INCREDIBLE SOUTHERN INDIA

February 24th, 2025 Welcome to Mumbai!

For guests arriving today by air, check in this afternoon to the The Oberoi, Mumbai and enjoy your afternoon at leisure and a welcome dinner at the hotel.

The Oberoi, Mumbai is a striking example of modern architecture that lifts you up over Marine Drive to enjoy magnificent views of the ocean and ‘Queen’s Necklace” lights along the shoreline. On the shores of Back Bay, this luxe hotel in the Nariman Point business district is 1 km from Wankhede Stadium and 2 km from the Gateway of India arch.

February 26, 2025 Mumbai to Cochin

Enjoy your morning in Mumbai, taking in the sights and sound of India’s largest city. You will then board a flight and take the trip from Mumbai to Cochin.

As the sun dips below the horizon in Cochin, embark on a mesmerizing sunset cruise around Cochin Harbour. Glide past bustling ships, charming islands, and ancient landmarks bathed in the warm glow of twilight. Breathe in the fresh sea air and let the gentle rhythm of the waves lull you into tranquillity.

Later, wander towards the iconic Chinese fishing nets, their silhouettes etched against the twilight sky. Marvel at these age-old structures, still gracefully swaying as they have for over 400 years. Capture the magic in a photograph – a memento of this timeless encounter.

Indulge in a delectable dinner at the hotel’s Rice Boat restaurant. Savor authentic Kerala cuisine in a setting reminiscent of traditional Kerala houseboats, creating a truly immersive experience.

Unwind for the night in the luxurious haven of Taj Malabar Resort & Spa. Wake up refreshed, ready to explore the vibrant tapestry of Cochin the next day.

Taj Malabar Resort & Spa Cochin

Perched at the tip of the Willingdon Island, overlooking the harbour, you get the feeling of being cut off from the rest of the world, peacefully floating out towards the horizon. Open views of the harbour with the Chinese Fishing nets in the distance, make you feel welcomed; a beautiful start to a journey that only gets better at our 5 star hotel in Cochin.

February 27, 2025 Cochin on the water Today, enjoy a Full day backwater cruise with lunch on private houseboat

After breakfast, transfer to Alleppey to board the Houseboat for a day cruise on the backwaters. The Vembanad lake in Kerala is the heart of the famous backwaters. It sustains a large population and is connected to various canals. This region has a unique lifestyle and culture, which you can experience during the cruise. Stops will be provided to interact with the local residents and witness their daily activities. Lunch is served on board.

In the evening, disembark from the houseboat and return to Kochi to witness traditional Indian Classical Dance performance of Kathakali.

Relax at night at the Taj Malabar Resort & Spa Cochin.

February 28, 2025 Cochin to Hampi, India – Hampi is an ancient village in the south Indian state of Karnataka. It’s dotted with numerous ruined temple complexes from the Vijayanagara Empire. On the south bank of the River Tungabhadra is the 7th-century Hindu Virupaksha Temple, near the revived Hampi Bazaar. A carved stone chariot stands in front of the huge Vittala Temple site. Southeast of Hampi, Daroji Bear Sanctuary is home to the Indian sloth bear.

This evening we will drive to Tungbhadra River..walk through Monoliths and temples carved out of the stones that have been magically placed over each other and enjoy a Coracle Boat ride on the River discovering hidden temples on either side of the River Bank.

Overnight at Evolve Back Hampi. With stunning rugged forests and boulders forming its backdrop, Evolve Back Kamalapura Palace, Hampi is located just 4 km from this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its fort like entrances, stone-paved boulevards, arched hallways and regal chambers mirror the famed palaces of a bygone but glorious era.

Evolve Back Hampi

March 1, 2025 Hampi Sightseeing

This morning we start with Sightseeing of Hampi include visit to the Bazaar, the temples, palaces which is set in the beautiful landscape with the hills and huge boulders surrounding the area near the Tungabhadra River. The ruins of the ancient Kingdom are spread over 26 Sq.kms and was described by the Portuguese traveler Domingo Paes as “being as large as Rome”. It is now part of World Heritage site.

Vijaya Vittala Temple: This wealthy architectural temple used to be constructed within the fifteenth century that has an expansive campus and several different Hampi temples, pavilions and halls. Like its title suggests, it is dedicated to Lord Vittala, probably the most incarnations of Lord Vishnu. The principal highlights of this temple are the marvelously carved pillars and a giant stone chariot. VijayaVittala Temple is assumed as an iconic location to discuss with within the entire state of Karnataka.

Archaeological Museum: It is one of the fundamental attractions at Hampi that houses a group of sculptures and diverse antiques. These kind of findings were saved via the British in elephant stables. The Archaeological Survey of India headquartered this museum and started moving the antiques in 1972. The museum is open throughout the week except on Fridays.

Virupaksha Temple: This attractive and fantastically carved temple serves as the primary middle of pilgrimage in Hampi. It is considered to be constructed somewhere across the 7th century beneath the reign of Vijayanagara rulers. It is a detailed UNESCO World Heritage web site for its principal historical significance.

Overnight at the Evolve Back, Hampi.

March 2, 2025 Hampi to Hyderabad

In the morning you will transfer to the airport for flight to Hyderabad. Upon arrival you will be trasferred to your accomodation at the Taj Falaknuma Palace. Taj Falaknuma Palace, a former residence of the famed Nizam, sits regally overlooking Hyderabad. Built in 1894, it offers luxurious accommodations and evokes the grandeur of a bygone era. Indulge in royal treatment, savor delectable cuisine, and explore the wonders of Hyderabad – all within the palace walls.

Spend the day leisure in the Palace to enjoy it’s facilities.

