Grand Tour of South India
Example Itinerary
Overview
Venture on an extraordinary exploration of South India, a land steeped in history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Over the course of 21 days, this meticulously curated journey will take you from ancient temples and UNESCO World Heritage Sites to tranquil backwaters and lush tea plantations, offering an immersive experience into the region's rich heritage and diverse landscapes.
From the majestic Pallava rock carvings of Mahabalipuram to the architectural grandeur of ...
Venture on an extraordinary exploration of South India, a land steeped in history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Over the course of 21 days, this meticulously curated journey will take you from ancient temples and UNESCO World Heritage Sites to tranquil backwaters and lush tea plantations, offering an immersive experience into the region's rich heritage and diverse landscapes.
From the majestic Pallava rock carvings of Mahabalipuram to the architectural grandeur of Mysore Palace, each destination unveils unique stories of dynasties, artistry, and traditions. Discover bustling temple cities like Madurai and ancient ruins in Hampi, where mythology meets history, and savour the serene beauty of Kerala’s backwaters and hill stations.
This journey also highlights South India's vibrant culture, from witnessing intricate Kathakali dance performances in Cochin to exploring artisanal crafts in Chettinadu and Kanchipuram. With expertly guided tours, breathtaking scenic routes, and a deep dive into local traditions, this tour promises an unforgettable experience, blending historical marvels with the region's warm hospitality.
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 Chennai – Mahabalipuram: Arrival
Arrive into Chennai and transfer to Mahabalipuram. This afternoon get acquainted with the coastal city and visit some of the famous temples and rock carvings dating from the 7th century reign of the Pallava dynasty including the Shore Temple, one of India’s oldest stone buildings.
Day 2 Mahabalipuram: Kanchipuram
Visit Kanchipuram, the capital of the Pallava Dynasty and one of India’s most important temple cities, as well as being renowned for its high quality hand woven silk saris. Explore the temples with their intricate carvings, artistic panels and columned halls before heading to Dakshin Chitra. Here you can stroll amongst a variety of artisanal workshops and galleries in a small open air museum before returning to Mahabalipuram.
Day 3 Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry: Gingee Fort
Continue your journey through the Pallava Dynasty by heading inland to visit the Gingee Fort complex, set across three hills and featuring formidable defenses with watchtowers and barracks surrounding a citadel, temples, granary and a beautiful mahal. The fort saw many battles and sieges and played an important part in the military history of the region. Drive back to the coast and the city of Pondicherry, with its colonial-style French quarter, take an evening rickshaw ride around the bougainvillea filled streets.
Day 4 Pondicherry – Kumbakonom: Shiva Temples
Visit the temple complex of Nataraja, dedicated to Shiva as the Lord of the Dance, this Chola Temple has beautiful carvings including on the four gopurams (towers), the many pillared halls and the passageways. The complexes at Darasuram and Gangaikonda Cholapuram are also renowned for their carvings and gopurams. Explore the temples, halls of carved pillars, stepped water tanks and marvel at the intricate statues and figures before continuing on to Kumbakonam.
Day 5 Kumbakanom – Chettinadu: UNESCO Chola Temples
Head to Thanjavur (Tanjore), capital of the great Chola empire and home to many UNESCO listed temples and monuments. In the centre of the city you will see the Brihadishwara Temple, one of the greatest architectural achievements of the Chola empire and still in use with worshippers and pilgrims coming and going. Visit the Royal Palace, a vast complex partly restored before heading to an art gallery to experience some of the artwork in the classical painting style that the city is known for, as well as bronzes and carvings. A final stop at the bronze casting studio will show you another of the traditional industries before you continue on to Chettinadu.
Day 6 Chettinadu: Classic Mansions & Traditional Industries
Chettinadu is known for its towns and villages where successful 19th century traders built mansions and homes, many of these survive and through restoration give a glimpse into the history of the trade and industry of the region. Take in some of the traditional industries including one of the tile workshops which provided exquisite décor for the mansions and where you can see the tile makers in action before visiting silk and cotton weavers producing beautiful saris and textiles.
