Day 01 – Feb 27, 2026: Arrive Delhi (INDIA)

Namaste! Welcome to Delhi. We are welcomed the traditional Indian way with hands clapped together. After clearing Immigration, baggage collection and customs, we are met and warmly welcomed by Bestway Tours ground staff and transferred to our hotel.  Hotel check-in time is 1400 hrs.

The remainder of the day is free.

Overnight: The Grand New Delhi (2 Nights)

Day 02 – Feb 28, 2026: Delhi

Kickstart our day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, energizing ourselves for the adventures ahead.

The capital of India is truly a tantalizing mixture of old and new. We start our morning tour with Old Delhi where we drive past to the historical Red Fort* built by the Moghul Emperor, Shah Jehan. Most of the Moghul forts were “Palace Forts“ as these were also the official residences of the royalty.

After that we embark on a rickshaw ride to the streets of Old Delhi, where entire streets are dedicated to one delicacy! Our search of the illusive magic starts in Old Delhi. Our tour of Old Delhi will tantalize us with delights such as the “Parathewali Gali” - a whole street lined with shops specializing only in “Parathas” - special flat bread stuffed with all kinds of vegetables, cheeses, spices and everything else the chefs fancy! Watch them create master pieces using exotic flours, spices, vegetables and other ingredients. These simple melt-in-your-mouth delicacies will leave you craving for more, long after you return home. We continue our quest, still in Old Delhi and on to the famous bazaar- Chandni Chowk - bustling with commerce and enterprise. Spices are the specialty of Khari Baoli, be prepared to be assaulted by exotic smells and fragrances. All the secrets of the Moghul Emperor’s Royal kitchens have been passed on from one generation to another and form the basis of Moghul Cuisine.

In the evening we enjoy Welcome Dinner at the famous Indian Restaurant. (B, D)

Note: Red fort remains closed on Monday and shops in Chandni chowk remains closed on Sunday.

Day 03 – Mar 01, 2026: Delhi/Agra (Drive 220 Kms/4 hours)

After breakfast we take a journey into the heart of New Delhi, where grandeur meets modernity. Visit the majestic Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of Mughal architecture. Marvel at its intricate design and lush gardens, soaking in the serenity of this timeless monument.

After that, we visit the house of Mrs. Jyoti Agarwal to enjoy a cooking class followed by a sumptuous lunch with Jyoti and her family at their home. Learn to prepare a delicious home cooked Indian meal supervised by Jyoti and share it with your hosts and friends-real Indian style! You will enjoy chatting with her and get a glimpse of contemporary India in urban cities.

After cooking session, we drive to Agra. On arrival we check into our hotel for a 2-nights stay.  Remainder of the day is free.

Overnight: Taj View, Agra (2 Nights) (B, L)

Day 04 – Mar 02, 2026: Agra FULL MOON AT THE TAJ MAHAL

We start our day with a sunrise visit to one of the most well-known wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal*. An immense mausoleum of white marble, built between 1631 and 1648. Built by the Moghul Emperor, Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim art in India and a universally admired masterpiece of world heritage. Situated on the right bank of the Yamuna in a vast Moghul garden, this funerary monument combines elements and styles of Persian, Central Asian and Islamic architecture. After visiting the Taj Mahal, we return to our hotel for breakfast.

In the afternoon we visit Agra Fort*. This powerful fortress of red sandstone encompasses the spectacular imperial city of the Moghul rulers. Explore fairy-tale palaces, audience halls and two very beautiful mosques. (B)

Evening, from the Taj viewpoint, we witness Taj Mahal under full moonlight. On nights when it’s a full moon, the Taj Mahal's pure white marble shimmers silver in the moonlight. Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description. The Taj seems to glow in the light of the full moon. A full moon night it shines like a pearl making the visitor stand agape at the spectacle. The romanticism and sheer majesty of the structure is unbelievably true! No wonder why millions of people across the globe chose the Taj Mahal as the top wonder of the world.

Taj Mahal is monument of love and to see it under the Full moon, is a special treat.

Day 05 – Mar 03, 2026: Agra/Fatehpur Sikri/Jaipur (Drive 245 Kms/5 hours)

After breakfast, we take a short drive to Fatehpur Sikri*. Built during the second half of the 16th Century by the Moghul Emperor Akbar,  this stunning complex was once the capital of the Moghul Empire. Just 10 years after its construction, the city with its beautiful temples, mosques and monuments were abandoned due to lack of water.  Surprisingly, many structures are still in existence and used even today including one of the largest mosques in India and the artistically designed mausoleum of the revered Sufi saint, Salim Chisty. Continue to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan called the Pink City, since most of the buildings in the old city are made of pink sandstone. We enjoy a 3nights stay in this colourful city of Jaipur.

