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Peregrine Travel Centre

India South & North

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India South & North

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Description

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 on our longest Original-style India tour.

Trip Name
India South & North
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
29
Capacity
12
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.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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, and escape the city streets by ducking into a Sikh temple, Sheeshganj Gurudwara, to observe the spiritual side of this bustling metropolis. The communal kitchen welcomes all, and there's a chance to have a simple meal here together. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy the sights of Delhi.
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. Visit the Taj Mahal and learn why Emperor Shah Jahan built it as a memorial to his wife Mumtaz. Explore 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 to honour the great emperor. For a meal that makes a difference, consider visiting Sheroes Hangout, a remarkable social enterprise that supports survivors of acid attacks.
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 and in Hindu mythology, Lakheras are considered to be 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.
Day 19 - Jaipur
Travel on by private vehicle to Jaipur. When you arrive, take a 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 a must-see. As the walls are completely covered in little mirrors, the hall illuminates with the light of a single match. After the tour, you'll have further free time to spend as you wish.
Day 20 - Jaipur
Today is a full free day that you can jam-pack with experiences of your choice. 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 experience a Bollywood film.
Day 21 - Ranthambhore National Park
Continuing on from Jaipur by private vehicle, head to Ranthambhore this morning. Ranthambhore National Park was once a famous hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur and was one of the original Project Tiger reserves. Explore the ruins of the park’s 10th-century fort, and in the evening take a 4WD bus safari in search of tigers and other wildlife, such as 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 spottings are more favourable at this time of year as they move here away from flooded areas of Ranthambhore.
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 wandering through 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.
Day 23 - Paangarh Lake
Take off from Bundi and take a local train to Bassi. cross the Chittorgarh countryside to Paangarh Lake. 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 - a truly relaxing experience away from the chaos of India's cities.
Day 24 - Bijaipur
This morning we drive in an open-top jeep out into the countryside past tranquil villages. You might be lucky enough to spot some native wildlife as we drive through the region. Meet some villagers and maybe even get a henna tattoo - a temporary but very traditional souvenir. Arrive at our next heritage stay and enjoy a meal of authentic local specialties. 
Day 25 - Udaipur
Depart the heritage stay and begin your next journey by private vehicle takes us to Udaipur. Take in the city’s hills, lakes, and white marble palaces, or delve into its 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 a city walk with your leader, the rest of your day is free.
Day 26 - Udaipur
Visit Udaipur's City Palace, one of the largest royal palaces in India. Some suggestions for your free time after the tour include an optional boat ride on the picturesque Lake Pichola (seasonal) to marvel at the island palaces off Jag Nivas and Jag Mandir and seeing a cultural performance that combines seven traditional Rajasthani folk dances in the evening.
Day 27 - Pushkar
Today, take an air-conditioned train to Ajmer and then a private vehicle to your hotel in Pushkar, a place synonymous with Rajasthan. Enjoy 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 day is free for you to explore further.
