Discovering Diversity

Go for a youth-led morning walk through Delhi courtesy of the NexTrip-supported City Walk project. This initiative not only offers a distinctive perspective of Delhi but also contributes to the empowerment of at-risk youth. Later, delve into the historical richness of Delhi with a visit to the renowned Jama Masjid (Great Mosque), and ascend the minaret for a captivating bird's eye view of the Old City. Wander through Chandni Chowk, one of India's oldest and busiest markets, and absorb the history of the Sikh religion at the Gurdwara. Capture vibrant photos at the colorful market before concluding your day at Connaught Place, a prominent architectural legacy of British rule.

	City Walk
	3-5km
	Immerse yourself in the streets of Delhi with a youth-led tour guide from the Nextrip City Walk project. Gain insights from a local guide who, as a former at-risk youth, offers a unique perspective on the city and shares valuable information about the life of a child in India. This guided tour serves a dual purpose by contributing to the guide's college or university tuition. Please note that City Walk is closed on Sundays and holidays, and this activity will not be available on those days.
	Jama Masjid Visit
	30m-1h
	Navigate the winding roads of Old Delhi to explore the magnificent Jama Masjid, the Great Mosque of Delhi. Commissioned by Shah Jahan, the same emperor behind the Taj Mahal, it stands as India's best-known and largest mosque. Explore the grand structure, completed in 1656, and appreciate its expansive courtyard capable of hosting 25,000 worshippers.
	Gurdwara Sis Ganj Visit
	30m-1h
	Uncover the history of the Sikh religion at the historically significant Gurdwara, a place of worship for Sikhs.
	Connaught Place Visit
	1h 3km
	Discover the Victorian architecture of Connaught Place, a monumental circle at the heart of Delhi's map. Explore the market on Janpath, born when refugees from Pakistan began selling their wares on this road after the Partition in 1947. It remains one of Delhi's most vibrant markets, attracting both tourists and locals alike.
	Chandni Chowk Visit
	1h-2h
	Take a leisurely stroll through Chandni Chowk, one of India's oldest and busiest markets. Pause to savor the variety of paranthas (stuffed Indian bread) offered in stalls lining the streets.
	Accomodation
	Hotel
	Hotel Aster In (or similar)

Drive to Rajasthan's capital, Jaipur, and begin your exploration of the Pink City. Opt to see the Royal Observatory, also known as Jantar Mantar. Don't pass up the chance to watch a Bollywood movie at the renowned Raj Mandir Art Deco theater.

	Private Vehicle
	Delhi – Jaipur | 5h-6h 260km
	Get comfortable and enjoy the view from a private vehicle.

	2 Optional Activities - Day 3
	Jantar Mantar Visit  200INR per person 1000INR per group
	Jaipur | 1h-2h
	At the crack of dawn, commence your day as the sun gracefully emerges on the horizon. Ascend into the sky, relishing the hushed tranquility of the morning, while observing the vibrant inhabitants below embarking on their day. Soaring above, you might glide over undulating hills, lively villages, and chance upon a quaint monastery. Perhaps, luck permitting, you could even catch a glimpse of majestic elephants during this aerial escapade.
	Raj Mandir Cinema and Movie 200-400INR per person
	Jaipur

	Accommodation
	Hotel
	Hotel Anuraag Villa (or similar)

Take a moment to appreciate the exquisite architectural details of Hawa Mahal, also renowned as the Palace of the Winds, before heading to the ancient city of Amber to explore its iconic Fort.

Opt either to explore the city on a bicycle by booking the Jaipur Cycle Tour or visit Next Kitchen for a delicious meal that supports the local community.

	Amber Fort Visit
	Jaipur
	Explore the captivating Hindu architecture at the stunning Amber Fort. Positioned on a hill, the fort's sandstone walls seamlessly integrate with the landscape, creating a picturesque reflection in Maota Lake—a perfect setting for a mesmerizing photograph. Wander through the well-crafted halls, courtyards, and palaces, appreciating the intricate details that adorn this historical marvel.

