Best of South India
Experience Kerala to Tamil Nadu: cozy hill stations and jungle safaris in Wayanad & Mudumalai, colonial heritage in Kochi & Mamallapuram, spiritual aroma in Madurai, and tranquil backwaters.
Country
India
Duration
14 Days
Difficulty
Moderate
Trip Type
Trekking
Max Altitude
2100m / 6889ft
Best Season
anytime
Accomodation
Hotel and Lodge twin sharing bed basis during the trek
Meals
All meals ( Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast) during the trek
Start/End Point
Kochi
Highlights & Overview
Sunrise views over tea hills and colonial architecture of KochiMisty hill roads through Wayanad’s spices and forestsWildlife safari in MudumalaiMajestic royal palaces, temples, and markets in Mysore & MaduraiCoastal history & rock-cut temples of MamallapuramBackwaters houseboat cruise through Kerala’s waterscape
This 14-day Kerala & South India guided journey blends nature, culture, history, and relaxation in one seamless itinerary. Starting from the coastal and colonial charm of Kochi, you move inland to scenic hill stations in Wayanad, observing spice plantations and rainforests. Wildlife enthusiasts will treasure safari experiences in Mudumalai, followed by immersive cultural exposure in Mysore and Madurai with its vibrant temples. Historic Mamallapuram offers seaside temples carved in stone and relaxed beach-village ambiance. The journey culminates in a serene houseboat ride through Kerala’s famed backwaters, ending in Kochi with spiritual visits and local crafts. With varied altitudes—from sea level to hills over 2000m—this trip gives travellers a multi-zone experience without hardcore trekking, ideal for those wanting beauty, wildlife, heritage and relaxation all in one holistic trip.
Best of South India Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kochi
Arrive at Kochi airport, where our representative greetings await you. Transfer to your hotel and unwind. Kochi (Cochin), known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea,” has been a major spice-trade hub since colonial times. Its rich architecture, gold jewelry trade, and cosmopolitan food reflect Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Evening at leisure enjoying Kerala cuisine.
Max Altitude
0m / 0ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 2: Explore Kochi
After breakfast, enjoy a full morning sightseeing tour: wander Fort Kochi and marvel at its Chinese fishing nets, visit the Dutch Palace, Jew Town with its antique shops and centuries-old synagogue. Then explore the spice market and St Francis Church. In afternoon glide through Kochi backwaters flanked by coconut palms; later enjoy Marine Drive, Willington Island, and museums. Evening Kathakali performance. Overnight in Kochi hotel.
Max Altitude
0m / 0ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 3: Kochi to Wayanad (Kalpetta)
Depart Kochi by train and drive to Kalpetta in Wayanad. Wayanad is called the Green Paradise in northern Kerala, with tea, coffee, spice plantations, dense rainforests and tribal culture still thriving. On arrival relax in your hotel, soak in the natural surroundings.
Max Altitude
1100m / 3609ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 4: Nature & Culture in Wayanad
After breakfast, visit Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and explore its 13 reserved forests, then head to Edakkal Caves in Ambukuthi Hills, Glass House in Kottamuda, Pazhassi Tomb, Chembra Peak if time allows, Banasurasagar Dam or Padinjarethara reservoir. Overnight stay in or near Wayanad.
Max Altitude
2100m / 6889ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 5: Wayanad to Mudumalai Sanctuary
Travel from Wayanad to Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary. Enjoy afternoon safari exploring valleys, swamps, hills meeting the plains. See elephants, Indian bison, deer, perhaps tiger or panther, many birds. Overnight at lodge/hotel in or near Mudumalai.
Max Altitude
1200m / 3937ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 6: Mudumalai to Mysore
Early departure to Mysore. On arrival, explore Mysore Palace (especially in evening if illuminated), Chamundi Hills with its temple and giant Nandi statue, Lalitha Mahal, local markets and crafts. Overnight in Mysore.
