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South India with Taj Mahal Tour

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Tour Duration: 17 Days

Day 01 :DEPART NEW YORK , BY: INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT

Depart the New York for India by international flight

Day 02 :ARRIVE - CHENNAI

Once you arrive at Chennai Airport, (Following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection) our representative will meet you as you EXIT the ARRIVALS TERMINAL building and you will be driven to Mahabalipuram (70 KMS / 1.5 hours), upon arrival check-in at hotel.
Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram), built in the 7th century, is an ancient Pallava port. Today it is the site of several antique sculptural marvels. Declared as the world heritage site by UNESCO, Mahabalipuram boasts of some of India’s most sublime rock-cut art. The town was earlier called Mahabalipuram, but was later renamed as Mamallapuram or the place of the great wrestler - Narasimhavarmam I. He made this port a flourishing trade center. The only shore temple, which remains here, is the spectacular two-spired shrine, which is unique in that it houses both Vishnu and Shiva in its sanctum. The Pallavas perfected the art of sculpting rocks to build temples without brick, mortar or timber. The open-air bas-reliefs, structured temples, man-made caves and the five monolithic “rathas” (chariots carved from single processions) reflect this art at its best. "Arjuna's penance" here is the world's largest bas relief measuring 27 meters by 9 meters.
Afternoon, you will proceed for sightseeing tour of Mahabalipuram with its picturesque location on a rocky outcrop between the beach and a lagoon is a happy combination of history, good beaches, hassle-free tourism and fabulous fish and lobster! Mahabalipuram is renowned for its series of charming raths and the spectacular carved relief depicting Arjuna’s Penance. The magnificent Shore Temple, built by king Rajasimha in the seventh century, is a unique temple that houses the shrines of both Shiva and Vishnu while the Varaha Cave is a rock-cut mandapam with two incarnations of Vishnu—Varaha and Vamana—besides scenes of kings and queens. The Krishna Mandapam has a bas-relief of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan hill in his fingertips. Other important attractions of Mahabalipuram include the Mahishasuramardini Cave, Kotikal Mandapam, Ramanuja Mandapam, and the Dharmaraja Cave.
Dinner & Overnight at the Hotel

Day 03 :MAHABALIPURAM – KANCHIPURAM

Today breakfast at hotel leave for full day excursion Kanchipuram, (65 Km / 1 Hr) the Golden city was ancient capital of Pallavas and was one of the seven sacred cities of India. It was famous as a city of 1000 temples and still has 124 shrines. The first temple dedicated to Shiva was built in the 7th & 8th century and has painting ion the walls. It is also famed for hand-woven cottons and Kanjivaram silk.
Dinner & Overnight at the Hotel

Day 04 :MAHABALIPURAM -CHENNAI – MADURAI, BY: FLIGHT

After breakfast & drive to Chennai & in time transfer to airport to connect flight for Madurai
Departure Chennai     1220 hrs    Flight: AI 671 (AIR INDIA)
Arrive at Madurai     1320 hrs
Meet and assist on arrival at the arrival hall of the airport & and transfer to hotel and en-route drive pass Meenakshi temple.
Madurai, the second largest city of Tamil Nadu, is an important cultural and commercial center. With a history going back to the 6th century BC, it was once the seat of Tamil learning and still the place where the Tamil language is spoken in its purest form. The old city was planned in the shape of a lotus with the Meenakshi temple, the town’s main attraction, at the centre. Madurai has long been a center of learning and pilgrimage.
Dinner & Overnight at the Hotel

Day 05 :MADURAI – RAMESHWARAM – MADURAI, BY: SURFACE

Breakfast at hotel and full day excursion to Rameshwaram (152 KM / 3 Hrs) one way drive Rameshwaram is an island situated in the gulf of manner at the very tip of the Indian peninsula. A very important pilgrim centre of the Indians, Rameshwaram is the place from where Lord Rama, built a bridge across the sea to rescue his consort Sita, from her abductor, Ravana. This is also the place where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva to cleanse away the sin of killing Ravana. Both the Vaishnavites and Shaivites visit this pilgrimage which is known as the Varanasi the south. It is also where one of the Dwadash Jyotir Lingam of Lord Shiva.
Temple opens at 0400 hrs. Special Darshan time starts from 0500 hrs to 0600 hrs. After that normally devotees takes bath in the sea followed by baths in the wells inside the temple. There are 22 wells. It is said that taking baths at these wells is like taking bath at all the sacred Teerths or holy places throughout India. Again visit the Temple for darshan.
Evening return to hotel
Dinner & Overnight at the Hotel

