Combine bucket-list sites with relaxation on this memorable 14-day honeymoon in India and the Maldives. You’ll go on sightseeing tours in Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Kochi, seeing famous attractions such as the Red Fort, the Taj Mahal, and Hawa Mahal. Then, you’ll be able to spend quality time together on a houseboat cruise in Kumarakom before transferring to a dreamy resort in the Maldives for a luxurious end to your trip.
- Highlights
- Detailed Itinerary
- Book the Package
- Watch the sun set over the Taj Mahal
- Enjoy an overnight backwater cruise in a houseboat
- See the sights of Jaipur, the Pink City
- Relax in a luxurious resort in the Maldives
Welcome to Delhi! On arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, you'll receive a warm welcome from your guide who will help you with your transfer and your check-in at your hotel in New Delhi. You have today to spend at leisure, acclimatizing yourself, relaxing in your hotel and toasting to the first day of your honeymoon, or exploring some of the capital's attractions.If you venture out into Delhi's busy streets, you'll find several reminders of its rulers over the centuries, from the Mughals to the British. You'll visit many of the big sights tomorrow so, today, sample some of the city's world-famous street food, have a celebratory drink, or shop for honeymoon souvenirs in a market or Connaught Place. Alternatively, go for a serene, romantic walk in the tree-shaded Lodi Garden which has 15th-century Mughal monuments, varied species of birds and butterflies, and a tea shop where you can enjoy a cup of chai (strong, sweet milky tea) with the locals.
Today, learn more about Delhi's history on a sightseeing tour. Start at the Red Fort. Located in the center of the city, it was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal dynasty and was constructed by Shah Jahan. Then, drive past or stop at Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. Surrounded by greenery and fountains it's a peaceful spot. Next, visit Agrasen ki Baoli, which is also known as Agar Sain Ki Baoli or Ugrasen Ki Baoli. This ancient stepwell is in New Delhi. You'll then stop at Jama Masjid, known as the central mosque of Delhi during Shah Jahan's rule. It is the biggest mosque in Delhi.
Now visit Chandni Chowk, which is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi. Enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through its narrow, congested lanes. Next, go to Lakshmi Narayan Temple. Also known as the Birla Mandir, this sacred place is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his consort goddess Lakshmi. Drive past India Gate, a memorial to the British Indian soldiers who died during World War I, then visit the National War Memorial that honors the Indian Armed Forces. You'll also pass the Rashtrapati Bhavan (formerly home to the British viceroy) and Parliament House before enjoying lunch in a local restaurant.
After you've eaten, head to Humayun's Tomb, which seems to float above its symmetrical gardens and is thought to have inspired the Taj Mahal. It was constructed for the Mughal emperor in the mid-16th century and it combines Persian and Mughal elements. To finish your day, visit the Qutub Minar minaret, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was built in the early 13th century that has survived the ravages of time impressively. Look also at the Iron Pillar, situated inside the Qutub Complex, which stands majestically at 24 feet (7.3 m) in front of the Quwwatul Mosque.
Today you'll travel to Jaipur, stopping en route to visit Fatehpur Sikri. This fortified city made predominantly of red sandstone was founded in the 16th century by Mughal Emperor Akbar and was the capital of his empire for less than 15 years. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and popular tourist attraction, it is a fine example of Mughal architecture.
You'll start a full day of sightseeing at the Amer Palace Fort, one of the most magnificent palaces in India. Also known as the Amber Fort, it was built by Maharajah Man Singh I, one of the most trusted generals of Akbar, in 1592. It is an architectural masterpiece with maze-like passages and grand staircases and served as the main residence of the Rajput Rulers. The fort is perched on a hill, so to get there, you'll travel by Jeep or elephant. After your visit, you'll head to the Panna Meena Ka Kund stepwell and Jaigarh Fort.
In the morning, you'll travel to Jaipur Airport to fly to Kochi. Previously known as Cochin, Kochi is a busy commercial port city on the southwest coast of India. It has a trading history that dates back at least 600 years and it mixes history with the present, with markers throughout the city of the wars won and lost and its different cultural influences. Kochi is the commercial capital of Kerala and, as an emerging cosmopolitan city, is regarded as a great indicator of the rising fortunes of Kerala itself, which is often referred to as "God's Own Country."On arrival in Kochi, your guide will meet you and take you to your hotel. Once you've checked in, you have the rest of the day to spend at leisure, perhaps relaxing in your hotel together or mooching around the city's laid-back cafés.
Today's tour starts in the Fort Kochi area in west Kochi. As you walk around, you'll see the cultural influences of its inhabitants over the centuries. Visit the Saint Francis Church with Portuguese architecture that is believed to be the oldest European church in India. The famous explorer, Vasco da Gama, was buried here when he died in 1524, but his remains were transferred to Seville. Then head to the Mattancherry Palace (also known as Dutch Palace) built by the Portuguese as a gift to King Veera Kerala Varma. It is one of the finest examples of Kerala-style architecture mixed with colonial influences.
Enjoy breakfast on your houseboat and travel to Cochin International Airport to fly to the Maldives for a relaxing end to your honeymoon. Once you're in the Maldives, your guide will meet you and you'll be transferred to your resort in a speedboat.The Maldives is made up of almost 1,200 islands and is one of the lowest countries on earth. The islands are the ideal place for a luxurious, relaxing holiday, with a technicolor underwater world to discover. On arrival, you'll check into your resort and will have the rest of the day to settle in and explore.
You now have three blissful days to spend as you please in the Maldives. There will be plenty of time to lounge together on sunbeds, gazing over the powder-soft sand and twinkling water. But, if you'd like to do something more active, you could book an activity at your resort, which may include water sports, snorkeling, or day trips to another island or the capital, Male. You may also want to book a diving course or trip if you're an experienced diver.
Today is the last day of your trip. Enjoy a final breakfast at your resort and then check out. You'll be whisked to Velana International Airport in Male in a speedboat where you'll board your flight for your onward destination. Happy honeymoon!