Description
History, nature, and adventure—all in 15 days. This trip is your ticket to discover South India's diverse landscapes. Explore the sacred temples of Madurai and the palaces of a bygone era. Take to the water on a peaceful backwater cruise in Alleppey and seek out wildlife on safari in Kabini. This is not just a vacation; it’s an expedition.
Duration
15 Days, 14 Nights
Language
English
Price
US$2285
HIGHLIGHTS
- Explore Chennai’s cultural landmarks and Marina Beach
- Marvel at rock-cut temples of Mahabalipuram
- French charm & beaches of Pondicherry
- UNESCO Brihadeeswarar Temple in Tanjore
- Spiritual Meenakshi Temple in Madurai
- Wildlife walks & spice plantations in Periyar
- Cruise Kerala’s backwaters on a private houseboat
- Nilgiri Toy Train ride to Ooty (UNESCO)
- Wildlife safaris in Kabini’s Nagarhole National Park
- Royal palaces & gardens of Mysore
- Hoysala temples of Halebid & Belur
Travel Itinerary
On arrival at Chennai Airport (or hotel pick-up), meet our chauffeur and transfer to your hotel. If time allows, Enjoy a half-day tour of the city. You'll see the Santhome Church, a British-built church from 1893, and the colorful Kapaleeshwarar Temple. You can also visit the Government Museum & Art Gallery to see manuscripts, handicrafts, and Roman artifacts.
End the day at Marina Beach, the world’s second longest. Overnight stay in Chennai with dinner.
After breakfast, drive to Mahabalipuram and check in at your hotel.
Your journey continues with an excursion to Mahabalipuram. Your journey continues with an excursion to Mahabalipuram. You will explore its famous monuments, including the Shore Temple, Arjuna's Penance, and the Five Rathas
Return to Mahabalipuram hotel for overnight stay and dinner.
Post breakfast, drive to Pondicherry. On arrival, check in at your hotel before exploring the city.
Discover Pondicherry's rich blend of history and charm. Browse the Pondicherry Museum for antiques and sculptures. Then, feel the local atmosphere with a visit to the Manakula Vinayagar Temple, a stroll along the Promenade, and a relaxing break at the beach.
Dinner and overnight stay in Pondicherry.
After breakfast, visit Aurobindo Ashram and the Matrimandir. Later, drive to Tanjore. Check into your hotel and spend the evening at leisure. Dinner and overnight stay in Tanjore.
This morning visit the UNESCO-listed Brihadeeswarar Temple and the Palm Leaf Manuscript Library. Then, drive onward to Madurai. After check-in, explore the Gandhi Museum and, in the evening, witness the stunning Meenakshi Temple. Overnight stay in Madurai with dinner.
After breakfast, drive to Thekkady, home to the famous Periyar National Park. Check into your hotel and later enjoy a guided nature walk inside the reserve. Visit a nearby spice plantation to learn about cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper cultivation.
In the evening, you can watch a traditional Kathakali dance or Kalaripayattu martial arts show. Afterwards, there will be time to shop for local spices and handicrafts in Thekkady.
Overnight stay in Periyar.
After breakfast, journey to Alleppey to board your private houseboat. You'll then cruise through Kerala’s beautiful backwaters.
Relax on deck as you glide past lush villages and palm-lined canals. All meals will be served onboard. Overnight stay on the houseboat.
Disembark after breakfast and drive to Cochin.
After you get settled, a guided tour will reveal the city's key landmarks. You'll see the historic St. Francis Church, the stunning Santa Cruz Basilica, and the unique Jewish Synagogue. The tour also includes the Mattancherry Palace and a view of the famous Chinese Fishing Nets.
Dinner and overnight stay in Cochin.
After breakfast, begin your drive to Ooty. If available, your trip will include a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a scenic UNESCO train journey with breathtaking views.
Continue to Ooty, check into your hotel, and enjoy the evening at leisure. Dinner and overnight in Ooty.
After breakfast, drive to Kabini National Park and check into your resort.
Later, have lunch before going on a thrilling safari in Nagarhole National Park. You'll travel by jeep or boat with expert guides.
In the evening, watch a wildlife documentary, gather around a campfire, and dine at the Gol Ghar. Overnight stay in Kabini.
Wake up to tea / coffee before a morning boat ride on Kabini River, where you may spot crocodiles, birdlife, and elephants at the water’s edge. Alternatively, choose a jeep safari. Later, relax at the resort, watch another wildlife film, and share stories around the campfire. Overnight stay in Kabini.
After breakfast, drive to Mysore. Visit Chamundi Hills, Mysore Zoo, St. Philomena’s Church, and the majestic Mysore Palace. In the evening, explore the illuminated Brindavan Gardens with its famous musical fountain. Overnight stay in Mysore.
