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 other 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 Doha or Dubai to Bangalore, the “tech” capital of India. Here, hundreds of thousands are employed in the computer and technology industries. It is quite often to people from here that you speak to, when you need support from your bank, your mobile company, your kitchen appliance companies, etc., etc. It is a modern city and, whilst it has a wealth of history itself, we move on straightaway to Mysore – the City of Palaces. After a couple of nights, we get to experience Indian State Railways with a fascinationg train journey to Chennai (formerly Madras). Our tours over the next few days take us to many interesting cities and the former French city of Pondicherry and the coast.
From here we’ll cut across the southern tip to Kerala, possibly the most beautiful part of India, 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 – BANGALORE – 28 Jan 2026 (Only meals) aboard flights included)
Our flight departs Dublin 1.10pm, via Dubai, to Bangalore. Travel duration 15 hours.
DAY 2: ARRIVAL BANGALORE – 29 Jan 2026 (B,-,D)
Flight arrives Bangalore at 08.50am.
On arrival at Bangalore airport, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. Early check-in and afternoon to relax.
DAY 3: BANGALORE – MYSORE (180 KMS / 3.5 HRS) – 30 Jan 2026 (B,-,D)
Drive to Mysore with enroute visit of Srirangapatnam. Nestled along the banks of the serene Kaveri River, Srirangapatna is a treasure trove of history and culture waiting to be explored. This charming town, once the capital of the Mysore Kingdom, is steeped in stories of valour and intrigue, particularly from the era of the legendary ruler Tipu Sultan.
Continue drive to Mysore.
Mysore, the ‘cultural capital of Karnataka’ is a destination that blends lush greenery and scenic beauty with historical monuments. Magnificent palaces, serene lakes and gardens, dams, interesting museums and ancient temples make Mysore a place for all. The grandeur of palaces and tranquil nature in Mysore is sure to leave you enchanted.
In the evening, visit Chamundi Hills and Devaraja Market.
DAY 4: MYSORE – 31 Jan 2026 (B,-,D)
Visit Mysore Palace, Jagan Mohan art Gallery and later proceed to Somnathpur and visit Chennakeshava temple.
Somnathpur, also known as Somnathpura, lies in the district of Mysore in Karnataka, India. This little town is located at a distance of 35 Kilometers from the City of Mysore. It is home to the Chennakeshava Temple built by the Hoysala commander, Somnath, in 1268 A.D is a living example of the heritage and culture of the Hoysala Empire.The temple was constructed using the local soapstone; a monumental beauty, the architectural design of this temple attracts people from all over the world.
Back to Mysore for overnight stay.
DAY 5: MYSORE – CHENNAI (TRAIN VANDE BHARAT EXPRESS / 1305 – 1920 HRS) – 01 Feb 2026 (B,-,D)
Morning free at leisure.
Later, transfer to Mysore Railway station for your onward journey to Chennai.
Tamil Nadu is the homeland of one of humanity’s living classical civilizations, stretching back uninterrupted for two millennia and very much alive today in the Tamils' language, dance, poetry and forms of Hinduism.
Upon arrival at Chennai Railway station, you will be met and proceed to your hotel for overnight stay.
DAY 6: CHENNAI – MAHABALIPURAM (70 KMS / 1.5 HRS) – 02 Feb 2026 (B,-,D)
In the morning, visit Parathasarathy Temple, Kapaleeshwara Temple, Fort St. George Museum and later proceed to Mahabalipuram. Enroute visit Dakshinchitra.
Tucked amidst the idyllic landscapes of the Tamil Nadu coast lies a realm of lore, beauty, and marvel. The coastal town of Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a masterpiece of enchantment, woven from the strands of antique history, captivating scenery, and cultural opulence.
Upon arrival check in and overnight stay at hotel in Mahabalipuram.
DAY 7: MAHABALIPURAM – 03 Feb 2026 (B,-,D)
Today visit Shore Temple, Five Rathas, Krishna Butter Ball and Arjuna’s Penance.
Rest of the day free for your own activities, overnight stay at the hotel.
DAY 8: MAHABALIPURAM – PONDICHERRY (110 KMS / 02 HRS) – 04 Feb 2026 (B,-,D)
Drive to Pondicherry
This breezy town was under French colonial rule from the late 17th century until 1954. Although indisputably Tamil, Pondicherry still holds onto countless traces of its Gallic past, from pastel-hued heritage buildings and churches to an abundance of croissant-slinging cafes, particularly in White Town.
