Compare Classic Rajasthan by Intrepid Travel vs The Best of India: Treasures of the North and South by Road Scholar

Day 1 Delhi

Namaste! Welcome to India. Your adventure begins in Delhi, with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early and have the day free, consider joining one of our Urban Adventures for a great introduction to the city. After the meeting, maybe head out for your first optional dinner with your group and get to know each other.

Day 2 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 3 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 4 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 5 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 6 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 7 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 8 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 9 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 10 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 11 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 12 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 13 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 14 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 15 Delhi

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

Day 1 In Transit to Program In Flight

Day 2 Enroute In Flight

The first program hotel is available from 2:00pm today for any participants arriving early.

The first program hotel (Suryaa Hotel New Delhi) is available today for early arrivals. Refer to the Arrivals and Ground Transportation sections in your Final Information Packet to learn about transfers and taxi services. Hotel check-in available from 2:00pm. The program officially starts tomorrow (Day 3) with evening Orientation and Welcome Dinner.

Day 3 Arrivals, Orientation, Welcome Dinner Delhi

Hotel check-in. The program starts in the early evening with Orientation followed by our Welcome Dinner.

Orientation is at 6:00pm. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We will review COVID-19 protocols and will adhere to local COVID-19 guidelines and requirements throughout the program. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable by pursuing your personal interests. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Welcome Dinner with a 'Welcome to India' drink at the hotel. Coffee, tea and bottled water included; additional beverages available for purchase.

Day 4 Lecture, Gandhi Smiriti, Sikh Temple Delhi

Inside the Sikh Temple, socks are not allowed and it is obligatory for men and women to cover their heads. Scarves are provided by the temple, but you are welcome to bring your own full-sized scarf.

At the hotel, we will be joined by a local expert to discuss "The relevance of Gandhi in today's world." We depart by motorcoach for a visit to Gandhi Smirti, where Mahatma Gandhi - the "Father of the Nation" - spent his last 144 days from September 9, 1947 until he was assassinated on January 30, 1948. It has been preserved as a museum that displays Gandhi's few personal effects as well as paintings, pictures, sculptures and other relics. The memorial perpetuates Gandhi's legacy, highlights his values and ideals, and offers guidance for those who wish to follow his path.

We board our motorcoach to explore the living culture of India as we visit a Sikh temple in Old Delhi. We will spend time listening to the prayers and visit the soup kitchen that offers daily free meals for anyone in need of food. We will explore the kitchen and, for those interested, lend a helping hand by making some rotis with the women there. Sikh temples are special places where everything is run by volunteers. It is a requirement for all Sikhs to volunteer their time at the temples. We return to our hotel and freshen up before setting out for dinner.

At leisure. Pack and prepare for our trip to Agra tomorrow.

Hotel buffet.

At a local restaurant. Coffee, tea and bottled water included; additional beverages available for purchase.

At a local restaurant. Coffee, tea and bottled water included; additional beverages available for purchase.

Day 5 Old Delhi, Jama Masjid, New Delhi Delhi

When visiting Jama Mosque, gowns are provided for females. Shoes and shorts are not allowed inside. To enter the mosque there are around 30-40 steep, wide steps without handrails. Walking sticks are recommended for those who have difficulty walking and climbing. The bicycle rickshaw ride in Old Delhi is through an extremely crowded market. The trip to Raj Ghat entails walking approximately a quarter of a mile.

We board our motorcoach for a field trip into Old Delhi, driving past the massive sandstone walls of the Red Fort. We gain an appreciation for this symbol of Mughal power and pomp. Arriving at Jama Masjid, we explore the largest Muslim mosque in India. Our adventure continues as we ride bicycle rickshaws around the heart of Chandini Chowk (named for the silver merchants) while the drivers navigate narrow alleyways crowded with people. We continue to Raj Ghat, the cremation ground of Mahatma Gandhi.

