Join us on a captivating journey with our Heritage of South and Gems of North India tour, offering a perfect blend of adventure and exploration. Begin your 10-day odyssey in Bangalore, the high-tech hub of India and the capital of Karnataka, a southwestern state along the Arabian Sea coastline.
Dive into the rich heritage of South India as you spend five days visiting Bangalore, Hassan, and Mysore.
Explore the cultural tapestry, historical wonders, and picturesque landscapes that define this region. From there, transition seamlessly to the northern part of the country, spending the remaining five days delving into the gems of North India.
Witness the majesty of India's most visited cities; Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur as you traverse the historical and cultural wonders that each destination offers.
This tour encapsulates the diversity of India, from the bustling high-tech atmosphere of Bangalore to the iconic landmarks and vibrant markets of the northern cities.
Join us on this adventure that spans the length and breadth of the country, showcasing the unique charm and allure of both South and North India, creating an unforgettable and enriching travel experience
At a glance
Day 1 Welcome to Bangalore. Transfer to hotel
Day 2 Bangalore morning tour.Onwards to Hassan
Day 3 Hassan city tour and travel to Mysore
Day 4 Sightseeing tour of Mysore
Day 5 Return to Bangalore for flight to Delhi
Day 6 Delhi tour and continue to Agra
Day 7 Visit the famous Taj Mahal and Agra Fort
Day 8 Stop at Fatehpur Sikri. Arrive in Jaipur
Day 9 Jaipur tour with Elephant ride to the Amber Fort
Day 10 Return to Delhi Airport for onward/return flight
Highlights
> Visit the Garden City of Bangalore
> Stay in Hassan, a city founded during the 11th century and best known for its exquisite temples
> Explore Mysore, the city of Palaces and its silk saris and sandalwood
> See Delhi, the national capital of India
> Take time to take in the romantic Taj Mahal site in Agra
> Spend a full day in Jaipur, including an elephant ride tot he Amber Fort
Quick Contact
Itinerary
Agra (B)
- After breakfast, start your morning tour of the Taj Mahal & Fort.
- Visit the world famous Taj Mahal built by Shah Jahan in 1560 in memory of his queen Mumtaz Mahal to enshrine her mortal remains.
- This architectural marvel is a perfectly proportioned masterpiece fashioned from white marble that stands testimony to the skill of 20;000 craftsmen brought together from Persia; Turkey; France and Italy and who took 17 years to complete this ‘Love Poem in Marble’. (Friday closed).
- Later visit the Agra fort containing the halls of private & public audiences & other palaces.
- Shah Jahan spent years of confinement here at the hands of his son Aurangzeb; looking wistfully at the Taj Mahal from the Fort.
- After the tour return to your hotel.
- Overnight at your hotel in Agra.
Agra – Jaipur (B)
- After breakfast, we depart Agra for Jaipur by car.
- Enroute visit Fatehpur Sikri; built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and abandoned after 15 years due to a scarcity of water. The Fatehpur Sikri complex houses tomb of Salim Chisti; Panch Mahal and other palaces; which surprisingly have withstood the ravages of time and are still in good condition.
- On arrival in Jaipur; check-in at your hotel.
- The rest of the day is at your leisure to explore Jaipur.
- Overnight at your hotel in Jaipur.
Jaipur (B)
- Morning excursion to Amber Fort.
- Standing tall over a small hillock overlooking the Pink city; Amber is a classic; romantic Rajasthani Fort-Palace. Miniatures painted on the walls depict hunting and war scenes; apart from festivals. Precious stones and mirrors are embedded into the plaster.
- A major attraction at Amber is the Elephant Ride; all the way up to the Fort entrance.
- Afternoon half day sightseeing tour. The tour begins with a visit to the Maharaja’s City Palace;- the former Royal residence;- part of it converted into a museum.
- One of the major attractions in the museum is the portion known as Armory Museum; housing an impressive array of weaponry -pistols; blunderbusses; flintlocks; swords; rifles and daggers.
- Also see the miniature items and old carpets at the Textile Museum.
- Later visit the Jantar Mantar; which is the largest stone-and-marble-crafted Observatory in the world. Situated near the gate of the city palace; the Observatory has 17 large instruments; many of them still in working condition.
- Return to your hotel after the tour.
- Overnight at your hotel in Jaipur.
