South India Experiential Holidays - 16 days experiential potpourri
Price starting from INR 1,99,000 per person
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Arrival at Cochin International Airport [COK]
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Departure from Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru [BLR]
Program highlights
Kochi
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Old colonial town, historic buildings
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Chinese nets & City tour of the old colonial town
Alleppey
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Lakes, Lagoons, canals and Houseboat
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Backwater village tour
Thekkady
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Periyar National Park, Boat safari
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Kalaripayattu & Spice garden tour
Madurai
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Meenakshi Amman temple
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Naickar Palace and Flower Market
Sethumadai
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Agrarian Tamil village, farm tour
Valparai
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Tea Plantations, Heritage Estate Bungalow
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Wildlife sighting
Athirapally
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Shola Rainforest, Forest drive
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Sighting the Great Indian Hornbill [Subject to luck]
Cheruthuruthy
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Day with the masters at the Kalamandalam art school
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Train journey to the Malabar
Thalassery
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Thalassery Fort, Kalaripayattu martial art school visit
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Theyyam ritual visits to local temple [November to May]
Coorg
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Coffee Plantations
Hassan
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12th century Hoysala temples of Belur and Halebidu
Mysore
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The Mysore Palace of the Wodeyar Kings
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Chamundi hills, silk weaving unit, market visits
16 days South India itinerary route map
South India Experiential Potpourri - 16 days Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive at Cochin airport and transfer to Fort Kochi [1.5 hours]
Upon arrival at Cochin International airport, our representative will receive you at the airport. Further drive to Fort Kochi. Check in at the hotel after the long haul flight, you have the day at leisure or you can opt to go for a 2.5 hours Fort Kochi tour with a guide.
Fort Kochi, also known as Old Kochi or West Kochi, is a charming seaside region in the city of Kochi, Kerala, India. It's renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, a legacy of Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule. Some important attractions would be the Chinese nets at the backwaters, St. Francis Church [the first church built by the Portuguese], The Dutch Palace of Mattancherry and the Synagogue at the Jew town adjacent to the palace.
Day 2 - Drive to Alleppey backwaters [2.5 hours]
Board a houseboat upon arrival for a half day cruise with meals served on board. After a nights halt at the banks of the backwaters, the cruise resumes the next day morning during breakfast. There would be a country canoe cruise through the remote villages by evening.
Day 3 - Drive up to the Cardamom Hills - Thekkady [4 hours]
The Cardamom Hills, also known as the Yela Mala, are a significant mountain range in the Western Ghats of Kerala, extending into some parts of Tamil Nadu. Their name is derived from the extensive cultivation of cardamom, a highly valued spice, that thrives in the region's cool, high-altitude climate.
Apart from Spices, these hills were once a known gaming sanctuary of the Travancore Kinds. Today they have transformed in to a tiger reserve with a thriving tiger population, elephants, Indian guar and a lot of more of the wild. There are very interesting hikes and treks available at the park which you would experience the next day.
Day 4 - Programs at the Periyar National Park - hike and boat safari
Early morning proceed for an interpretive trekking program focused on experiencing the natural environment of Periyar National Park on foot. The program is operated in small groups with a trained tribal guide who possesses in-depth knowledge of the local flora, fauna, and the overall ecosystem. It takes around 2.5 hours to cover a hike of around 4 Kilometres. Return to the hotel after the trek.
Later in the afternoon, there is a group boat safari organised at a different location of the park. This 1.5 hours boat safari through the reservoir gives you a chance to witness the wildlife on both sides of the boat. Elephants, sambar deer, wild dogs, otters are a common sight, though very much subject to luck.
Day 5 - Drive down to the plain lands of Tamil Nadu to Madurai [3.5 hours]
Madurai, often called the "Temple City" or the "Athens of the East," is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in India, with a rich history stretching back over 2,500 years. Located on the banks of the Vaigai River in Tamil Nadu, it served as the capital of the Pandya kingdom for centuries and has been a significant cultural and commercial center.
Upon arrival at Madurai, your guide will meet you to take you to the Madurai Meenakshi Temple - the heart and soul of Madurai. This magnificent temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (Parvati) and Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva) is an architectural marvel in the Dravidian style. Its towering gopurams (gateway towers) adorned with intricate sculptures narrating mythological stories are awe-inspiring.
Day 6 - Drive east, towards the quaint Tamilian village of Sethumadai
Sethumadai is a serene and picturesque village nestled in the foothills of the Western Ghats on the Eastern side. The place is surrounded by lush green forests, rolling hills, and cascading waterfalls, Sethumadai is considered a haven for nature lovers. The region boasts rich biodiversity.
Later in the afternoon, proceed for a farm tour, the region is known for its fertile farmlands, benefiting from the rivers originating in the nearby hills. Coconuts are a major crop, often intercropped with cocoa, nutmeg, pepper, and vanilla. Seasonal crops like groundnuts and mangoes are also cultivated. The agricultural landscape offers opportunities to experience rural farming practices.
