Best of Southern India — Plus

Part of our new Travel with Confidence Plus Collection, this trip features a smaller group size, private transportation, en-suite bathrooms, and a discounted rate for My Own Room. From calm Kerala backwaters and spice plantations to incredible temples and searching for tigers in the wild, have your camera ready as you experience the highlights of Southern India. This two-week adventure offers a great balance of guided excursions and free time to explore on your own. Travelling by train, bus, rickshaw, and country boats will bring you closer to the locals and is a fascinating way to gain insight into the peaceful backwaters of Kerala and stunning temples of Tamilnadu.

Day 1 Kochi
Arrive at any time.

Day 2 Kochi/Kalpetta
Take a scenic drive to reach Kalpetta, in the Wayanad district.

Day 3 Kalpetta
Walk the nature trails through the forested areas in Wayanad. Also take a wildlife drive in search of elephants and bison.

Day 4 Kalpetta/Mysore
Settle in for the drive to the ancient city of Mysore.

Day 5 Mysore
Explore the vibrant city of Mysore including visits to Chamundi Temple and Mysore Palace. After enjoy free time and opt to visit the Devaraja market or join a yoga class.

Day 6 Mysore/Māmallapuram
Set off early this morning for the drive to Mamallapuram. Visit the 7th century Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 7 Māmallapuram
Free time to explore Mamallapuram.

Day 8 Māmallapuram/Puducherry
Continue to Pondicherry (now known as Puducherry) and learn about Sri Aurobindo Ghose at the ashram.

Day 9 Puducherry/Madurai
Travel inland to Madurai, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Day 10 Madurai
Hop on a cycle rickshaw for a tour of the city before visiting the famous Meenakshi Temple.

Day 11 Madurai/Thekkady
Drive to Thekkady. Take a guided tour of spice plantations in the Cardamom Hills.

Day 12 Thekkady/Kerala Backwaters
Travel to Alleppey for a local homestay. Experience local life and a guided walk along the lagoon.

Day 13 Kerala Backwaters/Kochi
Spend the morning enjoying last moments with your host family. Learn to cook some local food, watch the toddy tappers at work, or wander around the village. Travel to a G Adventures–supported women's project for lunch before returning to Kochi. Head out for an orientation walk, then enjoy an evening performance of kathakali, a form of traditional dancing from Kerala.

Day 14 Kochi
Depart at any time.