Inclusions
- Meet and assist on arrival and departure by our local representative
- Sightseeing tours and intercity transfers as per itinerary in AC vehicle
- 9 Nights’ Accommodation at selected hotels in a double room sharing
- Meals: as mentioned
- Local English Speaking Guide
- Jaipur offers sightseeing tour with an elephant ride/jeep ride
Exclusions
- International/Domestic flights – Departure & Fuel taxes (Contact us for best airfares)
- Personal expenses, meals and drinks unless otherwise specified
- Travel insurance
- India visa fee
- Tips
- Entrance fees
- Services not stated in the itinerary
Validity
- Rate valid for travel between 01 NOV 24 to 31 MAR 25
High Season applicable for travel between 20 DEC 24 and 10 JAN 25
Contact us for any other date of travel required
Country information
India’s Different Seasons
India climate is considered hot; however, the weather varies a lot depending on which part of the country you visit. The South has Monsoons whereas the North may be covered in snow. The best time to travel is between October and March (except for the Far North, where you will encounter winter conditions from November onwards)
Overview of food & drink
India’s food is tantalizing and spicy and comes in so many varieties. Rice is the foundation of each dish. This does not exclude a number for breads from light to roasted. Northern Indian food mostly consists of meaty stews and kebabs. Southern India is known for its spiced vegetarian curries and dosas. Goa and Kerala will serve you the best seafood dishes.
Drink only bottled water during your stay in India. Nimbu Pani (Lemonade) is a traditional and most common Indian drink, made of lemon and ginger juice. Coconut water is preferred by many locals across India. Toddy is a famous alcoholic drink in Madhya Pradesh that is made from various palm plants. Jal Jeera, the magical drink to survive the hot Indian Summers
Tipping
Usually, add 10 to 15% when eating out. Restaurants in Delhi and Mumbai often charge a ‘service charge’, not to be confused with ‘service tax’ (which is a government-levied tax). When a ‘service charge’ is levied no tip is expected. When you have a driver over multiple days you should tip him between 150 – 300 INR per day. Again, base this on how happy you were with his service and local knowledge
Culture and Language
It’s traditional to greet people using ‘Namaste’; place both hands together and bow slightly. In urban areas this is often overlooked. Indian culture is based on a hierarchical system, so elders and superior are greeted first. Avoid standing too close to others. Use your right hand to touch, accept or give something. Do not use public displays of affection. Hindi is the official language, but English is widely spoken throughout the country
Getting around in India
Air carriers serve all major cities and large towns. There are several domestic “low Budget” options
Taxis and auto rickshaws are a very popular way of getting around the major cities. These rides are charged by the kilometer. Insist that your vehicle has a meter before going on your journey. Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai have metro systems. Rail is India is widely available. Shatabdi Express connects major and secondary cities. Advanced reservations are essential
Here are some traditional dishes
Alu Gobi: a dish made with potatoes (aloo), cauliflower (gobi) and Indian spices
Butter Chicken: traditionally cooked in a tandoor; but may be grilled, roasted or pan-fried with a special gravy
Rogan Josh: consists of braised lamb chunks cooked with a gravy based on browned onions or shallots, yogurt, garlic, ginger and aromatic spices
Malai Kofta: cooked in a creamy gravy made of tomatoes and cashew nuts
Naan: leavened, oven-baked flatbread normally served with all meals
South India’s highlights
Starting in Bangalore, the most alive and buzzing city in India. Without a doubt, every resident takes immense pride in its tree-lined avenues crossing the city. From here, move to Hassan where roaring streams tumble down the mountainside. Walk over hanging bridges, past green meadows and end your day feasting on exotic cuisine. Mysore is still a city living in its past, where Kings and Queens drifted through the pearl hallways of the Palace.
North India’s attractions
Next wing your way northwards and see the classic sights and Imperial monuments of Delhi, the Amber Fort and pink city of Jaipur and marvel at the Taj Mahal in Agra. The region is in the first place a shoppers paradise. From the opulent jewels of Jaipur to the contemporary designers of Delhi. Besides, there will be time for you to browse and pick up a bargain.
After all, few tours can rival this introduction to the cultural and historical diversity of India. The country has dominated the world stage as the home of mighty emperors and a land of different traditions and cultures. During this tour, explore India’s vast elements. It is the land of the medieval civilization, myriad history and cultures and the artistic excellence.
The charm of India lies in its diversity, culture and its elusive quality. Few tours can rival this introduction to the cultural and historical diversity of North and South India