Kolkata to Kochi by Rail

1. Tag: Kolkata

Arrive at any time. The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.

2. Tag: Kolkata - Jalpaiguri

Visit the Victoria Memorial and explore Mother Teresa's House. Enjoy a visit to this palatial white marble building, built in the beginning of the 20th century. It is dedicated to Queen Victoria and has a lush green "maidan" (lawn) in front of it. The Victoria Memorial is architecturally impressive; it combines British and Mughal design, along with elements of Venetian, Egyptian, Islamic, and other architecture. Visit Mother Teresa's house, now often referred to as "Motherhouse." See the local chapel, the tomb of Mother Teresa, and the modest room she called home for almost 50 years. Enjoy free time later and opt to explore the Indian Museum. In the evening, board an overnight New Jalpaiguri Kamrup Express train to New Jalpaiguri.

Optional Activities:
Indian Museum
500INR per person. Gain a deeper understanding of the history of this country with a walk back in time at the Indian Museum. The largest and oldest museum in India, explore the rare collections ranging from six different sections: art, archaeology, anthropology, geology, zoology and economic botany.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Victoria Memorial Visit
Mother Teresa's House Visit

3. Tag: Jalpaiguri - Darjeeling

Arrive at New Jalpaiguri and continue onwards by van to Darjeeling. Take an orientation tour of the town before enjoying free time with the rest of the evening. Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended. Famous for the black tea grown amongst the tea plantations, enjoy the scenic views of Darjeeling. Set upon the foothills of the Himalayas, expect the climate to be much different from the plains.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Orientation Walk

4. Tag: Darjeeling

Watch the sunrise at Tiger Hill, visit a tea estate and explore the Mahakal Temple. Later, travel the World Heritage-listed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway on a vintage steam engine train. Continue with a visit to the Peace Pagoda.
Wake up early for a drive up to the top of Tiger Hill. The early start will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Mt Everest and Mt Kangchenjunga, the first and third highest mountains in the world. Make it there in time for sunrise to see the mountains bathed in pink light. Visit the Tukvar Tea Estate, first planted by the British in 1852. This is the oldest tea estate and produces the world-famous Darjeeling tea, known as the champagne of tea. Enjoy a cup!
Enjoy a visit to this charming temple is situated on top of a hill. Inside, you'll find a cave designated as a holy site for worshippers of Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction. Previously the location of a Buddhist Monastery, it continues to be an important site for pilgrims.
Visit this beautiful pagoda built with guidance from a Buddhist monk from Japan. As with other Peace Pagodas around the world, its aim is to unite peace seekers to create the calm they hope for.

Please note that occasionally the cooking demonstration may be moved to Varanasi to better suit the day's schedule.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Tiger Hill Sunrise Visit
Tea Estate Visit
Mahakal Temple Visit
Peace Pagoda Visit

5. Tag: Darjeeling - Gangtok

Continue by private van to Gangtok and take an orientation tour of the town. Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended. Take in the stunning scenery of the Himalayas surrounding this quaint town.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Orientation Walk

6. Tag: Gangtok

Start the day with an orientation walk, then enjoy a free day to explore this scenic town.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Orientation Walk

7. Tag: Gangtok - Kalimpong

Continue by private vehicle to Kalimpong. Stop along the way at Rumtek Monastery. Embark on an orientation walk of the town of Kalimpong then enjoy the rest of the day to explore at leisure. Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Orientation Walk

8. Tag: Kalimpong - New Jalpaiguri

Drive to New Jalpaiguri Station with a stop en route at Deolo Hills to take in views of the mountainous scenery. Visit Deolo Hills, home to the highest point in Kalimpong, and enjoy views of the mountain scenery. Catch the overnight train to Varanasi.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Deolo Hill Visit

9. Tag: Mughal Sarai - Varanasi

Arrive to Mughal Sarai in the morning and continue by van to Varanasi. Enjoy an evening visit to the ghats and watch the prayer sessions. Walk along the ghats (waterfront steps) leading into the sacred River Ganges in Varanasi. The ghats are all used for different purposes -- some for bathing, some for puja (prayer) ceremonies, and others for cremation.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Ghats Visit

10. Tag: Varanasi

Take a sunrise boat trip on the Ganges. Catch the sunrise from a boat cruising the sacred Ganges River, where Hindu pilgrims from all over the world come to wash away their sins and cremate their loved ones. Witness locals participating in dawn rituals of bathing and burning at the river. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore Sarnath and the city of Varanasi.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Morning Ganges Boat Tour

11. Tag: Varanasi - Lucknow

Take a morning Varanasi-Lucknow Intercity train. In the afternoon, visit the Bara Imambara. Visit the famous Shia Muslim shrine located in Lucknow. With ornate Mughal architecture, this massive shrine is a striking sight to behold.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Bara Imambara Visit

12. Tag: Lucknow - Delhi

Spend most of the day exploring Lucknow. Opt to explore The Residency and be immersed in colonial era history. In the afternoon, board the Swarna Shatabdi Express train to Delhi, with dinner provided on board. Enjoy the night in the bustle of Delhi.

