Colonial India & Backwater Tour | La Vacanza Travel

Colonial India & Backwater Tour

Duration: 14 days
Destination: India, National Capital Territory of Delhi, New Delhi
from
2390.72

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  • 14 days
  • New Delhi
  • E-Voucher
  • Lowest Price
  • Not-Cancellable

Overview

Embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of Colonial India & Backwaters, beginning in the vibrant heart of Delhi. Explore the historic landmarks of Old Delhi, from the majestic Red Fort to the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk. Marvel at the architectural wonders of New Delhi, including Humayun's Tomb and the iconic Qutab Minar. Experience the spiritual allure of Varanasi as you witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. Delve into the cultural treasures of Kolkata, Chennai, and Cochin, each offering a unique blend of colonial charm and modern vibrancy. Cruise along the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of Kerala. Conclude your odyssey in Mumbai, where the echoes of history resonate amidst the bustling streets and iconic landmarks. Join us on this unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes and timeless traditions of Colonial India & Backwaters.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

Pass By: New Delhi, New Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi
On arrival at Delhi airport assistance and transfer to hotel (hotel check in/ out time 1200hrs afternoon early check in subject to rooms availability). Rest time free and easy to relax nand personal activities. You can opt to go out for dinner with your driver.

No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Delhi

Stop At: New Delhi, New Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi
Breakfast at hotel, city tour of Delhi. Visit landmark of Old Delhi which include Red Fort the residence of the Mughal emperor for nearly 200 years until 1857. Jama Masjid one of the largest mosques in the world, built by Shah Jahan. Cycle Rickshaw ride in Chandni chowk & Khari Baoli Spice Market a busy shopping area with markets full of spices, dried fruit, silver jewelry and vivid saris, while the narrow side streets are crowded with tiny shops selling essential oils, stationery and traditional Indian sweets. Raj Gath the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi where he was cremated after his assassination.
Duration: 4 hours

Stop At: New Delhi, New Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi
In New Delhi visit Humayun Tomb the first garden-tomb in Indian subcontinent and an early example of Mughal architecture commissioned by Humayun's first wife Empress Bega Begum in 1569-70. Qutab Minar a 73-metres tall minaret that forms part of the Qutb complex a fine examples of Afghan architecture. Lotus Temple a Baháʼí House of Worship notable for its flowerlike shape open to all, regardless of religion. Drive thrugh VVIP areas passing President House, Parliament & India Gate etc.
Duration: 4 hours

Pass By: New Delhi, New Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi
Rest time free and easy to relax and personal activities.

Meals included:

Accommodation included: Overnight at hotel.

Day 3: Delhi - Varanasi (flight)

Stop At: New Delhi, New Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi
Breakfast at hotel transfer to airport to board flight for Varanasi.
Duration: 4 minutes

Pass By: Varanasi, Varanasi, Varanasi District, Uttar Pradesh
On arrival in Varanasi assistance and transfer to hotel.

Stop At: Ganga Aarti, B1/150 C1 Assi ghat jagannath gully, Varanasi 221005 India
Evening walking tour of Ghats’s temples & mosque on ghats. Also attend Holy Ganga Aarti, a magical aarti performed at Dasashwamedh Ghat at sunset. Halt your boat right at the steps for the best view.
Duration: 3 hours

Meals included:

Accommodation included: Overnight at hotel.

Day 4: Varanasi

Stop At: Dasaswamedh Ghat Road, Varanasi 221001 India
Early morning boat ride & Ghat visit along the Ganges and catch the scene of devotees bathing and praying in the sacred water. Ghats in Varanasi are riverfront steps leading to the banks of the River Ganges. The city has 88 ghats. Most of the ghats are bathing and puja ceremony ghats, while two ghats are used exclusively as cremation sites. The ghats are frequented by the people which include early morning bathers, priests, people practicing meditation and yoga, students and tourists as well.

