Vacation in Portuguese & French-era colonies: boathouse cruise, jungle safari, dance & martial-art shows, UNESCO sites, and beach party. A next-level India trip!

Hosted by

Om

7 Days30 Days!

Extra Cancellation Days
only for the first TripMate

Guided trip
What's special?
special Tropical paradise with endless beaches!
special Cruise & stay in a luxurious boathouse!
special Jungle safari | hiking | elephant ride
➡️ Trip summary: This luxury India trip offers forest safari, boathouse cruise, paradise beaches, beach party, parasailing, elephant ride, boating, dance and martial-art shows, chocolate factory visit, road trips, deluxe accommodation, mouthwatering cuisines, hill-station stay, UNESCO sites, excursions to Portuguese and French era colonies, sunshine, activities and fun galore. A next-level trip!!!🤩 Goa—a Portuguese colony until 1961 Puducherry—a French colonial settlement in India until 1954 ➡️Why India 🇮🇳: The most diversified country, both culturally and geographically, in the world. In a span of few miles, language changes, cuisine changes, culture changes, festival changes, history changes, climate changes. What remains unchanged is the warmth and welcoming vibe of India🙏 ➡️ Visa: Straightforward Indian e-visa service to apply online easily: Apply online --> Pay nominal eVisa fee --> Receive Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) via email --> Fly to India. So simple! (Print ETA and present at Immigration Checkpost where eVisa will be stamped on passport.) ➡️ What will we do? 1) Enjoy the deluxe facilities booked for accommodation. Swimming pool, gym, (where available). Wifi, and a very good breakfast included in most locations. 2) Forest safari, luxury-boathouse stay, hill-station stay and paradise beaches! Enjoy the UNESCO world heritage sites all through the trip: BC-era rock-cut temples, caves, excursions to Portuguese and French era colonies, museums, wildlife sanctuaries, natural parks and more. 3) Nightlife: Enjoy the nightlife, disco, beach party, light & music show, or other cultural dance programmes on offer. Socialize and make friends, have fun! 4) Activities: Forest safari, luxury-boathouse stay, beach party, bird watching, parasailing, elephant ride, boating, hiking, Yoga, dance and martial-art shows, chocolate factory visit, road trips, fun with food, and on and on🤩! 5) Food: Go crazy in your food selection, North Indian, South Indian, Gujarati, Rajasthani, street food, Chinese, French, Punjabi and Bengali dishes. Fun with food: Two veg meals @ €19/day (Optional). 6) Shopping: Arts & crafts, malls, local markets, street-side shopping etc. 7) Explore: Nature parks, forests, hills, waterfalls, narrow streams, rivers and beaches! 8) Meditate, yoga, peace, spirituality: Connect with your inner self. Realise, I am one with the universe, and the universe is one with me! ➡️ Where will we stay? Deluxe shared rooms with cozy ambience for a relaxed experience. A luxurious boathouse (lunch, dinner, snacks on the deck) would be booked for a dream experience. Real pictures included--subject to availability--or an equivalent arrangement. The intention is to connect with locals, learn about their place, and experience their culture, cuisine, and crafts; therefore, we shall lookout for residential stays with locals wherever possible. However, by informing early, a TripMate may choose to upgrade to a private room in the same facility by paying extra. (Subject to availability) ➡️ How will we get around? Cars with drivers, trains will be booked around most destinations. Flight to Kerela (Kochi)! Taxi, bus, auto rickshaw etc, can be used for local conveyance. ➡️ Who can join? I am seeking like-minded people who are fun-loving, sociable in nature and inclined to companionship with others. See you soon!

➡️ About me: I am a simple, happy and contented person. An explorer at heart. I love to explore different countries, cultures and people. I have a simple rule: Those who are weak, give them a helping hand; those who are good, be friends with them; those who are wicked, simply ignore!

