South India Family Adventure
Example Itinerary
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Overview
Sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and the fertile hills of the Western Ghats, Kerala has with good reason been christened Gods Own Country. A land of beaches and backwaters, lush tea plantations and spices, it enjoys a cultural heritage that can trace its influences back to Chinese, Arab and European traders.
The journey begins in historic Cochin, The Queen of the Arabian Sea, where you’ll have a chance to enjoy its rich mix of Indian and European traditions including Kathakali ...
Sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and the fertile hills of the Western Ghats, Kerala has with good reason been christened Gods Own Country. A land of beaches and backwaters, lush tea plantations and spices, it enjoys a cultural heritage that can trace its influences back to Chinese, Arab and European traders.
The journey begins in historic Cochin, The Queen of the Arabian Sea, where you’ll have a chance to enjoy its rich mix of Indian and European traditions including Kathakali dancing and Keralan cuisine, before boarding your own private houseboat to explore the beautiful and idyllic backwaters. Next continue into the Western Ghats to the hill resort of Munnar. Set against the backdrop of lush tea plantations, you will then explore the wildlife rich landscapes of Periyar Tiger Reserve by bamboo raft and on foot. The next part of the journey takes you east into Madurai and Tamil Nadu. Often overlooked, Tamil Nadu is the cultural heartland of South India and taking in some of the country’s most authentic cultural experiences, known for the finest cuisine, providing a richly contrasting insight into the traditions, heritage and flavour of one of India's most fascinating regions.
Have time to explore the pristine Palani hills in Dindigul. Enjoy some uniquely crafted tours around Madurai and Chettinad and visit traditional artisan workshops that have endured and flourished for generations. The final part of this journey will take you to the beaches of Tamil Nadu, where you can choose to spend time relaxing by the beach and also go kayaking or surfing making the most of the beautiful coast.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
How Tailor-Made Works
Discuss your initial ideas with one of our experts, the types of things you want to see and do.
Your expert will start designing your perfect trip. Within a day or two we'll send a suggested itinerary.
At this stage you can still tweak anything from accommodation to experiences and dates, using our expert advice.
Time to prepare for your trip, safe in the knowledge you'll be in the expert hands of local guides and drivers throughout.
Relax and enjoy...through our partners you'll have support on the ground as well as 24-hour emergency assistance in the UK.
Example Itinerary
This is an example itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes and budget, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 Cochin: Arrival
Arrive into Cochin and transfer to your hotel to rest a little after the flight. This evening you can take in a performance of Kathakali dancing, this traditional form of dance sees the players put on extravagant costumes and formidable make up before telling ancient stories and southern Indian heritage tales through dance.
Day 2 Cochin: Cookery Class & City Tour
You will start today by heading to the market with a local lady who will teach you about the various produce and introduce you to ingredients before you head to her home to enjoy a culinary adventure in cooking up some true Keralan cuisine. Once created you will be able to sit down with your host and enjoy your lunch. Afterwards head out into the city, known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea”, the city has been home to many cultures arriving by sea to trade and explore over the centuries, it is now a vibrant blend of Arab, Chinese, European and Indian influences. As you visit the churches, synagogues and palaces you will see the blend of architecture amidst the busy streets.
Day 3 Cochin – Backwaters: Backwater Cycle
Cycling along the backwaters of Kerala is the quintessential Keralan experience. Ride along the Kochi coast with views of unevenly spread backwaters accompanying you all the way. Cycling through small fishing villages and past lush coconut trees, you will reach a serene part of the backwaters. Hop on to a canoe and immerse yourself in the beautiful backwater scenery as you float through a small stretch of the backwaters. Enjoy a short break in a village before the tour comes to an end and you transfer a short way by car to the jetty, here you will board your private houseboat for an exploration of the remarkable Keralan backwaters, the ideal way to observe life amongst the channels and waterways of the west coast.
