Wild South India
Example Itinerary
To view images fullscreen please turn device
Overview
The focus of Dravidian culture for centuries and home to some 25% of the country’s total population of tigers, South India presents visitors with a stunning diversity of cultural and natural highlights. This spectacular journey into the rich landscapes of the Western Ghats provides a seemingly endless array of temples and national parks, as you travel from the palaces of Mysore to the breathless majesty of Periyar National Park, finally reaching the backwaters of Kerala.
The ...
The focus of Dravidian culture for centuries and home to some 25% of the country’s total population of tigers, South India presents visitors with a stunning diversity of cultural and natural highlights. This spectacular journey into the rich landscapes of the Western Ghats provides a seemingly endless array of temples and national parks, as you travel from the palaces of Mysore to the breathless majesty of Periyar National Park, finally reaching the backwaters of Kerala.
The adventure begins amongst the elegant reminders of the once princely state of Mysore, where you’ll have a chance to visit the city’s stunning palace and the towering Sri Chamundeswari Temple, before continuing on to the Nagarhole National Park, famous for the largest gathering of Asian elephants. A chance for safari drives in the ‘Project Tiger’ reserves of Nagarhole and Bandipur is then followed by a visit to Wayanad for some tea tasting and fantastic trekking through the spice and tea plantations of the Western Ghats before a journey aboard the famed Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
Next stop is Thekkady, home to the famous species rich forests of the Periyar National Park. Here you will enjoy a guided bamboo rafting safari with knowledgeable ex-poachers who have turned their expertise to the protection of the animals that they once hunted. The adventure continues to Alleppey for a private houseboat cruise exploring the Keralan Backwaters before finally concluding in Cochin, the oldest settlement in India
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Explore the jungles of Nagarhole & Bandipur searching for tigers, leopards, wild dogs, bison & sloth bears
- Enjoy a fascinating tour of Mysore’s famous flower market, palace and monuments
- Ride aboard the famous Toy Train of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, through the lush mountains
- Bamboo raft through the natural beauty of Periyar National Park, searching for wildlife and bird species
- Hike through the tea plantations of the Banasura Hills near Wayanad
- Embark on a private cruise through the world-renowned Keralan Backwaters
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 Bangalore – Mysore: Arrival
On arrival in Bangalore today, you will be met at the airport by your Wild Frontiers representative and driven to Mysore, travelling via the culturally and historically important town of Srirangapatnam.
Day 2 Mysore: Royal Palaces & Flower Market
A day in the cultural capital of Karnataka provides an opportunity to enjoy the city that once lay at the heart of the Mysore Princely Kingdom. Begin the day with a visit to the colourful and less-visited Devaraja Flower Market, a wonderful way to observe daily life in the city. Long renowned for its festivals and palaces, Mysore is home to a stunning array of highlights including the sumptuous majesty of the Mysore Palace. Later you will pay a visit to the towering Sri Chamundeswari Temple, sitting resplendently on the summit of Chamundi Hill, before driving on to Somnathpur, to visit the Hoysala temple of Chennakesava.
Day 3 Mysore – Nagarhole National Park: Boat Safari
After being collected from your hotel this morning, you'll then be driven on towards the beautiful landscapes of Nagarhole, renowned for its scenic splendour and national parks. The area is home to one of India's famous Project Tiger reserves and the three-hour journey on to Kabini will get you to the hotel in time to join an afternoon boat safari along the river.
Day 4 Nagarhole National Park: Boat Safari & Birdwatching
Lying amongst the lush foothills of the Western Ghats, Nagarhole National Park provides a haven for a host of wildlife species including Indian bison, elephants, sloth bears, leopards and tigers. There are a number of activities on offer during your stay here including morning canter safaris, afternoon boat trips on the Kabini River, birdwatching tours, night walks and coracle rides.