➡️ Planning and communication: Save the trip! Ask me trip-related questions in the Q&A section, or send me a private message on JoinMyTrip! Once you join, I'll add you to the chat group for trip related questions before arrival. You'll also get to know your TripMates.🙂 ➡️ What next? Would you like to join me? Send me a message after reserving your spot, I'm looking forward to meeting you!

What's included?
Jungle safari
Deluxe shared accommodation
Very good breakfast (brunch)!
Beach club party
Elephant ride
Car with driver between stops
Chocolate factory visit
Cruise, stay & dine in a boathouse
Flight & train tickets between stops
Dance and martial-art shows
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A tech consultant by profession, an explorer at heart, celebrating life with enthusiasm! Awestruck by the panorama of the world!

You can chat with Om once you reserve your spot.
Trip Itinerary
1

Mumbai

Day 1
This trip starts from Goa. Mumbai is a good option for those coming via Mumbai. Let me know If you want to start from Mumbai: 2 days stay + Elephanta Caves @ €299/- extra. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mumbai is optional: Day 1: We meet at Mumbai—the city that never sleeps! The day begins with light ice-breaking sessions where we get to know each other. Later in the day, we can explore the Marine drive, Girgaum Chowpatty beach, Juhu beach, fast food, disco. 4-6 pm Marine drive: Take a walk at the Marine drive, enjoy the stunning view of the city skyline by the sea and the waves crashing on the rocks placed all along the sea shore. Head to Girgaum Chowpatty (20 mins walk) Girgaum Chowpatty beach: Enjoy horse and camel rides or enjoy popular street snacks—Bhel puri, Pav bhaji, Vada pao, Pani puri etc. (Very tasty!) Explore the local markets or Malls: Colaba Causeway market, Phoenix Marketcity, High Street Phoenix Mall etc. Watch a movie or spend some time in the gaming area and explore the multicuisine restaurants. Day 2: Elephanta caves— a UNESCO site (09:30 am to 05:30 pm; Monday closed): An hour-long ferry ride from the Gateway of India to the Elephanta Island in the Mumbai Harbour, opens up the hidden world of rock-cut caves and carvings from 6th century AD to 2nd century BC. Welcome to Elephanta Caves, tucked away in a desolate island, 10 kms from the Gateway of India. Day 3: We start for Goa!
2

Goa

Day 1-4
Goa, the beach paradise with balmy weather, relaxed vibes, nightlife, watersports, and delectable cuisine is a traveler's dream. Day 1: We arrive at Goa. Check-in at the hotel. Day: Explore the best beaches in south Goa--Pololem, Agonda, Varca, Cavelossim, and Benaulim in south Goa! Colva beach for water sports, beach parasailing. Disco/Party at night, or just relax. Day 2: Explore the best beaches in north Goa: Baga, Calangute, Morjim, and Candolim beach in north Goa. Beach party at Tito's club/High club/others. Fish spa! Crazy party all night. Day 3: Explore the beaches and the local cuisines. Feni drink: Feni is Goa’s heritage drink, It is majorly made from cashews or coconut sap, which is then fermented and distilled. Day 4: Morning flight to Kochi in Kerela.
3

Kochi

Day 4-5
Day 4: We reach the Kochi international airport. Let's take a local ride through the streets of Kochi to reach our awaited destination Allappuzha (Alleppy). 12 PM: We check-in to an inviting houseboat in Alleppey backwaters for a luxury backwater cruise that gives a perfect watch of coconut lagoons, paddy fields, romantic sunset and excellent views of sea merging with lake, accompanied with traditional Kerala delicacies. Heavenly! Try the Toddi drink: The refreshing, mildly alcoholic beverage is prepared by fermenting the sap of coconut or palm flowers. The houseboat anchors at the riverside by 5:30 p.m. and resumes the cruise at 8 a.m. next morning. So, we can take an adventurous walk, explore the local area, or allapuzha beach, and return to the houseboat. We spend the night in the houseboat with authentic Kerela food, light music, and star gazing. We enjoy our morning breakfast on the deck while cruising along the back waters and enjoing the mesmarising, scenic views of Kerela. Day 5: 9 AM: We thank the crew for the wonderful experience and check-out with happy memories. We move towards our next destination, Periyar Tiger Reserve safari, Thekaddy!
4

