)
Udaipur - Lake boat ride (500 INR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 27: Pushkar

Today, take an air-conditioned train to Ajmer, then a private vehicle to your hotel in Pushkar. When you arrive, head out on a walking tour to visit the bustling ghats and temples around Pushkar Lake and watch as the devout worship by the holy waters and at the Brahma Temple. At dinnertime, share a meal with a local family and learn about their life living in this desert city. The rest of the evening is free for you to explore further.

Included Activities:

Pushkar - Leader-led walking tour
Pushkar - Home-cooked Dinner

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 28: Pushkar - Delhi

Early risers can hike up to the Savitri Temple this morning for amazing sunrise views over the town. If you'd prefer, you can soak up a leisurely morning. This afternoon, you’ll board the Shatabdi Express train for the trip back to Delhi, arriving late in the evening. You’ll then transfer to the hotel for your final night of the trip.

Optional Activities:

Pushkar - Sunrise at Savitri Temple - Free

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 29: Delhi

There are no activities planned for the final day and you’re able to depart the accommodation at any time.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $5,375

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 29 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

This extensive 29-day adventure through India takes you from bottom to top, revealing the icons and local secrets of this diverse country.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 01 Jan 2027

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

5.0

Aurelia

Traveled, March 2024

04/10/2024

An incredible journey to discover magical India. The accommodation in Rajasthan was excellent but in the Southern part of the trip some hotels were a bit basic. All the included activities were excellent and our guides were very helpful, knowledgeable and professional. The itinerary is very good, so I would highly recommend this trip.

3.0

Helen

Traveled, December 2023

01/23/2024

This trip is not for the faint hearted. It involves huge distances and an exhausting number of one night stays. The accommodation varies from a majority of extremely basic hostel standard and only a few comfortable hotels.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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