A Honeymoon Adventure in India & the Maldives - 14 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Delhi

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.

Day 2: Sightseeing Tour of Delhi

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.

Day 3: Transfer to Agra, Mughal Heritage Kachhpura Village Walk

In the morning, you'll be driven to Agra. The city is home to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal. Other fantastic attractions include the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. History, architecture, and romance blend together to make Agra a must-visit for anyone visiting India. You'll check into your hotel on arrival and can relax before your afternoon activity, which is a Mughal Heritage Kachhpura Village walk with high tea.

 

A narrow bridle path through fields near Mehtab Bagh will take you to the ancient village of Kachhpura. Your walk starts with an explanation of wall paintings (sanji art) done by girls in the community. Humayun's Mosque is also in the village. This unique Mughal mosque has one deep, narrow great central compartment that's entered through a high arch. At each side of this central domed compartment, the building is lower and split into smaller chambers. You'll also visit the village school. Your walk ends near Mehtab Bagh where, for a special romantic moment, you can watch the sunset over the Taj Mahal.

Day 4: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort & Itimad-Ud-Daulah's Tomb

Set off early to visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise. As a symbol of love, it's the perfect place to take some memorable honeymoon photographs. Taj Mahal means "the crown of palaces" in Persian and was built by Shah Jahan as a memorial for his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Constructed entirely out of white marble in the 17th century, it is among the finest examples of Mughal architecture.

 

After breakfast, head out to see Agra Fort. An architectural masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was built by Emperor Akbar between 1565 and 1573 and is also known as "The Red Fort of Agra." It was the residence of the Mughals until 1638 and within its premises lie some exquisite structures. Then see Itimad-Ud-Daulah's Tomb, a must-visit monument in Agra. Also known as the "Baby Taj," it was built with white marble in typical Islamic style by the Mughal Empress, Noor Jahan, in memory of her father Itimad-Ud-Daulah. The evening is yours to spend at leisure.

Day 5: Transfer to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri

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. 

After your visit, you'll continue on to Jaipur, the Pink City. Along with Delhi and Agra, Jaipur forms the Golden Triangle, one of the most famous tourist circuits in the country. It's a city that vibrantly contrasts the old and the new with motorbikes zipping past historic monuments. On arrival, you'll check in to your hotel and can relax and make the most of the facilities before a busy day exploring tomorrow.

Day 6: Jaipur Highlights

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. 

 

Next, you'll see the largest stone astronomical observatory in the world, Jantar Mantar, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, head to the City Palace and Museum, a vast palace complex that occupied a seventh of the walled city and was once the seat of the Maharajah of Jaipur. Finally, stop for photographs at Hawa Mahal whose name comes from its unique structure, a mesh of small windows that allowed the cool breeze to enter the palace to keep it comfortable in summer. It was built to allow the women of the royal household to observe the festivities on the streets below without being seen.

Day 7: Transfer to Kochi

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.

Day 8: Kochi Sightseeing Tour

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.

 

Fort Kochi's Dutch Cemetery is also a reminder of the different communities who've lived in Kochi. After a brief stroll past the seaside beach, you'll stop at the Bishop's House, Union Club building, and Santa Cruz Basilica, as well as the spice and vegetable market. Then, enjoy a Kathakali folk dance performance. Impressive Kathakali performances combine dance with drama, music, costumes, and make-up retelling great stories of the past. Thought goes into every detail. Afterward, learn about the ancient art form of Kalaripayattu, one of the oldest and most famous combat styles in the world that originates from Kerala.

Day 9: Transfer to Kumarakom for Houseboat Backwaters Private Cruise

First thing, you'll travel to Kumarakom by air-conditioned vehicle to board your luxury private houseboat. You'll then set out on an enchanting overnight backwater cruise in a traditionally decorated Kerala-style houseboat or kettuvallam. These palm-covered country boats are almost 50 feet (15 m) long and are designed to travel along the narrowest of canals. Each boat has two or three comfortable en-suite bedrooms and a large open-sided sitting area where you'll eat meals made using local fish and vegetables, which are prepared on board.

 

While cruising in your luxury floating villa, gaze out at the water together spotting Chinese fishing nets, paddy fields, locals making coir (coconut fiber) products, ancient temples, and swaying coconut groves. Your houseboat will be stationary at night with cruising taking place from morning until just before dusk.

Day 10: Fly to the Maldives, Speedboat Transfer

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.

Day 11-13: Days at Leisure in the Maldives

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.

 

Alternatively, embrace the time to completely relax after your wedding and a busy tour of India, and book a couples' spa treatment or a romantic meal on the beach. Opt for a romantic sunset cruise on your final evening to celebrate your honeymoon in style—if you're lucky you may even spot sea life such as dolphins.

Day 14: Speedboat Transfer to Male & Depart

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!

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