The Ultimate Tour of India is an expertly crafted and comprehensive journey through the significant historic sites, cultural traditions, and stunning environments of both North and South India. From the vibrant monuments of the North to the serene backwaters of the South, this journey offers a true appreciation of India’s majesty.
TOUR DATES: February 14-March 8 and October 28-November 19, 2027
Our journey begins in North India, home to the sacred Hindu pilgrimage of Varanasi and the spiritual Buddhist center of Sarnath. We visit the legendary Taj Mahal and the "Pink City" of Jaipur, known for its opulent palaces and traditional evening pujas. The tour continues through the desert landscapes of Jodhpur, the enchanting village of Narlai, and the magnificent 15th-century carved temples of Ranakpur, before arriving in lakeside Udaipur.
Next, we experience the pulsating energy of Mumbai. Once a cluster of seven islands, this cosmopolitan capital perfectly blends ancient customs with a trendy, modern atmosphere. We witness the incredible precision of the Dabba Walas delivering lunch across the city and enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at the colorful world of Bollywood.
The tour concludes in South India, a region of exquisite beauty and a slower pace of life. We explore the ancient harbor of Cochin and cruise the tranquil Kerala backwaters with a stay at a traditional island homestead. In Tamil Nadu, we witness the fanfare of an evening puja at the Meenakshi Temple and explore the UNESCO-listed Shore Temples of Mahabalipuram on the Bay of Bengal.
Trip pricing is contingent upon a minimum of four (4) participants and is subject to adjustment should this minimum not be met.
To book this tour click "See Availability." A calendar pops up showing the first date of the tour. Click the date of the tour to continue to the booking page. If you want a future date, use the arrow on the top right to move forward on the calendar to view additional dates. Prices listed are in USD. To see the price in your currency, at the top of the booking page there is a US flag that is a drop-down menu, click that to select your country and it will convert the price to your currency. You can pay in your own currency.
A seamless journey experiencing the cultural highlights of both North India and South India.
Explore the exquisite Taj Mahal
The fascinating deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri.
Exotic temples at Khajuraho
Colorful Rajasthan, land of the Maharajas
Varanasi, holy pilgrimage site for Hindus
Interact with local villagers and enjoy farm fresh meals in the serene Kerala backwaters
Attend the sacred ceremony at Meenakshi Temple in Madurai
Kanchipuram, the Golden City of a Thousand Temples
Attend the Pushkar Camel Faire on the November tour
Boat excursion at Periyar Wildlife sanctuary
Cochin one of the finest natural harbors on the Arabian Sea Coast
Tour a Bollywood studio and Attend a Bollywood film
Accommodations with breakfast, 5* & heritage properties
Accompanying guide throughout
Arrival & departure airport transfers on tour dates
AC Transport van or minibus depending on group size.
Meals: 8 lunches, 14 dinners based on min 4 people in the group
Bottled water during the drives
Elephant ride to Amber Fort in Jaipur
Boat ride on River Ganges
Boat ride on Lake Pichola
Kathakali dance entrance ticket
Bollywood tour and movie
Porter tips at domestic airports and hotels; Tips to local guides
India Gov Service Tax
International airfare
Tips to drivers and guides
Meals other than those listed
Air tickets: Delhi - Varanasi, Varanasi-Khajuraho, Udaipur - Bombay, Bombay - Cochin, Madurai - Chennai priced separately
Trip Cancellation/Travel Insurance
Original World, founded in 1997, offers hand-crafted immersive journeys steeped in vibrant local color and time-honored traditions. Original World is a boutique company, not a corporate conglomerate. Our services are personalized and we offer options for flexibility even within a group tour. Our small group tours feel like a private tour experience with like-minded travel companions. Explore destinations that maintain a traditional culture in India, Asia, Africa, Middle East, and Central, Northern, and Eastern Europe.