India - For that moment

The best time to adventure through South India is between October and March because of the pleasant temperatures and barely any rainfall.

When you land at Bangalore International Airport, a representative from our partner agency will greet you at the arrivals gate. Afterward, set off with your booked transfer to your first accommodation.

Today we have no activities planned for you, so use the day to recover from your journey and get used to the time difference.

Mysore is a charming, old-fashioned city that reflects the oriental glamor of a bygone era. Get to know its highlights in the capital state of Karnataka, also known as the center of sandalwood carvings. Tomorrow, you’ll visit the majestic Maharajah Palace during an exciting sightseeing tour.

Travel time Bangalore - Mysore: approx. 3.5 hours / approx. 186 km

2 nights at Hotel Regaalis**** with breakfast in a standard room, Mysore, India

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel before rushing into the lively streets of the big city. Don’t forget to bring your charged camera so you can capture beautiful photos of Mysore’s most famous attractions. First, you will see Maharaja’s Palace, an architectural masterpiece, and step into the homes of the former maharajas! Every turn brings new sparkling scenes: walls that shine in bright colors, gold accents, and artistically carved wooden doors. The mosaic floors, historical paintings, and luxurious furniture will impress you.

Afterward, you’ll head to Chamundi Hills, which are about three kilometers south of the city center. Climb the hill and soak in the spectacular views of Mysore — gaze over the stunning landscape and magnificent panorama. Next on today’s list is a visit to the Chamundeshwari Temple, a Hindu temple that dates back to the 12th century and built in honor of Maharaja’s favorite goddess.

Away from the hectic city bustle, you’ll experience India’s nature up close in Bandipur National Park. The famous wildlife sanctuary was once the Maharaja’s private hunting ground, nestles in the lush nature of the Western Ghats and Nilgiri Mountains. Discover endangered animal species, such as Asian elephants, bears, wild dogs, hyenas, crocodiles, monkeys, leopards, panthers, and tigers. When you visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, visit the famous tiger reserve.

Enjoy lunch at Gol Ghar Restaurant, then embark on an unforgettable jeep safari. Have your camera ready because, with a little luck, you’ll capture breathtaking photos of the wildlife and surroundings!

In the early evening, you’ll return to your accommodation and learn all about the local wildlife. Watch a one-hour documentary film about the local flora and fauna.

Round off the day with a delicious dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.

Travel time Mysore - Bandipur National Park: approx. 1.5 hours / approx. 84 km

1 night at Bandipur Safari Lodge with breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a standard room, Bandipur National Park, India

Set your alarm clocks early because you’ll go on a sunrise trekking tour through the Bandipur National Park today. Capture stunning photos of the colorful sunrise reflecting amongst the vast landscape and keep your eyes peeled for the nocturnal animals returning from their nighttime hunts.

Afterward, enjoy a delicious breakfast, then set off for the southern Indian district of Wayanad. This natural paradise awaits you high in the Western Ghats, hidden between the lush mountains. For the next day, you’ll discover the lush rainforests, picturesque mountains, and vast spice plantations.

Travel time Bandipur National Park - Wayanad: approx. 3 hours / approx. 116 km

2 nights at My Garden of Eden with breakfast and 1x lunch in a standard room, Wayanad, India

Grab some rental bikes and head out into the picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and along the vast spice plantations. Keep your eyes peeled because, with a little bit of luck, you’ll catch a glimpse of the elusive but friendly elephant. Pass the small, local villages and enjoy a light lunch in an old bungalow. Afterward, you’ll head toward more enchanting rice fields and cross the lush forests until you reach the Kabini River. Best of all, you’ll have countless photo opportunities the entire way! When you visit the river, you’ll learn about the uninhabited Kuruva Island and its diverse wildlife. You’ll also have the option to explore this area until dusk before riding back to your accommodation.

Today you’ll continue the round trip by train to the city of Cochin, about five hours away. Make yourself comfortable and let the picturesque landscapes hypnotize you. A representative from our partner agency will greet you at Ernakulam Junction South Train Station and drive you to your next accommodation.

Another highlight awaits you in the evening: experience the traditional Kathakali dance show! During this experience, immerse yourself in the music, literature, drama, and dancing. The artists tell stories from the Hindu epics Mahabharata and Ramayana with brightly painted faces and cinematic costumes.

Travel time by train: approx. 5 hours

3 nights at The Killians Boutique Hotel**** with breakfast and 1x lunch in a standard room, Cochin, India

During your stay in the Kerala region, visiting the famous backwaters is a must.

The legendary backwaters are an extensive network of waterways that lie below sea level. In Alleppey, you’ll board a houseboat and float down the channels, allowing the tropical lagoon landscape to take your breath away. Take a very close look at what’s happening around you: the locals go about their everyday life on the water villages, visit the market, or watch the other families take their children to school by boat.

After a strengthening breakfast, you’ll begin your city tour! First, visit the Mattancherry Palace, a Portuguese palace popularly known as the Dutch Palace. In 1557, the Portuguese handed the palace over to Raja of Cochin to optimize the privileges for trade in Kerala. As a result, Dutch immigrants renovated it in the 17th century, adding two extra floors. In the coronation hall, you can view the vestments and turbans that belonged to the former rulers. For art lovers, keep your eyes on the walls. The well-preserved paintings show scenes from various ancient Indian legends and are some of India's most beautiful works of art.