Day 5 Nagarhole National Park – Bandipur National Park: Jungle Safari
This morning transfer to Bandipur National Park, one of India's best-known reserves and another of the country's important Project Tiger reserves. Situated in the Chamarajangar district of southern Karnataka, the park stretches across some 874 square kilometres and provides shelter for a number of India's most endangered species including gaurs, sloth bears, tigers and four-horned antelope. After a chance to check in and freshen up, this afternoon you will enjoy your first safari in the park.
Day 6 Bandipur National Park: Game Drives
As well as its game, Bandipur National Park is also home to over 200 species of birds including honey buzzards, Indian vultures, bee-eaters, crested serpent eagles and a whole array of kingfishers. Morning and afternoon game drives today present a chance to search out some of this abundant wildlife.
Day 7 Bandipur – Wayanad: Ancient Cave Paintings
Journeying further into the Western Ghats today, you enter a land of green forested mountains, lakes, waterfalls and spice, coffee and tea plantations. Stop to visit one of the region’s highlights, the Edakkal Caves, here you will find ancient paintings dating to 6000BC depicting humans, animals, tools and unknown symbols. Once at your plantation lodge the remainder of the day is free for you to take a walk through the coffee plantation, perhaps spotting some of the 120 species of birds that make the plantation their home. Alternatively you may like to relax by the pool, taking in the views or enjoy an ayurvedic massage.
Day 8 Wayanad: Mountain Hike
Explore the region on foot today, heading out on a hike through forests and grasslands, along ridges and taking in the views of the spectacular mountains. The trail, which can be adapted for your abilities, will take you past a spectacular lake before heading up to a small mountain summit named locally after a majestic demon, before you continue along the ridge taking in the views. Heading down into the valleys you will arrive at gushing streams where you can rest before traversing the next incline to a further valley, where you follow the river over and around boulders until you reach a waterfall creating natural pools.
Day 9 Wayanad – Ooty: Hill Station
Drive on to the town of Ooty, a once popular hill station set amongst the Nilgiri Hills. Located in the heart of lofty mountains and dense forest, the town used to be a popular getaway for the British of the colonial Raj and still retains some reminders of its genteel past.
Day 10 Ooty - Coonoor – Pollachi: Nilgiri Mountain Railway
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is one of the oldest mountain railways in India. Running through the Western Ghats between Ooty and Coonoor, the railroad was built by the British in 1908 and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. Still operated by a fleet of steam locomotives, it offers a wonderful glimpse of a golden era of travel, as you spend the day enjoying a sedate and spectacular journey through the lush hills and tea plantations aboard the famous 'Toy Train'. Upon arrival at Coonoor railway station, transfer to Tranquil Tea to experience the tea tasting programme with an accompanying lunch. Then continue via road to Pollachi and arrive at your hotel for the night.
Day 11 Pollachi - Thekkady: Local Artisans & Boat Trip
Transfer to Thekkady, before checking into the hotel to visit the spice plantation. The spice village was designed with local artisans and farmers to ensure the village is in harmony with the surrounding environment. In the evening proceed for boating at Thekkady, exploring the unique ecosystem of Periyar Lake.
Day 12 Thekkady: Nature Reserve Hike
The morning will be spent in Periyar Nature Reserve, 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. The reserve is also used by local tribes people for fishing and swimming. Periyar Nature Reserve 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 13 Thekkady – Alleppey: Backwaters Cruise
Heading back onto the alluvial plains that lie between the Western Ghats and the Indian Ocean, this morning you will journey by road to the town of Alleppey. 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 14 Alleppey – Cochin: Coastal Colonial City
Disembarking this morning you will travel by road to Cochin, the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea'. The oldest European settlement in India, Cochin is a vibrant mix of Arab, Chinese, European and Indian influences and home to the oldest church and the oldest synagogue in the country. This evening you will have the option to enjoy a remarkable performance of Kerala's famous Kathakali dancing.
Day 15 Cochin: Departure
This morning you will be transferred to the airport in time for your onward flight. For those looking to spend some time in Cochin we have a wonderful array of experiences on offer, from a cooking class with a local chef to a wonderful storytelling insight into the many myths and rituals behind every day Indian life. Alternatively for those looking for some downtime on the beach, there are a number of stunning properties available to while away your final days.