	4 Optional Activities - Day 4
	City Palace Visit  700INR per person
	Jaipur | 1h-2h
	Discover the City Palace by exploring its courtyards, gardens, and buildings. Situated in the heart of the Old City, it showcases a captivating Rajputana architecture. Take a trip to the palace's museum to view ancient carriages and the gold-embroidered wedding attire of the former Maharaja.
	Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) Visit  200INR per person
	Jaipur | 15m-30m
	Visit Hawa Mahal, also known as the "Palace of the Winds." This intricately carved structure gets its name from the cool breeze that circulates, providing comfort even during Jaipur's hot summers. Explore the main complex, lush gardens, and the adjacent lake.
	Next kitchen
	Jaipur
	Hungry in Jaipur? Visit Kitchen With A Cause for a delightful meal that contributes to the local community. This vibrant restaurant offers mouth-watering dishes prepared by skilled chefs celebrating the rich, traditional flavors of Indian cuisine. Your meal here goes beyond filling your stomach; it aids local disadvantaged youth. So, at Next Kitchen, your dining experience is a meaningful contribution to both your taste buds and the community.
	Jaipur Cycle Tour
	Jaipur
	Explore the lanes and organized layout of Jaipur by bicycle on a morning tour. Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the city in a way that a vehicle can't match. Join an experienced guide to navigate the streets of the 'Pink City', starting the day with a traditional Indian yoghurt drink of Lassi. Visit the City Palace, Govind Dev temple, and the historical spices and sweets market. End the tour at the majestic Albert Hall Museum. Taxi transfers to and from the hotel are included in the price of the cycle tour. Grab a helmet and jump on your bike for a unique and immersive way to see Jaipur.

	Accommodation
	Hotel
	Hotel Anuraag Villa (or similar)

Experience rural life in Rajasthan with a cycling excursion to Dhula Village. After a day of exploration, relax in your cozy tent, enjoy a fire, and gaze at the starry night sky.

Before leaving Jaipur, don't miss the chance to see the city from above with a pre-booked Jaipur Balloon Ride.

Your accommodations for the night are spacious tents with comfortable beds, lamps, and simple en suite bathrooms.

	Private Vehicle
	Jaipur
	Get comfortable and enjoy the view from a private vehicle.
	Village Cycling Excursion
	Dhula Village
	Pedal to explore the charming village of Dhula cycling journey. Immerse yourself in the serene pace of rural life and the picturesque scenery of Rajasthan

	1 Optional Activities - Day 5
	Jaipur Balloon Ride 100INR per person
	Jaipur | 1h-2h
	Start your day at dawn, watching the sunrise. Enjoy the peaceful morning sky as you float above colorful villages, rolling hills, and a quiet monastery. If you're lucky, you might even see elephants below. Available September - April

	Accommodation
	Hotel
	Dhula Garh (or similar)
Meals included: Dinner

Pause and visit the remarkable Abhaneri stepwell on your way to Agra, the home of the iconic Taj Mahal.

	Private Vehicle
	Dhula Village – Agra | 4h 250km
	Get comfortable and enjoy the view from a private vehicle.
	Abhaneri Stepwell Visit
	Abhaneri  | 30m-1h
	Take a look around the incredible Chand Baori, a 10th-century water tank with an impressive depth of 6.1m (20 ft). Gain insights into ancient Indian environmental practices, as the "baori" stands out as a unique Indian innovation for rainwater harvesting.

	1 Optional Activities - Day 6
	Fatehpur Sikri Visit 500INR per person
	Fatehpur Sikri
	Discover the splendid red sandstone fort city, once the capital of India's Mughal Empire and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Observe the diverse religious influences, as King Akbar constructed three palaces dedicated to his favorite wives—one each for Hindu, Muslim, and Christian faiths within the city.

	Accommodation
	Hotel
	Hotel The Taj Vilas (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast

Explore the iconic Taj Mahal at sunrise and take the opportunity to stroll through its picturesque grounds. Afterward, opt for a rustic cycle-rickshaw ride to the walled city of Agra Fort and Baby Taj.