Fort Cochin is the oldest European branch in India, nestled on a beautiful natural harbor on the Malabar coast. Stroll through the small, winding street and marvel at the diverse architectural influences of the many cultures that once lived here. You’ll see Dutch houses, English buildings, and two Portuguese-style churches. The Chinese fishing nets, which float on lifting beams in front of the promenade, are a beautiful sight.

Today’s destination is the mountain village, Munnar. During this four-hour drive, you’ll pass southern India’s largest tea-growing area. It’s famous for its huge tea plantations, boasting incredible views of the lush green landscapes. If you arrive early, you should definitely visit the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary or the Eravikulam National Park.

Travel time Cochin - Munnar: approx. 3.5 hours / approx. 130 km

1 night at Bracknell Forest with breakfast in a standard room, Munnar, India

Welcome to Madurai, one of the oldest cities in south India. The lively city is known for its important religious and commercial center. It lies on the banks of the Vaigi River and is a mecca for tourists: people from all over the world come here to explore the significant sanctuaries of the big city.

Be sure to visit the market halls, bars, and restaurants! Around 17:30, we will go on a street food tour. Discover eight different stalls where you will try local specialties, such as Kari Dosa, Idiyappam, and Sambar Vada. Want to try something new? Then sip on a Paruthi Pal, one of the most popular drinks among Indians.

Travel time Munnar - Madurai: approx. 4 hours / approx. 156 km

2 nights at Regency Madurai by GRT Hotels*** with breakfast in a standard room, Madurai, India

Today you’ll learn all about the city’s cultural heritage. After breakfast at your hotel, visit the famous Sri Meenakshi Temple. The temple is a major pilgrimage destination within the Shaivism tradition, dedicated to Meenakshi Devi and Shiva.

Its first impression will take your breath away. The colorfully decorated towers of the Hindu temple boasts Dravidian style, which you can see from afar. Stroll through the massive complex and learn about the oldest parts of today’s temple that dates back to the 13th century.

Hop back into your rickshaw and continue through the narrow streets of the lively city. Sit back and watch the locals go about their daily life.

Your adventure continues to Karaikudi. Use the afternoon to discover the village on your own or recover from the last few days. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool and tan in the sun.

In the evening, embark on a walking tour through the Kanadukathan village, which the Indian government declares as a cultural heritage destination. Observe the locals threading jasmine garlands and several street stalls selling bracelets, cookies, and rice — perhaps you’ll find the perfect souvenir here!

Travel time Madurai - Karaikudi: approx. 2 hours / approx. 94 km

1 night at Chettinadu Mansion**** with breakfast in a standard room, Karaikudi, India

On the way to Kumbakonam, you’ll have a stopover in Thanjavur. First, visit the Hindu temple Sri Brihadeshwara. The Chola king, Raja Raja, built the 10th-century temple, thus boasting important Chola architecture. Marvel at the colossal bull statue of Nandi, which guards the interior of the temple and the impressive wall paintings from the Chola and Nayak periods. Are you already looking forward to seeing these stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites?

Afterward, continue your tour and visit the Thanjavur Palace. The 1550 palace is a museum where you can see old king artifacts, such as clothing, hunting weapons, headgear, and more!

And that’s not all: visit the Bronze Museum, where you can marvel at the world’s best bronze statues, as well as the bronze factory and a small neighboring village that specializes in the art of statue making and stained glass.

In the evening, you’ll check into your hotel.

Travel time Karaikudi - Kumbakonam: approx. 3 hours / approx. 131 km

1 night at Sterling Swamimalai with breakfast in a standard room, Kumbakonam, India

What are you in the mood for today? Would you like to relax on the beach and explore India’s cultural heritage? All of this is possible in the small seaside resort of Mamallapuram.

Start the day with a hearty breakfast before you go on a discovery tour. Visit Arjuna’s Penance, the largest and most important bas-relief in the world. It’s carved into the wall of a rock cliff, and you can admire eight temples on the slope, which are home to various sculptures.

Another great archaeological attraction is the five rathas. The five Hindu temples are unique because of their monolithic structure. Afterward, visit the coastal temple of the popular seaside resort, which nestles directly on the golden sandy beach. The 8th-century temple is the oldest in south India.

The rest of the day is at your leisure! Would you like to relax on the beach or revisit a site you wanted to explore more? Do as you wish for the last few hours of your vacation.

Travel time Kumbakonam - Mamallapuram: approx. 4.5 hours / approx. 229 km

2 nights at Grande Bay Resort & Spa**** with breakfast in a standard room, Mamallapuram, India

Today is the last day of your trip. After breakfast, pack your bags and head to the Chennai Airport, which is approximately 90 minutes away. We hope you had an unforgettable time and return home with countless memories.

We are happy to organize an extension for you here in southern India or another region. Contact us today!

itravel - For that moment.