Immerse yourself in history with an enthralling evening tour led by our in-house historian. Explore the magnificent halls and hidden corners of the Taj Falaknuma Palace. This captivating journey brings the rich past alive, revealing fascinating stories of its restoration and transformation into a vibrant palace hotel.

Tonight, embark on a sensory journey with a special qawwali dinner.

Overnight at the Taj Falakuma Palace, Hyderabad.

Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad

March 3, 2025 Touring in Hyderabad

After breakfast leave for the sightseeing of Hyderabad with your guide. This morning visit the Salarjung Museum. This museum houses the biggest one-man collections of antiques in the world. The priceless collection represents a lifelong passion of Salarjung III, Prime Minister of Hyderabad from 1899 to 1949. The Museum boasts of a collection of Mughal Jade, a Koran with signatures of three Mughal Emperors, wonderful collection of Miniature paintings and collection of clocks musical clocks, miniature clocks, and grandfather clocks.

Visit the Golconda Fort in Hyderabad is located on a hill about 400 feet above the surrounding plain and has 10 kilometers long outer wall with 87 semi-circular bastions with cannons on few bastions, 80 gateways, 4 drawbridges and Royal apartments The main gate is called FatehDarwaza or the Gate of Victory. This door is 13 feet wide and 25 feet high and constellated with steel spikes, that used to protect it from the elephant attacks during wars. The main attraction here is the history of this kingdom and how its wealth grew from the famed “Golconda Diamonds”. Then tour the amazing fort and learn about the incredible acoustics. You can stand at one end of a long hall and hear a person on the other side whisper. The King sat in a window where he never saw criminals, but the voice was reflected and he could pass judgement- making sure “Justice is Blind”.

Enjoy lunch at one of the finest local restaurant.

Next visit The Qutub Shahi Tombs. Erected in the memory of the departed kings of Golconda, they are magnificent monuments that have withstood the test of time and nature’s vagaries.

Enjoy an evening at leisure and an overnight at Taj Falakuma Palace, Hyderabad.

Golconda Fort

March 4, 2025 Hyderabad to Udaipur A flight will take you from Hyderabad to Udaipur.

Famed as the City of Lakes, it stands true to its reputation. This enchanting city is made up of many shimmering lakes, the azure waters of which are bound by the verdant Aravali hills, laced with sprawling forts, magnificent palaces, and powerful temples. Founded in 1559 as the bastion of the Rajput kingdom of Mewar. Udaipur is steeped in a rich history interwoven with stories and legends of conspiracy, valor, sacrifice, and loyalty. Discover this “Venice of the East” with us for an unforgettable experience.

In the evening enjoy a private boat ride on glimmering Lake Pichola by sunset. Cruise past its stunning island palaces, including the ethereal Jag Mandir. Rows of charming havelis, both well-restored and crumbling, line the lake front, and behind this medieval façade stretches a maze of bustling and colorful shops and stalls.

Overnight at the Oberoi Udaivilas. The Oberoi Udaivilas is perhaps Udaipur‘s finest hotel and ranked as the world’ s #1 hotel in 2015, and overlooks Lake Pichola with a grand view of the City Palace. The property is situated near a game reserve managed and maintained by the Oberoi Group with a great population of the beautiful peacock- India’s national bird.

March 5, 2025 Yoga & Touring in Udaipur

This morning option for Private yoga Class with an Expert Teacher or stroll the grounds of your luxe accommodations.

Visit The City Palace – the largest Palace complex in Rajasthan constructed on the side of Lake Pichola. The Palace is a conglomeration of buildings built by various Kings and it is evident in the different styles of buildings.

Next visit Jagdish Temple. Nestled within the City Palace complex, this vibrant gem awaits your exploration.

During the day, Experience a three-wheeler (tuk-tuk) drive through the Old city – this is a fun and fascinating experience and a great way to go to the old city, alive with people, temples and shops. Prepare to be captivated by Udaipur’s unique spirit, both past and present!

Tonight we will come together for a Farewell Dinner at the hotel.

Overnight at The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur.

March 6, 2025

After soaking in the last whispers of Hyderabadi magic, savor a leisurely morning. Reflect on the iconic destinations you’ve encountered, their stories still swirling in your mind.

Transfer to the airport for flight to Delhi to connect with the onward flight to your next adventure.

Call Lori Ann Marinaccio at 941-951-1801 at extension 104 now to reserve your space on this unique journey today! You may e-mail at loriann@admiraltravel.com.

Cost starting at $6,995 per person based on double occupancy. Please inquire for single pricing.

All payments are non-refundable. We highly recommend trip insurance and are happy to assist.

INCLUSIONS

• Accommodation as per the programme on a twin share basis
• Welcome dinner in Mumbai and farewell dinner in Udaipur
• One dinner in Cochin, two dinners in Hampi, a special dinner in Falaknuma Palace with Qawwali and one dinner in Udaipur (Total 07 Dinners)
• One lunch in Mumbai, one on the houseboat during a backwater boat cruise, and one in Hyderabad during sightseeing. (Total 03 lunch)
• Sunset boat cruise in Cochin and Udaipur
• Oracle boat cruise while in Hampi
• Day cruise on backwaters in Kerala with lunch on board. (lunch included above)
• English speaking local guide.
• Accompanying Tour manager.
• All monument entrance fees.
• Transport hire of air-conditioned Deluxe van/car for all transfers, sightseeing etc.
• All Government taxes.

EXCLUSIONS

• Arrival air to Mumbai
• Flight to Cochin
• Flight to Bangalore
• Flight to Hampi
• Flight to Hyderabad
• Flight to Udaipur
• Flight to Delhi