​

	Taj Mahal Visit
	Taj Mahal – Agra
	Check the Taj Mahal off your bucket list as you witness the splendor of this Seven Wonder of the World. Delve into the beauty of the white marble mausoleum, a testament to Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan's profound love for his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
	Cycle Rickshaw Ride
	Agra
	Explore Agra Fort in a unique way—hop on a human-powered cycle-rickshaw for an immersive experience.
	Agra Fort Visit
	Agra | 1h-3h
	Discover the impressive Agra Fort, a masterpiece crafted from red sandstone and white marble.
	Baby Taj Visit
	Agra
	Visit the Baby Taj, a mausoleum resembling a jewel box, constructed by Queen Nur Jahan for her father. Appreciate the intricate details of this historic structure, the first Mughal building adorned with white marble and featuring the pioneering use of "pietra dura" (precious stones inlaid into marble).
	Accomodation
	Hotel
	Hotel The Taj Vilas (or similar)

Take a morning train, followed by a private vehicle journey on rugged Indian roads to reach Alipura. This welcoming village will serve as our base for two days, accommodating you in a heritage property. Take the opportunity to explore the town, engage with the local community, and unwind in the serene surroundings.

	Train
	Agra –Jhansi | 2h 30m
	Catch a train from Agra to Jhānsi, settle into your seat, and enjoy the journey.
	Private Vehicle
	Jhansi - Alipura | 3h30m
	Ride a private vehicle from Jhānsi to Alīpura. Settle in comfortably and absorb the scenery along the way.
	Free Time
	Alipura
	Make the most of your afternoon in Alipura with free time. Connect with the locals, immerse yourself in village life, and unwind.
	Accomodation
	Heritage Hotel
	Alipura Palace In (or similar)

Take a morning train, followed by a private vehicle journey on rugged Indian roads to reach Alipura. This welcoming village will serve as our base for two days, accommodating you in a heritage property. Take the opportunity to explore the town, engage with the local community, and unwind in the serene surroundings.

	Private Vehicle
	Alipura –khajuraho | 1h30m-2h | 96km
	Catch a train from Agra to Jhansi, settle into your seat, and enjoy the journey.
	Khajuraho Temples Guided Tour
	Khajuraho
	Explore the stunning temples of Khajuraho on a guided tour. Featuring bold and artistic erotic carvings akin to the Kama Sutra, these Hindu temples were constructed over a century, with 22 of the original 80 temples still standing today.
	Private Vehicle
	Khajuraho – Alipura | 1h30m-2h | 93km
	Get comfortable in your private ride and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
	Accomodation
	Heritage Hotel
	Alipura Palace (or similar)

On the way to Orchha, stop by a specialized paper-making plant designed to support tribal women. The paper is crafted from recycled clothing and wood pulp. Upon reaching Orchha, take an orientation tour of this quaint town situated along the Betwa River, offering a serene escape from the bustling Indian cities. Conclude the day by participating in an evening puja ceremony at the Ram Raja Temple.

	Private Vehicle
	Alipura – Orchha | 2h-2h30m | 88km
	Get comfortable in your private ride and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
	Tarragram Visit
	Orchha | 1h
	Visit a special paper-making facility designed to support tribal women in the region. The paper crafted here is exclusively produced from recycled clothing and wood pulp.
	Puja Ceremony
	Orchha | 1h
	Witness a Hindu prayer ceremony where offerings of flowers, incense, and food are presented to an image or idol representing a deity.
	Accomodation
	Guesthouse
	Hotel Shivam Palace (or similar)

Explore the Orchha Palace complex and have leisure time before the overnight train to Varanasi.

Sharp your cooking skills by adding the Orchha Cooking Class when you book your tour.