Return to your hotel for breakfast then begin the city tour of Varanasi.
Duration: 3 hours

Stop At: Varanasi, Varanasi, Varanasi District, Uttar Pradesh
Visit Banaras Hindu University founded in the year 1916, it has developed into one of the greatest centers of learning in India. Its campus is spread over 1300 acres. It has well maintained roads (crossing each other at right angle), extensive greenery, a temple, an airstrip and buildings, which are an architectural delight. Bharat Mata Temple built by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupt and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936 the Bharat Mata Temple is a model of undivided India. The most striking aspect of Bharat Mata Temple is that instead of gods and goddesses, the temple houses a relief map of undivided India, carved out of marble. Tulsi Manas Mandir one of the most famous temples in Varanasi, is made up of white marble and the beautiful garden adds to its attractiveness. The temple has beautiful images of Lord Rama, Mother Sita, Lakshman and Lord Hanuman. The walls of this temple are adorned with verses from Ramcharitmanas, the Hindi version of the epic Ramayana.
Duration: 4 hours

Stop At: Sarnath Via-Anlabereni, Varanasi 759026 India
Sarnath, it was here that Lord Buddha preached his first sermon after attaining the Enlightenment at Bodh Gaya. The great Dhamekh Stupa and several other structures stand testimony to the importance the place enjoyed at that time. The area is a treasure trove of archaeological findings such as Dharmrajika Stupa and Mulgandhkuti Vihar. The smooth glistening pillar established by Emperor Ashoka in 273-232 B.C. marks the foundation of the Buddhist Sangha, and the Lion Capital atop this pillar is now India's National Emblem.
Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Fort Road, Fort Rd, Near Gala Mandi, Ram nagar, Ramnagar, Uttar Pradesh 221008, India
Ram Nagar Fort located on the eastern bank of River Ganga, a beautiful place to witness the sunset over the river. The fort is built in red sandstone. It houses a temple dedicated to Ved Vyasa, writer of Mahabharata, the great Indian epic. The Fort includes an eccentric museum boasting a royal collection of vintage cars, swords, palanquins, ivory works, an old weaponry section and an extremely unusual astrological clock.
Duration: 2 hours

Meals included:

Accommodation included: Overnight at hotel.

Day 5: Varanasi - Kolkata (flight)

Pass By: Varanasi, Varanasi, Varanasi District, Uttar Pradesh
Breakfast at hotel transfer to airport to board flight for Kolkata.

Pass By: Kolkata (Calcutta), Kolkata (Calcutta), Kolkata District, West Bengal
On arrival at Kolkata airport meet with our office executive assistance and transfer to hotel. Rest time free for personal activities relax.

Meals included:

Accommodation included: Overnight at hotel.

Day 6: Kolkata

Stop At: Maidan, Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata, West Bengal 700021, India
Breakfast at hotel, full day city tour of Kolkata. Visit Fort William built during the early years of the Bengal Presidency of British India, Extends over an area of 70.9 hectares on the eastern banks of the River Hooghly one of most enduring Raj-era edifices.
Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Victoria Memorial Hall, 1 Queen's Way, Kolkata (Calcutta) 700071 India
Victoria Memorial the immaculate white memorial bounded by verdant greenery and broad roads is dedicated to Queen Victoria. Inside the memorial there is a museum where you can see the dresses of the queen as well as different kinds of weapons used during that era.
Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Netaji Bhawan, 38/2 Lala Lajpat Rai Sarani, Kolkata (Calcutta) India
Netaji Bhawan a building maintained as a memorial and research center to the life of the Indian nationalist "Netaji" Subhas Chandra Bose. The house, built by Bose's father in 1909, is owned and managed by the Netaji Research Bureau and includes a museum, archives and library.
Duration: 1 hour

Pass By: Howrah Bridge, Jagganath Ghat 1, Strand Road, Kolkata (Calcutta) 700001 India
Howrah Bridge one of the most popular bridges of India also known as the gateway of Kolkata. Built on the river Hooghly it is one of the major Kolkata attractions and people from different part of the country come here especially to witness this amazingly structured bridge.

