Golden Triangle Tour with South India (Kerala & Tamil Nadu)

14N/15D   Fully Guided Tours   Private Car  

Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - Delhi - Kochi - Alleppey - Madurai - Kochi - Delhi

Trip Overview

A journey that spans the cultural richness of North India and the relaxed elegance of the South, this 15-day itinerary offers a well-balanced experience across two completely distinct regions. Beginning with the Golden Triangle—Delhi, Agra and Jaipur—the route introduces you to Mughal heritage, royal palaces and guided city exploration before transitioning into the tropical landscapes of Kerala and the temple traditions of Tamil Nadu.

The shift between regions is what defines this experience. The structured sightseeing of North India gradually gives way to a slower, more immersive pace in the South, where palm-lined backwaters, coastal cities and temple architecture create a completely different atmosphere. Kochi offers a blend of colonial influence and local culture, Alleppey introduces the unique experience of backwater cruising, while Madurai adds a spiritual dimension through its historic temples.

Designed for travelers who want variety without compromising on comfort, this itinerary ensures smooth transitions between destinations through private transfers, domestic flights and thoughtfully selected stays. Each segment of the journey is distinct, yet connected in a way that allows you to experience India’s diversity in a single, seamless trip.

Highlights of the Tour :
  • Private guided exploration of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur 
  • Sunrise Taj Mahal experience in Agra 
  • Royal Jaipur sightseeing including Amber Fort 
  • Flight to Kochi with seamless transition to South India 
  • Cultural exploration of Kochi including Fort Kochi area 
  • Backwater experience in Alleppey with houseboat stay 
  • Visit to Madurai and Meenakshi Temple 
  • Balanced journey combining heritage, nature and culture

Golden Triangle Tour with South India (Kerala & Tamil Nadu) :- Detail Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Delhi

Your journey begins with your arrival in Delhi, where you are welcomed at the airport by our representative and escorted to your hotel in a private vehicle. The drive through the city introduces a blend of modern development and historic landmarks, offering an early sense of India’s diversity.

After check-in, the remainder of the day is intentionally kept flexible to allow you to settle in comfortably after your flight. You may choose to rest at the hotel, enjoy its facilities or step out for a short walk in the surrounding area. A relaxed evening without fixed commitments ensures that you begin the journey at your own pace.

Your chauffeur remains available throughout, providing the option to explore lightly if you feel comfortable. This gradual start helps you adjust before moving into the more structured sightseeing planned for the following day.

Overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 2 Delhi Sightseeing

After breakfast, begin a full-day guided exploration of Delhi, covering both Old and New Delhi. The day starts in Old Delhi, where the narrow lanes and vibrant atmosphere create a strong contrast to the city’s modern side.

Visit Jama Masjid before experiencing a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, where local markets and street life offer an immersive introduction to the city. You will also pass by the Red Fort and visit Raj Ghat, the memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi.

In New Delhi, the environment shifts to wide boulevards and colonial architecture. Drive past India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan and Parliament House before visiting Humayun’s Tomb and Qutub Minar. Each site reflects a different era of Delhi’s history.

Return to your hotel in the evening and relax after a full day of exploration.

Overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 3 Delhi – Agra

After breakfast, depart for Agra via a comfortable drive on the expressway. The journey is smooth and allows for a relaxed transition between cities without fatigue.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to settle in before heading out for sightseeing. Begin with Agra Fort, where the scale and design of the structure provide insight into Mughal-era life and architecture.

Later in the day, visit Mehtab Bagh for a sunset view of the Taj Mahal from across the river. The setting is calm and offers a less crowded perspective, allowing you to enjoy the monument in a more relaxed environment.

Return to your hotel for a quiet evening, preparing for the early start the next day.

Overnight stay in Agra.

Day 4 Agra – Jaipur

Begin the day early with a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, where the monument reveals its beauty in the soft morning light. The experience is quieter at this hour, allowing you to appreciate its design and symmetry in a calm setting.

After returning to the hotel for breakfast, begin your journey towards Jaipur. En route, visit Fatehpur Sikri, the former Mughal capital known for its preserved architecture and historical significance.

Continue with a stop at Abhaneri Stepwell, where the geometric design of Chand Baori offers a unique architectural contrast to the monuments seen earlier.

