Day 1 : Arrival
Arrive in Delhi where you will be met by a Travel The Unknown representative and transferred to the hotel. The rest of the day is free at your leisure. Overnight in Delhi.
Overnight in Colonel's Retreat, Delhi
Meal plan: n/a
This is the ideal trip for the first time visitor to India. Start in the lively capital Delhi where a heritage walk will reveal bustling markets, impressive temples and colonial architecture. Proceed to Agra, once the seat of the Mughal empire, and known for its majestic Taj Mahal. Search for tigers in the wilderness of Ranthambore National Park and discover rich bird life in Bharatpur. Experience the charm of Jaipur as you wander the city's vibrant streets and marvel at the beauty of its forts and palaces. Finally unwind in the southern India state of Kerala. Relax on idyllic Marari beach or take in some of the local surroundings and cruise on the tranquil backwaters in a traditional rice barge.
Delhi - Agra - Ranthambore National Park - Jaipur - Cochin - Fort Cochin - Marari
Arrive in Delhi where you will be met by a Travel The Unknown representative and transferred to the hotel. The rest of the day is free at your leisure. Overnight in Delhi.
Overnight in Colonel's Retreat, Delhi
Meal plan: n/a
In the morning, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Delhi. Pass through Old Delhi and visit Raj Ghat, Gandhi's resting place, and Humayun's Tomb. Later, visit Qutub Minar. The rest of the evening is free to relax or explore. Overnight in Delhi.
Overnight in Colonel's Retreat, Delhi
Meal plan: Breakfast
Drive to Agra. In the afternoon, visit Agra Fort and Itmad-Ud-Daula. Continue to Mehtab Bagh in the evening to watch the sunset over the Taj Mahal. Overnight in Agra.
Overnight in Hotel Seven Hills Tower, Agra
Meal plan: Breakfast
Transfer to Ranthambore National Park, where the rest of the day is free at your leisure. Overnight in Ranthambore.
Overnight in Ranthambore Regency, Ranthambore National Park
Meal plan: Breakfast
Early morning game drive in the national park. Return to the lodge for breakfast. The rest of the morning is free to relax or explore on your own. After lunch, embark on a second game drive for the rest of the afternoon. Overnight in Ranthambore.
Overnight in Ranthambore Regency, Ranthambore National Park
Meal plan: Breakfast
In the morning, drive to Jaipur. On arrival, the rest of the day is free to wander around the local bazaar. Overnight in Jaipur.
Overnight in Suryaa Villa, Jaipur
Meal plan: Breakfast
After breakfast, enjoy a full day tour of Jaipur's palaces. Visit the Wind Palace, the Water Palace, and the City Palace. Climb up to the Amber Fort on elephant back [subject to availability/alternatively by jeep]. In the afternoon, visit Jantar Mantar (the old observatory) - one of the five astronomical wonders constructed by Sawai Jai Singh. Overnight in Jaipur.
Overnight in Suryaa Villa, Jaipur
Meal plan: Breakfast
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Cochin. Check in to the hotel on arrival. The rest of the day is free at your leisure. Enjoy an evening sunset cruise in Cochin harbour. Overnight in Kochi.
Overnight in The Francis Residence, Cochin
Meal plan: Breakfast
After breakfast, enjoy a half day tour of Fort Cochin visiting Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church and witness the working of Cochin's iconic Chinese fishing nets. After sightseeing, proceed to Marari (1.5 hrs) for 3 nights. Spend the days at leisure or choose an option activity or excursion.
Overnight in Abad Turtle Beach, Marari
Meal plan: Breakfast
Day at leisure. Alternatively you may like to visit Alleppey town, the coir factory, Arthunkal Basilica Church, Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, or spend half or a full day cruising on a traditional houseboat along Kerala's famous backwaters.
Overnight in Abad Turtle Beach, Marari
Meal plan: Breakfast
Free day at leisure to relax or optional activities can be arranged.
Overnight in Abad Turtle Beach, Marari
Meal plan: Breakfast
Transfer to Cochin International Airport at the appropriate time for your flight to your onward destination.
Meal plan: Breakfast
All accommodation subject to availability. Final accommodation choices will be confirmed after booking.
