The Very Best of Southern India

Depart from London Heathrow, Manchester or Birmingham with Emirates. All flights to Bangalore operate via Dubai.

Upon arrival in Bangalore, we will be met at the airport and transferred to the impressive Welcomhotel by ITC. This afternoon, embark on an orientation tour, passing by the majestic Vidhana Soudha and the serene Cubbon Park, and explore the iconic Bangalore Palace. Later this evening, our tour guide will brief us regarding our adventure ahead.

We start our day with breakfast, preparing for an exciting day of sightseeing. Today’s highlights include a trip to the impressive summer palace of Tipu Sultan, a prominent British military adversary, and the grand Bull Temple. Later in the day, our journey continues to the enchanting city of Mysore. Upon arrival, enjoy a trip to the illuminating Mysore Palace. Home for the next two nights is the Mysore Radisson Blu.

After breakfast this morning, we start our day with a visit to the picturesque Chamundi Hills, affording breathtaking views over Mysore. Continuing into the city, prepare to be mesmerised by the grandeur of Mysore Palace, the artistic splendour of Jaganmohan Art Palace and the bustle of Devaraja market. After a morning of exhilarating exploration, the afternoon is ours to enjoy at our leisure. Relax and unwind at the hotel, or take an optional tour to Keshava Temple – a small but impressive temple that dates back to 1268, and is one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture.

We begin our journey today with a picturesque drive to the enchanting hill station of Ooty. During this scenic journey, we pass through the renowned Bandipur National Park and Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, where we may be fortunate enough to sight elephants, deer and peacocks on the roadside. Upon arrival in Ooty, we will check in at the wonderful Fortune Resort Sullivan Court and enjoy the rest of our day at leisure. Sit back and relax or explore the surrounding area at your own pace. As the day draws to a close, enjoy dinner at the hotel and retire for a peaceful night’s rest.

This morning takes us on an unforgettable Toy Train journey from Ooty to Coonoor through the picturesque Nilgiri mountains. Upon arrival, we visit a local tea plantation to learn the art of rolling and drying tea. This afternoon, we return to Ooty and visit the Botanical Gardens, a serene church, and the vibrant market of Ooty, allowing us to soak in the local culture and marvel at its natural beauty.

This morning, we embark on a scenic drive to Coimbatore. Later, we board the train to Cochin, providing a leisurely journey that allows us to relish the beauty of the local scenery from the comfort of our carriage. Upon arrival in Cochin, we transfer to the delightful Casino Cochin Hotel for our next two nights.

Today we explore the vibrant city of Cochin, Kerala’s captivating port city, steeped in history and allure. Wander through enchanting Fort Cochin, where Chinese fishing nets grace the shores and colonial architecture adorns narrow lanes. We will also visit the ancient Jewish synagogue; St. Francis Church; Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica and Kerala Folklore Museum. In the evening, witness the mesmerising 2,000-year-old traditional Kathakali dance, a colourful fusion of costumes, literature, music, painting and dance. Cochin’s unique charm and rich cultural heritage will create lasting memories and leave a profound impact on your journey across Southern India.

Tour Highlight
Today promises to be one of the highlights of our tour as we embark on a fascinating journey to Alleppey. Our first stop is the renowned Mattancherry Palace, also known as the ‘Dutch Palace’, where we’ll no doubt be captivated by its exquisite murals. Later, we head to Alleppey for a truly memorable experience – an overnight stay on a traditional, thatch-roofed ‘kettuvallam’ houseboat. Cruise through the enchanting Keralan backwaters, a labyrinth of canals, waterways, coconut groves, rice fields, hidden temples, and tiny islands. This incredible adventure will leave us with memories to cherish for years to come!

After an enthralling time on our houseboats, it’s time to embark on our journey to Thekkady; a destination renowned for the prestigious Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. We make our way to Periyar, stopping en route at a home set amongst the plantations of Kanjirapallyor, where we enjoy lunch and local family hospitality. This evening, enjoy a traditional Kalaripayattu performance, showcasing the mastery of traditional Indian martial arts. Home for the next two nights is the wonderful Elephant Court Hotel.