Arrive in Jaipur by evening and check into your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing you to relax after a full day of travel.

Overnight stay in Jaipur.

Day 5 Jaipur Sightseeing

Your day in Jaipur begins with a visit to Amber Fort, where you explore its courtyards, halls and panoramic viewpoints. The fort offers insight into Rajasthan’s royal heritage and architectural style.

Continue with visits to City Palace and Jantar Mantar, followed by photo stops at Hawa Mahal and Jal Mahal. Each location adds a different perspective to Jaipur’s identity.

In the afternoon, you may explore local markets known for textiles, jewelry and handicrafts. The experience is vibrant yet comfortable, allowing you to browse at your own pace.

Return to your hotel in the evening and relax after a full day.

Overnight stay in Jaipur.

Day 6 Jaipur – Delhi

After breakfast, begin your return journey to Delhi in a private vehicle. The drive is comfortable and includes optional breaks along the way, ensuring that the journey remains relaxed.

Upon arrival in Delhi, check into your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. This pause between regions allows you to rest before transitioning to South India.

You may choose to relax at the hotel or enjoy a quiet evening, preparing for the next phase of the journey.

Overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 7 Delhi – Kochi (Flight)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Kochi, marking the transition from North India to the southern region. The change in climate and landscape becomes immediately noticeable upon arrival.

You will be greeted at Kochi airport and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take time to relax and adjust to the new environment, where coastal influences and greenery create a different atmosphere compared to the cities visited earlier.

In the evening, you may explore Fort Kochi, known for its colonial architecture, local markets and waterfront views. The pace here is slower, offering a refreshing contrast.

Overnight stay in Kochi.

Day 8 Kochi Exploration

After breakfast, begin a guided exploration of Kochi, focusing on its cultural and historical highlights. Visit Fort Kochi, where Portuguese, Dutch and British influences are visible in the architecture and layout.

Explore the Chinese fishing nets along the waterfront, followed by visits to St. Francis Church and the Dutch Palace. Each site reflects a different period in Kochi’s history.

The pace of the day is relaxed, allowing time to walk through local streets, observe daily life and enjoy the coastal setting. You may also explore local markets or cafés in the area.

Return to your hotel in the evening and relax.

Overnight stay in Kochi.

Day 9 Kochi – Alleppey (Backwater Experience)

After breakfast, depart from Kochi and drive towards Alleppey, a region known for its calm backwaters and scenic surroundings. The journey itself is relaxed, passing through small towns, coconut groves and stretches of water that gradually introduce you to Kerala’s natural landscape.

Upon arrival, board your private houseboat, which will be your accommodation for the day. The experience is designed to be slow and immersive, allowing you to move through narrow canals and open backwater stretches at a comfortable pace. As the boat glides through the water, you will observe village life along the banks, local fishermen at work and traditional homes surrounded by greenery.

Lunch is served on board, followed by time to relax on the deck or inside your cabin. The setting is peaceful, with minimal noise and a constant connection to nature. As the day progresses, the boat anchors in a quiet area, allowing you to experience the stillness of the backwaters during the evening.

Dinner is served on board, completing a day that focuses entirely on relaxation and natural beauty.

Overnight stay on houseboat in Alleppey.

Day 10 Alleppey – Kochi – Madurai

Begin your day with a quiet morning on the houseboat, where the calm surroundings and slow movement create a relaxed start. After breakfast, disembark and begin your journey back towards Kochi.

From Kochi, continue your onward travel to Madurai, either by road or flight depending on the plan. The transition takes you from Kerala’s coastal landscapes into Tamil Nadu’s cultural and temple-focused environment.

Upon arrival in Madurai, check into your hotel and take some time to rest after the journey. The city has a distinct identity, shaped by its religious significance and traditional layout.

In the evening, you may choose to visit the outer areas of the Meenakshi Temple complex or explore nearby markets at a relaxed pace. The environment is active yet structured, offering a different experience compared to Kerala.

Overnight stay in Madurai.

Day 11 Madurai Sightseeing

After breakfast, begin a guided exploration of Madurai, focusing on its cultural and spiritual significance. The highlight of the day is the Meenakshi Amman Temple, one of the most important and visually striking temples in South India.

As you enter the temple complex, your guide will explain the layout, history and symbolism behind its detailed architecture. The towering gopurams, covered with colorful carvings, create a unique visual experience that is very different from the monuments seen in North India.