EXAMPLE ACCOMMODATION
The Serai Bandipur, Bandipur National Park
Inspired by the jungle and villages in the vicinity, The Serai in Bandipur is nestled within the Niligiri Mountain Range, making for an intimate nature stay. Rooms are built seamlessly into the surrounding forests, so don’t be surprised if you catch a glimpse of a deer peering through your window. The Mountain View courtyard hosts a number of rooms designed with natural materials with a little garden at the front as well as a verandah with a view at the back. Rustic log huts are raised on stilts, ideal for bird watching from your private verandah surrounded by the lush greenery of the Western Ghats. The sophisticated wall to wall glass windows at the bar keep nature in sight and are ideal for a sunset cocktail. The restaurant has indoor air-conditioned dining, as well as the option to eat out on the deck. Local cuisine is the speciality here but there are a few international dishes on the menu for a taste of home. If the calming powers of nature are not enough than the Spa can massage away the tension and rejuvenate the spirit through western and eastern holistic techniques.
Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge, Kabini
On the banks of the Kabini River, the heartland of the Kadu Kuruba tribe, is the beautiful Evolve Back (previously Orange County), a luxurious eco-friendly lodge in Nagarhole National Park. The comfortable yet rustic huts have been built to reflect the local tribal villages and surrounding nature without compromising on the comforts of the west on the inside. The thirty thatched roof bungalow huts have either private pools or Jacuzzis and all have access to the riverside infinity pool. Guests can enjoy a meal whilst watching the sunset from either of the two restaurants which serve local and international dishes, and grill platters. There is also an Ayurvedic spa, ideal for resting your muscles after a long day on safari in the nearby Bandipur and Nagerhole National Parks.
Eighth Bastion, Cochin
Located in the heart of the bustling heritage town of Fort Kochi, an hour and a half drive from Cochin Airport, is the charming Eighth Bastion Hotel. Inspired by the heyday of the Dutch East India Company, the interiors feature maritime antiques and artwork. The restaurant specialises in cuisine based on Indo Dutch flavours and leads out onto the small courtyard with an outdoor pool. The rooms contain contemporary furniture but still hint to the hotels nautical theme, and some come complete with a veranda or balcony. The hotel is close to the Dutch cemetery and Dutch Palace, interesting remains of Fort Kochi’s rich colonial past.
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.
Royal Orchid Metropole Hotel, Mysore
A deluxe four star heritage property that was originally built by the Maharajah of Mysore back in the early 1920s, the centrally located Royal Orchid Metropole Hotel is steeped in the history and culture of Mysore. Its thirty beautifully appointed suites are divided between its twelve regal Heritage rooms and a choice of well-appointed Royal and Maharajah suites. The ornate restaurant offers an exotic selection of dishes inspired by the tiger reserves from across India whilst the open-air restaurant is known for its barbecued delights. Be transported back to the time of the Maharajahs with a decadent high tea at the lounge. The hotel has a gym and an outdoor pool for peaceful escape in the heart of Mysore.
Willow Hill, Ooty
Set in the hills outside Ooty, Willow Hill is surrounded by tea plantations offering guests a serene and tranquil retreat whilst still in reach of the charms of this hill station. Built in a log cabin style, the small lodge has spacious rooms opening on to the garden or looking out to the mountains, each has wooden flooring and panelling and colourful textiles creating a warm and welcoming ambiance. Meals are served in the cosy dining room and guests can relax with a board game in the evening after a day exploring.
Coco Lagoon, Pollachi
Coco Lagoon Pollachi, is located in the outskirts of the Coimbatore district in Tamil Nadu, it is a resort that's nestled in a coconut grove in the countryside of Pollachi. The hotel has a selection of different rooms, pool villas, deluxe rooms and royal suites. The hotel has a swimming pool and an inhouse restaurant that serves Southern India Keralan cuisine and also international food.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
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 two people 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
Our team of experts have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.
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