Itinerary Highlights
- Explore southern India’s rich tapestry of ancient dynasties and colonial heritage across Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala
- Marvel at Madurai’s Sree Meenakshi Temple, wander spice-scented fields and witness Cochin’s centuries-old Chinese fishing nets
- Experience Kerala’s timeless charm as you cruise tranquil backwaters, visit waterfalls and discover vibrant wildlife sanctuaries
- Unwind with meditation, Ayurvedic treatments and peaceful moments on Mararikulam’s serene, palm-fringed shores
What's Included
- Accommodation Throughout
- Breakfast
- International Flights
23 nights
Sarah
Travel Specialist
Explore the wonders of southern India, a captivating blend of ancient dynasties and European colonial influences. Here, there’s a different feel to the rest of India; the Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala regions demand a slower pace that contrasts with the north and Golden Triangle.
Be wowed by the 33,000 sculptures at Madurai’s Sree Meenakshi Sundareshwar Temple. Wander through the spice and vanilla fields of Thekkady, and see the iconic Chinese fishing nets in Cochin – a technique used by local fishermen for over 500 years. Watch a traditional Kathakali dance performance, then unwind in the lush coffee plantations of Munnar.
Then in Kerala – one of India’s most alluring regions – cruise the backwaters past mangroves and rice paddies, visit waterfalls and bird sanctuaries, practise meditation and experience an Ayurvedic massage, before unwinding on the coast at Mararikulam.
Itinerary
Day 1 | Fly UK to India
Mysuru
Fly from the UK to Bangalore, where you’ll meet our representative and be assisted with transfer formalities. Then, enjoy a scenic drive to Mysuru (approx. 3–4 hours), a city famed for its royal heritage, serene gardens and thriving markets of silk and sandalwood. Check in at the Royal Orchid Metropole and spend the evening at leisure.
Day 2 | Mysuru
Mysuru
Set out on a half-day tour with your private guide. Begin at the magnificent Mysore Palace and admire its intricate carvings and lavish interiors. Then explore Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace and the nearby fort remnants. Finish with a climb up Chamundi Hill to visit the Chamundi Temple and take in sweeping views over the city. Return to your hotel to relax for the evening.
Day 3 | Mysuru – Chennai – Mamallapuram
Mamallapuram
Transfer to Mysore railway station for the MAS Vande Bharat train to Chennai (approx. 6½ hours). On arrival, meet our representative and transfer to Mahabalipuram (approx. 1–1½ hours), a coastal town known for its UNESCO-listed rock-cut temples. Check in at Taj Fisherman’s Cove Resort & Spa and spend the evening at leisure.
Day 4 | Mamallapuram
Mamallapuram
Experience a half-day guided tour of Mahabalipuram’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visit the iconic Shore Temple, a granite masterpiece which overlooks the Bay of Bengal, and the Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas), monolithic chariots reflecting Pallava artistry. Admire Krishna’s Butter Ball and Arjuna’s Penance. Return to your hotel for the evening.
Staying at
Taj Fisherman's Cove Resort & Spa, Chennai
Day 5 | Mamallapuram – Puducherry
Puducherry
Drive along the scenic coastal road to Puducherry (approx. 4 hours), a town blending French colonial heritage with Tamil culture. You’ll then check in at Palais De Mahe, set near the beach. You can explore bustling markets and chic cafés draped with bougainvillaea, sampling the fusion of Tamil and French culinary traditions. Spend the evening at leisure.
Day 6 | Puducherry
Puducherry
Explore the spiritual and cultural heart of Puducherry. Visit Shri Aurobindo Ashram, where the philosopher-poet’s Samadhi lies, and the Governor’s House, which reflects colonial elegance. Drive to Auroville to see the Matrimandir and opt to visit the local galleries, handicraft shops or the serene Promenade Beach. Return to your hotel for the night.
Day 7 | Puducherry – Karaikudi
Karaikudi
Start your day by driving through the Tamil countryside to Karaikudi (approx. 6–7 hours), a centre of Chettinad heritage. Check in at The Bangala, with the remainder of the day free to relax. Karaikudi offers a glimpse into South India’s aristocratic past, with mansions and temples that reveal centuries of history and craftsmanship. Overnight at The Bangala.
Day 8 | Karaikudi
Karaikudi
Spend the day exploring Chettinad’s architectural gems. You'll tour the grand Chettinad mansions, showcasing teak, Italian marble, Belgian chandeliers and intricate European-inspired details. Visit a local Athangudi tile workshop to see the centuries-old process of handcrafting decorative tiles, a tradition still alive today. Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Day 9 | Karaikudi – Madurai
Madurai
Begin with a transfer to Madurai (approx. 3–4 hours), South India’s temple city with a history stretching back to the 6th century BC. Check in at Gateway Madurai, ideally located to explore the city. Madurai’s streets, bustling markets and ancient temples provide an excellent introduction to the city’s spiritual and cultural significance. Spend the evening at leisure to relax.