The day continues with visits to other local sites and a walk through traditional markets surrounding the temple area. These markets are filled with textiles, flowers and local products, offering a glimpse into daily life in the city.

The pace of the day is balanced, allowing you to explore comfortably without feeling rushed. By evening, return to your hotel and relax after a day of cultural immersion.

Overnight stay in Madurai.

Day 12 Madurai – Kochi / Leisure Transition Day

After breakfast, begin your return journey towards Kochi. The travel is planned comfortably, ensuring that the transition between cities remains smooth and without unnecessary stress.

Upon arrival in Kochi, check into your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. This day acts as a buffer, allowing you to relax after exploring multiple destinations and prepare for the final stage of your journey.

You may choose to revisit parts of Fort Kochi, enjoy a quiet evening by the waterfront or simply relax at the hotel. The slower pace of the day ensures that you do not feel fatigued as the journey approaches its conclusion.

Overnight stay in Kochi.

Day 13 Kochi – Delhi (Flight)

After breakfast, transfer to Kochi airport for your flight back to Delhi. The journey marks your transition from South India back to the capital, reconnecting you with the starting point of your itinerary.

Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is kept flexible, allowing you to relax, revisit a favorite part of the city or prepare for your departure.

This final phase of the journey is designed to be calm and unstructured, ensuring that you have enough time to rest after the extensive travel across regions.

Overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 14 Delhi Leisure Day

After breakfast, the day is free for you to spend at your own pace. This is an opportunity to explore Delhi further or simply relax before your departure.

You may choose to visit areas not covered earlier, enjoy shopping in local markets or experience a curated dining option. The flexibility of the day allows you to shape it according to your interests and energy level.

For those who prefer a relaxed schedule, the hotel provides a comfortable environment to unwind and reflect on the journey. The day acts as a gentle conclusion to an otherwise detailed itinerary.

Overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 15 Departure

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey. The departure is planned with sufficient time, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

Our team remains available to assist with all final arrangements, including luggage handling and coordination with airport procedures. This final step is handled with the same attention to detail as the rest of your journey.

Your 15-day experience across North and South India concludes here, bringing together cultural landmarks, natural landscapes and varied regional experiences in a single, well-paced itinerary.

Inclusion :
  • 14 nights accommodation including houseboat stay 
  • Daily breakfast and all meals on houseboat 
  • Domestic flights (Delhi–Kochi–Delhi) 
  • Private air-conditioned vehicle with chauffeur 
  • Professional English-speaking guides 
  • All transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary 
  • 24/7 travel assistance
Exclusion :
  • Monument entrance fees 
  • Meals not mentioned (except houseboat) 
  • Personal expenses and tips 
  • International flights 
  • Travel insurance

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Testimonials

What Our Client's Say!

Read the reviews of our esteemed client's, go through the experiences they had with Top Indian Holidays.