Comfortable, elegant and homely, the Colonel’s Retreat has been lovingly created to be your home away from home. Banana bread on arrival, lounges on each floor and number-less doors, this B&B has the touch of caring travel experts. The Colonel’s Retreat is a family-run business offering a private and cosy hideaway in an upmarket neighbourhood, while remaining just minutes away on foot from the hustle and bustle of Delhi’s Lajpat Nagar market, restaurants and a metro station. Look forward to hearing about the owner’s unusual story and to your 5pm chai accompanied by biscuits and banana bread. The private rooftop is a highlight, offering glorious views and a sought-after exclusivity in this highly-populated city.
Facilities: air-con, cable TV, fridge, electronic safe, room air purifiers, tea/coffee maker, en-suite in every room, banana bread on arrival, afternoon chai and banana bread at 5pm, knowledgeable english-speaking owners
The ideal spot for visiting the sites of Agra, Hotel Seven Hills Tower is located in walking distance to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Known for its modernity and great service, the friendly staff go above and beyond to help you have an enjoyable stay. The rooftop restaurant and swimming pool are a highlight of this hotel, giving you a chance to relax in peace after a busy day of sightseeing.
Rooms: 30 rooms and 3 suites with ensuites
Facilities: Wi-Fi, mini bar, multi cuisine dining, free parking, pool, breakfast included, business centre with internet
For comfort, elegance and warmth amidst the wilderness, Ranthambore Regency is the perfect combination of luxury and convenience. Located just 10 minutes away from India’s most fascinating National Park, Ranthambore, it is the ideal place to relax, unwind and replenish after a day of game driving and searching for the magnificent Bengal tigers with one of the Ranthambore Regency’s trusted naturalists. This family run hotel, which started out with 10 rooms, now boasts 75 rooms thanks to the love and care put into this establishment. The peaceful ambiance and friendly atmosphere is accompanied by a personalised experience for each guest, as the staff treat your individual needs. The owner of the hotel is personally present to ensure guest comfort. The restaurant is a foodie’s heaven, with skilled chefs using fresh produce from local farms to make delicious meals according to the guest’s food preferences. To top it all off, the garden and pool add to the scenic luxury of the hotel.Rooms: The hotel is spread over an area of 2.75 acres, with 75 rooms including 46 super deluxe, 9 cottages and 20 deluxe rooms of 350 sq ft each.
Facilities: well maintained garden, pool, in-house laundry services, high speed internet, indoor bar and lounge, restaurant, game drivers available.
Located in the centre of the pink city, Surya Villa is a soothing oasis surrounded by beautiful attractions such as the City Palace, Palace of the Winds, Jal Mahal (Water Palace) and the Jantar Mantar Observatory. Set in an increasingly popular city, Surya Villa makes a point of preserving traditions to pass them onto future generations. The rich Rajasthani architecture and design are a sign of the commitment to Rajasthani customs. Previously home to the royal Peelwa family, this heritage home really does offer a regal experience with its excellent hospitality, delicious food, and spacious, elegantly furnished rooms.
Rooms: deluxe double or twin rooms, junior suites with sit out, family suites.
Facilities: free parking, pool, restaurant, laundry service and dry cleaning, high-speed internet, flat screen TV.
For a more independent stay in fascinating Kochi, opt for the stylish and comfortable homestay, The Francis Residence. This modern accommodation has been designed with the guest’s ease and comfort in mind. Furnished with a kitchenette, seating area, dining area, flat-screen TV, garden and balcony, and nestled amongst an amalgam of interesting sites, you can leisurely visit some of the most celebrated monuments of Kochi, such as the Indo-Portuguese Museum, the Dutch Cemetery and the Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica. You can also rent a bike from the Francis Residence to enjoy the seaside scenery and Arabian Sea from the beautiful bay, or take a visit to the colonial era ruins. With only six rooms, this modern residence is exclusive and private, perfect for your homestay in Kochi.
Rooms: 6
Facilities: Room service, Concierge service, air-con, newspapers, garden, terrace, babysitting/child services, family rooms, breakfast in the room, internet, soundproof rooms, bicycle rental, BBQ facilities, Wi-Fi, lockers, street parking, Yoga classes and ayurveda treatment on request.