Day 06 :MADURAI – KANKYAKUMARI, BY: SURFACE

After breakfast drive to Kovalam (244 KM / 6 Hrs)
Upon arrival, check into the hotel and indulge in interesting activities, Later on you will visit of Kanyakumari. Visit the Vivekananda Memorial.
Kanyakumari is the southernmost part of the Indian mainland. The place is the meeting point of the Indian Ocean, the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. Kanyakumari has great religious significance for the Hindus. The place is dedicated to the Goddess Devi Kanya, believed to be an incarnation of Parvati, Lord Shiva’s wife. Pilgrims come here to visit the temple and bathe in the waters here, as they are considered sacred. One of the major tourist attractions at Kanyakumari is the Vivekananda Memorial. The memorial is built about 400 metres offshore. It was here that Swami Vivekananda meditated in 1892 before embarking on a journey to usher in the religious reforms throughout the country. The mandapam built here in his memory reflects the architectural styles from all over the country.
Also visit Padmanabhapuram Palace: As a unique repository of some of the most ancient monuments in South India, Padmanabhapuram Palace is about 15 km from Nagercoil. Built with strategic planning and military architecture, the palace remained the seat of power for the Travancore emperors till 1790. The palace is popular for its striking aesthetic beauty, innovative designs and timeless wooden carvings. Suchindram Temple: Dedicated to the trinity of Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma, Suchidram temple is just 13kms from Kanyakumari, The temple has a captivating gopuram, musical pillars and an imposing statue of the Hanuman
Dinner & Overnight at the Hotel

Day 07 :KANYAKUMARI- ALLEPPEY, BY: SURFACE

After buffet breakfast at the hotel, you will be driven to Alleppey (150 Kms / 3 Hrs), which is located on the shores of the enchanting Vembanad Lake.
Upon arrival in Alleppey proceed for check-in at your Air-conditioned Houseboat.
Lunch & Dinner on board at Houseboat overnight at DLX houseboat

Day 08 :ALLEPPEY - COCHIN, BY: SURFACE

After leisure breakfast on the boat, disembark & drive to Cochin. (65 Km / 1.5 Hrs)
Kochi's location between the blue, blue waters of the Arabian Sea and Kerala’s emerald backwaters, its rich medley of Indian and foreign architecture, it’s truly unusual sights like the Chinese fishing nets and its quaint quiet localities like the Jewish Quarters demand the attention of all who travel to Kerala. Cochin's Jewish Quarter is another story - the ancestors of Cochin's Jews came here two thousand years ago, got involved in the spice trade, prospered and stayed back to build a new life free from religious persecution. Sadly, the population dwindled significantly with immigration to Israel and the few families that still live here struggle to maintain their cultural heritage like the beautiful Synagogue.
You will first proceed to Mattancherry, where you will visit the oldest Jewish Synagogue in India, built in 1568; it was destroyed by the Portuguese and rebuilt by the Dutch a century later.
From Jewish Synagogue you will visit Chinese fishing nets. The cantilevered fishing nets line the entrance to the harbor mouth. Chinese traders are believed to have originally introduced them in the 14th century although, today parts of the nets are known by Portuguese names. From the Chinese fishing nets you will visit St. Francis Church, originally named after Santo Antonio and dedicated to him as the Patron Saint of Portugal, St. Francis Church is the first church to have been in the new European influenced tradition. Originally a wooden building was replaced by the present stone building. Vasco De Gamma died on the site in 1524 and was originally buried in the cemetery. 14 years later his body was removed to Portugal. The church was renamed St. Francis in 1663.
You will also be visiting The Dutch Palace at Mattancherry, which was built in 1555 and its coronation hall and murals at Ramayana are noteworthy features.
Please note that the Dutch Palace is closed on Fridays and the Synagogue is closed on Fridays & Saturdays. In the evening, you will visit a local theatre to watch Kathakali dance performance.
Kathakali represents a synthesis of all that is best in dance, drama and music and has been recognized by connoisseurs of art, the world over as a `total art form of immense sophistication and power’. It is the impression created by make-up and the costumes that make Kathakali a visual par excellence. Return to your hotel after the dance performance.
Dinner & Overnight at the Hotel

Day 09 :COCHIN - GOA, BY: FLIGHT

Breakfast at hotel & in time transfer to airport to connect flight for Goa
Departure Cochin     1210 hrs     Flight: 9W 2730 & 9W 498
Arrive at Goa     1510 hrs

Meet and assist on arrival and transfer to hotel.
Rest of the day you are free to relax on the beach or the pool.
Dinner & Overnight at the Hotel

Day 10 :GOA

Today half day tour of the city Ponda City. The city can be without doubt labeled as the heart of Hinduism in Goa. Ponda can also be called as the "Temple Town" of Goa, since it has a number of exclusive Hindu temples rebuilt on the original. Goa's five most significant Hindu temples are on the inland route between Panaji and Margao. Shri Mangueshi Temple of Shri Mangueshi dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Sri Shantadurga Temple is the famous temple of Sri Shantadurga the goddess of peace who is said to have settled a quarrel between Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu amicably.
Afternoon free for leisure and personal activities.
Dinner & Overnight at the Hotel

Day 11 :GOA – MUMBAI, BY: FLIGHT

Today breakfast at the hotel & morning free for leisure & personal activities. Later drive to airport & in the time transfer to airport to connect flight for Mumbai
Departure Goa     1455 HRS     Flight: AI 660
Arrive at Mumbai     1610 HRS