Our Group Leader takes us on an excursion via motorcoach past Parliament House (Sansad Bhavan), the nation's supreme legislative body. We will also travel past the President's House (Rashtrapati Bhavan), a huge complex that serves as the official residence of the President of India; as well as India Gate, which commemorates Indian soldiers who died during World War I. Along the way, we learn about the Indian system of government, current politics and the world's largest parliamentary democracy from our Group Leader. We return to our hotel and have free time this evening.

At leisure.

Buffet breakfast at the hotel. Coffee, tea and bottled water included.

At a local restaurant. Coffee, tea and bottled water included; additional beverages available for purchase.

At own arrangements. Take the opportunity to sample some local fare. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Day 6 Train to Agra, Agra Fort, Taj Mahal at Sunset Agra

Two-hour train ride from Delhi to Agra. The visit to Agra Fort involves long periods of standing, walking and a few small steps.

We check out of the hotel and transfer by private motorcoach to the train station. Today we will experience the Indian railway system as we travel to Agra. Upon arrival in Agra, we board our motorcoach to explore the Agra Fort. Originally planned as an impregnable military structure by Akbar, the Agra Fort eventually acquired all the elegance, lavishness and majesty of an imperial palace.

After lunch we transfer to our hotel and check in. In the late afternoon we transfer by coach to Mehtab Bagh, a garden complex aligned with the Taj Mahal on the opposite side of the Yamuna River. Here a local expert will tell us about Mughal history and architecture as the sun sets over the Taj Mahal.

At leisure.

Buffet breakfast at the hotel. Coffee, tea and bottled water included.

Buffet at a local restaurant. Coffee, tea and bottled water included; additional beverages available for purchase.

At the hotel.

Day 7 Sunrise at the Taj Mahal, Coach Transfer to Godoli Gadoli

Early morning wake up call, to depart for sunrise at the Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal visit involves long periods of standing, walking, and a few small steps. The drive from Agra to Gadoli is approximately 103 miles / 4 hours, with rest stops along the way. Walking around the retreat on flat, level paths.

We set out pre-dawn to watch the rising sun bathe the pristine white marble of the Taj Mahal in warm hues of gold, ochre and orange (subject to weather conditions). As the UNESCO World Heritage Convention states, “An immense mausoleum of white marble, built in Agra between 1631 and 1648 by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife, the Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage.” The building is unique due to its perfect proportions, distinct femininity, and medium of construction and ornamentation. We have some time to explore the exquisite grounds and view the highly decorated interior chamber before we return to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, we check out of the hotel, board our motorcoach and depart for Gadoli, a small Indian village in Rajasthan. En route we enjoy an overview of the changing faces of Indian villages, led by our Group Leader. Mahatma Gandhi once wrote, "If you want to experience the soul of India, then you must go to her villages." Surrounded by forests in the Aravalli Hills, Gadoli is off the standard tourist path. This is a place where old customs and traditions are maintained with festivals throughout the year that celebrate events significant to communities such as Brahmins, Rajputs, Mahajans, Jains, and Kayasthas.

We continue our drive to the village. After check-in we have some free time to settle in to the Retreat. In the early evening before dinner, the Group Leader will give us an overview of the Indian caste system, its evolution and deep roots in Indian society.

At leisure.

Buffet at the hotel after returning from the Taj Mahal. Coffee, tea and bottled water included.

At a local restaurant. Coffee, tea and bottled water included; additional beverages available for purchase.

At the Retreat.

Day 8 Villages of Rajasthan, Camel Cart Ride, Cultural Dance Gadoli

Walking approximately half a mile today on mainly flat, level surfaces.

To understand life in an Indian village, we set out in small carts pulled by camels (subject to availability) to a nearby village belonging to the colorful Meena tribal group. The Bhil Meena are a tribal group found in the state of Rajasthan. According to some traditions, they are said to be descended from those Meenas and Rajputs who, in the wars between their own tribes or with Muslims, were compelled to quit their native home and seek refuge in the vastness of Rajputana. There they formed alliances with the aboriginal families. We visit the traditional mud huts, decorated with floral and animal designs on the walls and floors, and interact with villagers as they conduct daily activities in their homes. Afterwards, we visit a local school to interact with the students and learn about the education system in remote villages (subject to school holidays and exams).

