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5 Days in India: Vibrant Mumbai to Tropical Goa

Experience the kaleidoscope of culture and colors in India.

17 June 2023

A trip to India as a tourist promises an immersive cultural experience like no other with its bustling cities, diverse cuisine, vibrant festivals, and spiritual sites. From the majestic Taj Mahal in Agra to the holy Ganges in Varanasi and the colorful markets in Jaipur, India offers a myriad of sights and sounds for all kinds of travelers. However, be prepared for the chaotic crowds, extreme weather, and stark poverty that are also characteristic of the country.

Travel plan

• Check-in at the iconic Taj Mahal Palace, a luxurious heritage hotel in south Mumbai
• Sample savory street food favorites like Vada Pav and Pav Bhaji at Juhu Beach
• Hit the Colaba Causeway, a bustling bazaar and shop for souvenirs and trinkets
• Visit the Gateway of India, an iconic arch built in 1911 to commemorate the arrival of King George V and Queen Mary
• Drive down the scenic Marine Drive promenade, a sea-facing stretch nicknamed the 'Queen's Necklace'
• Enjoy dinner with a view at Dome, an open-air rooftop resto-bar.

• Fly down to Jaipur, the 'Pink City' and check-in at the splendid Rambagh Palace
• Spend the morning at the magnificent Amer Fort, a sprawling hilltop fortress with exquisite art and architecture
• Visit the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory built in the early 18th century
• Stroll through the lively bazaars of Johari and Bapu with colorful fabrics, jewelry, and handicrafts
• Take in a spectacular sunset view from the iconic Nahargarh Fort and savor some traditional Rajasthani cuisine at Chokhi Dhani.

• Take a private car ride to Agra to visit the Taj Mahal, an iconic marble monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Walk through the enchanting Mughal gardens and marvel at the Taj's intricate designs, inlaid with precious gems
• Witness the magic of the sunrise at the Taj and snap some memorable photos
• Visit the majestic Agra Fort, the power base for many Mughal emperors and witness its striking examples of intricate architecture
• Visit some local retailers in Agra’s busy markets, offering wooden handicrafts and local delicacies.

• Fly down to Cochin, a charming port city on the South-West coast and check-in at the elegant Brunton Boatyard Hotel
• Take a leisurely boat ride along Cochin's backwaters, picturesque canals, and estuaries
• Visit the Dutch Palace, the oldest building in Cochin, and the Jewish Synagogue containing excellent artifacts of Jewish culture
• Witness the captivating ancient martial art form of Kalaripayattu through a live performance
• Savor some delectable seafood at a waterside local restaurant and enjoy the soothing sounds of Arabian Sea waves.

• Fly down to Goa, India's party capital, and explore the quaint town of Panjim
• Settle down at the charming Vivanta Goa Panaji built over the hill making it the perfect spot for a tropical escape
• Take a dip in the azure waters of Anjuna Beach and soak in the relaxed vibes
• Enjoy some shopping at the Anjuna beach flea market, a hub of colorful clothes and accessories
• Unwind with a beachside cocktail and dinner in some of the liveliest beach shacks, listening to the waves lapping at the shore.