CLASSIC SOUTH INDIA
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through South India’s most captivating destinations. Start in cosmopolitan Bangalore, then explore Mysore’s royal palaces and silk heritage. Experience wildlife at Bandipur National Park before ascending to Ooty’s scenic tea plantations and colonial charm. Discover Madurai’s magnificent Meenakshi Temple and vibrant culture, and find tranquility in Periyar’s spice plantations and elephant reserves. Cruise the serene backwaters of Kumarakom with traditional houseboat stays, and conclude in historic Cochin, exploring Portuguese heritage, Chinese fishing nets, and spice markets. This comprehensive tour perfectly blends wildlife, culture, spirituality, natural beauty, and culinary experiences across Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
Day Wise Itinerary
Arrival at Bangalore International Airport and drive to Mysore (approx. 2.5 hrs). Mysore is the city of palaces. Check in at your hotel, then rest and relax.
Full-day visit of Mysore, including the very popular Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, and St. Philomena’s Church. In the afternoon, visit Somnathpur Temple. Overnight stay at the hotel in Mysore.
Morning visit to Mysore market, then drive to Bandipore. En route, visit a brick factory. Check in at the hotel, relax, and enjoy the resort. Evening safari in the sanctuary.
Early morning safari in Bandipore Wildlife Sanctuary, then drive to Ooty. En route, stop for photos at Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary. Check in at the hotel, followed by an evening walk in the town.
After breakfast, enjoy a local tour of Ooty including Tribal Village, tea factory, local markets, Botanical Garden, and more depending on your available time.
After lunch, catch the world heritage train journey from Ooty at 2:00 PM to Mettupalayam (approx. 3.5 hrs), then a 1-hour drive to Coimbatore for overnight stay.
Drive to Madurai, the temple city of South India. In the afternoon, visit Madurai Palace.
After check-out, visit the temple and flower market (optional), then drive to Periyar.
Morning boat ride in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, followed by an elephant ride and spice plantation visit. In the evening, enjoy a Kalaripayattu cultural show.
Morning transfer to Kumarakom (approx. 3.5 hrs drive). Rest and relax at the backwater resort.
After breakfast, enjoy a 3-hour boat ride through the narrow canals, followed by a short walk back to the hotel or a tuk-tuk ride. In the afternoon, relax at the resort and enjoy the pool or an Ayurveda massage.
By 12:00 noon, check in to the houseboat and cruise through the backwaters, enjoying the largest lake of Kerala.
Check out from the houseboat and drive to Cochin (approx. 1.5 hrs). Afternoon sightseeing tour includes Chinese fishing nets, Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace, St. Francis Church, and more.
After sightseeing or shopping, transfer to Cochin Airport (approx. 1-hour drive) for departure.
Tour Cost Includes
- 13-night accommodation
- Breakfast and dinner
- English-speaking driver/escort
- Air-conditioned vehicles throughout the tour
- Tiger safari at Bandipur National Park
- Half-day boat tour in Kumarakom
- Houseboat cruise in the backwaters
- Visit to the tea museum
- Traditional cultural show tickets
- All entrance tickets
- Heritage train
Tour Cost Excludes
- Flight tickets
- Home and airport transfers
- Visa and travel insurance
- Extra drinks with meals
- Tips and personal expenses
Terms & Conditions
- No rooms on hold. Confirmation will be subject to availability at the time of confirmation.
- The tour itinerary may be shuffled due to inclement weather conditions or changes in flight/ferry operations.
- A child below 2 years is considered an infant, and children from 2 to 11 years are considered a child.
- All services included in the package are compulsory, and no refund will be given if any of the services are not availed.
- For flights arriving early morning or late evening, and departing early morning or late evening, passengers need to book private transfers if scheduled transfers are not operational.
- Hotel check-in time starts from 14:00 hrs and check-out time is 12:00 hrs. Early check-in or late check-out is subject to room availability. Hotels reserve the right to change timings without prior notice.
- The company will not be liable for any claims due to accidents, food poisoning, medical illness, or other natural calamities arising during the tour or travel.
- Passengers are responsible for their own safety, and the company will not entertain any claims in this regard.
- At the airport, the driver will hold a placard with the main passenger’s name. If you do not locate the driver, please call the emergency number to trace them. For transfers and tours, please be ready on time and wait at the hotel reception. Missing the transfer or tour will not result in a refund.
- Please carry all your documents safely. All valuables, cash, traveler cheques, air tickets, visa copies, and passport should be carried in your handbag for easy access.