Day 7 - Drive up the Western Ghats to Valparai [2 hours]
Valparai is a serene hill station nestled in the Anaimalai Hills of the Western Ghats at an altitude of about 3,500 feet (1,067 meters) above sea level. Valparai offers a tranquil escape surrounded by lush tea estates and evergreen forests.
Upon arrival check in to a colonial era plantation bungalow, reflecting the history of the tea plantations in the region. It offers a nostalgic experience of the planter's lifestyle. The original bungalows were built in the late nineteenth century. By evening proceed for a tea factory visit part of the plantations.
Day 8 - Forest Drive - Valparai to Athirapally - Thrissur [3.5 hours]
After breakfast, prepare yourself for a drive down to the plains through the tea plantations and later you'll find yourself winding through dense tropical rainforest. You will have a local guide with you and you're literally driving through a biodiversity hotspot! You might spot playful monkeys leaping across branches, vibrant butterflies flitting around, and if you're lucky (or perhaps unlucky, depending on your comfort level!), you could catch a glimpse of elephants or bison grazing near the roadside. It's like a mini wildlife safari!
Upon reaching Athirapally in the afternoon you can go for a waterfall trek where you hike on the banks of the Chalakudy river towards the mighty Athirapally waterfalls. The guided hike will be a treat to your senses. Later drive towards Thrissur where your overnight stay is organised.
Day 9 - Art School visit - Train to Thalasserry [2 hours]
Drive to Cheruthuruthy where you sign up for a guided day tour of an exclusive art school named Kalamandalam, where students are taught and trained for different art form from Kerala. You get to visit the training spaces for various art forms like Kathakali (including acting, makeup, vocal music, and cholliyattam), Mohiniyattam, Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Koodiyattam, and percussion instruments like Chenda.
After lunch board a train to travel north towards malabar. The train journey gives you a glance of the Keralan countryside, a lot of rivers and estuaries. Your next stop is the land of looms and lores - Kannur. Upon arrival you would be taken to the place of stay.
Day 10 - Local visits in Kannur
Today you would visit the St. Johns Church at the shores of the Arabian sea. Drive towards Kannur passing by the drive inn beach at Muzhapilangad. Upon reaching Kannur visit a local handloom centre and beedi making unit, which are local occupations that you might not find elsewhere. The St. Angelo Fort in Kannur was one of the first fort built by the Portuguese to establish their presence in the Malabar region of the Indian West coast.
Depending on the time and availability, the guide would take you to a local temple where Theyyam - a temple ritual is being performed. Theyyam is considered to be the "dance of the gods". The core belief is that during the performance, the spirit or deity enters the body of the performer, transforming him into a living representation of that divine being.
Day 11 - Drive to Coorg - Coffee county [3 hours]
Coorg, officially known as Kodagu, is a picturesque hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. Coorg is the "Coffee Capital of India" and its sprawling coffee plantations are an integral part of its identity and economy. The coffee plantations add to the scenic charm of Coorg, blanketing the hillsides in lush greenery. Walking through these estates, with the aroma of coffee beans in the air, is a unique experience.
Check in to the coffee plantation retreat upon arrival at Coorg. The day is more or less dedicated to in house activities and things to do around coffee.
Day 12 - Drive to Hassan - Enroute Bylakuppe [3 hours]
Drive to Hassan enroute take a break at Bylakuppe, primarily known for being the largest Tibetan settlement in the world outside of Tibet. It's often referred to as "Mini Tibet" or "Little Tibet" in India. These settlements were established for Tibetan refugees who fled Tibet after the Chinese occupation in 1959. Bylakuppe is home to several large and significant Tibetan Buddhist monasteries representing different schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
Later drive to Hassan, Check in at the resort upon arrival. You have the rest of the day at leisure with in house activities at the resort.
Day 13 - Hoysala Temples of Belur & Halebidu - Later to Mysore [4 hours]
After breakfast visit the 12th century temples of the Hoysala dynasty. These two temples are recognized as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas," are celebrated for their exceptional artistry and unique architectural style. The most striking feature of these temples is the sheer abundance and exquisite detail of the sculptures that adorn almost every surface – walls, pillars, and ceilings.
Later proceed to the Mysore the cultural capital of Karnataka often referred to as the City of Palaces. Upon arrival check in at the hotel of stay, you have the next day dedicated for the city tour of Mysore.
Day 14 - City tour of Mysore
After breakfast, prepare yourself for a full day sightseeing tour of Mysore. You start with the Mysore Palace, the magnificent seat of the Wadiyar dynasty and one of the most grand palaces in India. Its Indo-Saracenic architecture and intricate artwork, it will take at least 2-3 hours to explore. Later proceed to the govt silk factory where you get to see silk saree production. You can move to the hotel for a few hours of rest and then proceed to Chamundi hills by evening, this hill offers panoramic views of Mysore. The ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, the patron deity of the Wodeyars, is a significant pilgrimage site. You can also see the Mahishasura statue and the Nandi bull statue here.