Thekkady

Day 5-6
Day 5: Periyar National Park (Periyar Tiger Reserve): Herds of elephants moving towards a lake against the backdrop of picturesque mountain ranges with thick greenery is the signature view of the Periyar valley. Area: 777 sq. km. This wildlife sanctuary is home to tigers and a significant elephant population, as well as rare lion-tailed macaques, sambar deer, leopards and Indian bison. In the park's north, Periyar Lake is popular for boat rides. Boat safari (open: 7:30 AM to 5 PM) takes you deep in the jungle unfolding the wildlife and its scenic beauty. Go for a nature walk accompanied by a trained tribal guide. Cross the stretch of water on a bamboo raft, feel nature’s whispers and her sighs. The adventure of sighting wild animals would keep you on your toes. Elephant Junction: You can choose to ride, feed, and bathe with the elephant. Chocolate factory: Indulge in chocolates! Evening: Kalarippayattu show: An Indian martial art that originated in Kerala. Considered among the oldest and most scientific martial arts in the world. Kathakali dance show: This Indian classical dance involves storytelling activities through fascinating footwork and expressive gestures of face and hands accompanied by music and vocal performance. Kathakali is traditionally performed by boys and men, even for female roles. The dance symbolises the eternal fight between good and evil. Adventure and art at its best! Day 6: Now let's move towards the hill station, Munnar!
5

Munnar

Day 6-9
Munnar is a romantic hill station with a lush carpet of rolling green hills, scenic valleys, virgin forests, numerous streams, splashy waterfalls, sprawling tea plantations and winding walkways. A scenic paradise! We explore the three prominent tourist routes of Munnar in three days: Day 6: Photo point; Mattupetty Dam (jet ski, boating); Echo point; Kundala Dam—the picturesque Kundala lake is surrounded by green valleys and majestic landscapes. Top Station is a great place to spend a few hours with a constant cool breeze, blue skies and wildflowers all around. Day 7: Eravikulam National Park is home to the endangered Nilgiri tahr with one third of its world population. The other animals found are the Indian flying fox, Asiatic jackal, sloth bear, small Indian civet etc. The rare Neelakurinji plant, grows here once every 12 years. Anamudi, the highest peak in South India resides here. Lakkam Waterfalls—bath, or just enjoy the views. 😊 Route 2 (optional): Munnar – 20.4 kms Ripple waterfalls, for 20 mins, zipline (en route, visit tea estates, chocolate factories) – Return 9.2 kms Kalari kshetra (5-6 PM Kathakali, 6-7 PM Kalarippayattu) – 11.3 kms return to Munnar. (Skip route 2 if attended Kalari and Kathakali shows in Thekkady.) Day 8: Kannan devan tea museum: Just 1.3 kms walk from Munnar. Anayirankal dam is a serene, picturesque landscape with not many people around. You can take a canoe to the lake all by yourself and enjoy the breathtaking valley-view around. Kolukkumalai, the world's highest-elevation tea plantation, is a perfect getaway with exhilarating views of distant mountains and an escape into the misty hills. (Bumpy, exciting jeep-ride to top view) Ayurvedic spa, chocolate tasting, and shopping. Day 9: Early morning, we start for an exciting road trip to Pondicherry. We explore renowned eateries, ancient temple-towns on the way. Munnar --> 160 kms (4 hrs) Madurai --> 288 kms (5 hrs, train) Villupuram--> 37 kms to Pondicherry.
6