While Pondicherry’s abundance of French food and architecture are among its biggest draws, it’s also an old favorite among spiritually inclined visitors, many of whom are more interested in visiting temples and ashrams.
Enroute visit Auroville. In the afternoon visit Aurobindo Ashram, stroll through French Colony, Promenade Beach and enjoy tea / coffee at a local café.
DAY 9: PONDICHERRY – KUMBAKONAM (160 KMS / 3.5 HRS) – 05 Feb 2026 (B,-,D)
Proceed to Chidambaram and visit famous Nataraja temple, later visit Gangaikonda Cholapuram and then continue towards Kumbakonam.
Tucked away in a quiet corner of Veppathur village, it’s an ode to the region’s rich legacy. Where historical, cultural and spiritual experiences blend, to take you on a journey through time, designed around the Tamil Panniyar and Brahmin way of life and crafted by nature’s own wonders.
Visit Darasuram Airavateeswarar Temple (optional).
DAY 10: KUMBAKONAM – 06 Feb 2026 (B,-,D)
Today free for your own activities or enjoy the activities like Saree Weaving, Bronze Idol making, Bullock cart ride etc…
DAY 11: KUMBAKONAM – TANJORE – MADURAI (240 KMS / 04 HRS) – 07 Feb 2026 (B,-,D)
Drive to Madurai and enroute visit Famous Brihadeeswara Temple (UNESCO site) in Tanjore.
The World Heritage–listed Brihadeeshwara Temple was built between 1003 and 1010 by Raja I (‘king of kings’). The outer fortifications were put up by Thanjavur's later Nayak and British regimes.
Continue driving towards Madurai and in the afternoon Madurai visits. Visit Meenakshi amman Temple and Thirumalainayakkar palace.
DAY 12: MADURAI – PERIYAR (120 KMS / 03 HRS) – 08 Feb 2026 (B,-,D)
Drive to Thekkady. Check in at the hotel and enjoy your retreat in nature.
Kerala is South India's most serenely beautiful state. This slender coastal strip is defined by its layered landscape: almost 373 miles (600km) of glorious Arabian Sea coast and beaches; a languid network of glistening backwaters; and the spice- and tea-covered hills of the Western Ghats, dotted with fiercely protected wildlife reserves and cool hill stations.
In the evening witness the Kalaripayattu martial art show.
DAY 13: PERIYAR – 09 Feb 2026 (B,-,D)
This morning, proceed for forest trekking inside the wildlife sanctuary. The Walk comprises of a host of trails traversing through 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. Time permitting visit to Kumily spice market.
DAY 14: PERIYAR – KUMARAKOM (150 KMS / 3.5 HRS) – 10 Feb 2026 (B,-,D)
Drive to Kumarakom - famous for its beautiful backwaters, particularly the Vembanad Lake.
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 15: IN KUMARAKOM – 11 Feb 2026 (B,L,D)
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 16: KUMARAKOM – COCHIN (50 KMS / 1.5 HRS) – 12 Feb 2026 (B,-,D)
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 Cochin and check in at your hotel.
In the evening today, we will proceed to 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 17: IN COCHIN – 13 Feb 2026 (B,-,D)
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 till 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.
DAY 18: DEPART COCHIN – 14 Feb 2026 (Light breakfast – Meals aboard flights)
Bid farewell to India and transfer to the airport for your return flight home OR Proceed for an extension trip to Delhi. Flight departs Cochin 09.40, via Dubai. Total travel time 14 hours. Arrive Dublin 18.55
ARRIVE HOME (or extend to Delhi, Agra and Taj Mahal)
DAY 18: COCHIN – DELHI (BY FLIGHT AI 822 / 1200 - 1520 HRS) – 14 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 19: DELHI – 15 Feb 2026 (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 20: DELHI – 16 Feb 2026 (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 21: DELHI 17 Feb 2026 (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 22: DEPART DELHI – 18 Feb 2026 (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
END OF TOUR
FARES, VISAS & HEALTH
Fare: £3675 p.p. Based on twin/double
Single supp £700 (Valid as of 22 June 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: £885. Single suppl. £300
Upgrade to Business Class,
(depending on availability - check with us)
Upgrade to Extra Legroom – check with us
INCLUDED IN THE FARE
· Flights from Dublin via Dubai/Doha to Bangalore and return from Kochi (Cochin) or Delhi via Dubai/Doha with Emirates or Qatar. Details to be finalised very shortly.
· 20kgs checked luggage
· 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 standard
· 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
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
HOTELS
Details to follow shortly