We have free time this afternoon. Participants are welcome to take part in a game of cricket on the grounds of the Retreat, and learn how to play. In the late afternoon, for the very energetic, we have the opportunity to go on a challenging nature hike in the nearby hills.

We enjoy an authentic, traditional Rajasthani folk dance and musical performance - perhaps try a few steps with the dancers. Rajasthan folk dances and accompanying music are lively and festive.

At the Retreat. Coffee, tea and bottled water included.

At the Retreat. Coffee, tea and bottled water included.

At the Retreat. Coffee, tea and bottled water included.

Day 9 Abhaneri Stepwell, Depart for Jaipur, Dinner with Family Jaipur

The drive from Gadoli to Jaipur is approximately 63 miles / 3 hours, with rest stops along the way. The afternoon walk through the crowded market is approximately half a mile on uneven ground with some small, stone steps.

After checking out of the Retreat, we depart by motorcoach for Jaipur. En route, we explore the nearby village of Abhaneri. This small village is notable for one of Rajasthan’s least well known but most fascinating landmarks. Chand Baori is one of India's deepest and largest stepwells. These unique steps were built in the 8th - 9th century as a water supply, as cool places of resort and for ritual cleansing before visiting the adjoining Harshita Mata Temple. As we travel, our Group Leader will lead a discussion on India's place in the world.

We explore Jaipur and experience the essence of this amazing city as we take in the riot of colors and activities on a walk through the local market. After our walk we return to the hotel with time to freshen up before our dinner with local families this evening.

At leisure.

At the Retreat. Coffee, tea and bottled water included.

At the hotel. Coffee, tea and bottled water included; additional beverages available for purchase.

Traditional dinner with a family at their home. Coffee, tea and bottled water included.

Day 10 Amber Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar Jaipur

Participants will ride in Jeeps to access the main entrance of the Amber Fort. The fort is located on a hill and has several flights of stairs with uneven walkways. Walking around the fort for approximately half a mile.

We will be joined by a local expert for an overview of Contemporary Women's Issues in India. Afterwards, we board our motorcoach and set out to discover the 11th-century Amber Fort (pronounced Amer), situated about six miles north of Jaipur. The fort was established as the original capital of Rajasthan, six centuries before the construction of Jaipur. Amber Fort is an example of Rajput architecture with its terraces and ramparts reflected in the Maota Lake below. The interiors of the fort have various royal halls decorated with intricate ivory, mirror and glass work, as well as exquisite wall paintings. We continue our field trip with a photo-stop at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), whose elaborate, honeycombed sandstone is a famous icon of the city.

After lunch we visit the City Palace, still the Maharaja's residence but largely given over to a museum containing rare manuscripts, fine specimens of Rajput and Mughal paintings, royal apparel and an armory. We conclude the afternoon at Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by city founder Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh between 1727-1734, the Jantar Mantar is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments. The Jaipur observatory is the largest and best-preserved in India.

At leisure.

Buffet at the hotel. Coffee, tea and bottled water included; additional beverages available for purchase.

At a local restaurant. Coffee, tea and bottled water included; additional beverages available for purchase.

At own arrangements. Take the opportunity to sample some local fare. Your Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Day 11 Fly to Mysore via Bangalore Mysore

Early morning wake up call. The flight from Jaipur to Bangalore takes approximately 2 hours 40 minutes. The flight from Bangalore to Mysore takes approximately 50 minutes.

After an early morning check-out from the hotel, we depart for Jaipur airport with a packed breakfast to board our flight to Bangalore (also known as Bengaluru).

We fly on to Mysore and transfer to our accommodation. We have some time free time in the late afternoon.

