Tours of India

South Indian Odyssey

Tour Map of South Indian Odyssey

Whether it’s your first, second or even third time to the Indian Subcontinent, if you haven’t yet been to South India, you are in for a real treat! This diverse and comprehensive trip across the cultural and historical landscapes of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka & Kerala encompasses some of the country’s most authentic cultural experiences and offers a very different experience from that of the north. Travelling from the shores of the Indian Ocean to the beaches of the Arabian Sea, we will have a chance to explore UNESCO Heritage sites and ancient temple shrines, experience Tamil culture first-hand and enjoy the stunning beauty of the Western Ghats and the Malabar Coast. We will also visit the historic splendours of Madurai, Mysore and Cochin and explore the majestic landscapes of the Backwaters aboard a traditional Keralan houseboat for two nights. This truly is a journey of remarkable contrasts, exploring one of India’s most fascinating regions.

The Majesty of Southern India

Tour Map of The Majesty of Southern India

Southern India is less visited than the famed cultural cities of the north, but those who choose to travel here are rewarded with lush green landscapes, exotic spice plantations, ancient pilgrimage centres, scenic national parks and a fascinating blend of age-old dynasties and more recent colonial history. Travel from Bangalore to Mysore and onwards to Ooty, nestled in the Nilgiri Mountains surrounded by tea gardens and dense forest. Three nights in the old port city of Cochin provides ample time to see the famed Chinese fishing nets, and in Alleppey you will experience the serene beauty of the maze of backwaters with a cruise on a traditional houseboat. Concluding in Chennai, the commercial hub at the height of the British Empire, this new tour has been designed to combine leisurely days with enlightening visits - the majesty of southern India awaits you.

Inside Kerala and Karnataka

Tour Map of Inside Kerala and Karnataka

An ever-increasing number of holiday-makers are coming to Kerala, India’s most literate state, to enjoy its wonderful beaches and legendary hospitality. However there is so much more to this diverse area than many of its visitors ever realise and this trip aims to dip below the surface of Keralan society to discover something of its food, its traditions and its artistic contributions, be that in dance, craftwork or even its own unique martial art, kalarippayattu. Neighbouring Karnataka is much less visited and yet within its southern region can be found some of the subcontinent’s most impressive temples and sculptures dating back over 800 years. Dividing these two states are the Western Ghats, an imposing ridge of strikingly beautiful mountains which we will explore from both Wayanad on the Keralan side and a coffee and spice plantation in Coorg on the Karnatakan side. This is a great trip for those that demand more of their trips that just sun, sea and sand. Come and discover the true delights of two of South India’s most welcoming states.

Tamil Nadu Explorer

Tour Map of Tamil Nadu Explorer

‘The Last Classical Civilisation’ is how acclaimed author and unabashed India-phile Michael Wood, has referred to the Tamil culture of India’s south. With a heritage distinctly different from that of India’s north, Tamil Nadu is home not only to some of the most fertile land on the planet but also to some of its most impressive temple architecture and its richest traditions. On this trip we explore the state in depth by travelling along the shores of the Indian Ocean through Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry before heading inland via several UNESCO World Heritage sites towards ancient Madurai whose Dravidian heritage goes back over 2500 years. From here we will head up into the stunning beauty of neighbouring Kerala’s Western Ghats before descending to the Arabian Coast to explore Kochi (Cochin) and the majestic landscapes of the Backwaters aboard a traditional houseboat for two nights. Balancing its time between world-class cultural sights, tea-plantations, beaches and backwaters, this trip offers a great taste of the variety that defines India’s peninsular.

Classic Kerala

Tour Map of Classic Kerala

Travel to Kerala for a wonderful adventure, encompassing many of the cultural traditions and diverse landscapes which make this state so vibrant, yet so laid back. Explore the sites of medieval Cochin, shaped by Portuguese, Dutch and English traders. Visit some of Kerala’s largest and wealthiest temples in the ancient town of the Sacred Shiva and Trivandrum, the state’s capital. Watch spectacular performances of dance, puppetry and poetry, telling stories that have lasted millennia, and learn of the incredible discipline of their art from a master. Travel into the mountains to find yourself surrounded by emerald-green tea-plantations; and by equally verdant paddy fields as you sail along Alleppey’s gentle network of backwaters aboard a traditional houseboat. You will find you’re never far from wonderful scenes; and with opportunities to spot native birds and wildlife, you may be lucky enough to spot elephants, or even a tiger as you cruise along Lake Periyar.

All the adventure you want, with a softer landing. Handpicked, character-rich accommodations with upgraded amenities services. Upgraded and private transport, including flights to maximize time. More included meals, activities and transfers.

South India: Explore Kerala

Tour Map of South India: Explore Kerala

If the north of India offers brilliant fuschia and turquoise, its south offers the coolest, most luxuriant greens anywhere. This compact trip offers the perfect taste of Kerala’s stunning tropical beauty. Stroll its beaches, ride in a canoe through its backwaters along quiet canals, explore southern palaces, and enjoy some of the country’s most incredible flavours. Experience a part of India that’s truly off the beaten path.