Day 7 Chettinadu – Madurai: Evening Temple Ceremony
Drive onwards to Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India, vibrant with history, spirituality and local culture. The city is famed for its many colourful, carved temple towers rising from the Meenakshi Temple complex and forming the city skyline. The temple, covering six hectares is considered one of the best examples of Southern Indian temple architecture and each evening noise and ceremony fill the temple as the closing ceremony takes place. Visit the temple and watch the procession this evening.
Day 8 Madurai – Munnar: Bustling City to Peaceful Hills
Spend the morning in Madurai absorbing this ancient city through its palaces and busy streets. Stop in the Gandhi Memorial Museum to learn about Gandhi’s life and India’s fight for independence before you travel on to the state of Kerala heading into the rolling hills of the Western Ghats. Your base for the next two nights is Munnar, surrounded by plantations in India’s largest tea growing region.
Day 9 Munnar: Tea Plantation Hike
Explore the Letchmi Hills today on foot as you head out on a guided hike taking you through tea plantations and providing views out across the rocky and forested mountains. Later in the afternoon stop at one of the tea estates for a tour and a tasting of the teas.
Day 10 Munnar – Alleppey: Backwater Cruise
Descend from the hills to sea level where you will encounter the Kerala Backwaters, 900km of palm lined waterways stretching along the coast. The waterways connect lakes and provide livelihoods and a transport network for the many families who live on them, fishing, boating and farming as they have done for generations. Board your houseboat and set off for a cruise on the backwaters, take in the sights and sounds of the villages that you pass before mooring up for the overnight.
Day 11 Alleppey – Cochin: Traditional Kathakali Dance Performance
Awake on the tranquil waters today, after breakfast disembark and head to Fort Cochin where the influences of the Dutch, Portuguese and British are apparent. Synagogues and mosques sit side by side with the colonial buildings. The coastal city has been greeting travellers, traders and sea farers for centuries and is now home to a mix of architectural styles and cultures. This evening you can take in a performance of the traditional kathakali dancing where a story is conveyed through mime and movement of dancers in formidable costumes and make-up.
Day 12 Cochin: City Tour & Sunset Cruise
Explore Cochin visiting some of the sights which create the melting pot of cultures we see today. Take in the St Francis Church dating from the early 16th century, the Synagogue and the Dutch Palace with its European and Keralan architecture, each giving you an insight into the history of the city. Stop by the iconic Chinese fishing nets to see the fishermen in action before taking a cruise on the harbour to see the city from the water as the sun sets.
Day 13 Cochin – Ooty: Experience Indian Railways
Take to the rails today with a train journey into the Western Ghats and the city of Coimbatore from where you will transfer to Ooty high up in the Nilgiri Hills. A busy hill station, Ooty is home to temples, gardens, plantation bungalows and is surrounded by tea plantations.
Day 14 Ooty: Nilgiri Mountain Train
The Nilgiri Mountain Train is one of India’s iconic toy trains and a journey on this steam-pushed cog railway is a quintessential experience when in the hill stations. The journey to Coonoor takes you through the mountain scenery with forested hills, waterfalls and views across the plantations. In Coonoor explore the hill station and take in some of the views before returning to Ooty.
Day 15 Ooty – Mysore: Flower Market
Journey into Karnataka and the city of Mysore, known for its royal palaces and monuments, the city is strewn with grand buildings. This afternoon visit the Deveraja Market, here you will find colourful stalls selling flowers strung into garlands scenting the air as you walk through, incense and spices add to the display and the aroma making for a full introduction to the city.
Day 16 Mysore: Royal Palace
A day in Mysore gives you the opportunity to explore the city’s monuments including the Mysore Palace, one of India’s most visited sights. This intricately built building is home to pavilions and halls, all exuding opulence and grandeur with colourful paintings, decorative details and sculptures. Later visit the Chamundeswari Temple, one of the city’s finest, sat on a hill giving views out over the city, and the huge Nandi statue.
Day 17 Mysore – Hassan: Epic Jain Statue
Heading north your route will take you to the Jain complex of Shravanabelagola where you will find the 17m tall statue of Gommateshwara, carved from a single stone and sitting atop a hill. Join the pilgrims in the walk up the 614 steps to the base of the statue as well as visiting the Jain temples in the area before ending the day in the city of Hassan.