If you’re looking for an idyllic and luxurious beach holiday, look no further. With a private beach, Ayurveda centre, elevated infinity pool and sunbathing deck surrounded by tropical trees, you don’t have to search far for some deep relaxation. The white sandy Marari beaches offer a soothing and tranquil landscape for your holiday, and the local fisherman’s village provides an insight into the coastal charm of the area. Catching the lively morning fish auction is a highlight of the trip, and the rice fields of Kuttanad and a visit to the Arthunkal church are popular excursions too. The 30 beach cottages and villas are set across 13 acres of land, each offering a spacious hideaway with en-suite toilets, individual patios, TV, telephone, fridge, tea/coffee maker and safe deposit locker. Look forward to a trip to the butterfly garden and vegetable farm where you can pick fresh vegetables for the expert chefs to work their magic on, creating a delicious continental or Indian meal.
Rooms: 30 beach cottages and villas.
Facilities: bike rental, breakfast, concierge, disabled facilities, valet parking, restaurant, car park, tours, laundry service/dry cleaning, WiFi, garden, wellness treatments, outdoor pool, private beach, sauna, ayurveda centre, car hire service, doctor-on-call, florist, air-con, TV, daily newspaper.
Remote villages & jaw-dropping scenery
Visit the must-see sights and the hidden depths of India's most vibrant cities.
On the tiger trail through Bandhavgarh and Kanha
Marvel at India's most incredible forts and palaces
Discover colonial Kolkata and the Sunderbans Tiger Reserve
A real life Jungle Book.
Ideal extension to Bhutan
Travel across the spectacular Himalayan Highway
After exploring the busy cities, there's no better place to relax than one of India's paradisiacal beaches
Himalayan treks, village walks and more
Escape the city and unwind among some of the most breathtaking mountain and hill scapes the world has to offer.
Himalayan mountains, unseen tribes & amazing wildlife
Travel through the Himalayan foothills via Shimla & Amritsar to Ladakh
Experience Bhutan's rich culture, colonial Kolkata and rural life in Assam
Travel India's Silk Road from Kashmir to Ladakh
Golden Triangle and the Himalayas
Textile tour of Gujarat & Rajasthan including the Mewar Festival
Discover Rajasthan's forts, palaces and rural villages
Wildlife, tribes & rural life in Assam and Nagaland
Experience the flavours and exotic spices of South India
Aoling Festival, wildlife in Assam & natural beauty of Manipur
Experience the culture and landscapes of India & Bhutan
Tropical mountains, tea & spice plantations, and backwaters
Mighty sea fortresses, rock-cut cave temples, and verdant hill stations
Spot tigers, lions, leopards, buffalo, rhino & elephants
Uncover the regal wildlife of Rajasthan
Wildlife, diverse cultures & rural life in hidden North East India
Perfect mix of classic sights and off-beat places for first-timers to India
Track the Himalayan brown bear & snow leopard on a once-in-a-lifetime trip
Temple towns of Tamil Nadu to backwaters of Kerala
Charming towns, spice plantations & idyllic backwaters
Discover Karnataka's stone temples, wildlife and coffee farms
Discover the huge diversity of North India's cuisine
Diverse wildlife in Assam and the Sunderbans
Tribal villages, temples, salt flats & the world's last Asiatic lions
Experience dramatic Himalayan scenery, Buddhist and Islamic cultures
Take in the highlights of central India
Remote tribal cultures in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam & Nagaland
Idyllic backwaters, tropical forests & ancient temple towns
Visit remote tribal villages of Orissa & Chhattisgarh
Colonial Kolkata, Darjeeling toy train & Buddhism
Once in 12 years - the largest gathering of humanity on earth
Gujarat's Asiatic Lions, Salt Flats & Textile Villages
Explore this UNESCO biodiversity hotspot on foot
Track India's tigers, leopards & lions
Expert-led trip through Kashmir and Ladakh
Rural villages, grand forts & wildlife
Attain lofty heights over soul-soothing Ladakh
Golden Triangle, tigers & exotic Kerala
Set foot in Ladakh's hidden Himalayan valleys
Discover the forts, palaces, villages and desert of Rajasthan
Waterfalls, hills and living bridges in North East India
Tea, spices, backwaters & beaches
Mary Trubek (USA) , Tailormade IndiaI thoroughly enjoyed my tailor made tour of northwestern and central India. Guides and accommodations were excellent and we saw as much of the area as could be packed into two weeks. I look forward to another tour with Travel the Unknown.
