Almost without doubt, the sub-continent of India is one of the most fascinating places on earth. A population of almost two billion people throng into hundreds of cities, from Delhi to Chennai, from Mumbai to Kolkata. The country occupies 1.3 million square miles of beautiful, lush green paddies to arid deserts, lakes and backwaters to towering mountains, modern cities to biblical villages. Although Hindi and English are probably the predominant languages, there are dozens of others and hundreds of dialects. So, too, it is with the cultures and religions, all in the world’s greatest melting-pot.
Each visit to India is a mind-blowing experience, one that can only be enjoyed by being there…and that’s what we plan to do. You are invited to join us.
This time, we are visiting Southern India, although we do have an extension for those who wish to visit the capital and the Taj Mahal at Agra. More of that later.
Our journey commences with flights from Dublin, via Dubai , to Kochi (Cochin)
We're in the southern tip of India, Kerala, possibly the most beautiful part of the country, famous for its gorgeous backwaters and its great food. Don’t worry, it’s not all chilies! We have a day on the backwaters and time at resort hotels, where we can take some time out to reflect on the stunning places we have visited.
Then, it’s time to fly home or to extend your stay with a flight up to Delhi for a four-night stay and a day-trip by express train to Agra and the Taj Mahal.
You can read the complete itinerary below and, shortly, we’ll have details of all the hotels loaded on the website, too. They are listed below, so you can “google” them if you wish.
We have included all breakfast and evening meals, so all you’ll need are a few lunches or snacks. Also included are all your tips, so you don’t even need to worry about that. All you need to do is sit back and let us enthrall you.
We do hope you’ll consider joining us. If it’s anything like the last tour, it’ll be a blast!
PROVISIONAL ITINERARY
DAY 1: DUBLIN-COCHIN/KOCHI - 28Jan26
Emirates Airways flight departs Dublin 13.10hrs (1.10pm). Connection in Dubai
DAY 2: ARRIVAL COCHIN (-.-.D) - 29Jan26
Emirates Airways flight arrives Cochin/Kochi 08.05hrs (8.05am)
On arrival at Cochin airport, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel, where you have the day to relax.
DAY 3: COCHIN (B,-,D) - 30Jan26
Start the tour today armed with a sunhat and your wanderlust shoes. We’ll explore sprawling townships of Mattancherry and Fort Cochin. Visit the Dutch Palace. From here we will head towards the Jewish Quarter. The quaint and charming streets in this town house antique boutiques and pretty architecture. The visit won’t be complete until you explore the Spice Market. In eras gone by, business was done through the value of Black Gold or Black pepper. The heady scent of spice follows you’re like an aura through the streets.
In Fort Cochin, you will see footprints of the Portuguese, Dutch and British settlement. The tour will visit St Francis Church, the original burial site of explorer Vasco De Gama; Santa Cruz Basilica, one of the oldest churches in India. Explore on your own the popular local haunts at Princess Street and Loafers Corner. Fort Cochin is also home to the Chinese Fishing nets, one of the most iconic sights of Kerala. Spend time walking at the promenade as sun sets on the marina.
In the evening today, we will visit a local theatre, which showcases the various performing arts of Kerala. This traditional dance form originated in Kerala and is notable for its elaborate costumes, detailed gestures and incredible make-up.
DAY 4: COCHIN (B,-,D) - 31Jan26
Today will be a relaxed day and plan few visits with your guide.
You may visit Broadway Market, which is the final word in wholesale shopping in Cochin; you name it and you get it here.
Visit the Ernakulam South Railway station as well, one of the busiest train station in Kerala. In the busy hours, you will see thousands of passengers busily moving around to catch their train after the day's work.
Enjoy a tuk tuk ride and afterwards return to your hotel.
DAY 5: COCHIN – MUNNAR (130 KMS / 3.5 HRS) - (B,-,D) - 01Feb26
Today Drive to Munnar and check in at your hotel.
Make enroute photo stops. Rest of the day free at leisure.
DAY 6: MUNNAR (B,-,D) - 02Feb26
Visit mattupetty dam site, tea plantations and tea factory. Munnar is famous for its vast tea plantations, offering breathtaking views and opportunities to learn about tea processing.
Visit the local market.
DAY 7: MUNNAR (B,-,D) - 03Feb26
Take a 2 to 3 hours soft trek which often wind through lush tea plantations, verdant grasslands, and sometimes include views of rocky mountain slopes.
Afternoon free at leisure.
DAY 8: MUNNAR – PERIYAR (120 KMS / 03 HRS) (B,-,D) - 04Feb26
Drive to Thekkady. Check in at the hotel and enjoy your retreat in the nature. In the evening witness the Kalaripayattu martial art show.
DAY 9: PERIYAR (B,-,D) - 05Feb26
This morning, proceed for a forest trek inside the wildlife sanctuary. The Walk comprises of a host of trails traversing a mosaic of habitats of the reserve. A walk through the trail which winds its way through the incredible landscape comprising of moist deciduous and evergreen forests interspersed with marshy grasslands offers a rare opportunity to witness the many splendours of nature.