Day 4 Backwaters – Munnar: Plantation Walk
Today you leave the backwaters of Kerala behind and head into the lush hills of the Western Ghats and the hill-town resort of Munnar. Strategically located at the confluence of three rivers, the town sits high amongst the cool highlands, surrounded by tea plantations and the mist shrouded hills of the Western Ghats. Relax and enjoy the pool this afternoon or later on head out on a guided plantation walk to learn about the different spices growing as well as spotting some of the animals and birds that make the area their home.
Day 5 Munnar: Tea Museum & National Park
Today explore Munnar and its surroundings, starting with a visit to the Tea Museum and some of the tea plantations which the town is famous for. Here you will learn about the different varieties of the most consumed beverage in the world and the different stages of processing it, finishing with a tea tasting session. Then proceed to the nearby Eravikulam National Park which, with an area of 97 sq. km, is home to the largest population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, an endemic species of ungulates in the south-western Ghats and is the state animal of Tamil Nadu. Other species you may be lucky to spot include the Nilgiri marten, small clawed otter, ruddy mongoose, dusky striped squirrel, several endemic species of birds and rare butterflies. Later in the day return to your hotel and in the evening enjoy a short cycle ride around the hill plantations.
Day 6 Munnar – Thekkady: Through the Western Ghats
Today you will be collected from your hotel in Munnar and transferred to Thekkady. The journey will take you past the lush forests of the Western Ghats and beautiful spice plantations. On route, stop at a spice plantation, before continuing to Thekkady. This journey usually takes 3.5 hours, depending on traffic. On arrival at Thekkady, you will be transferred to your hotel. Thekkady is the home of the Periyar National Park, home to numerous species of mammals and birds.
Day 7 Thekkady: Wildlife Spotting
The morning will be spent in Periyar National Park, hiking and bamboo rafting through some of the wilder forest of the reserve. Animals such as tigers, elephants, sambar, giant squirrels and Nilgiri langur may be spotted. Periyar National Park is a treat for wildlife enthusiasts and ornithologists alike, with its rich fauna and vast open land, a wonderful place to experience some of southern India’s wildlife. In the early evening you can also enjoy a birdwatching walk led by a specialist naturalist guide.
Day 8 Thekkady – Madurai: Evening Temple Ceremony
Today you will be collected from your hotel in Thekkady and transferred to the vibrant temple city of Madurai. Along the way, you will have the chance to stop for a cup of tea and to take photographs. Later this afternoon with your guide explore Madurai, the backstreets, markets and visit the temple for the evening ceremony. Tracing its history back some 2,500 years, the Temple City of Madurai offers a superb setting for an evening tour. Laid out in the shape of a lotus, the old city is built around the ornate majesty of the Sri Meenakshi Temple, a spectacular pastiche of Dravidian architecture that covers an area of some six hectares. One of India's finest Shiva temples, the temple complex incorporates 12 stunningly decorated gopurams that rise up some 50 metres above the surrounding courtyards and shrines. Spend some time exploring the temple with your guide before watching the daily closing ceremony involving music and chanting.
Day 9 Madurai – Dindigul: Peaceful Retreat
This morning you will be transferred to Dindigul, where on arrival you can enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the beautiful countryside or relaxing on the property.
Day 10 Dindigul: Farm & Village Visit
Let the hillside views and smell of coffee and lemon growing on the estate lull you into a deep sense of serenity. This 18th century property has changed very little over the last century and so has the lifestyle. One thousand metres above sea level ensures a welcome escape from the South Indian tropical heat. Spend your free day visiting the farm and nearby village, looking for birdlife along an estate path or snoozing in the hammock under the shade of the trees. There are also guided excursions from the estate such as nature walks and visits to the hill station of Kodaikanal.
Day 11 Dindigul – Chettinadu: Palani Hills Drive
Today you will be collected from your hotel in Dindigul and transferred to Chettinad via the beautiful landscapes of the Palani Hills.
