Taste of India (North and South)
Taste of India (North and South)
Host Participation
Host Travels with Guests
Host plans the trip and travels with the group throughout the journey from arrival to departure.
Trip Themes
South: This leg we explore verdant, water-rich Kerala and the vibrant cities of southern India, from palm-lined backwaters and fishing villages to spice-scented hill country and bustling temple towns. In Kochi you’ll stroll Fort Kochi, visit Kumbalangi’s idyllic village life and browse the antiques and lanes of Jew Town, while deeper inland the landscape shifts to spice gardens and wildlife terrain around Thekkady—where a traditional Kathakali performance is planned—plus opportunities for a Periyar boat safari, plantation walks and relaxed backwater cruises. Bengaluru and Madurai add contrasting flavors: modern gardens, cafés and cultural hubs in the former, and centuries-old temple architecture and lively bazaars in the latter, with plenty of local food, handicrafts and temple ceremonies to experience. North: The northern circuit moves into dramatic historical and arid plains, from the pink city and hill forts of Rajasthan to the Mughal monuments along the Yamuna and Delhi’s layered urban fabric. Expect grand palaces and forts, desert-flanked countryside, sunrise and sunset views at iconic monuments, and immersive market and street-food experiences—Jaipur’s crafts and bazaars, Agra’s timeless Taj Mahal and Mughal sites, and Delhi’s mix of Old City alleys, colonial boulevards and contemporary museums and dining. These days emphasize history, architecture and bustling local life, with guided walks, rickshaw rides, monument visits and plenty of culinary discoveries.
🛏 Room Occupancy
Package Features
✓ What's Included
✗ What's Not Included
Itinerary
8 stops · 14 daysKochi, Kerala
Alleppey, Kerala
Thekkady, Kerala
Madurai, Tamilnadu
Bengaluru, Karnataka
Jaipur
Agra, Uttar Pradesh (Taj Mahal)
Delhi
About the Company
HostMyTour
HostMyTour is a marketplace for hosted group travel, connecting travelers with trusted individuals, local experts, experienced travelers, and travel businesses who create and lead memorable trips. We focus on small-group experiences that feel more personal, social, and thoughtfully planned than traditional package tours, while giving travelers a simple and secure way to discover, book, and join trips with confidence. Alongside trips created by independent hosts, **HostMyTour Originals** are journeys designed and hosted directly by the HostMyTour team. These trips reflect our own approach to travel: carefully planned itineraries, authentic local experiences, smaller groups, strong on-the-ground support, and a balance of iconic highlights with places and experiences travelers may not find on a typical tour.
Meet Your Host
Sandesh Kannan
Program Manager
I was born and raised in Bengaluru, India, and now call the United States home. As the founder of IndianAlly, I combine my local understanding of India with my experience as an international traveler. With more than 14 years of experience organizing travel, I help guests experience India authentically, comfortably, and meaningfully. Having traveled to more than 14 countries, I understand the excitement and uncertainty of visiting an unfamiliar destination. I help with translation, bargaining, local customs, food choices, logistics, and avoiding common tourist scams. When applicable, I travel with guests from the United States and host them throughout their journey, from arrival through departure. I speak English, Kannada, Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, and Urdu, and understand Malayalam. My small-group trips—generally limited to 10 travelers—offer personal attention, thoughtful planning, and a deeper connection to India’s people, food, culture, traditions, heritage, natural beauty, and hidden local gems.
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Cancellation Policy
Cancel before December 9, 2026 for a 100% refund. Cancellations on or after this date are non-refundable.
Payment processing fees are non-refundable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to travel to India?
Most foreign travelers need a visa before entering India. Many nationalities are eligible for an Indian e-Visa, which can be applied for online before travel. Your host will be able to assist you with the visa application process
How long should my passport be valid?
Your passport should generally have at least six months of validity remaining from your date of arrival in India and sufficient blank pages for immigration stamps. This is also a requirement for Visa to be issued.
Do I need travel insurance for India?
Travel insurance is strongly recommended. A good policy should ideally cover medical emergencies, trip interruption, cancellations, lost baggage, and emergency evacuation.
Do I need vaccinations before traveling to India?
Requirements and recommendations depend on your country of origin, itinerary, and personal health situation. Travelers should consult their doctor or an official travel-health source before departure.
Is India safe for tourists?
Millions of international travelers visit India every year. As with any destination, travelers should use normal precautions, follow local guidance, protect valuables, and stay aware of their surroundings. Hosted trips can also provide additional local support and guidance
Is it safe to drink tap water in India?
International travelers should generally avoid drinking untreated tap water. Bottled, filtered, or properly purified water is usually the safer choice.
Can I eat street food?
Street food is a major part of the Indian travel experience, but travelers should choose busy, reputable vendors and prefer freshly cooked food served hot. Your host will guide you with this.
What should I wear in India?
Lightweight, breathable clothing works well in most locations as the temperature in Feb will be in 70s most of the places we visit . One thin jacket is recommended in the mountains in Feb where temperatures may drop to mid 50s in the mornings. Modest clothing is recommended when visiting temples, churches, mosques, villages, and traditional communities.
Do women need to dress differently?
Women are not expected to wear traditional Indian clothing, but modest clothing can help travelers feel more comfortable and show respect for local customs.
Will electrical outlets work with American devices?
India uses different plug types and operates on a different voltage than the United States. Most modern phones, laptops, and camera chargers support both voltages, but travelers should check each device before using it. A universal travel adapter is recommended.
Is bargaining expected?
Bargaining is common in markets and some independent shops but is not appropriate everywhere. Fixed-price stores, malls, hotels, and restaurants generally do not negotiate. Your host can help determine when bargaining is appropriate and assist you in receiving a fair price.
How physically demanding are the trips?
Most activities are suitable for travelers with average mobility, but uneven walkways, stairs, and longer driving days may be involved. Optional activities can often be adjusted according to the traveler’s energy and comfort level. Guests should review the itinerary and disclose mobility concerns before booking.
What if I become sick during the trip?
Inform your host immediately. Your host can assist with locating an appropriate pharmacy, clinic, or hospital and help with communication and transportation. Travelers remain responsible for medical expenses, which is another reason travel medical insurance is recommended.
Can the itinerary be adjusted if I feel tired?
Yes, where practical. Although transit days and scheduled reservations may be fixed, many daily activities can be adjusted according to the group’s energy, weather, and comfort. The goal is to enjoy South India—not to rush through a checklist.
What makes a hosted trip different from traveling independently?
A hosted journey combines the convenience of an organized trip with the personal experience of traveling alongside someone who understands the destination. Your host assists with language, food, local customs, transportation, bargaining, safety, and unexpected situations while introducing you to experiences that can be difficult to find independently
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Travelers
Instant booking · pay securely with Stripe
Cancel before December 9, 2026 for a 100% refund. Cancellations on or after this date are non-refundable.
Payment processing fees are non-refundable.