Overview
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Intrepid's 29 Day India South & North. This extensive 29-day adventure through India takes you from bottom to top, revealing the icons and local secrets of this diverse country. Revel in the tropical climate, warm waters, and lush green landscapes of the south in places like Kochi, Puducherry, and Madurai. Then be dazzled by kaleidoscopic colours, Mughal grandeur, and the overt spirituality of the north in Jaipur and Agra. Travel from Kochi to Delhi and combine the slower delights of Kerala and Tamil Nadu with the rush and jumble of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan read more on our longest Original-style India tour.
Our Price From
US$3,285 per person
Price shown based on twin share
Save up to $765 per person
Save 18%
Trip Length
29 Days
Trip Starts
Delhi
Trip Ends
Kochi
Departures
Mar 2026 to Dec 2027
Countries Visited:
Operator
Intrepid
Trip Style
Original
Budget
Affordable
Age Range
18-99 Years
Max. Group Size
12
Pace
Leisurely
Guiding Style
Fully Guided
Itinerary
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.
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. (B)
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. (B/D)
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.
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. (L/D)
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. (B/L)
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.
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.
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!
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.
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. (L)
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.
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 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. (L/D)
Wake early this morning, before crossing the backwaters by private boat to Alleppey. From here, take a 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). (B)
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.
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.
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.
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. (D)
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. (B)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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. (B/D)
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. (B)
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.
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. (D)
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.
There are no activities planned for the final day and you’re able to depart the accommodation at any time. If you’d like to extend your time in Delhi and explore at your own pace, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.
Trip Inclusions
- 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.
- Deluxe permanent tent (1 night)
- Heritage Property (3 nights)
- Homestay (1 night)
- Hotel (16 nights)
- Jungle resort (1 night)
- Overnight sleeper train (1 night)
- Resort (2 nights)
- 7 Breakfasts included
- 4 Lunches included
- 6 Dinners included
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
- Intrepid regularly update their itineraries throughout the year based on feedback and local conditions. Therefore the itinerary you see now may differ from when you booked. Global Journeys will provide you with detailed trip notes at the time of quoting, along with a finalised itinerary and trip notes before your trip departs.
Operator
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers off the beaten track to discover the world's most amazing places for 30 years. Every trip is designed to truly experience local culture - to meet local people, try local food, take local transport and stay in local accommodation. Led by a local leader, our small group tours offer more a sustainable way to travel off the beaten track, while giving back to the places and people that travellers visit.
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Intrepid Worldwide (2025-26)
Since 1989, Intrepid has been taking travellers beyond the ordinary to discover the real and remarkable. With small groups, passionate local leaders, and a commitment to responsible travel, every journey is crafted to connect you deeply with the people and places you visit. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Intrepid combines comfort, culture, and more curiosity for adventures that truly matter, all backed by a global network and guaranteed departures for peace of mind.
Dates & Pricing
USD
Flexible Deposit
Cancel up to 56 days before departure and your deposit becomes a credit for future travel.
Definite Departures
Your Intrepid trip is guaranteed to depart as soon as one full paying traveler is booked!
Tuesday
10 Feb 2026
10 Feb 26
Kochi
Tuesday
10 Mar 2026
10 Mar 26
Delhi
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$4,225
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Sunday
15 Feb 2026
15 Feb 26
Kochi
Sunday
15 Mar 2026
15 Mar 26
Delhi
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$4,825
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Sunday
22 Feb 2026
22 Feb 26
Kochi
Sunday
22 Mar 2026
22 Mar 26
Delhi
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$4,605
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Tuesday
24 Feb 2026
24 Feb 26
Kochi
Tuesday
24 Mar 2026
24 Mar 26
Delhi
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$4,290
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Intrepid. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Intrepid. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