Stop At: Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Near Bali Bridge P.O. :Alambazar, Kolkata (Calcutta) 700035 India
Dakshineswar Kali Temple one of the major pilgrimage center in the city that is dedicated to Goddess Kali. Located on the bank of River Hoogly, the temple compound maintains a large courtyard with rooms along the boundary walls, twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, a bathing ghat on the river and a shrine dedicated to Rani Rashmoni.
Duration: 1 hour

Meals included:

Accommodation included: Overnight at hotel.

Day 7: Kolkata - Chennai (flight)

Stop At: Kolkata (Calcutta), Kolkata (Calcutta), Kolkata District, West Bengal
Breakfast at hotel. As per flight schedule transfer to airport to board flight for Chennai.
Duration: 6 hours

Pass By: Chennai (Madras), Chennai (Madras), Chennai District, Tamil Nadu
On arrival at Chennai airport meet with our office executive assistance and transfer to hotel.

Stop At: Chennai (Madras), Chennai (Madras), Chennai District, Tamil Nadu
Later city tour of Chennai. Visit Fort St. George & Museum - located on the banks of Bay of Bengal. It was built by the British East India Company in 1640 AD. Semmozhi Poonga a beautifully landscaped botanical garden in Chennai which is set up by the horticulture department of the Government of Tamil Nadu. Dakshina Chitra - a living-history museum, dedicated to South Indian heritage and culture. Arulmigu Sri Parthasarathy Temple - an 8th-century Hindu Vaishnavite temple dedicated to the Lord Vishnu. Evening to walk on Marina beach.
Duration: 5 hours

Meals included:

Accommodation included: Overnight at hotel.

Day 8: Chennai - Kanchipuram - Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry (235kms/ 5hrs approx)

Stop At: Kanchipuram, Kanchipuram, Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu
Breakfast at hotel drive to Pondicherry via visiting Kanchipuram & Mahabalipuram.
Duration: 5 hours

Stop At: Kanchipuram, Kanchipuram, Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu
In Kanchipuram visit Kailasanathar temple - 8th century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is noted for its architecture and sculptures. There are 58 small shrines situated around the main shrine as compound wall. Sandstone was used in the construction of this temple. Ekambareswarar temple - another ancient temple of the city dedicated to Siva. The 2500-year-old mango tree inside the temple has 4 branches each yields different varieties of mangoes. Varadharaja temple - dedicated to Lord Vishnu, noted for its wonderful sculptures. This is one of the 108 sacred Shri Vaishnavite temples. Vaikundhaperumal temple - dedicated to lord Vishnu, it is also one of the 108 Divyadesams. Kamakshiamman temple - dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi the presiding deity, one of the holy Sakthi worship places in India. It is closely associated with Sri Adi Sankaracharya.
Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Mahabalipuram, Mahabalipuram, Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu
Visit Krishna's Butterball - a gigantic granite boulder resting on a short incline. Monolithic Temples - locally known as Rathas. They were executed by chiseling out the exterior face of the boulder. Work started from top to bottom. The pyramidal vimana with sikhara at the top is an important feature of this style. There a total number of 8 monolithic temples found in Mamallapuram. Shore Temple - built with blocks of granitein in 7th century during the rule of King Narsimha-Varman II Rajasimha the temple complex consisting of two Siva temples and a carving of Anantasayana Vishnu. The temple facing east is entered by a small gopura. It is one of the oldest structural stone temples of South India. As one of the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, it has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984. Cave Temples - cut and decorated with panels in the Mamalla style of the Pallava period in the 7th century.
Duration: 3 hours

Pass By: Pondicherry, Pondicherry, Union Territory of Pondicherry
Continue drive to Pondicherry check in at hotel. Evening to relax on the beach.

Meals included:

Accommodation included: Overnight at hotel.