Vladimir Lange & Amy Opfell (USA) , Tailormade IndiaOutstanding trip, custom made to our desires. Once again, Travel The Unknown did not disappoint, exceeding our expectations. The in-country coordination worked with clock-work precision.
Hazel Fairall , Tribes of North East India, IndiaThanks for organising such a great trip to NE India Rahul - everything went seamlessly! We loved the fact that we could book an individual tour but still have flexibility with our itinerary once we were there, enabling us to take in the Si Donyi Festival at Daporijo and also be the first guests to stay overnight in a local village hut with our hosts in Papi, which was fantastic. Our guide was super. He had a wealth of knowledge and a great sense of humour! It’s hard to pick a highlight as the whole trip was both fascinating and at times, humbling. We’ll never forget the amazing people, scenery & culture we experienced whilst there and are glad we had the opportunity to visit such an intriguing part of the world. We would certainly consider travelling with you again in the future.
Andrew Martin , Tailormade North East IndiaI`m sure I could not have found a better operator for the type of complicated Indian tour I wanted to undertake on a limited budget. India is an intimidating country to visit, and I suspect that some operators look down on the first time visitor, or disparage their requirements. Travel the Unknown, by contrast, helped me all the way, and their local guides were superb.
Nigel & Margaret Turner , Tailormade India Wildlife & Birding tourThis trip was very well put together and ticked all the boxes that we had requested. The accommodation throughout the tour was of a high standard and our experiences in the national parks was wonderful spotting many different animals including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, lions, jungle cat plus countless number of birds. Thank you Rahul for tailoring this trip to our requirements.
Rachel , Spirit of South India, IndiaWe went on the Spirit of South India Tour and had a great time on our honeymoon. There was a good variety of places visited and the hotels, drivers and guides were all very good. We would definitely recommend this tour.
Tracey & Gary , Tailormade IndiaI would highly recommend Travel the Unknown to anyone visiting India. The service we received both prior to, during and following our travels was always timely and excellent. We were able to customize our trip to our liking and to enjoy a wide variety of activities. The guides in every location were outstanding! Honestly. Having travelled through much of the world I can truly say that we have never been more impressed with the quality of the guides arranged for us in each location, as well as the service we received. Similarly, the hotels were excellent and allowed us to live very comfortably while, at the same time, enjoy an authentic Indian experience. If you haven`t already booked your trip with Travel the Unknown, then either do so now....or at least give them a chance to show you what they can offer.
Keith Lewis , Monks, Tribes & Rhinos, IndiaThis was my first experience of using Travel the Unknown having enjoyed small group adventure holidays for many years. I was attracted to the company because it seeks out the more unusual and lesser known areas of a country and I was not disappointed by my visit to Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. There is a clear contrast between the people and the scenery of these two regions and we saw very few western tourists particularly in Arunachal Pradesh. The tour was well organised with plenty to see and do.
Richard Williams , Monks, Tribes & Rhinos, IndiaThis was a very varied and interesting trip to a forgotten part of India. If you like off the beaten track travel it is definitely worth the effort but go with an open mind and keep a smile on your face.
Vik , Kerala Calling, IndiaThank you for organising our holiday in Kerala. I certainly wouldn`t have had the time or the knowledge to put together such a trip. Munnar was my favourite and the accommodation throughout was excellent.
Ann Holgate , Tailormade IndiaA really well planned trip. We experienced life in Northeast India in just the way we wanted to. We loved the game reserves and saw a rock python which thrilled our guides as it is even rarer than the tiger! We visited villages and were able to interact with local people and loved the busy markets in Delhi and Calcutta. A special highlight was the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland; shown to us by our very own Naga guide Kezo. Kezo accompanied us for 15 days of our trip and ensured that we had many very special experiences - even taking us to the home of one of his Aunts where we spent a couple of hours sitting by the bonfire chatting.
Penelope Smith , Assam & Nagaland Hornbill Festival, IndiaWhat an excellent service! Rahul adapted, extended and improved our trip so many times without a qualm and we ended up with the trip of a lifetime. The destinations are unusual and interesting but everything has been checked out by the team and works brilliantly. I can`t wait to do another trip.