Rajasthan & South India Culinary tour

After breakfast, embark on a fascinating exploration of Delhi, a city where centuries-old heritage blends seamlessly with modern India.

Begin your day in Old Delhi, the historic heart of the capital, where bustling streets, vibrant bazaars, and centuries-old monuments offer an authentic glimpse into the city's rich past. Enjoy a traditional rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, one of India's oldest and most vibrant marketplaces, renowned for its colorful shops, street life, and historic charm.

Continue with a visit to the famous Khari Baoli Spice Market, Asia's largest wholesale spice market, where the aromas of exotic spices, herbs, dried fruits, and teas create an unforgettable sensory experience. En route, enjoy an outside view of the magnificent Red Fort, the iconic Mughal citadel and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Later, drive through New Delhi, designed by British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, and admire its wide boulevards and impressive colonial architecture. Pass by the iconic India Gate, India's national war memorial, and the grand Rashtrapati Bhavan (President's House), the official residence of the President of India.

Continue to the peaceful Lodhi Gardens, a beautifully landscaped park dotted with magnificent 15th-century tombs, offering a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.

Conclude your sightseeing with a visit to Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture. Built in the 16th century, this magnificent monument is widely regarded as the architectural inspiration for the Taj Mahal.

After an enriching day discovering the many facets of Delhi, return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, depart by road for Agra, the historic city that served as the capital of the Mughal Empire for several generations.

Upon arrival in Agra, check in to your hotel and take some time to relax before beginning your afternoon sightseeing.

Later, visit the magnificent Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture in India. Built primarily of red sandstone by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century and later enhanced by his successors, the fort houses a remarkable collection of palaces, audience halls, courtyards, and mosques. Continue to Mehtab Bagh, a beautifully restored Mughal garden situated on the opposite bank of the Yamuna River. Laid out in the classic Persian-style charbagh design, the garden offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views of the Taj Mahal. From this tranquil setting, admire the changing colours of the marble monument as the light softens towards evening, creating exceptional photographic opportunities and a unique perspective of India's most iconic landmark across the river.

Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Agra.

This morning, rise early for a sunrise visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal, undoubtedly one of the world's most celebrated architectural masterpieces and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Return to your hotel for breakfast and depart by road for Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, renowned for its rich royal heritage, magnificent forts, and colorful traditions.

En route, visit Abhaneri, a small village famous for the remarkable Chand Baori stepwell, one of the largest and deepest stepwells in India. Dating back over a thousand years, this architectural marvel features a striking geometric design with thousands of perfectly symmetrical steps descending to the water below. Admire the ingenuity of this ancient water-harvesting structure, which served both practical and social purposes for the local community.

Following your visit, continue onward to Jaipur, popularly known as the "Pink City." Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

After breakfast, embark on a captivating journey through Jaipur, the enchanting Pink City of India, renowned for its magnificent forts, royal palaces, and vibrant cultural heritage.

Begin your day with a visit to the majestic Amber Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled amidst the Aravalli Hills. This magnificent hilltop fortress is celebrated for its grand courtyards, ornate palaces, intricate mirror work, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Explore its impressive halls and learn about the glorious legacy of the Rajput rulers.

On your return to the city, pause for a photo opportunity at the picturesque Jal Mahal (Water Palace), gracefully situated in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. Its stunning reflection against the backdrop of the Aravalli Hills makes it one of Jaipur's most photographed landmarks.

Continue to the iconic Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), Jaipur's most recognizable monument. Admire its extraordinary five-storey honeycomb façade featuring 953 intricately designed windows, built to allow royal ladies to observe the bustling streets below while remaining unseen.

Later, immerse yourself in the city's timeless charm with a guided Heritage Walking Tour through Jaipur's historic old city. Stroll along its colorful streets lined with traditional havelis, ancient temples, artisan workshops, bustling bazaars, and local markets. Along the way, witness the city's rich craftsmanship, interact with local artisans, and experience the authentic culture and everyday life that make Jaipur one of India's most fascinating heritage destinations.

After an enriching day exploring Jaipur's royal grandeur and living traditions, return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and drive to Jodhpur, the legendary Blue City of Rajasthan. The scenic journey takes you through the semi-arid landscapes of the state, passing traditional villages, colourful roadside markets, and rural countryside that offer a glimpse into everyday life in Rajasthan.

Upon arrival in Jodhpur, check in to your hotel and take some time to unwind after the drive. The remainder of the day is free at leisure. You may choose to relax at the hotel, enjoy its facilities, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this historic city at your own pace.

Overnight stay in Jodhpur.

After breakfast, begin your exploration of Jodhpur, the captivating Blue City of Rajasthan. Start with a visit to the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, one of India's most impressive hilltop forts, offering magnificent views over the blue-painted houses of the old city. Continue to Jaswant Thada, an elegant marble cenotaph set amidst peaceful gardens, followed by a visit to the grand Umaid Bhawan Palace. Later, embark on a guided heritage walking tour through the narrow lanes of Jodhpur's old city, discovering hidden temples, historic havelis, bustling bazaars, and vibrant local life. Stroll through the lively Clock Tower Market, where traders sell spices, textiles, handicrafts, and traditional Rajasthani products.

In the afternoon, drive to the nearby village of Salawas, renowned for preserving Rajasthan's rich artisan traditions. Visit local weaving families and observe the creation of the famous handwoven dhurries, learning about techniques that have been passed down through generations. Continue to meet local potters and gain insight into the traditional craft of pottery-making, with an opportunity to interact with artisans and witness their work firsthand.