Day 9: Pondicherry - Chennai (160kms/ 2hrs approx)

Stop At: Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Rue de la Marine, Pondicherry India
Breakfast at hotel, visit Aurovil - an experimental community in southern India. It was founded in 1968 by the spiritual leader Mirra Alfassa as a town where people from all over the world could live in harmony. Its focal point is the Matrimandir, a futuristic, spherical temple covered in gold discs. Auroville Botanical Gardens protects the region’s tropical dry evergreen forest. Auroville Beach is a long sandy stretch with gentle surf. Sri Aurobindo - established in 1926 by Shree Aurobindo and 'The Mother'. Together they explored the possibilities of yoga and meditation as a path to salvation. At the ashram, residents continue to practice their teachings. Pondicherry Museum - an art and history museum especially noted for its collection of fine lost wax bronzes form the period of the Chola Empire. The Museum's collection includes 81 Chola bronze sculptures, ranking as one of the largest collections of Chola bronzes.
Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Pondicherry, Pondicherry, Union Territory of Pondicherry
French Colony - Pondicherry has some of the finest examples of old French culture with a hint of Tamil influence in its visual aesthetics. In this tour, you will catch sight of some of the unique and old infrastructures. Observe and get inspired by the architectural beauty of the French part of the town while enjoying a cup of coffee and some deserts along the way. As part of the package, customise your walk with your guide to cover the visit of French consulate, French Institute, Raj Nivas, Bharati Park (Aayi Monument), Government Square, Beaches, Monuments, Churches, French schools.
Duration: 4 hours

Pass By: Chennai (Madras), Chennai (Madras), Chennai District, Tamil Nadu
Afternoon drive to Chennai check in at hotel.

Meals included:

Accommodation included: Overnight at hotel.

Day 10: Chennai - Cochin (flight)

Pass By: Chennai (Madras), Chennai (Madras), Chennai District, Tamil Nadu
Breakfast at hotel. As per flight schedule transfer to airport to board flight for Cochin.

Stop At: Kochi (Cochin), Kochi (Cochin), Ernakulam District, Kerala
Laler half day city tour of Cochin that has managed to preserve the remnants of its colonial past with utmost care. Explore the Fort Kochi & smell the seawater and fish, hung over nets and locals on the beach. Visit the church of St Francis, the oldest European church in India, then walk to the town’s waterfront site of the iconic Chinese fishing nets and the many fish stalls. Later visit Mattancherry Palace, which was built by the Portuguese in 1557 as a gift to the Raja of Kochi, and the town’s fine synagogue. The area here is also known for its many antique and souvenir shops. End the day with a mesmeric sunset cruise around the bustling harbour.
Duration: 5 hours

Pass By: Kochi (Cochin), Kochi (Cochin), Ernakulam District, Kerala
On arrival at assistance and transfer to hotel.

Stop At: Kochi (Cochin), Kochi (Cochin), Ernakulam District, Kerala
Later half day city tour of Cochin that has managed to preserve the remnants of its colonial past with utmost care. Explore the Fort Kochi & smell the seawater and fish, hung over nets and locals on the beach. Visit the church of St Francis, the oldest European church in India, then walk to the town’s waterfront site of the iconic Chinese fishing nets and the many fish stalls. Later visit Mattancherry Palace, which was built by the Portuguese in 1557 as a gift to the Raja of Kochi, and the town’s fine synagogue. The area here is also known for its many antique and souvenir shops. End the day with a mesmeric sunset cruise around the bustling harbour.
Duration: 5 hours

Meals included:

Accommodation included: Overnight at hotel.

Day 11: Cochin - Alleppey (60Kms/ 1.3hrs approx)

Stop At: Alleppey Backwaters, Alappuzha India
Breakfast at hotel, transfer to Alleppey boat jetty to board houseboat and sail through the tropical countryside enchanting backwaters. While sailing enjoy palm fringed narrow canals winding through the vast expanse of paddy fields and the neat tiny hamlets lined up along either side of the canals, the panoramic sights one can never forget. The Chinese fishing nets the reminiscent of our past trade links are also found on the way. Flocks of duck swimming around the banks and tiny birds flying across the sky remains as enduring pictures reflecting the charm of this tourist land, you also enjoy fishing from the houseboats, evening enjoy sunset from the sun-deck of the houseboats. The Houseboats have generated electricity, sitting cum dining area, separate bedroom with attached English toilets, sun deck and fully loaded kitchen with a Chef, and Driver. Lunch, Dinner and overnight in houseboat.
Duration: 6 hours

Meals included:



Accommodation included: Overnight at hotel.