	Orchha Palace Visit
	Orchha | 1h-2h
	Visit three grand palaces or "Mahals" in this complex: Raj Mahal, Jehangir Mahal, and Rai Parveen Mahal. Admire the beautiful medieval architecture and learn about their fascinating history.
	Free Time
	Orchha | Afternoon
	Take some time to explore the nearby local market
	Private Vehicle
	Orchha – Jhansi  | 15m-30m
	Get comfortable in your private ride and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
	Basic Overnight Train (Beds)
	Jhansi –Varanasi | 13h
	Enjoy the local overnight travel experience! Relax, take a seat, and treat yourself to some well-deserved (and probably much-needed) rest as you journey to your next destination.

	1 Optional Activities - Day 11
	Orchha Cooking Class
	Orchha
	Explore Orchha, a town brimming with spiritual significance and remarkable architectural sites. Immerse yourself in its unique charm as you embark on a culinary journey. Delight in the experience of crafting a comforting cup of masala chai and savoring delectable vegetable pakoras. Your hosts will guide you through the art of preparing three distinct curries, allowing you to indulge in these flavorful dishes accompanied by raita, mango and guava chutneys, as well as chapatis and puris. This is not just a visit; it's an opportunity to forge a deeper connection with your hosts and the essence of Orchha.

Arrive in Varanasi, a renowned Indian holy city, attracting millions of Hindus for pilgrimage, worship, and rituals. Explore the ancient city on an orientation walk, with time for shopping and immersing in its unique atmosphere. Experience the mesmerizing evening flower ceremony during a boat trip along the River Ganges.

Opt for the Varanasi Heritage Walk, a pre-booked guided tour emphasizing local life and cultural values. Witness pilgrims' rituals, gaining insights into Varanasi's significance in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.

	Evening Ganges Boat Tour
	Varanasi | 1h-2h 7km
	Accomodation
	Hotel
	Hotel Park Plaza (or similar)

	1 Optional Activities - Day 12
	Heritage and Spiritual Walk in Old Benaras
	Varanasi
	Take a guided tour exploring Old Varanasi City's heritage and spirituality. Roam through narrow streets, lively markets, and temples, immersing yourself in the history and culture of Varanasi. Starting at the Godaulia intersection, the tour leads to the revered Mata Kali Temple, constructed in 1885 by the Maharaja of Varanasi. Appreciate its beautifully carved pillars. Visit the Ganesh temple, stroll through the vibrant market at Tedhi Neem Gali, and head to the Kashi Vishwanath corridor. Witness the ancient Manikarnika Ghat, Varanasi's main cremation site with a sacred fire burning for 3000 years. Continue past the Alam Gir mosque, the shrine of Hindu Yogi Shri Tailang Swami, the Mangla Gauri Temple, and the Sankatha Mata Temple. The tour concludes with a taste of the famous white butter toast and tea at Laxmi Chai shop or Dwarika Lassi. Throughout the tour, our guide emphasizes local life, philosophical values, and cultural insights in Varanasi. Experience the significance of Varanasi in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism as you witness pilgrims' rituals and chants.

Witness the sunrise from a boat on the Ganges. Spend the day exploring the holy city. Consider a visit to the monasteries and ruins of Sarnath, where the Buddha delivered his first sermon.

	Morning Ganges Boat Tour
	Varanasi | 1h-2h | 7km
	Experience the sunrise from a boat cruising the sacred Ganges River, where Hindu pilgrims gather to cleanse sins and perform cremations. Observe locals engaging in morning rituals of bathing and cremation along the riverbanks..
	Free Time
	Explore all that ancient city has to offer

	1 Optional Activities - Day 13
	Guided Visit of Sarnath
	Varanasi
	Begin the day of exploration with a tuk-tuk ride from Varanasi to Sarnath, where your local guide awaits. Sarnath, known as one of the holiest Buddhist sites globally, is where Buddhism originated, and Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. For almost 1700 years, this site has been a center for learning, pilgrimage, and a Vihara (Monastery) for monks and scholars. Guided by a local expert, discover the archaeological remains of the monastery, including the ancient Dhamek stupa. Explore the museum at Sarnath and the sacred Maha Bodhi Tree. Visit temples built by Buddhist communities from Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Japan. Take a moment to admire the Buddha statue at the Thai Buddha Vihara, a towering figure at eighty feet, recognized as the tallest standing Buddha statue at Sarnath. After three hours of insightful exploration, your guide will lead you back to the waiting tuk-tuks, taking you to your hotel.