In the afternoon visit spice plantations. Visit Kumily spice market as well.
DAY 10: PERIYAR (B,-,D) - 06Feb26
Today embark on an unforgettable adventure through the rugged terrain and fields of Thekkady with Jeep Safari tour. Explore the uncharted paths and hidden gems of this stunning region, nestled in the Western Ghats.
Afternoon free at leisure.
DAY 11: PERIYAR – KUMARAKOM (140 KMS / 3.5 HRS) (B,-,D) - 07Feb26
Drive to Kumarakom - famous for its beautiful backwaters, particularly the Vembanad Lake. Visit Kanjirapally estate enroute and have a cooking demonstration with lunch. Continue driving to Kumarakom.
Kerala’s famous backwaters spread for more than 900km (560 miles) along the shores of the Arabian Sea – a stretch of coastline known as the Malabar Coast. Alleppey is the most important access point, but the waterways stretch all the way to Kochi (Cochin) in the north, Kottayam to the east, and Kollam to the south.
DAY 12: KUMARAKOM (B,L,D) - 08Feb26
Morning free at leisure.
Later board your traditional houseboat. Enjoy a unique experience floating through the natural and man-made channels that form the complex backwaters of Kerala. Observe the village life, the scenic paddy fields and let the gentle sway of the water channel lull your senses.
Lunch will be served on board.
After having tea / coffee, disembark from Houseboat and return to your hotel.
DAY 13: KUMARAKOM – MARARIKULAM (40 KMS / 01 HOUR) (B,-,D) - 09Feb26
Morning free at leisure. You may go for a village walk or visit the bird sanctuary or plan a trip with your guide to fishermen’s village.
Later, drive to Marari and check in at your beach resort.
DAY 14: MARARIKULAM (B,-,D) - 10Feb26
Day free at leisure.
DAY 15: MARARIKULAM (B,-,D) - 11Feb26
Day free at leisure.
DAY 16: MARARIKULAM - COCHIN (45 KMS / 1.5 HRS) (B,-,D) - 12Feb26
Morning to relax. Check-out, around midday, TBC)
Transfer to Kochi Airport. arriving around 14.00hrs (2.00pm).
Overnight Airport Hotel
DAY 17: COCHIN-DUBLIN Meals aboard flight) - 13FEB26
Bid farewell to India. Your flight departs around 09.40am. Arrive Dublin 6.00pm approx.
OR Proceed for an extension trip to Delhi.
Exact details to be finalised but, in the meantime, see rough guide below.
DAY 17: COCHIN – DELHI (BY FLIGHT AI 822 / 1200 - 1520 HRS) – 13 Feb 2026 (B,-,D)
After breakfast transfer to Cochin airport to board flight for Delhi.
You will be met at the New Delhi airport by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
Lazy afternoon (maybe!) Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 18: DELHI – 14Feb2026 (B,-,D)
We’ll begin our tour by metro from the Old City to the Red Fort and visit Chandni chowk. Immerse yourself in all the sounds, colors, and scents of old India as we introduce you to several key spots in the heritage of this historic city — such as the old quarter, where we can walk through the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest markets in town. Visit the spice market of Khari Baoli and take a rickshaw ride as well.
Later, we continue on to New Delhi, where the wide streets and colonial architecture offer a sharp contrast to the old city and reflect the legacy the British left behind. Architect Edwin Luteyens carefully planned this area which became the political center of India when the British moved the capital from Calcutta to Delhi in 1911.
We will stop for a photo opportunity at India Gate, the war memorial to Indian and British soldiers, Parliament House, and the Presidential Palace. Visit Gandhi Smriti.
Visit Bangla Sahib Sikh temple and see the temple kitchen where food is prepared for few thousand people everyday.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 19: DELHI – 15Feb2026 (B,-,D)
Today explore Akshardham temple - Akshardham Temple is a marvel of architecture that unfolds the cultural legacy of thousands of years.
Visit Humayun’s tomb - This tomb, built in 1570, is of particular cultural significance as it was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. It inspired several major architectural innovations, culminating in the construction of the Taj Mahal.
Stroll through Janpath market.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 20: DELHI 16Feb2026 (B,-,D)
Day free at leisure / Plan your day with your guide or step out of your hotel and take metro to explore city on your own.
Alternative excursion by train to Agra and Taj Mahal, with lunch included. (Supplement £100 pp)
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 21: DEPART DELHI – 17Feb2026 (B, Meals aboard flights)
Bid farewell to India and transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
Depart Delhi 10.35. Arrive Dublin 18.55 TBC
END OF TOUR
FARES, VISAS & HEALTH
Fare: £3785 p.p. Based on twin/double
Single supp £950 (Valid as of 04 July 2025) Fares subject to change without notice and will be confirmed on date of booking. These fares can increase substantially, even on a daily basis!)
