Gems of the North and South India, flights included

The price covers accommodation in mid‑range hotels, all international round‑trip airfare, domestic flights between Delhi, Kochi and back to Delhi, private coach transfers, English‑speaking guide services, most meals (breakfast daily and selected lunches or dinners as listed in the itinerary), entrance fees to the attractions mentioned, and the deluxe houseboat cruise in Kerala. It also includes the Kathakali performance in Kochi and the Kalaripayattu show in Munnar. Any personal expenses, optional activities, and tips are not included.

Yes. The €1,181 fare includes the international round‑trip flight to and from Delhi as well as the domestic flights that connect Delhi‑Kochi‑Delhi and any other scheduled air transfers within the itinerary. Ground transportation between airports, hotels and attractions is provided by private coach. Only flights not listed in the schedule, such as personal side trips, would be an extra cost.

The tour operator accepts major credit cards and offers a payment‑plan option for most bookings. Typically, a deposit of 30 % secures the reservation, with the balance payable in two or three installments before the departure date. Exact installment schedules and any processing fees are confirmed at the time of booking. Contact the sales team for the most current payment terms.

Cancellations made more than 60 days before the start date receive a full refund minus a small administrative fee. Between 59 and 30 days, 50 % of the total price is refundable. Cancellations within 30 days of departure are non‑refundable, though a credit for a future tour may be offered at the operator’s discretion. The policy also covers changes due to airline strikes or natural events, subject to documentation.

Travel insurance is not mandatory for booking the Gems of the North and South India tour, but it is strongly recommended. A comprehensive policy should cover medical emergencies, trip interruption, lost luggage, and personal liability. Some airlines and the tour operator may require proof of insurance for certain visa‑free nationalities, so verify the requirements for your country before departure.

Each day typically begins between 07:30 am and 08:30 am, depending on the activity and travel distance. The meeting point is usually the lobby of the hotel where you are staying the night before. For days that involve airport transfers or long drives, the guide will arrange a convenient pick‑up time and location, which is confirmed in the pre‑departure briefing packet.

Domestic flights within India generally allow one checked bag up to 23 kg and one carry‑on bag of 7 kg. The private coach transfers have a luggage compartment that can accommodate standard suitcases for each passenger. If you plan to bring oversized items, such as sports equipment, you should inform the tour operator in advance to arrange special handling.

Yes. Upon arrival in Delhi, a private air‑conditioned vehicle will meet you at the arrivals hall and transport you to the designated hotel for the first night. The same service is provided for the departure from Delhi back to the international airport after the final day of the tour. Transfers are coordinated by the guide and are included in the overall price.

You may extend your stay in Delhi either before the tour begins or after it finishes. This must be arranged directly with the tour operator or a local partner, as the included accommodation and transfers only cover the 15‑day itinerary. Additional nights will be booked at the same hotel category, and you will be responsible for the extra cost and any visa or entry requirements for the extended period.

A valid passport with at least six months remaining validity is required. An Indian visa (e‑Visa or stamped) must be obtained unless your passport is from a visa‑exempt country. The Indian Ministry of Health recommends routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, polio) and advises hepatitis A, typhoid, and, for some regions, malaria prophylaxis. Carry a copy of your vaccination record and any prescription medications you need.

The itinerary is family‑friendly and includes many cultural sites, wildlife experiences, and a houseboat cruise that appeal to children. Most days involve moderate walking and short drives, which are manageable for younger travelers. However, some attractions, such as the sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal and the jungle safari in Ranthambore, may require early mornings and a basic level of stamina. Parents should consider the age and comfort level of their children before booking.

The tour involves daily walking of 2–4 km on average, occasional stairs at monuments like forts and temples, and a few longer walks during the houseboat cruise and wildlife safari. No strenuous hiking or high‑altitude trekking is included. A moderate fitness level—being able to walk comfortably for several hours and stand for short periods—is sufficient. Participants with mobility issues should discuss accommodations with the operator in advance.

The pace is moderate, with most days featuring guided city tours, short drives, and a leisurely houseboat cruise. Senior travelers who are accustomed to walking short distances and can manage occasional stairs will generally find the itinerary comfortable. The tour includes private coach transport, reducing the amount of walking between attractions. If you have specific mobility concerns, the operator can arrange limited assistance or adjust the schedule where possible.

The North India segment includes a rickshaw ride through Old Delhi’s Chandni Chowk, visits to Jama Masjid, the Red Fort, India Gate, Parliament House, and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. In Agra, you see the Taj Mahal at sunrise, Agra Fort, and the historic city of Fatehpur Sikri. The itinerary also features the step‑well at Abhaneri, the Amber Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, and the vibrant markets of Jaipur. These highlights provide a broad view of the region’s heritage.

During the deluxe houseboat cruise from Alleppey to Kovalam, you will have several hours each day of unstructured time to relax on deck, watch the scenery, or step onto the boat’s deck for a short walk. The itinerary also includes a few scheduled stops at local villages and spice plantations, after which you can explore at your own pace. Overall, you can expect roughly 2–3 hours of free time per day on the backwaters.

Yes. The tour is designed to introduce first‑time travelers to both the iconic monuments of North India and the natural beauty of South India in a structured, guided format. It covers major sites such as the Taj Mahal, Jaipur’s forts, and Kerala’s backwaters, while providing English‑speaking guides, organized transportation and most meals. This reduces the logistical challenges that many first‑time visitors face and allows you to focus on experiencing the culture.

Booking the guided tour offers several benefits: a pre‑arranged itinerary that saves time on research, inclusive international and domestic flights, professional English‑speaking guides at each major site, and coordinated ground transport that avoids the hassle of arranging private cars. The price also bundles accommodation, most meals and entrance fees, which can be more economical than booking each component separately. Additionally, the tour provides a safety net with on‑ground support in case of unexpected changes.

Travelers who want a comprehensive overview of India’s cultural diversity in a single trip benefit most. This includes families seeking a mix of history, wildlife and scenic relaxation; first‑time visitors who prefer a structured schedule with English guides; and cultural enthusiasts interested in both North Indian heritage sites and South Indian natural landscapes. The tour’s balance of city sightseeing, wildlife safari, and a houseboat cruise offers varied experiences that appeal to a broad audience.