Classic South India Discovery Holiday

From coast to coast, via the mountain vistas of the Western Ghats, in style

Carved relief of elephants, Mahabalipuram

An alternative and fascinating look at some of South India's highlights!

As with all our Premium trips it's not just about luxury, it's about optimising your experience with that little extra comfort and style, whilst visiting some of the world's most colourful and enriching destinations.

In South India we do just that, offering the verdant surroundings of Ooty and Coonoor, the wildlife of Bandipur National Park, typical temple architecture at Kanchipuram, the hill stations and Toy Train of the Nilgiri Hills and the tropical coastline, backwaters and beaches of the Malabar Coast.

To many South India exudes a certain charm and warmth that lives long in the memory, and on this itinerary we combine those emotions with exceptional accommodation and mouth-watering local cuisine.

What makes this trip responsible?

We provide refresher training with a focus on Responsible Tourism, so our local leaders can educate our clients locally on helping to preserve the way of life in their area. Many local restaurants and shops are also used to purchase items throughout this trip which benefits the local community. Since 2005, we have also been supporting our tiger project in Bandhavgarh National Park.

Itinerary

[detailed itinerary...]

Countries visited: India

Day 1

Depart London.

Day 2

Arrive Chennai; transfer to the beachside town of Mahabalipuram.

Day 3

Visit some of the oldest existing examples of Dravidian architecture including Shore Temple and the Five Rathas.

Day 4

Return to Chennai via the ancient city of temples at Kanchipuram.

Day 5

Express train to Mysore; transfer to hotel.

Day 6

Sightseeing including Mysore Palace and Srirangapatna which holds great religious, cultural and historic importance.

Day 7

Drive to Bandipur N.P.; afternoon jungle safari.

Day 8

Optional morning visit to an elephant feeding centre; drive to Coonoor via Ootacamund (Ooty) where we visit the Botanical Garden and explore this hill resort.

Day 9

Explore Coonoor, a hill station in the Nilgiri Hills, option to walk through the tea plantations or take a ride on the UNESCO World Heritage toy train.

Day 10

Transfer from Coonoor to Cochin.

Day 11

Sightseeing by motorboat around harbour of Cochin; explore historic spice port.

Day 12

Drive to Alleppey and board houseboat for backwater cruise.

Day 13

Transfer to Varkala; enjoy the beautiful cliffs and beaches of this relaxed area.

Day 14

Free day to relax by the pool, enjoy the beach and eat some wonderful seafood.

Day 15

Fly to London.

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Exodus images from CLASSIC SOUTH INDIA

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Houseboats on backwaters