Overnight: ITC Rajputana, Jaipur (3 Nights) (B, L, D)

Day 06 – Mar 04, 2026: Jaipur HOLI FESTIVAL

Today is a religious festival day called Holi – the festival of colours. Today we celebrate Holi festival & play with colors.

Timing: 10:30 AM to 2 PM.

Colours used only herbal Gulal.

Dress Code: A Set of Kurta Pajama with the compliments of Bestway Tours & Safaris.

Attractions: DJ Music with traditional holi songs, a Pint of beer or one glass of Indian liquor, glass of orange juice or Lassi, snacks ending with a delicious lunch.

Late afternoon we discover the culinary delights of Rajasthan with Chef Aishwarya at Atelier by Aisho, Jaipur's premier cooking workshop offering an immersive hands-on experience. (B, L, D)

Day 07 – Mar 05, 2026: Jaipur

We are treated like the royalty of yesteryear as we visit Amber Fort located in a picturesque valley among the Kalikho Hills. Known as the gem of Jaipur, this imposing fort dating from the late 16th Century was never attacked or invaded. Built from a combination of yellow and pink sandstone and white marble, the fort includes distinguished halls, intricate carvings and ornate gardens. Afternoon, we return to Jaipur to visit the majestic City Palace, which houses a rare collection of Indian art. Enroute we visit the stunning Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds, where the ladies of the royal harem used to watch the city from behind the intricately carved façade. This is Jaipur’s icon and as such is as recognizable as the Taj Mahal. We end the day at the UNESCO site of Jantar Mantar*, a historic astronomical observation site built some 280 years back housing instruments used to star-gaze with the naked eye. (B, D)

Day 08 – Mar 06, 2026: Jaipur/Kochi(Cochin) (Flight) Kochi/Thrissur (Drive 60 Kms/2 hours)

Early morning, we are transferred to the airport for our flight to India’s southern city of Cochin. On arrival we take a leisurely drive to Thrissur. Balance of the day is free for personal activities.

Overnight: Hyatt Regency, Thrissur (2 Nights) (Breakfast on board flight, D)

Day 09 – Mar 07, 2026: Thrissur

Kerala is where our chef Joe, was born and raised. Today we visit Joe's ancestral home and get a glimpse into Kerala's family lifestyle learning more about the culture and his culinary journey. We are warmly welcomed by Joe's extended family, giving us the chance to experience local customs and engage in discussions about Indian culture, rituals, family life and religion. Kerala has a 100% literacy as such more people also speak English so interesting conversation will be very much a part of the activities today. We will enjoy a delicious homecooked lunch prepared either by Mama Joe or her son, the Indo-Canadian chef.

This day offers a unique blend of family connections, cultural insights, and culinary experiences. It allows us to appreciate the cultural heritage of Kerala. while also getting a glimpse into Joe's personal background and the traditions that shaped him. (B, L, D)

◆ Visit Joe’s ancestral home followed by lunch

Day 10 – Mar 08, 2026: Thrissur/Kothamanglam (Drive 80 Kms/2 hours) Kothamanglam/Munnar (Drive 80 Kms/3 hours)

After breakfast, we drive to Kothamanagalam to visit Kerala’s famous rubber and coconut plantations. This exploration become even more exciting as our guides for the day are Peter and Pushpamma Jose, who happen to be Chef Joe's in-laws. They take us on a tour of their plantations, providing insights into their work with nature. We will see the cultivation of rubber and coconut and learn about their significance. After the visit of the plantation, we enjoy a delicious local speciality for lunch.

Afternoon, we take a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station located 1600 meters above sea level. It was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British administration in South India and it still retains its colonial “charm". It is famous for its tea plantations once owned by the British and are now privately owned. Sprawling estates, rolling hills, sparkling waterfalls, picture postcard hamlets and undulating valleys, Munnar is a popular holiday destination for Indians. Balance of the day is at leisure.