After breakfast, drive to Coorg, also known as the "Scotland of India," famous for its coffee plantations and scenic beauty. Check into your hotel. In the afternoon, visit a local coffee plantation to learn about the process from bean to cup. Later, explore the stunning Abbey Falls and the tranquil Omkareshwara Temple. Dinner and overnight stay in Coorg.
Drive to Hassan and explore the architectural wonders of Halebid and Belur.
Discover the temples of Halebid, including Hoysaleswara and Shantaleswara. Then, in Belur, see the Chennakesava Temple, known for its intricate carvings and star-shaped design
Overnight stay in Hassan.
After breakfast, drive to Bangalore Airport for your onward journey. Tour concludes with wonderful memories of South India.
INCLUDED
- Accommodation in selected standard comfortable hotels / resorts / deluxe private houseboat in Alleppey
- Tented accommodation in Kabini National Park
- Daily breakfast + all meals on houseboat
- Full board in Kabini National Park [Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner]
- Private AC vehicle with chauffeur
- Guided city tours & monument entries as per itinerary
- 4 Wildlife shared safaris ( jeep / boat )in Kabini National Park
- Forest Entry Charges of Kabini National Park
- Spice plantation visit in Periyar
- Walking [Nature Walk] with Naturalist in Periyar National Park
- Kathakali / Kalaripayattu cultural show
- Toy Train Fare – Ooty [Subject to confirmation at time of reservations]
- Coffee plantation guided visit with local lunch in Coorg
- All applicable taxes
EXCLUDED
- International & domestic flights
- Visa fees, insurance, and personal expenses
- Lunches & dinners (except houseboat and mentioned meals)
- Camera fees, tips, and optional activities
Frequently Asked Questions
The ideal time is October to March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing, safaris, and backwater cruises.
Yes, we can adjust hotel categories, add extra nights, or modify destinations based on your preferences.
While sightings aren't guaranteed, you have a good chance of seeing elephants and deer. With some luck, you may even spot a tiger or leopard.
This tour is a culinary journey through South India's diverse regions. In Tamil Nadu, you'll enjoy a variety of vegetarian dishes like dosas, idlis, and flavorful thali meals. The cuisine is known for its aromatic spices and use of curry leaves. In Kerala, the food is rich with coconut, fresh seafood, and unique spices. You'll savor meals on the houseboat, and you might even try a traditional Karimeen Pollichathu (fish steamed in a banana leaf). In Karnataka, you'll find a mix of flavors, from the hearty Mysore Masala Dosa to the aromatic coffee from the plantations of Coorg. Be prepared for a delightful fusion of spicy, savory, and sweet flavors throughout your journey.
Yes, licensed local guides will accompany you at key monuments and cultural sites.
Yes, we provide a private houseboat with crew and all meals included.
Yes, this tour is perfect for solo travelers. This tour offers a safe way to explore South India while giving you opportunities to meet new people. You can connect with other travelers during safaris, cultural shows, and group dinners
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, also known as the "Toy Train," is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a historic narrow-gauge railway that climbs from the foothills to Ooty. The train journey is celebrated for its slow pace and breathtaking views of tea plantations and scenic valleys.
A jeep safari lets you explore more of the land and increases your chance of seeing animals like deer and gaur. A boat safari is a unique river tour where you can spot crocodiles, otters, and elephants at the water's edge.
We select charming and comfortable accommodations for this tour. You'll stay in a variety of places, including hotels, a resort near the wildlife sanctuary, and a private houseboat on the Kerala backwaters. We can also customize hotel categories to match your preference for luxury or budget stays.
HAVE A QUESTION IN MIND
Looking for more info? Send a question to the tour agent to find out more.
RECOMMENDED HOTELS
Hotel Taz Kamar Inn (3★, Chennai)
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A trusted T Nagar hotel for 30+ years, offering clean, spacious rooms and warm service. Ideally This hotel is located near the US Consulate and major stores. It is a great choice for shoppers, business travelers, and families.
Hotel Raj Palace (3★, Chennai)
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Hotel Annamalai International (4★, Puducherry)
Located in central Pondicherry, this 4-star hotel combines traditional charm with modern luxury. This hotel features 70 rooms and fine amenities. Its easy access to beaches and city attractions makes...
Located in central Pondicherry, this 4-star hotel combines traditional charm with modern luxury. This hotel features 70 rooms and fine amenities. Its easy access to beaches and city attractions makes it an ideal retreat for both business and leisure travelers.
Hotel Grand Ashok (3★, Thanjavur)
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Hotel Astoria (3★, Madurai)
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The Wildernest Resort (3★+, Thekkady)
Wildernest is set in Thekkady’s rainforests near the Periyar Reserve. It offers spacious rooms with private gardens or balconies. This tranquil hotel is a great base for nature lovers and...
Wildernest is set in Thekkady’s rainforests near the Periyar Reserve. It offers spacious rooms with private gardens or balconies. This tranquil hotel is a great base for nature lovers and adventurers.