Day 12 Chettinadu: Mansions & Local Industries
After breakfast, your driver and guide will show you around the Chettinad region. The area is known for its art, culture and heritage, with grand mansions which were built by the Chettiar community, wealthy bankers and businessmen who emigrated in the late 19th and 20th centuries and sent back lavish furnishings and materials to their families in Tamil Nadu. The mansions feature impressive hand-made tiles, which you can observe being made at a local Athangudi tile factory. There may also be the chance to visit a nearby sweet factory and try making some treats yourself, as well as a cotton sari weaving centre to learn how to wear a sari. Spend some time learning about the strong religious beliefs of the Chettiars with visits to some of the temples.
Day 13 Chettinadu – Trichy – Covelong: To the Beach
This morning your guide and driver will transfer you to Trichy airport, where you will board your flight for Chennai. On arrival you will transfer to nearby Covelong to enjoy the next few days on the golden beaches.
Day 14 Covelong: At leisure
Explore this small fishing town which is known for its surf, there are also other activities such as wind surfing, SUP, yoga and kayaking on offer. Alternatively take the time to relax and rest on the beach enjoying the low key vibe of the town.
Day 15 Covelong: At Leisure
A further day at leisure to enjoy the beach.
Day 16 Covelong: Departure
This morning you will be transferred to the airport in time for your onward flight.
EXAMPLE ACCOMMODATION
Windermere Hotel, Munnar
Located just outside Munnar, on a 60 acre coffee and cardamom plantation set along the slopes of the Western Ghats, the Windermere Hotel is a traditional property with 18 comfortable rooms and cottages that overlook the mountains and the lush hills of the Chithirapuram Valley. All the rooms come with balconies and large panoramic windows, whilst the hotel's restaurant offers local Keralan cuisine, family inspired recipes and a western style breakfast. Please note the restaurant does not sell alcohol. Guided trekking options around the estate and the surrounding plantations are also available.
Taj Fishermans Cove, Mahabalipuram
Situated between Chennai and Mahabalipuram, the five-star Taj Fishermans Cove offers a peaceful beach escape. The property is built on the walls of an old Dutch fort along the coastline of the Bay of Bengal. The private beachfront location ensures delicious fresh seafood is served at the romantic beachside restaurant. The multi-cuisine restaurant and poolside bar also provide stunning settings for wining and dining. The Scandinavian style cottages are spread around the tropical gardens and some feature an outdoor shower, sea views and/or a private garden. There are also rooms in the main building. Activities include olive ridley turtle walks (Jan-Apr), city tours and Mahabalipuram day trips, perfectly complimented by a treatment in the spa or work out in the fitness centre.
Visalam, Chettinadu
Visalam is a real gem in the heart of Tamil Nadu where a warm and friendly staff will go out of their way to make your stay an unforgettable experience. This century old mansion, has been converted into a lovely boutique hotel comprising of 15 very spacious rooms, simply furnished yet with a warm and elegant character. The central courtyard surrounded by colonnades and featuring traditional tiles transports you to the opulent time of the Chettiar lifestyle. Hidden within the garden is an outdoor pool with bubble jets, located next to the dining area. At Visalam you can savour the flavours and aromas of Southern India and even try your hand at cooking by attending the hotel’s culinary demonstration. Alcohol is not served here. As with most CGH properties, filtered water is served in glass bottles and there are daily experiences included such as Kolam making or village cycling.
Spice Village, Thekkady
Spice Village is set within fourteen acres of forest covered hills on the border of Periyar Tiger Reserve. Influenced by the native people of the region the roofs of the 47 cottages are thatched using elephant grass in the unique way of Mannan tribes of Periyar. The cottages are surrounded by fruit trees and spice plantations, which attract squirrels and monkeys, and all feature private bathrooms and a verandah. The restaurant serves Keralan cuisine, whilst the unique 50 Mile restaurant resources its ingredients only from within 50 miles of the resort in order to reduce its carbon footprint. Hidden within the spice garden are basketball, badminton and tennis courts for the more active guests, whilst the swimming pool is surrounded by swaying palms that provide a sense of tranquillity and calm, especially when paired with an Ayurveda massage. There are daily experiences included such as paper making, cooking demonstrations and musical performances. Spice Village has its own vermicomposting plant where most of the daily waste is recycled and almost all the energy is resourced from solar power.