Overnight: Scenic IHCL Munnar, Munnar (2 Nights) (B, D)

◆ Private visit to the Kothamanagalam rubber and coconut plantations
◆ Home visits to Peter and Pushpamma Jose, Chef Joe’s in-laws

Day 11 – Mar 09, 2026: Munnar

We start the day with a visit of the Tea Museum which will be followed by joining the Tea pickers at a local Tea estate in Munnar. This is a unique and interesting event. We will walk through the enchanting tea estates and later visit a tea factory and learn about tea tasting. Balance of the day is at leisure to enjoy the tranquil and serene surroundings. For those wanting to go on a hike and enjoy the nature, Munnar is the place. Evening, we enjoy a BBQ dinner. (B, D)

Day 12 – Mar 10, 2026: Munnar/Thekkady (Drive)

The day starts with a scenic drive to Periyar, known also as Thekkady, where we visit the British-built dam of 1895. Periyar is a wildlife reserve, providing an ideal environment to track wild elephants, bison, deer, and various bird species. The tropical landscape surrounding us is adorned with tea, coffee and other spices, creating a fragrance and vibrant atmosphere.

Early afternoon, we enjoy a boat cruise on the lake in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. From the tranquil settings of the lake, we will be impressed with the lush scenery while also keeping eyes out for animals that come to the water's edge. It is common to spot herds of elephants, wild boars, or the magnificent Sambar Deer, enhancing our boating experience.

In the evening, we participate in a cooking session at Spice Village, followed by dinner. Chef Joe and a team of master chefs, representing various regions of the country, prepare a selection of dishes showcasing authentic flavors and aromas. Specializing in popular regional cuisines, each chef's expertise adds to the exquisite dining experience, allowing us to indulge in the exotic preparations.

Periyar offers us a blend of wildlife exploration, scenic beauty, and culinary delights.

Overnight: Spice Village, Thekkady. Spice Garden Cottages (2 Nights) (B, D)

◆ Afternoon boat ride on Lake Periyar
◆ Evening cooking session followed by dinner

Day 13 – Mar 11, 2026: Thekkady

Early morning, we go on a guided Jungle walk through the Periyar Tiger Reserve/National Park, offering us a chance to see the wildlife so close. The easy to moderate three hours walk is an easy to moderate level. Periyar is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers and leopards. We then enjoy breakfast at our hotel.

Later in the afternoon, we visit a family home belonging to a native tribe, where we explore a spice plantation. This organic plantation employs natural pest control methods and showcases a range of spices and herbs used for culinary and medicinal purposes. The owner and his family, possess extensive knowledge about their produce, guide us through the plantation and encourage us to engage our senses by smelling and tasting various clippings. We witness a demonstration of a home-cooked meal using the locally grown organic spices, and we have the option to stay for lunch with the family. Chef Joe may introduce us to eating with our fingers, in the traditional Indian way.

An out of the world Kalaripayattu show is our next treat. It is an ancient martial art form considered the mother of all martial arts. The art form is believed to have originated 3000 years ago with sage Parasurama, who is credited with reclaiming Kerala from the Arabian Sea. The show highlights the skill, agility, and cultural significance of Kalaripayattu, with its influences on martial arts around the world.

Throughout the day, we engage in immersive experiences that connect us with nature, culture, and traditions. From the jungle walk to the spice plantation and the Kalaripayattu show, we will experience the beauty and significance of these aspects of Periyar. (B, L, D)

◆ Morning guided Jungle walk
◆ Visit native family home and spice plantation
◆ Demonstration of home cooked meal followed by lunch
◆ Kalaripayattu show

Day 14 – Mar 12, 2026: Thekkady/Kumarakom (Drive 140 Kms/4 hours)

After a leisurely breakfast we check out from hotel and drive to Kumarakom. On arrival we check into our hotel for a 2nights stay., Kumarakom is a village on Vembanad Lake in the backwaters of Kerala, southern India. It’s laced with canals, where houseboats ply the waters. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is home to many species including cuckoos and Siberian storks. Nearby, the Bay Island Driftwood Museum displays wooden sculptures. In the lake, Pathiramanal Island is a haven for rare migratory birds. Ancient Thazhathangady Mosque is east of Kumarakom. Evening we have dinner at the famous Coconut Lagoon Hotel (not to mistake with the Coconut Lagoon restaurant in Ottawa run by Chef Joe.)

Overnight: Coconut Lagoon, Kumarakom. Heritage Bungalow (2 Nights) (B, L, D)

Day 15 – Mar 13, 2026: Kumarakom

Morning is free for leisure or personal activities. In the afternoon, visit Philip Kutty Farm for an immersive experience. Enjoy a traditional lunch at the farm, surrounded by serene backwaters. After exploring the farm, return to the hotel to unwind and rest. (B, L, D)

Day 16 – Mar 14, 2026: Kumarakom/Alleppey/Marari (Backwaters)

Early afternoon we board our private houseboat and take a four-hour cruise along the famous backwaters of Kerala from Kumarakom to Alleppey. Lunch is on board our houseboat. Our journey begins through the picturesque backwaters and small lakes relaxing in the tranquility of Kerala's beautiful scenery. As we cruise, we come across many boats, canoes and other water crafts and observe the traditional way of life and activities of the local people. The families live on the banks of the river and earn their livelihood from it too. From here we take a short drive to Marari for our 2-nights stay at the beach resort.

