India – West & South (19 days)

New Delhi – Udaipur – Ahmedabad – Mumbai – Goa – Kochi – Bengaluru – Hampi – New Delhi

Mainly intended for repeat visitors who have been to Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, this itinerary offers an overview of India’s fascinating west and south. On this luxury tour, not only will you visit some of India’s most important cultural and historical landmarks, but you will get to peek into India’s future during your stays in Mumbai and Bengaluru, known respectively as India’s financial capital and “Silicon Valley of India”.

Important Features

• Small group size – average 15, maximum 20.
• Multilingual expert guides.
• All meals – quality Indian & Western cuisines.
• No annoying forced shopping of any kind.
• Unlimited supply of bottled water during group activities.
• Free Wi-Fi in all hotels.

Meal Code: B = breakfast / L = lunch / D = dinner

Day 01/Mon: Departing for New Delhi
The trip begins with your international flight to New Delhi from a city of your choice. You will arrive the following day.

Day 02/Tue: Arrival in New Delhi
Meet your guide on arrival and transfer to the hotel in a private vehicle. No activity is scheduled for today and no meal is included.

Day 03/Wed: New Delhi (B/L/D)
Delhi is both a city and a national capital territory. The city of Delhi consists of two components – Old Delhi in the north and New Delhi in the south. Old Delhi is where most of the historical landmarks are located while New Delhi serves as the seat of India’s national government. Among the locals, Delhi and New Delhi are used interchangeably but this often leads to confusion among foreign visitors. Delhi is of great historical significance as an important commercial, transport, and cultural hub, as well as the political centre of India.

Our full-day sightseeing takes in Raj Ghat (Mahatma Gandhi Memorial), Jama Masjid (one of the largest and most important mosques in India), Qutub Minar (minaret, UNESCO Heritage Site), and Humayun’s Tomb. Our schedule also includes a rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk – a traditional market district of narrow streets crowded with shops selling all kinds of spices, dried fruits, jewelry, saris and other goods.

Day 04/Thu: New Delhi – Udaipur (B/L/D)
The morning flight to Udaipur takes about an hour and 20 minutes. 

Udaipur, meaning “City of Sunrise”, is a medium-sized city in southern Rajasthan and boasts a multitude of magnificent ancient palaces. Our schedule today takes in the City Palace, Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal, Saheliyon-ki-Bari, and a boat ride in the evening on Lake Pichola.

The City Palace is a complex built over a period of nearly 400 years beginning in 1553. Sitting atop a hill, the complex awes the visitor with its size and flamboyant style.

Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal is a cultural institution engaged in the study of local folk art including music and dance.

Saheliyon-ki-Bari (Garden of the Maidens) is an elegant garden built from 1710 to 1734 with Victorian influences and English-made fountains introduced during later alterations. The garden was constructed on the order of Maharana Sangram Singh, the local ruler, and was used as his family’s green retreat in the otherwise dry lands of Rajasthan.

Day 05/Fri: Udaipur (B)
We spend the morning exploring Bagore Ki Haveli (a former mansion converted into a museum), Shri Ekling Ji (a Hindu temple complex originally constructed in the 8th century), and Udaipur Market.

The afternoon is set aside for relaxation or exploration on your own.

Day 06/Sat: Udaipur – Ahmedabad (B/L/D)
The drive to Ahmedabad following breakfast takes about 5 hours (260 km). Ahmedabad is the largest city in the state of Gujarat with a current population around 8.5 million.

We spend the time available today visiting Sabarmati Ashram, a riverside home of Mahatma Gandhi who lived here for a total of 12 years with his wife Kasturba Gandhi and some of his followers. It was from here that Gandhi led the Salt March, an act of nonviolent civil disobedience from March 12 to April 6, 1930 against British colonial rule.

Day 07/Sun: Ahmedabad – Mumbai (B/L)
Our morning sightseeing takes in Hutheesing Jain Temple, Sidi Saiyyed Mosque and Adalaj Stepwell.

Hutheesing Jain Temple is named after the family that financed its construction. This not-so-ancient temple (built in 1848) combines the old Maru-Gurjara temple architecture style with haveli (a traditional mansion, often built around a courtyard) design that became popular during the Mughal Empire (1526-1857).

Sidi Saiyyed Mosque was built in 1572–73 by Shaikh Sa’id Al-Habshi Sultani, an Abyssinian who rose from slavery to become a prominent nobleman. The mosque is particularly famous for its ten intricately carved stone latticework windows.

The late afternoon flight to Mumbai takes just over one hour.

Day 08/Mon: Mumbai (B/L/D)
Mumbai, officially known as Bombay until 1995, is the capital of the state of Maharashtra and the de facto financial centre of India. It is also India’s second largest city with a population of roughly 20 million as of 2022. Mumbai was a centre of maritime trade with Persia and Egypt as early as 1000 BCE.