On arrival, visit Bollywood stars residences in Juhu and Bandra area & then check into hotel.
A city that never sleeps! Pulsating, Alive, On the Move, Vibrant and Fun - this is Mumbai or as it is still frequently referred to - Bombay. The most modern city in India, it captures the spirit of the changing pace set by liberalization and modernization. Once a cluster of seven islands, Mumbai was presented to King Charles II in 1661 as part of the dowry when he married Princess Catherine de Braganza of Portugal. Over the years, as colonialism gave way to independence, Mumbai has transformed itself into an entity with thriving markets, business houses and many different communities reflecting a cosmopolitan and trendy atmosphere rarely seen elsewhere. On the surface, it represents the ever-changing face of today's India -- the old coupled with the dynamic new, and yet at its very core, the heart of the city is steeped in Indian customs and values.
Dinner & Overnight at the Hotel

Day 12 :CONTINUE STAY IN MUMBAI

Continue ........ stay in Mumbai.

Day 13 :MUMBAI – DELHI, BY: FLIGHT, DELHI – AGRA, BY: SURFACE

After breakfast at hotel Later in the time transfer to airport to connect flight for Delhi
Departure Mumbai    0800 HRS Flight: IC 809 (Indian airline)
Arrive at Delhi    1015 HRS

Meet and assist on arrival meeting & assistance upon arrival & drive straight to Agra. (203 kms / 3 hrs)
Agra was the seat of the imperial Mughal court during the 16th and the 17th centuries, before the capital was shifted to Delhi. It has been witness to the greatest gift of love – Taj Mahal, being created by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan for his deceased beloved queen – Mumtaz Mahal. Agra possesses other beautiful monuments also like the Agra Fort, Sikandra and Itimad-ud-Daulah.
On arrival in Agra, check in at the hotel & Visit to Taj Mahal
Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays). The Taj Mahal is everything that has been said about it and more. Taking 22 years and 20,000 men to build, the white marble was quarried 200 miles away and was transported to the site by a fleet of 1000 elephants. Built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as an expression of his love for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, in mid 17th century, the Taj Mahal is truly one of the wonders of the world. Though the Taj appears to be amazingly perfect from almost any angle, it is the close-up marble inlay work, which is really astounding. You will have ample time to view and be mesmerized by this outstanding piece of architecture.
Dinner & Overnight at the Hotel

Day 14 :AGRA- MATHURA – VIRNDAVAN – DELHI, BY: SURFACE

Breakfast is at the Hotel. & driven from Agra to Mathura (55 KMS / 01 Hours)
Mathura is famous as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, an important deity in the Hindu religious pantheon. It is an important pilgrim place of the Hindus and one of the seven most sacred cities in India. The main pilgrim centre in Mathura is the Shri Krishna Janmbhoomi Temple. A stone slab marks the original spot of the birth of Lord Krishna. The earlier Kesava Deo temple had the room where Lord Krishna was born. According to legends, Lord Krishna was born in a small prison room where the tyrant ruler Kansa held his parents captive.
Later visit Vrindavan is 10 km from Mathura and it is associated with the childhood exploits of Lord Krishna. Like Mathura, Vrindavan is also famous for its temples. There are about 4,000 temples in Vrindavan. The main temples are Govind Dev Temple, Rangaji temple, Bankey Bihari temple, Radha Ballabh temple, Madan Mohan temple, Pagal Baba temple and the Nidhi Van temple.
Later drive to Delhi by surface (150 Km / 0300 Hrs)
Dinner & Overnight at the Hotel

Day 15 :DELHI

Early breakfast at Hotel & HALF DAY SIGHTSEEING OF OLD & NEW DELHI
REST OF DAY AT LEISURE/SHOPPING
Dinner & Overnight at the Hotel

Day 16 :DELHI

DAY FOR LEISURE/SHOPPING
Dinner at the Hotel
Pick up from the hotel at approx. 9.30 pm for International departure

Day 17 :DELHI - NEW YORK, BY INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT

International Flight back to New York.........

Inclusions & Exclusions
OUR QUOTE INCLUDES
  • 14 Nights accommodation on twin sharing basis at first class hotels/resorts on bed, breakfast & dinner basis; all meals at A/C houseboat.
  • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as per program using Air-Conditioned Vehicle.
  • Entrance fees to the monuments (one-time visit only), road taxes, parking fee, fuel charges, interstate taxes, and porterage at all airports.
  • Local English-speaking guide shall be provided for the sightseeing & excursion tours.
  • TIWARI TOURS representative for assistance on all arrival and departure transfers.
TOUR COST DOES NOT INCLUDE
  • Expenses of personal nature like tipping, laundry, telephone calls, alcoholic beverages, camera/video camera fee at all monuments, medical expenses, airport departure taxes, etc.
  • Meals other than those specified above
  • Any insurance
  • Gratuity
  • Any other services not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Visa

*Dates, itinerary & hotels subject to change.

CALL TIWARI TOURS ANYTIME AT :

718 880-1927 OR 718 300-6471   0R   EMAIL: vireshtiwari@yahoo.com

 
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