At leisure.

Early morning, cold breakfast (can be packed to take with you) at the hotel.

At Bangalore airport.

Buffet at the hotel. Coffee, tea and bottled water included.

Day 12 Chamundeshwari Temple, Mysore Palace, Home-Hosted Dinner Mysore

Shoes need to be removed in Chamundeshwari Temple and Mysore Palace.

This morning we join our Group Leader for an introduction to Indian mythology. Afterwards, we board our motorcoach and set out for the nearby Chamundi Hills where Chamundeshwari Temple is located. The temple is dedicated to Sri Chamundeshwari, the titular deity of the Mysore Royal Family, also described as "Mahishasura Mardini" for having killed the buffalo-headed demon Mahishasura. Following this we visit Mysore Palace, official residence of the Wodeyars - the former royal family of Mysore from 1350 to 1950. Built in 1912 in the Indo-Saracenic style, it blends Hindu, Muslim, Rajput and Gothic features.

In the late afternoon, we will be divided into smaller groups of 5-8 participants for a culinary treat. We begin by shopping at a local flower, fruit and vegetable market with our guide, followed by a visit to the host’s kitchen for a cooking demonstration. This is a great opportunity to meet with a family of South India and learn about the southern cuisine.

At leisure.

Buffet at the hotel. Coffee, tea and bottled water included.

At the hotel.

Dinner with a family at their home. We will return to the hotel after dinner.

Day 13 Somnathpur, Srirangapatnam, Palace of Tip Sultan, Free Time Mysore

Shoes need to be removed at the Temple.

We begin our exploration of the south of India in the towns of Somnathpur and Srirangapatnam. Somnathpur is a small village renowned for its splendid and grand Keshava temple, built on an elevated star-shaped platform in Hoyasala style, with elaborate and intricate sculpturing. The sides of the raised platform are decorated with richly carved friezes, portraying rows of cavalry, elephants, and scenes from the epics. The names of the sculptors are inscribed on their works. Srirangapatnam was the island fortress of Tipu Sultan, the legendary "Tiger of Mysore", who put up a valiant fight against British domination. High stone walls and moats enclose the palaces, temples, and a great mosque. Tipu's summer palace, with its beautiful frescoes, the tombs of Tipu and Hyder Ali at Gumbaz, the Royal Mosque, Wellesley Bridge, and the celebrated Sri Ranganatha Temple are other monuments from its glorious past.

Free time. Afternoon at leisure.

At leisure.

Buffet at the hotel. Coffee, tea and bottled water included.

At the hotel.

At own arrangements. Take the opportunity to sample some local fare. Your Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Day 14 Drive to Vythiri, Spice Plantation Visit, Tea Factory Visit Wayanad

The drive from Mysore to Vythiri is approximately 93 miles / 7 - 8 hours, with lunch and rest stops along the way. En route we drive through Bandipur National Park and spice plantations.

After checking out of the hotel, we depart on a full-day drive by motorcoach to Vythiri, the Hill Station of Wayanad. The route has been described as one of the most picturesque drives in India. As the road winds through Bandipur National Park, look out for monkeys playing along the road side and possibly a rare glimpse of the elephants that sometimes inhabit these forests. We cross from the state of Karnataka into the state of Kerala.

After lunch we join a local spice and agriculture expert for a guided walk through the plantation to learn about the spices and crops that are grown in this area. We re-board our motorcoach and continue our drive to a local tea factory. Here we learn about tea growing and production in India. Afterwards, we continue our drive to Vythiri for a late afternoon check-in at the hotel.

At leisure.

Buffet at the hotel. Coffee, tea and bottled water included.

At a spice plantation we enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch in banana leaves. Coffee, tea and water included.

Buffet at the hotel. Coffee, tea and bottled water included; additional beverages available for purchase.

Day 15 Drive to Calicut, Ayurveda, Kalaripayattu Performance Calicut

The drive from Vythiri to Calicut is approximately 50 miles / 3.5 hours, with rest stops along the way.