	Accomodation
	Hotel
	Hotel Park Plaza (or similar)

Soak up some free time this morning and continue exploring Varanasi. Later, cut out the travel time with a flight back to bustling Delhi.

	Free Time
	Varanasi
	Utilize the morning to engage in some final sightseeing activities at your own pace in Varanasi.
	Plane
	Varanasi - Delhi
	Hold onto your hats! That's no UFO, folks, it's just your everyday plane showing off its flying skills.
	Accomodation
	Hotel
	Hotel Southern (or similar)

Fly to Kochi, the port city. Get settled in your hotel and have the rest of the day to unwind. Consider catching the sunset over the Arabian Sea, surrounded by numerous boats and fishing nets.

Later in the evening, there's a welcome meeting for new travelers joining the group.

	Plane
	Delhi – Kochi | 3h-3h30m
	Hold onto your hats! That's no UFO, folks, it's just your everyday plane showing off its flying skills.
	Accomodation
	Hotel
	Hotel Roses In (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast

Take a morning train and follow it up with a scenic drive to reach Kalpetta, located in the Wayanad district.

	Train
	Kochi – Kozhikode | 4h
	Climb on, take a seat, and enjoy the adventure.
	Private Vehicle
	Kozhikode–Kalpetta | 2h
	Get comfortable and enjoy the view from a private vehicle.
	Accomodation
	Villa
	Iris Highes Villas (or similar)

Explore the nature trails in Wayanad's forested areas. Take a guided tour of a tea factory and plantation to understand the local tea production process.

Tea plantations in the Wayanad region of the western Ghats in Kerala is celebrated for producing some of the finest teas.

	Wayanad Nature Walk
	Kalpetta | 5h
	Take a nature walk in the captivating Wayanad, home to endangered species and a diverse range of flora and fauna. Uncover the region's rich history, with visits to ancient relics like the Edakkal Caves, showcasing a Stone Age civilization. Experience the local culture by exploring a tribal village.
	Wayanad Tea Factory Visit
	Kalpetta
	Visit a tea factory in the scenic Wayanad region, offering a captivating glimpse into tea production. Wander through hills adorned with lush green tea bushes, inhale the fragrance of freshly plucked tea leaves, and explore the factory to learn about the tea-making process. Witness the withering, rolling, drying, and grading of tea leaves guided by an expert. Conclude the visit with a cup of tea from the area.
	Accomodation
	Villa
	Iris Highes Villas (or similar)

Set in for the drive to the historical city of Mysore.

Head to Mysore (formerly Mysuru), nestled in the foothills of the Chamundi Hills, which held the distinction of being the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore from 1399 to 1947..

	Private Vehicle
	Kalpetta – Mysore
	Kick back in your private vehicle, and enjoy the lovely views along the way.
	Accomodation
	Hotel
	Samudra Mysore (or similar)

Explore Mysore in all its vibrancy, with must-visit stops at Chamundi Temple and Mysore Palace. Afterward, make the most of your free time—consider a visit to the Devaraja market or perhaps join a yoga class.

Experience life as a Maharaja with a guided tour of the impressive Mysore Palace. Afterwards, join the crowds at Chamundi Hills, where the temple stands tall, and Nandi the Bull (Shiva's mount) is just a short walk away.

For an extra adventure, consider a drive to Somnathpur, home to one of India's renowned Hoysala Temples.