Heritage Madurai, Madurai
Once the housed community of a British company, Heritage Madurai is now a four-star hotel within the city of Madurai. The reception leads onto the breakfast room, lounge bar and temple style outdoor pool. There is also the special opportunity to dine under a 200-year-old banyan tree in the restaurant designed by Geoffrey Bawa. The rooms are set in blocks and the villas feature private plunge pools and a sun deck. A pottery demonstration area and traditional tea shop are complimentary for guests and are in the gardens. Additionally, there is a spa, badminton court and a gym for recreational time.
Rajakkad Estate, Dindigul
Set in the Palami Hills of Tamil Nadu, amidst forest and coffee plantations, the Rajakkad Estate is a small garden hotel that offers peace and tranquillity - a paradise for bird lovers. Seven spacious bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms have their own entrance connecting to the surrounding garden, courtyard pools and covered walkways. Delicious South Indian food and freshly ground coffee are served with fresh ingredients from the local farm.
Xandari Houseboat, Alleppey
Experience seamless panorama of life and scenery on the backwaters in a one bedroom, two bedrooms, or three-bedroom houseboat, each designed with great care and attention to detail by Xandari and built by local craftsmen. These 'Kettuvallams', as they’re known locally, are comfortable and plush, and are built to deliver the escape and relaxation that take one away from all kinds of stress. Each bedroom is spacious enough in its 14 square meters, with en suite bathrooms, large picture windows, and an option of either one double or two single beds. To maintain a tranquil backwater experience, our boats are television free zones. Xandari Riverscapes is a water-based houseboat operation, and so relationships have been established with local farmers to supply the local rice from Kerala’s noted paddy, and as much produce as possible. Additionally, duck farmers throughout the backwaters supply their meats daily, and local fishermen provide much shellfish and the famous local fish, Karimeen otherwise known as Pearl Spot.
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Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
MEALS
TRANSPORT
ENTRANCE FEES
EXPERT TEAM
ACCOMMODATION
WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on a family of four (children 12 years or younger), travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
Positive Impact of this Trip
Making a Difference
Community Tourism
People and local communities have always been at the heart of Wild Frontiers and the travel experiences we offer. Through community tourism we have the opportunity to generate real positive impact, supporting people we visit through sustainable local development, and in turn help to alleviate poverty and protect culture and environments in often more vulnerable destinations. While doing so, our clients gain richer travel experiences and more meaningful connections with the people they meet.
Conservation and Climate Action
As a travel company, we hold a responsibility to minimise our environmental footprint and contribute to sustainability, and work closely with local communities to support their efforts. By implementing initiatives such as carbon measuring, tree-planting, reducing single-use plastic and promoting eco-friendly practices, we can help mitigate the negative impacts of tourism on fragile ecosystems and local communities. Additionally, prioritising conservation efforts helps preserve natural habitats and wildlife, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of our planet.
Wild Frontiers Foundation
The Wild Frontiers Foundation aims to provide a platform to create awareness, raise money and deliver funding to projects in countries where we operate as a travel company. Through the foundation, we are able to channel money into grass roots projects, which we have either established ourselves or support through charity partners. These include initiatives focused around education, the empowerment of local people and community conservation.
START PLANNING YOUR TRIP
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WHY WILD FRONTIERS?
Expert travel consultants
Up-to-date knowledge and advice from our experienced consultants on the best places to stay, things to do and regions to visit to make your holiday the trip of a lifetime.
EXPERIENCED LOCAL GUIDES
We use experienced local guides to help bring the sights to life, introduce you to local characters and ensure you get under the skin of your destination.
HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.
24-HOUR SUPPORT
Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.Meet the expert, Shalmali
Shalmali is our Indian Subcontinent expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Shalmali by calling
+44 (0)20 3944 6258
OTHER ITINERARIES IN INDIA
Check out our group tours in India
As well as private tailor-made trips, we also offer small group tours (max size 12) to India. Led by an experienced tour leader, travel with a group of like-minded people on one of our award-winning group tours.
View Group Tours in India