This morning, adventure enthusiasts might choose to enjoy an optional, early morning trek in Periyar National Park. This trek offers an excellent opportunity to observe local birds, butterflies and other wildlife on a challenging yet rewarding 5km walk, taking approximately two and a half hours, and returning to the hotel in time for breakfast. After breakfast, an enchanting and memorable experience awaits, as we explore a spice plantation, unveiling the mysteries of the Indian tea and spice industry. Later, we enjoy a tranquil cruise on Periyar Lake, surrounded by the vibrant Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, teeming with birdlife and wildlife, including elephants and graceful sambar deer. Later, we return to the hotel where our evening is at leisure.

We bid farewell to Periyar National Park and set off on a journey to the vibrant and ancient city of Madurai, located in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Early this evening, the bustling streets and vibrant markets come alive as we explore them by cycle-rickshaw. Later, after an early dinner, enjoy a truly unforgettable experience at Madurai’s famous Meenakshi Temple and experience the ‘Going to Bed’ ceremony. Our home for the next two nights will be the fabulous Heritage Madurai.

Tour Highlight
Today’s adventures begin in the Old City of Madurai, where we revisit the magnificent Meenakshi Temple, marvelling at its ornate façade and towering gateways. Witness the traditional ceremonies, devotions and vibrant markets that enliven this sacred place. Continuing our journey, we visit Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahall, a dazzling palace built in 1636 AD. The rest of our day is ours to enjoy as we please. Continue your adventures in Madurai or simply unwind by the hotel pool.

We begin our morning with a scenic drive to Kumbakonam. Along the way, we pay a visit to the famous Brihadeshwara Temple, a magnificent dedication to the God Shiva. For lunch, enjoy a delightful meal at a renowned local restaurant. Upon arrival in Kumbakonam, we check in at the Mantra Koodam Hotel for an overnight stay. The rest of the evening is ours to enjoy at leisure.

Today we witness the time-honoured art of ‘Pattu’ silk weaving, a magical transformation of strands of thread into intricate silk saris, adorned with fine gold thread. Marvel at the master craftsmen skilfully working on hand-assembled wooden machines, weaving the silk with utmost precision. The mesmerising process of Pattu silk weaving will leave us in awe. After this unforgettable experience, we continue our journey to Puducherry. This evening, enjoy a leisurely walk along Promenade Beach, a perfect spot to witness the breathtaking sunset, before dinner at the hotel. Our next two nights are in the Palais De Mahe Hotel.

This morning we explore Puducherry Museum, offering insights into the city’s history, followed by a visit to the charming French Quarter and the renowned Sri Aurobindo Ashram – a unique experiment in communal living that attracts visitors from around the globe. This afternoon, why not enjoy an optional tour of Auroville Puducherry, the City of Dawn? This international community is dedicated to peace, sustainability and divine consciousness. It truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Alternatively, you might prefer to simply relax at the hotel and enjoy your surroundings? This evening, enjoy a cookery demonstration followed by dinner with a local family, immersing ourselves in the flavours and traditions of authentic Creole cuisine. This cultural culinary journey promises to be an unforgettable highlight of your trip to Puducherry.

Tour Highlight
An early morning drive leads us to the historic town of Mahabalipuram. Upon arrival, we shall immerse ourselves in a captivating sightseeing tour of this ancient city. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Shore Temple – a magnificent 7th century structure that reflects the royal taste of the Pallava dynasty. Our exploration continues with a visit to the stone carvings portraying Arjuna’s Penance and The Five Rathas. Don’t miss the grand Krishna Mandapam, the largest cave-cut Hindu temple. Despite being in ruins, the intricate details preserved from the 7th century make these landmarks truly exceptional. After a busy day of sightseeing, we arrive at the Welcomhotel by ITC, Kences Palm Beach for our final two nights in India.

As we near the end of our trip, our final day in India is ours to spend as we please. This Freedom Day offers an excellent opportunity to explore the city at our own pace, sampling local delicacies and meeting the friendly locals, or merely to relax in the most pleasant surroundings.

Our 19-day journey across Southern India comes to a close, but we leave with memories that last a lifetime. Early this morning, we depart for Chennai Airport where our flight back to the UK awaits. All flights are via Dubai with Emirates, arriving at your chosen UK airport in the early evening, bringing our tour to a conclusion.

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Why not extend your stay in Mahabalipuram? If you wish to spend a little longer relaxing at the Welcomhotel by ITC, Kences Palm Beach, please speak with one of our travel experts.