England
18 Apr 2025
5/5
halvequabold
  because my time with him in India was the most organized and exciting two weeks of my existence. I spent two weeks touring Southern India with a class of 16 American students and one professor who had never been to India, but thanks to Nand, the trip was seamless. He took us to incredible locations and called upon his personal connections to create opportunities for us and ensure that we were involved and informed. The entire time we were there, Nand made India feel like home. Somehow, he found a way for us to experience a range of incredible, new experiences in a completly unfamiliar place, while always ensuring our safety, comfort, and awareness. There is nothing Nand will not do to make your trip incredible. I cannot reccommend him enough.  ...Read More
USA
14 Mar 2025
5/5
bill4040
  My wife had a wonderful 28 day trip around the main sights in Rajasthan, The Golden Triangle and onwards to Varanasi. Nand organised the hotels to our budget, the driver and guides all of which were very good. Without his expertise this trip would not have been possible so a big "thank you"!  ...Read More
Germany
17 Feb 2025
5/5
AAaron S
  Nand Singh and his company did a great job of managing the first half of a custom study tour for me in Southern India. I brought 16 students from Saint Mary's College in January of 2018 and Nand Singh ans his company organized the hotels, shared meals, excursions, and transportation for us.   ...Read More
Germany
09 Jan 2025
5/5
UAE jacobs
  Our trip with Top Indian Holidays was fantastic. Our family of five, including 3 small kids, visited the Golden Triangle of India. It was a wonderful cultural experience. I cannot recommend them enough. The hotel accommodations were great (we stayed at the trident hotels). The food was delicious. Everyone we met in India was so friendly and kind. We always felt safe. Our tour guide Nand was super nice and informative. Our kids’ favorite stop was the Monkey Temple :) The rickshaw ride through Delhi was exciting and fun.  ...Read More
Bali
15 Nov 2024
5/5
Wmilee K
  I’ve made such wonderful memories here in India. For a week, I had the chance to work on my sister’s women’s healthcare project in the village of Chandelao, and then spent a weekend in Jaipur. The accommodations have been top notch, and both our guides- Kartika and Nand Singh- have become our good friends. Top Indian Holidays is a tour company dedicated to exceptional service. Despite traveling alone with my sister, we felt so safe and at home. I truly have fallen in love with I did!  ...Read More
Australia
26 Sep 2024
5/5
Surban L.
  Last year, I travelled throughout northern India for one month as part of a course at Saint Mary’s College. We had such incredible adventures, thanks to our in country guide and friend Nand Singh Rathore. I was so impressed by his company’s commitment to excellent hospitality that I planned another visit this March. The main purpose of my trip was to work on a women’s healthcare project in Chandelao. Top Indian Holidays was so helpful in organizing transportation and accommodations. Our guide, Kartika, and our driver, Bhim, made sure we were well taken care of. My project would not have gone smoothly if it weren’t for them- and I am so proud to call them my new friends! My sister and I stayed an extra weekend in Jaipur, and Nand Singh was amazing as usual. He is so, so good to us!!! If you visit India through Top Indian Holidays, I assure you that you will have a safe, adventurous, and unforgettable experience!  ...Read More
England
17 Jun 2024
5/5
Bill M
  We could not be more pleased with our experience with Top Indian Holidays. All the travel arrangements from Taxis, Vans, and Airlines were seamless. From the Jain Festival to Armristar - touring the Golden Temple, and two flights north to see the Dalai Lana, all our needs were taken care of. Expert local guides were used as needed, all professional and friendly. They listen to your desires, and made our first trip to India an adventure of a lifetime.  ...Read More
Madrid
03 Mar 2024
5/5
NWPalmer
  Top Indian Holidays is THE BEST! We came to India for the Jain Festival in south India at Shravanabelagola (which happens only once every 12 years) and continued on to the Golden Temple in Amritsar and to sit for teachings with His Holiness, the XIV Dalai Lama in Dharamsala. Top Indian Holidays handled all of the arrangements expertly, providing first rate service, excellent accommodations, transport, and first rate local guides! We've travelled through many, many countries with numerous very good travel agencies but none have provided the excellent service that Top Indian Holidays provided. They are committed to excellence. Thank you Top Indian Holidays!  ...Read More
Finland
11 May 2026
5/5
Anthony M
  We had an absolutely incredible experience touring India with Top Indian Holidays, and I can’t recommend them highly enough. Our journey took us through Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore, and Jaipur, and every part of the trip was seamlessly organised from start to finish. The itinerary struck the perfect balance between sightseeing, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. Seeing the Taj Mahal in Agra was, of course, a highlight, but the real standout moment was Ranthambore—where we were lucky enough to see tigers in the wild, something we’ll never forget. What really made the trip exceptional, though, was having the same driver with us throughout the entire journey.  ...Read More
UK
11 May 2026
5/5
Culture43864522401
  On the advice of a friend we contacted Nand Singh Rathore at Top Indian Holidays in Jaipur. Nand worked with us and suggested a suitable tour over 5 days. We flew from Goa to Delhi and were met by our driver Ram Singh, whom stayed with us for the duration of the tour. Day 2 we visited the Taj Mahal with a very well informed local guide and spent 3 hours enjoying this special place. We then headed for Jaipur ( a 6 hour drive from Agra) stopping on the way at Chand Baori ( The Abhaneri Step Well). Day 3 in Jaipur we visited the Amer Fort, Hawa Mahal, and the City Palace. We were also due to visit the Jantar Mantar but because of heavy rain and thunderstorms we missed this out. Day 4 we were picked up at our hotel for the 7 hour drive to Udaipur , stopping for lunch and comfort breaks on the way.  ...Read More
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