Hotel Regaalis****, Mysore, India (1 night)

The hotel nestles in the center of Mysore, about two kilometers from the significant Maharajah palace. After the long journey, you can relax by the outdoor pool or relax in your comfortably furnished room. The neutral-colored rooms come equipped with air conditioning, a DVD player, and a desk. At the in-house restaurant La Gardenia, they will spoil you with international delicacies. Charcoals offer grill specialties right by the pool.

Bandipur Safari Lodge, Bandipur, India (1 night)

Bandipur Safari Lodge is the ideal accommodation for observing animals in the adjacent national park: on an exciting jeep safari through the tiger reserve, you can marvel at India’s impressive fauna up close.

You will stay in one of the 22 rooms with modern amenities. At the hotel’s restaurant Gol Ghar, enjoy fresh Indian, Chinese and continental buffets. Other facilities include a bar and a campfire site.

My Garden of Eden, Wayanad, India (2 nights)

Located on a nine-hectare property, you can experience nature in the luxurious My Garden of Eden. You can look forward to a picturesque panorama picture: only seven villas offer a fantastic view over the mountains. Amenities include an en suite bathroom with a bathtub and shower and tea/coffee making facilities. Order local delicacies such as vegetarian dishes and fresh seafood at the restaurant. The fantastic outdoor pool invites you to relax, and with the morning yoga class, you can start the day deeply relaxed. The hotel also has a badminton court, library, fireplace, and barbecue facilities.

The Killians Boutique Hotel****, Cochin, India (3 nights)

After an exciting sightseeing tour through the small, winding streets of Fort Cochin, you can relax at the charming boutique hotel. Enjoy relaxing moments by the outdoor pool or pamper yourself with a soothing massage at the in-house spa area. In the 22 modern rooms, guests can look forward to a rain shower, satellite TV, safe, and tea/coffee making facilities. Because of its central location, city highlights, such as the Chinese fishing nets, can be easily reached in just a few minutes on foot. The in-house restaurant offers international dishes and South Indian specialties.

Bracknell Forest, Munnar, India (1 night)

Far away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Bracknell Forest is about ten kilometers from the Munnar city center. The boutique hotel boasts a traditional Kerala style and offers all luxurious amenities. The eleven spacious rooms all come with a balcony and a private bathroom. You can read your favorite book in the small library, and the in-house restaurant serves international dishes. Let the Indian hospitality amaze you.

Regency Madurai by GRT Hotels***, Madurai, India (2 nights)

At Regency Madurai by GRT Hotels, stay in one of the 52 comfortably furnished rooms. Enjoy Indian, Chinese, or continental delicacies in the Aharam restaurant and round off the evening with a cool drink in the Madhuram bar. Sports enthusiasts can utilize the fitness room and relax with their favorite books by the outdoor pool. Thanks to the free internet connection, you can stay in touch with your family and friends even during your trip to India. The famous Sri Meenakshi Temple is about 10 minutes from your hotel.

Chettinadu Mansion****, Karaikudi, India (1 night)

The manor house, which dates back to 1902, extends over 2,600 m² of land and, after extensive renovation, shines in new splendor: 12 rooms come furnished in a 19th-century style and have a bathroom, air conditioning, and a balcony. There’s free WiFi throughout the accommodation, and the fantastic outdoor pool invites you to relax. In the in-house restaurant, traditionally prepared dishes made from local ingredients are served on banana leaves.

Sterling Swamimalai, Kumbakonam, India (1 night)

Experience something special! The award-winning Sterling Swamimalai takes you back in time. Guests can look forward to spacious, colonial-style rooms with all modern amenities: a television, air conditioning, a minibar, a safe, and a private bathroom. The specialties of the in-house restaurant include freshly prepared vegetarian dishes from the region. In the pool, built similar to a temple bathing basin, you can relax after an eventful day.

Grande Bay Resort & Spa****, Mamallapuram, India (2 nights)

The luxury boutique hotel Grande Bay Resort offers 41 modern rooms and awaits you right on the beach. Surrounded by a green garden landscape, the resort offers friendly service and plenty of privacy. Treat yourself to a break by the inviting outdoor pool or let yourself be pampered in the in-house spa area with soothing packages. The award-winning restaurant, L’attittude 49, serves fresh delicacies, and the bar entices with first-class drinks. Mamallapuram city center is around 15 minutes away, and Arjuna’s Penance is eight kilometers away.

Duration of the trip: 16 days / 15 nights

Including

• 15 nights in the mentioned hotels (or similar) in a double room

• 15x breakfast, 3x lunch, and 1x dinner

• Assistance on arrival/departure

• Traditional Indian greeting

• Privately guided tour according to the itinerary including entrance fees with an English-speaking tour guide

• Safari in the Bandipur National Park

• Boat trip on the backwaters

• Trekking in Munnar

• Rickshaw tour in Madurai

• Street food tour in Madurai

• Kathakali dance show in Cochin

• Taxes and Fees

Excluding

• International flights

• Meals and drinks not mentioned in the scope of services

• Optional excursions

• Personal expenses, such as minibar and tips

• Insurance

• Visa

Notes

• You can book premium accommodation on request and at an additional cost.