Day 10 | Madurai
Madurai
Head out on a half-day guided tour of Madurai. You start with Thirumalai Nayak Palace, a 17th-century architectural marvel with impressive arches and stucco domes. Continue to the Sree Meenakshi Sundareshwar Temple, a living symbol of Tamil devotion. Finally, attend an evening temple ceremony in the city’s spiritual heartbeat. Return to your hotel for the evening.
Day 11 | Madurai – Thekkady
Travel to Thekkady (approx. 3½–4½ hours), set amidst lush hills and spice plantations near the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Check in at Spice Village and spend the afternoon at leisure. Thekkady is ideal for nature lovers, offering treks, mountain walks and opportunities to spot wildlife such as elephants, bison, langurs and exotic bird species. The evening is then free for you to relax.
Day 12 | Thekkady
Thekkady
In the early morning, go on a nature walk with a private naturalist. Later, you’ll visit a spice plantation to see cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, vanilla and medicinal plants while learning about cultivation and processing. Back at the hotel, there are complimentary activities you can enjoy, like yoga, eco sessions and evening spice demonstrations. Spend the evening at leisure.
Day 13 | Thekkady – Munnar
Munnar
Check out and transfer to Munnar (approx. 4–5 hours), a picturesque hill station renowned for tea plantations and lush landscapes. Check in at Windermere Estate and spend the afternoon at leisure exploring aromatic tea gardens. Munnar’s high-altitude scenery and colonial architecture provide an immersive and rejuvenating environment. Overnight at your hotel.
Day 14 | Munnar
Munnar
A day of exploration at leisure is on the cards. Take a leisurely hike across the surrounding hills or a guided walk through tea plantations, learning about tea varieties, cultivation and processing. Spend time photographing panoramic views, absorbing the fragrant landscape and enjoying the peaceful mountain air. Head back to your hotel for the evening.
Staying at
The Windermere Estate
Day 15 | Munnar – Kochi
Head to Kochi (approx. 4½–5½ hours), a historic port city central to the spice trade. Check in at Brunton Boatyard. Then spend an afternoon at leisure to enjoy the city’s colonial architecture and marina views. Kochi offers a unique mix of cultures, reflecting centuries of trade with Arab, Chinese and European merchants. Your evening is free to relax.
Day 16 | Kochi
Take a guided sightseeing tour of Kochi. This includes St. Francis Church, Mattancherry Palace, the Jewish Synagogue, spice markets and the iconic Chinese fishing nets. In the afternoon, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance, showcasing Kerala’s vibrant cultural heritage. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Staying at
Brunton Boatyard
Day 17 | Kochi – Alappuzha
Alappuzha
Today begins with a drive to Kumarakom (approx. 2–3 hours) and board a private houseboat for an overnight cruise through Kerala’s scenic backwaters. Sail past coconut groves, rice paddies and quiet villages, observing local life along the waterways. Enjoy traditional Kerala meals as you watch the sunset over serene waters. Spend the evening aboard a Spice Coast Cruise.
Day 18 | Alappuzha
Alappuzha
Spend another full day cruising the backwaters, stopping at villages along the way to experience local culture and daily life. Relax on the deck as the world goes by, photograph the tranquil scenery which surrounds you and absorb the atmosphere of rural Kerala. Meals are provided throughout the day. Overnight aboard your Spice Coast Cruise.
Day 19 | Alappuzha – Kumarakom
Disembark the houseboat and transfer to Coconut Lagoon. Spend the afternoon leisurely exploring the resort, walking through rice paddies or enjoying the lakefront. Optional boat rides and birdwatching are available at the nearby Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary for a serene immersion in Kerala’s natural beauty. Spend the evening at your hotel.
Day 20 | Kumarakom
Wake up and enjoy a full day at leisure. You can opt to experience Coconut Lagoon’s activities, such as guided nature walks, cycling or simply relaxing by the backwaters. Immerse yourself in the area’s tranquil atmosphere and lush surroundings. For more ideas, speak with one of our Travel Specialists. Return to your hotel for the night.
Staying at
Coconut Lagoon
Day 21 | Kumarakom – Mararikulam
Mararikulam
When you’re up and ready to go, transfer to Mararikulam (approx. 30 minutes), a quiet coastal village home to pristine beaches and a traditional fishing culture. On arrival, you’ll check in at Marari Beach Resort in a Garden Villa and spend the afternoon at leisure. Why not explore the village, walk along the shore or enjoy the resort’s luxurious amenities?
Day 22-23 | Mararikulam
Mararikulam
For the final two full days, choose to unwind by the sea at your leisure, enjoy Ayurvedic therapies, yoga sessions and nature walks. Other ideas include a visit to the butterfly garden, exploring a local fishing village or relaxing in the resort’s peaceful surroundings. These optional excursions allow for deeper immersion in the coastal lifestyle. Return to your hotel for the last two nights.
Staying at
Marari Beach Resort
Day 24 | Flight Home
Our representative will transfer you to Kochi Airport (approx. 2–2½ hours) for your return flight home. We recommend checking in at least three hours before your departure.
Sarah
Travel Specialist
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23 nights