	Chamundi Temple Visit
	Mysore
	Admire the beautiful architecture of Chamundeshwari Temple, perched atop Chamundi Hills just outside Mysore.
	Mysore Palace Visit
	Mysore | 2h
	Step into the world of the Maharajas at this stunning palace, the former royal residence from 1399 to 1950. Immerse yourself in the history of Indian royalty, surrounded by the grandeur of bygone times..
	Accomodation
	Hotel
	Samudra Mysore (or similar)

Take a full day to travel by train to Chennai, followed by a brief bus journey to Mamallapuram. Explore the Shore Temple.

Board a train to Chennai and then head south for a short trip to the quaint village of Mamallapuram. Don't miss the chance to visit the 7th-century Shore Temple, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

	Train
	Mysore – Chennai | 8h
	Enjoy the beautiful scenery on a train ride along India's east coast. Play cards, chat with other passengers, or simply relax and absorb the scenic landscapes.
	Private Vehicle
	Chennai – Mamallapuram | 1h-1h30m
	Get comfortable and enjoy the view from a private vehicle.
	Shore Temple Visit
	Mamallapuram
	Discover the rich heritage of monuments crafted in the 7th and 8th centuries, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among these treasures, the Shore Temple distinguishes itself, constructed from granite and offering a breathtaking perspective of the Bay of Bengal's shoreline. This twin temple holds a unique significance as it is devoted to the revered Hindu deities Vishnu and Shiva.
	Accomodation
	Hotel
	Hotel Pallava Dynasty (or similar)

Your time to explore Mamallapuram.

	Free Time
	Mamallapuram | Full Day
	Make the most of your free time to discover everything this city has to offer. Whether you fancy a refreshing swim in the ocean, a leisurely jog along the beach, exploring the monuments on a bicycle or by foot, or indulging in some retail therapy, Mamallapuram has it all for you to explore.
	Accomodation
	Hotel
	Hotel Pallava Dynasty (or similar)

Head to Pondicherry (now known as Puducherry) and delve into the teachings of Sri Aurobindo Ghose at the ashram.

In the morning, take a drive to Pondicherry (now known as Puducherry), which was once the largest French Colony in India and a significant trading town. The city's layout bears a strong French influence, featuring wide boulevards and houses in the French style. Despite this, the essence of the city remains distinctly Indian.

	Private Vehicle
	Mamallapuram – Puducherry | 2h-2h30m
	Get comfortable and enjoy the view from a private vehicle.
	Orientation walk With Trip Lead
	30m-1h
	Join your Trip Lead for a quick orientation walk. Get valuable tips on locating essentials like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more detailed information, consider opting for an official guided tour.
	Accomodation
	Heritage Hotel
	Hotel Esparan Heritage (or similar)

Head inland to Madurai, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities.

	Private Vehicle
	Puducherry  – Madura | 6h-7h
	Get comfortable and enjoy the view from a private vehicle.
	Accomodation
	Hotel
	Hotel Annamalai (or similar)

Take a cycle rickshaw tour of the city before exploring the renowned Meenakshi Temple. After your temple visit, consider exploring handicraft shops or the covered stone tailor's market. In the market, skilled tailors, equipped with antique foot-pump sewing machines, can craft a custom shirt in minutes for just a few rupees. In the late evening, you may choose to revisit the Meenakshi Temple to witness the nighttime rituals.

	Cycle-Rickshaw Tour
	Madurai | 2h
	Get comfortable and enjoy the view from a private vehicle.
	Meenakshi Temple Visit
	Madurai |  2h-3h
	Join your Trip Lead for a quick orientation walk. Get valuable tips on locating essentials like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more detailed information, consider opting for an official guided tour.

	1 Optional Activities - Day 24
	Meenakshi Temple Night Visit 100INR per person1000INR per group
	Madurai | 1h-2h
	Visit the beautiful Meenakshi Temple, known for its outstanding South Indian religious architecture. As the clock ticks past 9 pm, witness a transformation in the temple's ambiance during the enchanting nighttime rituals. Immerse yourself in the aromatic swirl of incense, accompanied by the lively presence of people engaged in the sacred activities. It's a truly captivating spectacle that adds a unique and magical touch to your visit.