Mumbai came under Portuguese control in the 16th century and was transferred to the English Crown in 1661 as part of the marriage settlement between Catherine of Braganza and King Charles II. It subsequently developed into one of British India’s most important commercial ports. Following India’s independence in 1947, the Bombay Presidency’s successor, Bombay Province, became Bombay State. In 1960, Bombay State was divided into Gujarat and Maharashtra along linguistic lines.

Our schedule today includes Mani Bhavan (Gandhi’s Mumbai headquarters from 1917 to 1934, now a museum), Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (a historic railway terminus and UNESCO World Heritage Site), Flora Fountain (built in 1864), and Crawford Market (known for its colourful displays of fruits, vegetables and spices).

We conclude the day with a pleasant ride on Marine Drive.

Day 09/Tue: Mumbai – Goa (B/L)
After breakfast, we set out for Elephanta Island located 10 kilometres east of Mumbai.

The Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, consist of ancient rock-cut temples dating mainly from the fifth and sixth centuries CE, although archaeological evidence indicates human occupation of the island as early as the second century BCE.

We then visit the Gateway of India (a monument built during British Raj) followed by brief stops at the Rajabai Clock Tower and the University of Mumbai.

The late afternoon or evening flight to Goa takes about an hour and 25 minutes.

Day 10/Wed: Goa (B/L)
Once a Portuguese colony for over 450 years and now a state of India, Goa is known for its beautiful beaches, historic Portuguese architecture, and vibrant culture. Goa is also one of the smallest states in India with an area of 3,700 square kilometres and a population around 1.5 million (2021).

We start our sightseeing in Goa with a visit to Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort that offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Next, we head to Anjuna Beach, known for its vibrant nightlife and flea market. Later in the day, we take a boat ride on the Mandovi River and visit the Dudhsagar Waterfalls.

Day 11/Thu: Goa – Kochi (B/L/D)
We begin the morning with a visit to Basilica of Bom Jesus — part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Churches and Convents of Goa.

This is followed by a visit to the Goa State Museum, and a leisurely walk through the colourful streets of Panaji, the state capital.

Late afternoon flight to Kochi. 

Day 12/Fri: Kochi (B/L)
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a port city in the state of Kerala. Its culture and history bear strong influences from the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British. The city is known for its picturesque backwaters, beaches, and historical landmarks such as the Fort Kochi neighbourhood.

We begin our sightseeing in Kochi with a visit to the Mattancherry Palace. Also known as the Dutch Palace, Mattancherry Palace was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and features murals and frescoes depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

Next, we head to the Fort Kochi area to see the famous Chinese fishing nets – large cantilevered fishing nets introduced by Chinese seafarers during the early years of China’s Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).

Afterwards, we stroll through the Fort Kochi neighbourhood to check out the colonial-era buildings including the St. Francis Church. Built in 1503, St. Francis Church is one of the oldest European churches in India.

Day 13/Sat: Kochi (B/L/D)
We begin today’s sightseeing at the Hill Palace Museum, which is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala and houses a collection of antique royal furniture, oil paintings, and sculptures.

We then visit the spice market in Mattancherry.

In the afternoon, we tour the Santa Cruz Basilica. This church dates back to the 16th century and features stunning architecture and intricate carvings.

We wrap up the day with a sunset cruise on the backwaters of Kochi to see the local villages and experience the tranquil atmosphere of the area.

Day 14/Sun: Kochi – Bengaluru (B/L/D)
We conclude our sightseeing in Kochi with a morning visit to the Paradesi Synagogue located in Jew Town. Built in 1568, this is the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations.

Transfer to the airport for our one-hour flight to Bengaluru following lunch. 

Bengaluru, officially known as Bangalore prior to November 1, 2014, is one of India’s most prosperous cities. It is often referred to as the “Garden City” and “Silicon Valley of India”. Located on the Deccan Plateau and 900 metres above sea level, Bengaluru is blessed with an agreeable climate. The city also boasts a modern metro system, upscale shopping malls and a lively dining scene.

Bengaluru has a long history dating all the way back to the 9th century CE and there is no shortage of historical sights here. Visitors to Bengaluru are equally attracted by the landmark corporate headquarters and business parks located on the outskirts of the city. 

Our afternoon sightseeing takes in the Vidhana Soudha (grand state government building) and the beautiful Cubbon Park across the street. If time allows, we’ll make a stop at National Gallery of Modern Art (closed on Mondays).

Day 15/Mon: Bengaluru (B/L)
Full-day sightseeing includes ISKCON Temple, historic Lalbagh Botanical Garden established in 1760, and UB City — an upscale commercial complex in Bengaluru’s central business district, featuring corporate offices, luxury shops and restaurants.

Day 16/Tue: Bengaluru – Hampi (B/L/D)
Our morning flight to Vidyanagar Airport, the closest airport to Hampi Village, takes about one hour. Flight service to Vidyanagar Airport is limited and subject to change. If a suitable flight is unavailable, alternative transportation arrangements will be made.