Day 15 - Visit Srirangapatana and drive to Bangalore [3 hours]
After breakfast, be get ready for the drive to Bengaluru [Bangalore]. Enroute visit Srirangapatana, an island town near Mysore, steeped in history and boasts several significant sites, primarily related to its time as the capital of Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan. There is a beautiful palace made of teakwood which showcases Indo-Saracenic architecture. It features intricate woodwork and vibrant murals depicting historical events, including Tipu Sultan's battles. It now serves as a museum displaying artifacts related to Tipu Sultan and his era.
Drive to Bengaluru, check in at the hotel for overnight stay, prepare yourself for the international departure flight.
Day 16 - Departure transfer to Bangalore Airport [1 hour]
On time departure transfer to Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru. The tour comes to an end, taking home amazing memories and experiences of South India.
Accommodation & Pricing per person
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The above rates are per person rates based on minimum two adults traveling together.
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Rates valid until 30th May 2026
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Rates are not valid from 15th December to 10th January and for the month of February 2025
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The program can be tailored to the guest's requirement, also alternate hotels can also be incorporated in case if you intend to spend a lesser or a higher price for the tour
The program includes
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South India tour program based on the above itinerary.
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All transfers and sightseeing in comfortable Large car with a professionally experienced driver from arrival till departure.
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Bottled drinking water and cab amenities through out the tour.
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Hotel accommodation as mentioned above with the respective meal plan.
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Service of an English speaking local guide in Kochi, Madurai, Sethumadai, Valparai, Athirapally, Cheruthuruthy, Thalassery, Hassan and Mysore.
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Entrance tickets at places of interest.
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Tea factory and tea tasting session at Valparai.
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Spice plantation tour in Thekkady.
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Boat safari at Periyar National Park.
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Kalaripayattu show at Thekkady.
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Houseboat day cruise with all meals served on board with a country canoe cruise in the evening.
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Kathakali dance show at Kochi.
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Farm tour at the plains of Tamil Nadu at Sethumadai.
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Theyyam ritual performance at a local temple in Thalassery or Kannur
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Day with the Masters program at Kalamandalam art School [Not available on public holidays and summer vacation]
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Coffee plantation tour at Coorg
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5% Goods and Service Tax.
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24 / 7 customer support / assistance.
Notes
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The price is based on 2 adults travelling together.
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Houseboat meal menu would be a local backwater cuisine.
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The houseboat will be docked from 5 PM to next day 8 AM.
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All meals except breakfast are on direct payment basis, excluding houseboat.
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Flight tickets, visa to India, travel insurance are excluded and should be availed on own arrangement.
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Table Drinks, laundray, expenses of personal nature, shopping, tips, lunch and dinner are on direct basis.
Cabs used in the tour program
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The cabs used in the 5 days Kerala program are station wagon / Estate models named Kia Carens or Maruti-Suzuki Ertiga
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These cabs are larger in size and offers more space and comfort, specially since the program has some long journeys involved
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Kia Carens is diesel and Maruti-Suzuki Ertiga is a CNG / Petrol powered cab
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It would be either of the cab used for the program
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Both the cabs can comfortably accommodate upto 4 guests at a time, the last row would be dedicated for luggage
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The vehicle and the driver would be the same from the point of arrival till the point of departure, unless there is a personal or medical emergency for the driver.
South India tour booking Procedure
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Once the tour is confirmed with us we make reservation at the respective hotels / resorts / houseboat.
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We shall send you a confirmation voucher based on the confirmation we have received from the service providers.
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60% advance deposit is required to guarantee the tour and the rest could be paid on the first day of the commencement of the tour.
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We accept payments via credit cards, debit cards, internet banking, UPIs, bank transfers to our overseas local bank accounts for Euro, USD, GBP, and various other currencies. additional charges apply for card transactions.
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International wire transfer is available for foreign remittances.
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In the event of a cancellation, the cancellation policy applies - kindly refer to the cancellation policy.
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Why Choose Experiential Travel in South India ? - The South India experiential potpourri
If you're seeking a richly immersive experience through the cultural and natural wonders of South India, this curated tour is your perfect match. Beginning in Kochi and concluding in Bangalore, the South India experiential travel program is designed for travellers who value variety and authenticity in a relatively short span of time.
This journey takes you through:
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The architectural marvels, temple heritage, and farming countryside of Tamil Nadu
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The serene backwaters, high ranges, wildlife, spices heritage, art, and traditions of Kerala
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The spiritual rituals, hill plantations, and lesser-known countryside of North Kerala
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The royal palaces, plantations, historic temples and sites of Karnataka
Along the way, enjoy hands-on experiences with local communities, storytelling, nature walks, village life, and even a short Indian train journey that adds a layer of local flavour. It's not just a holiday—it's a 2,500-year story of Southern India, told through heritage, culture, food, and people.
This tour is best appreciated by guests from the UK, France, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States—travellers who are looking to learn something new, step beyond the usual, and explore India in a meaningful, non-touristy way.
Whether you're escaping the routine or searching for cultural depth, this program offers a unique Dravidian India experience—a completely different slice of South India that stays with you long after the journey ends.
Also read about how safe is Kerala and South Indian region for international travellers, UK and United states. If you are traveling from UK, this guide about travel to Kerala from UK would be of help to you.
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