Enjoy an authentic Rajasthani cooking experience with a welcoming weaver's family in the traditional village of Salawas, located on the outskirts of Jodhpur. This immersive cultural experience offers a rare opportunity to step inside a local home and discover the region's rich culinary heritage.

Together with the family, learn to prepare a selection of traditional Rajasthani dishes using time-honoured recipes that have been lovingly passed down through generations. Many of these recipes are centuries old and are cooked using fresh local ingredients, aromatic spices, and traditional methods on clay stoves, preserving the authentic flavours of rural Rajasthan.

As the meal is prepared, interact with your hosts, gain insights into their daily lives, customs, and weaving traditions, and enjoy a meaningful cultural exchange. Once the cooking is complete, sit down with the family to savour the delicious home-cooked meal in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

This experience offers a perfect blend of local cuisine, cultural immersion, and genuine hospitality, creating memories that go far beyond a typical sightseeing tour.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Jodhpur Airport for your scheduled flight to Chennai, the vibrant capital of Tamil Nadu and one of South India's most important cultural and commercial centres.

Upon arrival at Chennai Airport, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, take some time to relax and unwind after your journey.

If time permits and depending on your flight schedule, you may enjoy a short orientation tour of Chennai. Drive along the scenic Marina Beach, one of the world's longest urban beaches, and pass by some of the city's notable landmarks, colonial buildings, and bustling neighbourhoods to get your first glimpse of this fascinating metropolis, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern life.

Return to your hotel for the evening.

Overnight stay in Chennai.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and drive along the scenic East Coast Road (ECR) to Pondicherry, one of South India's most charming coastal towns. En route, stop at Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram), a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its extraordinary rock-cut monuments and ancient temples dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries during the Pallava dynasty.

Explore the magnificent Shore Temple, beautifully set against the Bay of Bengal, and admire the remarkable Five Rathas, a group of monolithic temples carved from single granite rocks. Visit Arjuna's Penance (Descent of the Ganges), one of the world's largest open-air rock reliefs, depicting intricate scenes from Hindu mythology, and discover the fascinating cave temples adorned with exquisite stone carvings.

After the visit, continue your drive to Pondicherry (Puducherry), the former French colonial settlement known for its relaxed atmosphere, charming boulevards, and unique blend of French and Indian cultures.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. You may choose to take a stroll along the picturesque seaside promenade or simply relax at your hotel.

Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

After breakfast, begin your exploration of Pondicherry (Puducherry), a charming former French colony renowned for its unique blend of French elegance and South Indian culture.

Visit the peaceful Sri Aurobindo Ashram, one of India's most respected spiritual centres, founded by the philosopher and yogi Sri Aurobindo and later developed with The Mother (Mirra Alfassa). The ashram offers a serene atmosphere for quiet reflection and provides insight into the teachings of Integral Yoga and spiritual living.

Later, enjoy a leisurely guided walk through the picturesque White Town, the French Quarter of Pondicherry. Wander along its tree-lined streets, admire the beautifully preserved colonial villas painted in soft pastel colours, elegant churches, charming cafés, art galleries, and boutique shops. The relaxed ambience and distinctive architecture make this one of the most delightful heritage walks in South India.

In the afternoon, take part in an authentic South Indian cooking class hosted by a local family or experienced chef. Learn to prepare a selection of traditional dishes using fresh local produce, aromatic spices, coconut, curry leaves, and other regional ingredients. Discover time-honoured cooking techniques and recipes that have been passed down through generations, while gaining a deeper understanding of the culinary traditions of Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry.

After the class, sit down to enjoy the delicious meal you have helped prepare in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and drive to Chennai Airport for your scheduled flight to Cochin (Kochi).

Upon arrival at Cochin International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Often referred to as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, Cochin is a historic port city where Indian, Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences have blended to create a unique cultural and architectural heritage.

After checking in, the remainder of the day is free to relax after your journey. You may choose to unwind at the hotel or take a leisurely stroll around the nearby area at your own pace.

After breakfast, set out on a half-day guided tour of Cochin (Kochi), a fascinating port city where Indian, Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences have blended over centuries. Explore the historic lanes of Fort Kochi, known for its colonial architecture, charming cafés, art galleries, and vibrant atmosphere.

Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, a symbol of Cochin's maritime heritage, before continuing to St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. Explore the magnificent Santa Cruz Basilica, admired for its impressive Gothic architecture and beautiful interiors, and visit the Mattancherry (Dutch) Palace, famous for its remarkable murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and other Hindu epics. Stroll through the colourful Jewish Quarter, lined with antique shops, spice warehouses, and historic buildings that reflect Cochin's rich multicultural past.

Later, enjoy an authentic Kerala cooking class hosted by a local family or experienced chef. Learn the secrets of Kerala's world-famous cuisine as you prepare a selection of traditional dishes using fresh local ingredients, fragrant spices, coconut, curry leaves, and other regional flavours. Gain hands-on experience in preparing age-old recipes and discover the unique cooking techniques that make Kerala cuisine so distinctive.

After the class, sit down to enjoy the delicious meal you have helped prepare, making this a memorable culinary and cultural experience.

After breakfast, enjoy some free time at leisure until your scheduled departure (subject to your flight timing). Check out from your hotel, and at the appropriate time, our representative will transfer you to Cochin International Airport.

Upon arrival at the airport, complete the check-in formalities and board your onward flight.