Optional Activities:
The Residency
200INR per person. Also known as the British Residency, this colonial era Residence has been in numerous battles. Find the bullet marks still scarring the walls or walk the gardens and observe the ruins.

13. Tag: Delhi

Enjoy a free day in Delhi.

Optional Activities:
Optional Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos
You may be a seasoned pro at group travel by now, but there will likely be some new travellers joining the group. Sit in on the welcome meeting to meet the newest members of your group and learn about the next leg of your tour.

Kitchen with a Cause
Hungry? Visit Delhi’s Kitchen with a Cause before or after your tour for a delicious meal that gives something back to the local community. It is more than a bustling restaurant – it’s a product of the G Values Fund* filled with mouth-watering action. Dishes are prepared by talented chefs who celebrate the deep, traditional flavours prevalent in Indian cuisine. The restaurant provides further career and training opportunities to young adults who are graduates from the G Adventures-supported City Walk project, an organization that aids local disadvantaged youth. Here, the cost of your meal gets you so much more than just a full stomach.
Visit the Kitchen with a Cause at 15A/64, WEA, Kroi Bagh, Delhi, India.
*The G Values Fund is a microloan program instituted by G Adventures that helps former Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) establish self-sustaining businesses.

14. Tag: Delhi - Agra

Take the Shatabdi Express train to Agra, with breakfast served on board. Enjoy a guided tour of the impressive Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Here's one to cross off your bucket list; a visit to one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Take a guided tour of India's most famous landmark and an icon of Mughal architecture. Built by the emperor Shah Jehan as a testament of his love to his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, this stunning white marble structure draws visitors from all over the world. Enjoy a guided tour of this palatial Mughal fort made of red sandstone and white marble. One of the most important battles of the Indian rebellion of 1857 happened at this fort, which caused the end of the British East India Company's rule in India. Time permitting, opt to visit the Baby Taj.

Optional Activities:
Baby Taj Visit
300INR per person. Visit this mausoleum that looks like a jewel box, built before the Taj Mahal by Queen Nur Jahan for her father. Enjoy the intricate details of the structure; it was the first Mughal building faced with white marble and where "pietra dura" (precious stones inlaid into marble) was first used.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Taj Mahal Guided Tour
Agra Fort Guided Tour

15. Tag: Agra - Jaipur

Hop on a Shatabdi Express train in the evening to Jaipur.

16. Tag: Jaipur

Take an orientation walk around town. Head to the markets of this "Pink City," the capital of Rajasthan, and one of the most important heritage cities in India on this CEO-led orientation walk. Take a photo of the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) and visit the Amber Fort. Walk around the Old City and markets and opt to visit the City Palace. With free time, choose to visit local artisans in a nearby village, wander the Jantar Mantar, or check out a Bollywood film at the spectacular Art Deco film house, the Raj Mandir.

Optional Activities:
Jantar Mantar Visit
200INR per person, 1000INR per group. Visit the Jantar Mantar observatory to see how people looked at the stars and planets in ancient India. Explore the collection of astronomical instruments housed there, some dating back to 1727.

Raj Mandir Cinema and Movie
200-400INR per person. Visit this spectacular cinema and watch a song-and-dance Bollywood film.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Orientation Walk

17. Tag: Jaipur - Udaipur

In the morning board a train and soak in the passing scenery en route to Udaipur. Arrive in the evening with free time to explore the city.

18. Tag: Udaipur

Go on a guided orientation walk and get to know local markets and key places including a visit to the Jagdish Temple, which pays homage to Vishnu, the Hindu god of preservation. Make sure to take a peek at the black stoned image of Vishnu that's housed inside the shrine and the City Palace, one of the largest royal palaces in India. Visit Rajasthan's largest palace to get a sense of how royalty lived. Take in the view from one of its many intricately-decorated balconies, with one side facing the stunning Lake Palace. Attend a Rajasthani cultural show on Gangaur Ghat. Enjoy an evening cultural show that includes traditional music and dancing from the state of Rajasthan.
Discover the early morning serenity of the city by pre-booking the Udaipur Sunrise Cycle tour extra, or opt to sharpen your culinary skills by pre-booking the Udaipur Cooking School extra.