	Accommodation
	Hotel
	Hotel Annamalai (or similar)

Drive to Thekkady and explore spice plantations on a guided tour in the Cardamom Hills. Thekkady, near Periyar National Park, is known for spices. Learn about them on a guided plantation tour and visit a tea factory. You can also opt for a boat ride on Periyar Lake.

	Private Vehicle
	Madurai  - Thekkady | 2h
	Get comfortable and enjoy the view from a private vehicle.
	Cardamom Hills Spice Plantation Tour
	Thekkady | 1h-2h
	Take a guided tour of the plantation and tea factory to discover the secrets of spice and tea production in this region. You might even get to enjoy a sample or two.

	1 Optional Activities - Day 25
	Periyar Lake Boat Ride 100INR per person 1000INR per group
	Periyar Lake | 1h-2h
	Take a boat ride on Periyar Lake for a fantastic way to explore the region and spot some wildlife. Early mornings provide the best chance to see monkeys, wild boars, and elephants as they begin their day. Periyar National Park is home to over 200 bird species, and the boat ride offers a unique perspective for birdwatching.

	Accommodation
	Hotel
	Hotel Wild Saga (or similar)

Head to Alleppey for an immersive local homestay experience, delving into the authentic charm of the region through a guided walk along the picturesque lagoon.

Transition from Thekkady to the backwaters, embarking on a private boat for a brief journey to the village homestay.

In the afternoon, engage in an exploration of the island led by a local guide, gaining insights into the diverse facets of local life. This presents a wonderful opportunity to interact with and learn from the residents of this distinctive locale.

As the sun begins its descent, set on a serene country boat ride with the locals, relishing the beauty of the sunset over the winding backwaters.

	Private Vehicle
	Thekkady – Alleppey | 5h  145km
	Get comfortable and enjoy the view from a private vehicle.
	Boat
	Alleppey – Kerala Backwaters | 1h-2h
	Board up and let the floating adventure begin.
	Kerala Backwaters Homestay
	Take a walk under the palm trees, navigating through the rice fields that blanket the island. Gain insights into the local lifestyles. Witness the sunset on the meandering backwaters aboard a small country boat, sharing the experience with locals. Perhaps, there'll be a chance to relax and savor a local toddy, a coconut-based alcoholic drink.
	Accommodation
	Heritage Homestay
	The Pamba Heritage Villa (or similar)

Spend your morning with the host family, exploring local culture and flavors. Learn cooking secrets, observe toddy tappers, or wander around the village. Travel to Kochi. Followed by an orientation walk, cap off the day with a traditional Kathakali dance performance.

	Boat
	Kerala Backwaters – Alleppeyy | 1h 30m
	Get on board and ride the wave.
	Private Vehicle
	Alleppey – Kochi | 2h
	Get comfortable and enjoy the view from a private vehicle.
	Cultural Lunch at Kochi
	Kochi
	Delight in a heartfelt Kerala feast, prepared with love by women from urban areas. This serves as an alternative income source for women from rural areas, but it also provides them with an opportunity to refine their hospitality and culinary skills. Explore the local cuisine and socio-economic landscape of the area while connecting with these women.
	Orientation Walk
	Kochi | 1h-2h
	Take a guided walk through Kochi, exploring the Dutch Palace, Jewish Quarter with a 400-year-old synagogue, and St Francis Church, the oldest church in India. Uncover the city's history in a simple and delightful way.
	Kathakali Dance
	Kochi | 2h
	Kathakali, one of India's ancient dance forms, merges drama, dance, music, and ritual. Performers, exclusively men, adorned in vibrant costumes and painted faces, enact tales from Hindu epics like Mahabharata and Ramayana. Known for stunning costumes, intricate makeup, and dynamic movements, Kathakali is a captivating expression of Indian culture.
	Accommodation
	Hotel
	Elza's Fort Inn (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch

Take-off whenever you feel like it.

	Departure Day
	Want to keep the adventure going? Your Trip Lead can assist with travel arrangements for an extended adventure.