After a restful morning, we depart for Calicut (also known as Kozhikode), near the Coast of Andaman Sea in the state of Kerala. En route we learn more about Kerala; a prosperous, progressive, communist state. On arrival in Calicut, we visit an Ayurveda center and meet with an Ayurveda expert. Ayurveda was developed in India over 3,000 years ago and is based on beliefs that mind, body and spirit need to be in balance for health and wellness.

We check in to the hotel and take some time to relax after our long journey to southern India. This afternoon is free for you to enjoy as you wish. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. In the early evening, we are invited to watch a special Kalaripayattu martial arts performance traditional to Kerala. Kalaripayattu is an integral of the Malayali culture. Bodhidharama, a Buddist monk who visited China during the reign of Emperor Wu of the Ling dynasty, is believed to have presented the world with a self-defense system from which evolved almost all the present day martial art forms. Scholars believe that his philosophy was influenced by the ancient martial culture of Malabar - Kalaripayattu, the mother of all martial arts.

At leisure.

Buffet at the hotel. Coffee, tea and bottled water included.

Buffet at the hotel. Coffee, tea and bottled water included; additional beverages available for purchase.

Hotel buffet.

Day 16 Calicut Discovery, City Walk, Free Time Calicut

Walking around Calicut is an easy walk of approximately 1 mile.

We will set out via tuk tuks with our Group Leader and explore the city to learn about its history and importance during the spice trade. We will explore the beaches, lighthouse, colonial buildings, and an ancient church built by the Portuguese. We will see areas occupied by the Dutch, French, German, Italian and Chinese. We shall view North Indian Gujarathi settlements, Arab settlements, old trading houses and local Muslim settlements.

Free time. Afternoon at leisure. In the early evening before dinner, our Group Leader will provide us with an overview of the Lifeline of India: Indian Railways. This will give us perspective for our journey tomorrow as we tavel by train to the Kerala backwaters region.

At leisure. Pack and prepare for the early morning train ride tomorrow.

Buffet at the hotel. Coffee, tea and bottled water included.

At the hotel.

Buffet at the hotel. Coffee, tea and bottled water included; additional beverages available for purchase.

Day 17 Train to Alleppey, Drive to Kerala Backwaters Region Kerala Backwaters

Early morning wake-up call. Our train ride begins at around 6am and takes approximately 6.5 hours, followed by a drive of approximately 1 hour to board the boats. Depending on the size of the group, different styles of traditional Keralan houseboats may be used. All will dock and travel together.

To fully experience India, one needs to take a long ride on a train. This day gives us that opportunity. We will depart early this morning on a 6.5 hour train ride south to Alleppey. From there, we will continue on a one hour drive to the backwaters of Kerala.

We arrive at the riverside meeting point mid-afternoon, from where we board our privately-chartered, traditional Keralan houseboats and begin cruising the river.

At leisure. The houseboats will tie up close to sunset, to overnight along the water’s edge.

Boxed breakfast for the train ride.

On board the train.

Aboard the houseboats.

Day 18 Kerala Backwaters Exploration Kerala Backwaters

Enjoy rural India at its most idyllic.

We enjoy a full day of cruising today. The backwaters in the countryside take us along tranquil waterways and give us a view into rural life. Look out for skiff-fishermen in their cockleshell boats; large flotillas of ducks; thatched houses on the banks; women, neck-deep in water, searching for fish with their feet; cattle grazing in lush pastures. We will stop at waterside villages along the way and walk around the small houses to observe daily life.

As we continue cruising, observe more of life on the water. We are just as much of interest to the village residents as they are to us. An abundance of birdlife is also to found in the area. The houseboats will tie up at sunset, to overnight along the water’s edge.

At leisure. Pack and prepare to disembark the boats tomorrow morning.

Aboard the houseboats.

Aboard the houseboats.

Aboard the houseboats.