Optional Activities:
Monsoon Palace Visit
250INR per person. Hop in an auto rickshaw and head outside of Udaipur to the stunning Monsoon Palace, perched high above town. Enjoy sweeping views of the city and surrounding lakes and countryside. Consider visiting at sunset for an unforgettable view.

Udaipur Cooking School
2000-2000INR per person. This your chance to learn from the locals how to make authentic Rajasthani dishes. Start the class with a warming cup of masala chai as your hosts introduce you to the range of ingredients and spices that will formulate your lunch menu. Watch as they demonstrate how to make rice, curries, and chapatis or opt to get hands-on and join them in cooking up these tasty dishes. Tuck in and enjoy your creations for lunch.

Udaipur Sunrise Cycle tour
Discover the early morning serenity of Udaipur with a ride along the city's picturesque lakes as the sun rises. Embark in the village of Kalarohu, travelling towards Fateh Sagar Lake to observe the lake's three islands as the birds flock to the tranquil waters. Cycle past agricultural workers in action in the lush farming communities of Badi and Hawala before making a loop around the hilltop palatial residence, Monsoon Palace. Travel on through more villages to reach Tiger Lake, this morning's setting for a picnic breakfast. The tour offers ample opportunities for photographs and to learn more about Indian history so don't forget your camera! The journey concludes with a downhill ride towards our finishing point.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Orientation Walk
Jagdish Temple Visit
City Palace Visit
Rajasthani Cultural Show

19. Tag: Udaipur - Bundi

Take a train to Bundi to explore the fort and stepwells. Bundi is well-known for its ornate forts and stepwells. The fort was constructed in AD 1354 and overlooks the city, making it a popular lookout point for visitors. The stepwell here is intricately carved and over 45m (148ft) deep. Built in 1699, it is one of the largest stepwells in Rajasthan. Opt for a sunrise bicycle tour of Udaipur before the train to Bundi this afternoon. There is no shortage of notable architecture in Bundi. From palaces to baoris, otherwise known as stepwell reservoirs, explore the many man-made marvels of Bundi.

Optional Activities:
Udaipur Sunrise Cycle tour
Discover the early morning serenity of Udaipur with a ride along the city's picturesque lakes as the sun rises. Embark in the village of Kalarohu, travelling towards Fateh Sagar Lake to observe the lake's three islands as the birds flock to the tranquil waters. Cycle past agricultural workers in action in the lush farming communities of Badi and Hawala before making a loop around the hilltop palatial residence, Monsoon Palace. Travel on through more villages to reach Tiger Lake, this morning's setting for a picnic breakfast. The tour offers ample opportunities for photographs and to learn more about Indian history so don't forget your camera! The journey concludes with a downhill ride towards our finishing point.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Bundi Fort and Stepwells Visit

20. Tag: Bundi - Mumbai

Explore Bundi with some free time before an overnight trip on the Mumbai Rajdhani Express train, with dinner on board.

21. Tag: Mumbai

Arrive in the morning in bustling Mumbai, home to 20 million people. Take a walking tour of the Colaba area and see the Gateway of India. Walk through the charming Colaba neighbourhood of Mumbai, visiting some highlights along the way. Enjoy the architecturally splendid Gateway of India, magnificent colonial buildings, charming cafes, and high-end boutiques. Enjoy a visit architecturally splendid arch, popular with tourists from India and around the world, was built during the British rule and offers amazing views of the Arabian Sea, with boats bobbing in the water close to it.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Colaba Walking Tour
Gateway of India Visit

22. Tag: Mumbai - Goa

Catch a morning flight to beautiful Goa. Spend free time relaxing on the beach or exploring the city's monuments. Opt to visit the many Portuguese-built monuments, wander around the churches of Old Goa (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), or discover Panjim, the capital of the state. Don't forget to indulge in Goan cuisine.

Optional Activities:
Old Goa Visit
1600INR per group. Explore the rich history and impressive architecture of Old Goa, the former colonial capital of the state. The convents and churches are stunning, and the area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which contains the relics of St Francis Xavier.

Panjim Visit
Walk through the Latin Quarter or by the river of this charming capital city. Take a short boat ride, visit a casino, or just relax and take in the chilled out vibe. Don't forget to eat some delicious Goan food, but watch out -- it can be spicy.