Day 28 - Pushkar - Delhi
Early risers can hike up to the Savitri Temple for amazing sunrise views over the town this morning. Board the Shatabdi Express train, departing Ajmer around 2 pm for the trip back to Delhi, arriving at around 10:40 pm. Transfer to the hotel on arrival for your final night of the trip.
Day 29 - Delhi
There are no activities planned for the final day and you’re able to depart the accommodation at any time.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
13-12-202410-01-2025AUD $ 5,415-
15-12-202412-01-2025AUD $ 5,415-
20-12-202417-01-2025AUD $ 5,450-
22-12-202419-01-2025AUD $ 5,450-
29-12-202426-01-2025AUD $ 5,450-
03-01-202531-01-2025AUD $ 5,285-
05-01-202502-02-2025AUD $ 5,690-
10-01-202507-02-2025AUD $ 5,211-
12-01-202509-02-2025AUD $ 4,874-
17-01-202514-02-2025AUD $ 4,968-
19-01-202516-02-2025AUD $ 5,021-
24-01-202521-02-2025AUD $ 5,211-
31-01-202528-02-2025AUD $ 4,968-
02-02-202502-03-2025AUD $ 5,420-
07-02-202507-03-2025AUD $ 5,021-
09-02-202509-03-2025AUD $ 5,021-
11-02-202511-03-2025AUD $ 5,021-
16-02-202516-03-2025AUD $ 5,021-
18-02-202518-03-2025AUD $ 5,263-
20-02-202520-03-2025AUD $ 5,211-
23-02-202523-03-2025AUD $ 5,263-
25-02-202525-03-2025AUD $ 5,263-
28-02-202528-03-2025AUD $ 5,211-
02-03-202530-03-2025AUD $ 5,263-
09-03-202506-04-2025AUD $ 5,211-
14-03-202511-04-2025AUD $ 5,211-
16-03-202513-04-2025AUD $ 5,021-
23-03-202520-04-2025AUD $ 5,021-
28-03-202525-04-2025AUD $ 5,068-
04-04-202502-05-2025AUD $ 4,826-
11-04-202509-05-2025AUD $ 4,826-
18-04-202516-05-2025AUD $ 4,826-
05-09-202503-10-2025AUD $ 4,826-
12-09-202510-10-2025AUD $ 4,826-
19-09-202517-10-2025AUD $ 4,826-
26-09-202524-10-2025AUD $ 4,826-
03-10-202531-10-2025AUD $ 5,021-
10-10-202507-11-2025AUD $ 5,021-
12-10-202509-11-2025AUD $ 5,021-
14-10-202511-11-2025AUD $ 5,021-
17-10-202514-11-2025AUD $ 5,211-
24-10-202521-11-2025AUD $ 5,211-
26-10-202523-11-2025AUD $ 5,211-
31-10-202528-11-2025AUD $ 5,211-
02-11-202530-11-2025AUD $ 5,211-
07-11-202505-12-2025AUD $ 5,211-
09-11-202507-12-2025AUD $ 5,211-
14-11-202512-12-2025AUD $ 5,211-
16-11-202514-12-2025AUD $ 5,211-
21-11-202519-12-2025AUD $ 5,021-
28-11-202526-12-2025AUD $ 5,021-
02-12-202530-12-2025AUD $ 5,021-
07-12-202504-01-2026AUD $ 5,021-
12-12-202509-01-2026AUD $ 5,021-
14-12-202511-01-2026AUD $ 4,826-
19-12-202516-01-2026AUD $ 5,080-
21-12-202518-01-2026AUD $ 5,080-
26-12-202523-01-2026AUD $ 5,080-
28-12-202525-01-2026AUD $ 5,080-
02-01-202630-01-2026AUD $ 5,335-
04-01-202601-02-2026AUD $ 5,335-
09-01-202606-02-2026AUD $ 5,335-
16-01-202613-02-2026AUD $ 5,335-
23-01-202620-02-2026AUD $ 5,590-
30-01-202627-02-2026AUD $ 5,335-
01-02-202601-03-2026AUD $ 5,550-
06-02-202606-03-2026AUD $ 5,550-
08-02-202608-03-2026AUD $ 5,550-
10-02-202610-03-2026AUD $ 5,550-
15-02-202615-03-2026AUD $ 5,550-
17-02-202617-03-2026AUD $ 5,550-
19-02-202619-03-2026AUD $ 5,760-
22-02-202622-03-2026AUD $ 5,760-
24-02-202624-03-2026AUD $ 5,760-
27-02-202627-03-2026AUD $ 5,760-
01-03-202629-03-2026AUD $ 5,760-
08-03-202605-04-2026AUD $ 5,760-
13-03-202610-04-2026AUD $ 5,760-
15-03-202612-04-2026AUD $ 5,760-
22-03-202619-04-2026AUD $ 5,550-
27-03-202624-04-2026AUD $ 5,550-
03-04-202601-05-2026AUD $ 5,335-
10-04-202608-05-2026AUD $ 5,335-
17-04-202615-05-2026AUD $ 5,335-
04-09-202602-10-2026AUD $ 5,335-
11-09-202609-10-2026AUD $ 5,335-
25-09-202623-10-2026AUD $ 5,335-
02-10-202630-10-2026AUD $ 5,550-
09-10-202606-11-2026AUD $ 5,550-
11-10-202608-11-2026AUD $ 5,550-
16-10-202613-11-2026AUD $ 5,760-
23-10-202620-11-2026AUD $ 5,760-
25-10-202622-11-2026AUD $ 5,760-
30-10-202627-11-2026AUD $ 5,760-
01-11-202629-11-2026AUD $ 5,760-
06-11-202604-12-2026AUD $ 5,760-
08-11-202606-12-2026AUD $ 5,760-
13-11-202611-12-2026AUD $ 5,550-
15-11-202613-12-2026AUD $ 5,550-
20-11-202618-12-2026AUD $ 5,550-
27-11-202625-12-2026AUD $ 5,550-
01-12-202629-12-2026AUD $ 5,335-
06-12-202603-01-2027AUD $ 5,335-
11-12-202608-01-2027AUD $ 5,335-
13-12-202610-01-2027AUD $ 5,335-

Accommodation

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)

Transport

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

Map

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