Day 12: Alleppey - Cochin - Mumbai (flight)

Pass By: Kochi (Cochin), Kochi (Cochin), Ernakulam District, Kerala
After breakfast disembark from houseboat and drive to Cochin airport to board flight for Mumbai.

Pass By: Mumbai, Mumbai, Maharashtra
On arrival assistance and transfer to hotel. Rest time free for personal activities relax, you can take a walk to have a glance of the city, visiting local markets and restaurants.

Meals included:

Accommodation included: Overnight at hotel.

Day 13: Mumbai

Stop At: Mumbai, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Breakfast at hotel. Drive through Marine Drive one of the most beautifully laid boulevards in the city. Parliament House, the Maharashtra State Assembly (view from outside), Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), formerly Victoria Terminus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (view from outside). Visit Dhobhi Ghat to see the city's famous open-air laundry in action, Prince of Wales Museum (Monday closed), a heritage museum comprises of a number of ancient artifacts, Mani Bhawan, also known as Gandhi Museum, here Gandhi laid the foundation for many independence movements. Mount Mary Church, an ancient church, built in 1640 and then rebuilt in 1761, The Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount is also an important religious place in Mumbai. In the evening, visit Iskcon Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, the architectural splendour of the ISKCON Temple is adorned with murals and sculptures.
Duration: 8 hours

Meals included:

Accommodation included: Overnight at hotel.

Day 14: Mumbai - Departure (flight)

Pass By: Mumbai, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Breakfast at hotel as per flight schedule transfer to airport to board flight for onward destination.

Meals included:

No accommodation included on this day.

Inclusions
  • Assistance on arrival at the airport.
  • 13 Nights' accommodation (if option selected) in selected price category hotels.
  • Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.
  • English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per the program
  • Monument entrances and activity charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Bottled drinking water in the car.
  • Government taxes.
  • 13x Breakfast
  • Accommodation included: 13 nights
  • 1x Dinner
  • 1x Lunch
  • Entry/Admission - Netaji Bhawan
  • Entry/Admission - Dakshineswar Kali Temple
  • Entry/Admission - Ganga Aarti
  • Entry/Admission - Sri Aurobindo Ashram
  • Entry/Admission - Victoria Memorial Hall
  • Entry/Admission - Dasaswamedh Ghat
  • Entry/Admission - Sarnath

Exclusions
  • Any flight ticket.
  • Camera charges at monuments if any.
  • Meals other than mentioned in inclusions.
  • Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet, etc.
  • Gratuities and optional activities.
  • Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Stroller accessible
  • Near public transportation
  • Most travelers can participate
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
  • This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking, unless booked within 5 days of travel. In this case confirmation will be received within 48 hours, subject to availability
Departure Point

Traveler pickup is offered
As per flight schedule arrival transfer from airport to hotel.

Airports

  • Indira Gandhi Intl Airport, New Delhi, New Delhi 110037 India


Departure Time


Confirm time with the local provider in advance of your experience.
Price using 3 star hotels
9/16/2023 - 9/30/2025

Monday - Sunday : 12:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Price using 5 star hotels
9/16/2023 - 4/30/2024
Monday - Sunday : 12:00 AM - 11:00 PM
5/1/2024 - 9/20/2024
Monday - Sunday : 12:00 AM - 11:30 PM
9/21/2024 - 4/30/2025
Monday - Sunday : 12:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Price using 4 star hotels
9/16/2023 - 4/30/2024
Monday - Sunday : 12:00 AM - 11:00 PM
5/1/2024 - 9/20/2024
Monday - Sunday : 12:00 AM - 11:30 PM
9/21/2024 - 4/30/2025
Monday - Sunday : 12:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Tour Price Without Hotels
3/28/2023 - 4/27/2025
Monday - Sunday : 12:00 AM - 11:30 PM

Voucher info

You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.

Duration

14 days


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