This tour introduces to us the states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala in its two-week itinerary that takes us across tropical south India from east to west with fabulous temples, holy Hindu shrines, charming old hill-stations, princely palaces, wildlife reserves, green waterways and golden beaches en route.
Setting out from Chennai, India’s fourth largest metropolis, we travel to the temple towns of Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram from where we take a train to Bangalore and further on to gorgeous Mysore that fascinates all with its spectacular Maharajah’s Palace. This follows an exciting wildlife safari at Bandipur National Park. Next we head for the hills, stopping at the old hill-stations of Ootacamund (Ooty) and Coonoor for some relaxing cool temperatures and exhilarating walks through the verdant tea plantations and forests.
The later part of our tour travels down to the west coast to the charming Kerala. The historic centre of Kochi is our first port of call from where we drive to Alleppy to begin an enchanting cruise on the backwaters on a houseboat – our accommodation for the night. The trip concludes with a two-night stay in the laid-back seaside resort of Varkala.
Please note: You can use this itinerary as a guide to fully customise this tour as per your budget and requirements. Flexible options include travel dates and duration, places visited, activities and experiences, hotel category (star/rating) and any specific requirements that you may have.
Arrive Chennai. Arrive at Chennai international airport and transfer to the hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free to explore the town. Overnight Hotel
Chennai – Mahabalipuram (60 km/1.5 hrs). In the morning leave for sightseeing tour of Chennai before a drive to Mahabalipuram to visit five rock-cut monolithic temples. Overnight Hotel
Mahabalipuram – Kanchipuram – Chennai (150 km/3-4 hrs). Drive to Kanchipuram, the so-called Golden City of One Thousand Temples. Continue drive to Chennai. Overnight Hotel
Chennai – Bangalore (By Train) – Mysore (140 km/3 hrs). In the morning take the train to Bangalore. From there drive to Mysore for an overnight stay. Overnight Hotel
Sightseeing in Mysore. Morning drive to Srirangapatna to visit the summer Palace of Tipu Sultan. Later sight-seeing of Mysore, visiting Mysore Palace and Chamundi Hill. Overnight Hotel
Mysore – Bandipur (80 km/2-3 hrs).Drive to Bandipur where we expect to see the tigers in their natural habitat. In the afternoon leave for a Jungle Safari in the National Park. Overnight Hotel
Bandipur – Coonoor via Ootacamund (80 km/2-3 hours). In the morning take an optional Jungle Safari. In the afternoon drive to Coonoor, en-route visiting Ootacamund. Overnight Hotel
Sightseeing in Coonoor. Today morning leave for sight-seeing of Coonoor, a small tea garden town. Take a walk through the tea plantations or a ride on the famous toy train. Overnight Hotel
Coonoor – Kochi (260 km/6-7 hrs). After breakfast drive to Kochi, one of the old trade harbours of India. Rest of the day is free to explore the area. Overnight Hotel
Sightseeing in Kochi. In the sight-seeing programme in Kochi visit Mattancherry Palace, Jewish Synagogue and St Francis church. In the evening make an optional visit to see a display of Kathakali dance. Overnight Hotel
Kochi – Alleppey (60 km/1.5 hrs.). This morning, take a short drive to Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha. In the early afternoon board houseboats and begin cruise and have all meals on board. Overnight Houseboat
Alleppey – Varkala (120 km/3-4 hrs). Have relaxing breakfast on the houseboats this morning. Then drive along the scenic Malabar coast to laid-back Varkala for an enjoyable evening on the beach. Overnight Hotel
Free Day at Varkala. Today is a free day to explore tranquil Varkala – options: Papanasam Beach, Janardhana Swami Temple and Anjengo Fort. Overnight Hotel
Tour Concludes. Today after check out from the hotel, transfer to the international airport of Trivandrum to board the flight for onward journey.
Flexibility Guaranteed! Using the above itinerary as a guide you can fully customise this tour as per your budget and requirements. Flexible options include travel dates and duration, places, activities and experiences, hotel category (star/rating) and any specific requirements that you may have. On receiving your enquiry we will respond with prices and work with you to create a truly personalised holiday experience that is in your budget and personal style.
Suitable for families with young children
Highest Point (Max altitude)
Fitness Grade
Fairly easy 5-6 hours of activity per day. May include some uphill sections, reasonable fitness recommended.
With a dedicated focus on active, experiential tours and exciting new destinations, ACTIVE INDIA specialises in active, outdoor adventures, cultural discovery and wildlife tours across India for families, small groups and independent travellers.
Enjoy complete flexibility in planning and booking your tours with Active India for a truly personalised India holiday that fits your budget and requirements.
Affiliations
Copyright © 2011-2019 - All rights reserved