Hampi was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, one of the last great Hindu empires of southern India. Founded in 1336, the empire reached its height in the 16th century before its capital was devastated following the Battle of Talikota in 1565. The grandiose Dravidian temples and palaces won widespread admiration from traders and travellers who came here between the 14th and 16th centuries. Conquered by the Deccan Muslim confederacy in 1565, the city was pillaged over a period of six months before being abandoned.

In 1986, UNESCO designated an area of 4,187 hectares (42 sq km) containing over 1,600 surviving remains of the ancient palaces and temples as a World Heritage Site (Group of Monuments at Hampi). The carved stone chariot standing in front of the exquisitely ornate Vittala Temple has become the most recognizable symbol of the historical site.

Dravidian architecture flourished under the Vijayanagara Empire. Its ultimate form is characterized by massive dimensions, cloistered enclosures, and lofty towers over the entrances encased by decorated pillars. Dravidian architecture survives in the rest of Southern India, but Hampi is an ideal location for the visitor to learn all about this spectacular style of architecture. 

If time permits, we’ll visit a couple of key spots inside the protected area today. 

Day 17/Wed: Hampi (B/L/D)
We’ll start our sightseeing today at Matanga Hill that overlooks Hampi Bazaar.

From Matanga Hill, we continue on foot for approximately 6 to 8 kilometres, visiting important sites including Vittala Temple and Gajashala (the elephant stables). The walk involves uneven ground and some steps, so comfortable walking shoes and reasonable mobility are essential.

Caution: the ascent of Matanga Hill itself can be demanding. You need to be very fit to enjoy today’s program.

Day 18/Thu: Hampi – New Delhi (B/L/D)
We return to New Delhi by air, connecting through Hyderabad or Bengaluru, as there are no suitable nonstop flights from airports near Hampi.

Depending on the flight schedule, additional sightseeing may be arranged in Hampi.

Day 19/Fri: Departing New Delhi (B)
Your India tour ends this morning. An airport transfer is included for your return flight.

Dates & Prices

Prices are per person based on double occupancy.

* Land Only price does NOT include international airfare. Please contact us for a fare quote.

Know Before You Go

Passport

Your passport must be valid for at least six months when applying for an Indian e-Visa and have at least two blank pages. We recommend six months’ validity beyond your departure from India. Travellers holding passports other than Canadian or American should verify requirements applicable to their nationality.

Visa – India

Canadian and American passport holders require a visa to visit India. Eligible travellers can apply for an e-Tourist Visa through the official Indian government website.

India offers 30-day, one-year and five-year tourist e-Visas, with different conditions and fees. Apply well ahead of departure, within the permitted application window. Once approved, carry a printed copy of your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).

Foreign travellers must also complete an electronic arrival card within 72 hours before arriving in India. This is separate from the visa.

Vaccinations & Health Requirements

Consult a travel medicine clinic or healthcare professional at least four to six weeks before departure. Routine vaccinations should be current. Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations are generally recommended; other vaccinations or malaria prevention medication may be advisable depending on your health and itinerary.

Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if arriving from or transiting through certain countries where yellow fever is a risk.

For current advice, consult the Public Health Agency of Canada or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Tips for Staying Healthy

Food and Water

Avoid tap water, including when brushing your teeth. Drink sealed bottled water or properly treated water. Laurus Travel provides bottled drinking water during group activities.

Eat freshly prepared, thoroughly cooked food. Exercise caution with raw vegetables, unpeeled fruit, street food and ice made from untreated water.

Personal Hygiene

Wash your hands frequently, especially before meals. Carry hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol and a small supply of tissues, as public washrooms may lack toilet paper.

Air Quality and Mosquitoes

Air pollution can be severe in some Indian cities, particularly during winter. Travellers with respiratory or heart conditions should consult their physicians. Consider carrying an N95 mask.

Mosquito-borne diseases occur in India. Use repellent containing DEET or picaridin and wear protective clothing when appropriate.

Medication

Bring enough prescription medication for the entire trip, in its original labelled packaging. Keep essential medication in your hand luggage and carry copies of prescriptions. Travellers with chronic medical conditions should seek medical advice before departure.

Local Currency and Credit Cards

India’s currency is the Indian rupee (INR). Rupees are readily available from ATMs at airports and in major cities, although fees may apply.

Most major expenses are included in your tour fare, so you will need relatively little cash. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at hotels, larger restaurants and established shops, but small businesses may accept cash only.

Check foreign transaction fees with your bank. When paying by card, choose Indian rupees rather than your home currency to avoid potentially unfavourable conversion rates.

Travel Insurance – When to Buy

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance when your final balance is due, if not sooner.

Your policy should cover emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, medical evacuation, trip cancellation, interruption and travel delays.

Check coverage limits, exclusions and provisions concerning pre-existing medical conditions. Some benefits are available only when insurance is purchased shortly after the initial deposit.

Laurus Travel can provide information about travel insurance options upon request.