Day 19 Drive to Kochi, City Walking Exploration, St. Francis Church Cochin

The drive from Thottapally to Kochi is approximately 3 hours with rest stops along the way. Shoes need to be removed at St. Francis Church. Fort Kochi walking exploration is approximately 1 mile, mainly on flat surfaces.

Disembark the houseboats and board a motorcoach for the drive to Kochi (also known as Cochin). On our way to Kochi, we stop at a coir factory to learn first hand about the many uses of coconut fibre. Later we re-board the motorcoach and transfer to our hotel for check-in.

We explore the Old Town of Kochi in the Fort Kochi area on a guided walk with our Group Leader. We discover the Chinese fishing nets, historical buildings and little markets along the way. The center of historic Kochi is easily walkable, with many small shops and market stalls interspersed with the colonial architecture of this coastal city. We pause to visit the Church of St. Francis, the original burial site of the Portuguese explorer Vasco de Gama who died in Kochi in 1524.

At leisure. Share your favorite experiences amid the camaraderie of your new Road Scholar friends. Prepare for departure after your final program activities tomorrow.

Aboard the houseboats.

At a local restaurant. Coffee, tea and bottled water included; additional beverages available for purchase.

Farewell Dinner with a 'Farewell to India' drink at the hotel. Coffee, tea and bottled water included; additional beverages available for purchase.

Day 20 Folklore Museum, Mattancherry Palace, Free Time Cochin

Participants will leave around midnight tonight to transfer to the airport. The official program end is on Day 21 with departures at 12:30am to the airport for flights home early in the morning (typically departing for the USA around 4:30am). Tonight is a free evening to rest up for flights home or, if desired, participants can choose to leave earlier this evening. For those leaving tomorrow, the hotel is booked for the full night; check out is not until tomorrow morning at 11:00am.

We depart by motorcoach for our field trip to the Folklore Museum. This unique museum is a fine example of traditional Kerala architecture. Made of wood, stone and clay tiles, it houses up to 6,000 works of Kerala art. From here we set out for the Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), built in the 1550s by the Portuguese and taken over by the Dutch, who later presented it to the Rajas of Cochin. The palace contains excellent mythological murals and a rare example of traditional Keralite flooring - a mix of burnt coconut shells, lime, plant juices and egg whites - that gives the effect of polished marble. Afterwards, we board our motorcoach to explore the Jewish synagogue. Built in 1568, it was considerably embellished in the mid-18th century by Ezekiel Rahabi, who built a clock tower and paved the floor of the synagogue with hand-painted tiles brought all the way from Canton, China.

We have free time this afternoon to relax, explore Kochi, or prepare for our early-morning flights tomorrow. Your Group Leader will be available to discuss transportation to the airport. If you are an independent traveler, see “Ground Transportation from Last Location" located in your Information Packets.

Late night check-out for early morning flights tomorrow. The hotel is booked for the full night for those with later departures. Check-out time is officially 11:00am tomorrow.

Buffet at the hotel. Coffee, tea and bottled water included.

At the hotel. Coffee, tea and bottled water included; additional beverages available for purchase.

At own arrangements. The hotel has several dining options to choose from.

Day 21 Departures, Program Concludes In Flight

Early morning departures at around 12:30am for flights booked by Road Scholar, leaving at around 4:30am. Departure transfers to the airport will be grouped. If leaving later on this day, hotel check-out is at 11:00am. Participants who book their own flights can choose to leave the night prior, but there are no Road Scholar airport transfers provided.

Depart at around 12:30am for Kochi airport (COK) to board flights returning to the USA (these typically depart at around 4:30am). This concludes our program. Refer to the Departure Transfer section in the Final Information Packet for transfer information. Please note that departure transfers are grouped transfers and you may have to arrive at the Cochin Airport earlier than the time required time for your flight. For participants leaving later today, the hotel check-out time is 11:00am. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please join us on Facebook and Instagram to share photos of your program. Best wishes for all your journeys!