Extend your stay to Delhi and Agra
Fare: £985. Single suppl. £300
Upgrade to Business Class or Premium Economy,
(depending on availability - check with us)
Upgrade to Extra Legroom – check with us
INCLUDED IN THE FARE
· Return flights from Dublin via Dubai to Kochi (Cochin) or returning from Delhi via Dubai with Emirates Airways. Details to be finalised very shortly.
· 20kgs checked luggage (See notes below)
· Allocated seats
· Flight from Kochi to Delhi (If you re extending your stay. Seats allocated at check-in)
· 17 or 21 Nights in India with breakfast
· evening meals.
· All hotels are 5* & 4* Superior
· All transfers and excursions in deluxe, modern, air-conditioned coach
· Some excursion in Delhi by Metro
· Services of local, English speaking tour leader
· Entrance fees (as per itinerary)
· Porterage at hotels (one case p.p.)
· Tips and taxes at hotels
· Tips for local Tour Manager / Guide / Driver
· Financial protection under ATOL
NOT INCLUDED IN THE FARE
· Personal travel insurance
· Indian E- Visa (Currently approximately £60 for Irish or British Passport)
· Any meals or drinks not included in the itinerary.
· Laundry or any other personal expense·
BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE
1 x Small carry-on bag - max 7kgs
Checked luggage - up to 20kgs
We recommend your suitcase is much less than the 20kg allowance. as you will inevitably be moving it around, yourself, quite a lot. Furthermore, the weather will be hot and only light clothing will be required.
INDIAN E-VISA
You can apply for your own Indian E-Visa on-line at India Visa Online (indianvisaonline.gov.in)
If you wish us to apply on your behalf, we will be happy to do so. You will need to send us your passport and we will charge a fee of £10 per person.
HEALTH
Details to follow
HOTELS
Details below
Fragrant Hotel Kochi.
Fragrant Nature Cochin, situated in the heart of the storied city, welcomes you to indulge in the city's cultural tapestry. The prime location provides easy access to key attractions, including the iconic Fort Kochi, the vibrant Jewish Town, and the serene backwaters that Kerala is famous for. It offers state-of-the-art amenities and facilities like well-equipped accommodation, event venues, and three dining options, including a rooftop restaurant. Other facilities awaiting you at this hotel in Cochin include a swimming pool, a gymnasium, and a spa, among others. Also offered is a range of activities and experiences in and around Cochin to help you make the most of your sojourn.
Fragrant Hotel Munnar
Embrace the splendour of Fragrant Nature Munnar, a distinguished 5-star resort in the heart of Kerala's enchanting hills. Our resort in Kerala offers an immersive experience amidst the lush greenery and misty mountains of Munnar, making it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquillity and luxury.
Nestled amid the verdant hills, Fragrant Nature Munnar invites you to explore a range of exquisite accommodations. Indulge in culinary delights at its dining venues, including the Black Truffle multi-cuisine restaurant, serving Indian and Arabic cuisine and The Glass House, a speciality restaurant for grills and steaks. Additionally, the coffee shop offers an array of global specialities. Unwind at Prana Wellness Spa with Ayurvedic treatments, or partake in cultural performances at the Tryst Woods Amphitheatre.
Whether it's exploring tea gardens, bird watching, trekking, or wildlife tours, Fragrant Nature Munnar offers an array of activities to enhance your stay. Experience the essence of Kerala's hill paradise at Fragrant Nature Munnar, where nature's beauty and luxury unite to create a memorable retreat.
Greenwoods Resort Periyar
Greenwoods is a luxury nature resort in Kerala and one of the best resorts in Thekkady. Plan your visit to the green locale surrounded by dense forests and get settled within the top resort in Thekkady. Indeed, a chance to trek through the spice plantations and beautiful hill slopes, exploring the naturally-endowed location. Imagine waking up to the melody of birds, touching the green orchards and uncovering the undisturbed mud of Thekkady. Enjoy a secret dip into the pool or a cool drink at the bar.
Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters & Beyond
One of the most beautiful waterfront retreats in Kumarakom, nestled on the banks of Lake Vembanad. Set amidst 8 acres of lush tropical gardens, The retreat houses ten dedicated Ayurveda Rooms offering holistic treatments, combining best practices of Ayurveda. Meandering pathways amidst breezy coconut palms and tropical foliage lead to these living spaces. Privacy, relaxation, and rejuvenation await you at this luxury ayurveda 5 star resort that features a world-class wellness spa rooted in Kerala’s ancient wellness practices, a large outdoor swimming pool, a performance deck, two gourmet restaurants offering regional and global cuisine, a fitness center, and meeting spaces.
Mararikulam - Hotel details to follow
Casino Hotel Kochi
This art deco styled hotel, built in the late 50s, captures the essence of Kochi in both its cosmopolitan and traditional faces. It's a twin world that you will enjoy as you experience its charm and character-rich and exotic, yet simple and inviting. It effortlessly blends tradition with modernity to make guests from around the world feel at home with its eclectic fine dining, rejuvenating wellness therapies and thoughtfully appointed rooms and services that culminate in a rich and memorable experience for all.