Goa Beach Visit
5INR per person. Relax on some soft, white sand -- Goa's beaches are famous the world over for good reason. Hydrate with a smoothie or fresh coconut water.

23-25. Tag: Goa

Enjoy a free day in Goa. With free time in Goa, opt to explore the city and learn about it's ancient Portuguese colony, visit a market, or relax on the beach. Spend a free day relaxing on the beach or opt to visit the many Portuguese-built monuments, wander around the churches of Old Goa (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), or discover Panjim, the capital. Don't forget to indulge in Goan cuisine.

Optional Activities:
Goa Beach Visit
5INR per person. Relax on some soft, white sand -- Goa's beaches are famous the world over for good reason. Hydrate with a smoothie or fresh coconut water.

Old Goa Visit
1600INR per group. Explore the rich history and impressive architecture of Old Goa, the former colonial capital of the state. The convents and churches are stunning, and the area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which contains the relics of St Francis Xavier.

Panjim Visit
Walk through the Latin Quarter or by the river of this charming capital city. Take a short boat ride, visit a casino, or just relax and take in the chilled out vibe. Don't forget to eat some delicious Goan food, but watch out -- it can be spicy.

26. Tag: Goa - Hampi

Travel by Visakhapatnam Howrah Express train and then by van to reach Hampi, in the heart of Karnataka.

27. Tag: Hampi - Mysore

Enjoy a walking tour and explore the spectacular ruins of Hampi Palaces, Vittala Temple complex, Virupaksh Temple, Hazararama Temple, and the boulders on the river. In the evening, take an overnight Hampi Express train to Mysore.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Walking Tour

28. Tag: Mysore

Arrive to Mysore and explore the Mysore Palace and Chamundi Hill. This stunning palace was the home of the Maharajas of Mysore, the former royal family, which ruled from 1399 to 1950. Learn about the rich history of Indian royalty and soak in the splendor of an era long gone. Enjoy a visit to the gorgeous temple devoted to the Hindu goddess, Chamundi, located on Chamundi Hill.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Mysore Palace Visit
Chamundi Hills Visit

29. Tag: Mysore - Madikeri

Drive to Bylakuppe and explore the Namdroling Monastery - home to nearly 5,000 Tibetan Buddhist monks and nuns. Namdroling Monastery is known as a centre for teachings of the Buddha and the Nyingma tradition - the oldest of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism. Later drive to Madikeri for the evening.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Namdroling Monastery Visit

30. Tag: Madikeri

Explore Madikeri (the coffee hub of India) and enjoy a tour of a coffee plantation. Head out into the hills to visit one of the many coffee plantations in the region. Learn about the production process and have a sample or two of the locally-grown coffee while taking in the beautiful scenery. Later, enjoy an orientation walk around the town and then enjoy free time to explore in the afternoon. Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Orientation Walk
Coffee Plantation Tour

31. Tag: Madikeri - Kochi

Take a morning drive to the coastal town of Kannur. Catch the Ernakulam Express to Kochi in the afternoon.

32. Tag: Kochi

Explore the Fort Kochi area. Enjoy your stay in charming Fort Kochi, which evokes an era long gone. Walk through the cobblestone streets, visit delightful tea houses, and have a relaxing drink while sitting by the water. Be sure to check out Vasco de Gama's tombstone and the famous blue synagogue. And see the Chinese fishing nets at work. Check out these magnificent fishing nets, which are an icon of Kochi. They were gifted to the Kochi King by Chinese Emperor Kubalagi in the 14th century as the two empires were trading partners. If time permits, visit the Jewish area and synagogue, the Dutch Palace, and Spice Market.

Optional Activities:
Jewish Synagogue
10INR per person. Enjoy a visit to this gorgeous synagogue located in an area of Fort Kochi known as Jew town. Built in 1567 by Sephardic Jews, it is the only functioning synagogue in Kochi today.

Dutch Palace Visit
Explore the grounds of this gorgeous white palace built in 1555, also known as the Mattancherry Palace. Check out the intricate and extremely well preserved murals, depicting tales from Hindu mythology. Get a taste of life as a Kochi royal by looking at elaborate palanquins and bejewelled clothing on display here.

Kochi Spice Market
Tantalize your senses and tickle your taste buds with a trip to the Kochi Spice Market. Cardamom, cinnamon, and cumin galore!

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Fort Kochi Visit
Chinese Fishing Nets Visit

33. Tag: Kochi

Depart at any time.