Puducherry

Day 9-11
Pondicherry is known for its French colonial heritage and architecture, pristine beaches, Auroville—an experimental universal town, churches and temples, delectable cuisines, and stunning scenic views. Day 9: Arrive at a cozy accommodation, take a walk to the nearby beach and French-style localities, enjoy French cuisine, and relax. Wood-fried pizzas, risotto, lasagne, ratatouille, muffins, baguettes & Croissants and other authentic Italian dishes are readily available in Puducherry. White town: A French quarter, before independence, with European-style roads and canopied avenues, is characterised by bright yellow and white buildings. These homes are now converted into homestays, hotels, shops and restaurants, allowing visitors a glimpse of that era. Day 10: Enjoy the beach sunrise followed by an amazing breakfast. Now, let’s explore the town. Two-wheelers on hire, to visit the town, is also available. Sri Aurobindo Ashram: Set up by Sri Aurobindo, philosopher and poet, the renowned ashram is an ideal spot for spiritual seekers looking for a quiet and serene place. Paradise beach: Located in an isolated area, relax on the soft-sand next to the waves surrounded by greenery all around. The 20 mins ferry ride across the backwaters to reach the beach; is an experience in itself that offers scenic views of dense mangrove forests. Auroville: Auroville is set up,12 kms from Pondicherry, as an experimental ‘Universal Town’ where people from all across the world and cultures come together to live as Aurovilleans with their core principles of harmony, sustainable living and divine consciousness. At its centre lies Matri mandir, a brilliant golden-dome temple, where visitors can meditate and introspect in silent concentration. Pondy Bazaar: The market is known for its handicrafts and artefacts. Promenade beach: Located at the centre of the city, near Mahatma Gandhi statue and the old lighthouse, is famous for its rock beach, traditional cuisines at restaurants, and amazing street food. Experience the buzzing nightlife strolling through the vibrant streets lined with cafes, pubs and boutique shops. Day 11: We start for Mahabalipuram (a UNESCO site). Puducherry--> 95 kms, Mahabalipuram.
7

Mahabalipuram

Day 11
Day 11: Mahabalipuram (a UNESCO site): Mamallapuram group of monuments—One of the most visited monuments by foreigners in India. Dotted with several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, courtesy of the ancient Pallava dynasty (3rd - 9th century BC), who were great patrons of art and crafts, Mamallapuram is a visual treat around every corner. Its mesmerizing cave temples, sculptures and monuments leave one amazed at the skill of the craftsmen of that time. With its striking bas reliefs and rock-cut temples, Mamallapuram is practically an open-air museum. Later in the day, start for Chennai. (Mahabalipuram --> 57 kms, Chennai)
8

Chennai

Day 11-12
Chennai, the capital metropolis of Tamil Nadu, is known for its ancient temples, cultural arts, and delicious South Indian cuisine. From strolling along Marina Beach—the second-longest urban beach in the world—to exploring historical landmarks and vibrant markets, the city offers a diverse array of experiences. Day 11: Visit the Marina beach, explore the popular eateries and nightclubs surrounding the beach, unwind, and indulge in local delicacies. (Reserve day/optional): Arignar Anna Zoological Park—The largest zoo in India. MGM DIZZEE world—Amusement Park / VGP marine kingdom—India’s 1st & largest underwater aquarium. Marina beach / Elliot’s beach. Day 12: Our trip concludes here. We share our experiences from the trip and the happy memories we created to cherish for life. We return back home with new vigour and optimism about life. I wish you good health, peace and prosparity! Do you have your returns planned from Chennai, Bangalore or Mumbai? Book your trip and let me know. Save the trip! ➡️ We met as TripMates, became friends on the way, and travelled as one family. Have a safe journey back home. Or join my next trip and continue. See you in the next trip. Namaste🙏!
Trip Summary
Accommodation
Hotel & Apartments & Bed & Breakfast & Other
12 days trip
Mumbai, Goa & 6 more
Transportation
Train, Plane, Car
What's excluded?
Personal expenses
International flights
Fun with food (10 day-meals) @ €190/-
Mumbai+Elephanta Caves, 2 days @ €299/-
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