Overnight: Marari Beach Resort, Marari (2 Nights) (B, L, D)

◆ Backwater cruise followed by lunch

Day 17 – Mar 15, 2026: Marari

Enjoy the day at leisure on the beach and enjoying the many optional spa treatments that the Marari Beach Resort is famous for. The resort offers a host of food outlets that you can take advantage of for the optional lunch and dinner of the day. (B)

Day 18 – Mar 16, 2026: Marari/Kochi (Drive 80 Kms/2 hours)

After breakfast we drive to Cochin seeing a topography that is very different than India’s north. The city of Cochin has European influences reflecting, even today, in the architecture of this charming town picturesquely located on several islands between the Arabian Sea and the Kerala backwaters. Reflecting the maritime history of Kochi, the old buildings are a blend of Dutch, Portuguese and British architecture from the 163 years of Portuguese, Dutch and British rule.

On arrival we are welcomed at the home of the local culinary icon, Mrs. Nimmy Paul. Nimmy is recognized for her authentic recipes promoting healthy lifestyle as well as her knowledge of medicinal properties of spices and herbs used in everyday cooking. She has been widely featured in many international Journals. Nimmy will demonstrate and talk about nuances of traditional Kerala recipes as she prepares four dishes in front of the group. Lunch that follows will be a “Sadhya”-traditional banana leaf lunch consisting of vegetarian preparations and payasam (sweets) along with favorite Kerala condiments. Chef Joe will teach and encourage you to try eating the traditional Indian way - with your fingers!

Evening, we enjoy a Continue to the elegant Taj Malabar hotels where we have our last 2-nights of this very exciting journey of India.

Overnight: Taj Malabar, Kochi (2 Nights) (B, L)

Day 19 – Mar 17, 2026: Kochi

The city of Cochin is distinguished by considerable European influences especially in the architecture of this charming town. It is picturesquely located on several islands between the Arabian Sea and the Kerala backwaters are instantly apparent. Reflecting the maritime history of Kochi, the old buildings are a blend of Dutch, Portuguese and British architecture.

Early in the morning, we board the Boat at Taj Malabar and leave for Fort Kochi. View the famous Chinese fishing nets in action from the boat. At Fort Kochi Jetty we continue with a walking tour before driving back to our hotel for the breakfast.

After breakfast, we wander through the old districts of Mattancherry and Fort Kochi where we see various merchant houses and old warehouses, the beautiful waterfront and narrow streets. Allow time to admire the colourful murals, including depictions of the Ramayana, in the 16th century Dutch Palace and visit the Pardesi Synagogue in Jewish Town.

Evening, we enjoy a memorable mouth-watering farewell Dinner at the Brunton Boatyard put together jointly by Chef Joe and the local chef of Brunton Boatyard. (B, D)

◆ Tour Fort Kochi
◆ Farewell dinner

Day 20 – Mar 18, 2026: Depart Kochi

Breakfast at our hotel. Hotel check out time is 12:00 Noon. The incredible experience of North India & Kerala. Indian foods, diverse cultures, families, history with culinary and cultural activities is now coming to an end. You will be transferred to the airport depending on your flight timings. (B)

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, Sn=Snacks, HT=High Tea, D=Dinner

Departure Dates & Prices

We accept payments in US$, CA$ as well as in other convertible currencies like EUR, AUD and GBP. Tour prices have been costed in US$. CA$ price shown below is an indicative amount reached at by using the conversion rate at the time of web posting and will be applicable if there is no change in the conversion rate. Should the currency conversion rate change, the US$ pricing will prevail. Bestway Tours & Safaris offers a conversion rate protection. Once full payment has been received and no modification has been made to the tour itinerary, we will honour that rate. For complete payment procedures, please click here

Notes

Inclusions

Participants

This tour operates on a minimum of 15 and a maximum of 24 participants

Customised Itinerary

If you would like to have a tour on dates other than the above ones or with a customised itinerary, please contact us and we will be happy to work out an exclusive program for you.

Contact Info
Email us at bestway@bestway.com or call 1-604-264-7378. Residents of U.S.A./Canada may call us toll free at 1-800-663-0844.

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