Max Altitude
920m / 3018ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 7: Mysore Morning & Overnight Train to Chennai
After a morning exploring galleries (e.g. Jaganmohan Palace), Karanji Lake with butterfly park and bird sanctuary, then board overnight train to Chennai. Overnight on train or at Chennai as per schedule.
Max Altitude
6m / 20ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 8: Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram)
Arrive at Mamallapuram, famous for ancient Dravidian temples and rock-cut monuments. Visit Shore Temple, Five Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance, and enjoy beachside walks or bike rides. Overnight in Mamallapuram.
Max Altitude
10m / 33ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 9: More Mamallapuram & Beaches
Attend morning arti ceremony at Thirukadalmallai Temple, explore Varaha Cave Temple, Trimurti Cave, and shop local crafts in Mamallapuram. Leisure time by the beach. Overnight in hotel.
Max Altitude
10m / 33ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 10: Mamallapuram to Madurai via Pondicherry (Train + Drive)
Depart Mamallapuram early, drive to Pondicherry to explore its French colonial heritage, then take train to Madurai. Arrive in Madurai, check into hotel, explore nearby temples if time.
Max Altitude
137m / 449ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 11: Madurai Temples & Culture
Full day in Madurai: rickshaw ride, visit Vandiyur Mariamman Temple, Meenakshi Temple, Koodal Azhagar Temple, Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple, Gandhi Museum, and walk through markets. Evening rituals at Meenakshi Temple.
Max Altitude
137m / 449ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 12: Madurai to Thekkady via Periyar National Park
Drive to Thekkady in Idukki District, Kerala. Arrive and explore Periyar National Park, spice plantations, enjoy bamboo raft ride on Periyar Lake, wildlife sightings in reserve. Overnight in houseboat or hotel.
Max Altitude
1000m / 3280ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 13: Thekkady to Backwaters / Houseboat in Kerala
Travel from Thekkady toward Kerala backwaters region. Board houseboat, cruise through palm canals, observe coastal village life. Relax into the tranquil backwaters. Overnight on houseboat.
Max Altitude
5m / 16ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 14: Kochi Back & Final Exploration
Morning drive to Alappuzha (Alleppey), cruise through backwaters, then drive back to Kochi via villages roads. In the afternoon explore Ambalapuzha Sreekrishna Temple, Pathiramanal Island for birdlife. Return to Kochi and transfer to airport for departure.
Max Altitude
5m / 16ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Breakfast
Price Includes
Accommodation in kochi twin sharing basis with breakfast.Accommodation in Hotel and Lodge twin sharing bed basis during the trek.All Transportation AC / Qulise, Innova / Xylo / Mini Tourist BusGuide/ leader (Experienced Tour and Trek Guide will lead the tour).All monument fees, Permit arrangement, All taxes and VAT in Darjling ,SkkimAll meals (lunch, Dinner and Breakfast) during the trek.Basis medical kit.Accommodation, meals, insurance, equipment, and allowances of guide and porter.Price Doesn't Include
Entry Visa fees India.Travel and medical insurance.Personal expenses (laundry, bar bills, snacks, phone calls, internet.)Tips for guide and driver (tipping is expected)Loss, theft or damage to baggage and personal effects. (We strongly advise you to get personal travel insurance.)Packing Lists
Cloathing
Lightweight trousers, shirtsWarm layer (fleece / sweater) for hill stationsRain jacket or poncho (Thekkady / monsoon)Comfortable walking shoes and sandalsHat / sunscreen protectionGears
Daypack for carry essentialsWater bottle or hydration packSunglasses / sunscreen / insect repellentCamera / mobile with charger / power bankPersonal Items
Medications / first aid kitToiletries (toothbrush, soap, wash items)Copies of passport / ID / travel documentsWet wipes / hand sanitizerOther Items You Can Bring
Snacks / energy barsLocal currency (INR) for small purchasesRain cover for bagLight binoculars for views & birdwatching