Day 18 Hassan – Belur – Halebidu – Chikmagalur: Hoysala Temples
Visit two Hoysala temple complexes today, the first at Belur where the main temple has been in use for over 900 years before moving on to Halebidu. The temples are fine examples of Hoysala architecture including intricate stone work and sculpture, star shaped platforms and elaborate doorways and platforms. Continue on to Chikmagalur, a hill station surrounded by lush forested hills and waterfalls.
Day 19 Chikmagalur – Hampi: Realm of the Monkey Gods
Drive north today through the Karnataka countryside to Hampi, capital of the Vijayanagara Empire founded in the 14th century, and an area home to over 3700 monuments spread over 29 square km and mentioned in the Ramayana as the realm of the monkey gods. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore under your own steam.
Day 20 Hampi: Ancient Ruins
A full day in this boulder-strewn open air museum will introduce you to some of India’s finest monuments. The two main areas, the Royal Centre and the Sacred Centre contain the ruins of palaces, temples, baths, aquaducts and elephant stables. Your guide will take you through the ruins, tell you of the history surrounding them, the royal stories and the fables and myths.
Day 21 Hampi: Departure
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
EXAMPLE ACCOMMODATION
Indeco Hotels Swamimalai, Kumbakonam
INDeco Swamimalai is a charming heritage hotel and part of the INDeco Leisure Hotels group, known for their focus on preserving and showcasing India's cultural heritage. INDeco Swamimalai is laid out in three 'villages', set in a 19th-century heritage building that has been lovingly restored to offer guests a unique experience. Reflecting Swamimalai's rich history in bronze casting in its design, there are a range of rooms and suites which offer different themes and character. There is also a nice little museum on site which offers up more insight into the area's history.
The Serai Chikmagalur, Chikmagalur
The Serai Chikmagalur is located on a lush hillock in the beautiful Western Ghat, surrounded by forests and in a 69 acre working coffee plantation. It is a perfectly located for those wanting to explore the Western Ghat on long day hikes, go on bird watching walks or see the nearby temples of Belur and Halebidu. The resort has beautifully designed villas equipped with all the luxury amenities and stylish interiors, some of the villas come with their own private pools. The Odyssey restaurant offers fine India cuisine and international dishes. The bar has spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and estate and is the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine. Oma s the lovely spa with a selection of wellness treatments and the stunning infinity pol is the perfect spot to relax.
Hampi's Boulders, Hampi
This wonderful property is the perfect place to enjoy some downtime when visiting Hampi. Located right on the northern banks of the Tungabhadra River about an hour from Hampi's archaeological ruins, Hampi's Boulders was created very much with nature in mind, incorporating the surrounding landscape of water and boulders into the design of the property and having as little impact as possible on the overall location. The 16 rooms are spread across the property in a range of different 'cottages', each with it's own character and design, all very spacious and with en suite bathrooms. Here guests can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature in between exploring one of India's most impressive sites.
Ideal Beach Resort, Mahabalipuram
Close to the historic town of Mahabalipuram and approximately 50km south of Chennai, the Ideal Beach Resort offers three-star accommodation in a quiet setting on the coast of the Bay of Bengal. Although a bit rough around the edges, the property has a welcoming atmosphere and a cosy look. The rooms and suites are set in blocks of two or four around the gardens, and all feature a balcony or terrace. The swimming pool has a children’s area and the private beach has a lifeguard for swimming during the day. After exploring the shore temple and coastline, relax in the spa or multi-cuisine restaurant.
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.
Bangala Hotel, Chettinadu
With traditional interiors and beautiful gardens the traditional Bangala Homestay offers guests a chance to take a step back in time in comfort. Set in Chettinad, a region with its own distinct culture and traditions, the hotel reflects the lavish Chettiar's lifestyle. Serving a seven course meal consititing of the world famous chettinad cuisine every day, the hotel also provides fitness, spa and pool facilities. The rooms are large and decorated and furnished with Chettinad mosaic work and antique furniture. With your morning tea served to you in your room and a library filled with classic and local books to browse there are many little extras to keep you occupied during your stay at this hotel.
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.
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.
Maison Perumal, Pondicherry
Located within the Tamil quarter of Pondicherry, Maison Perumal is a mix of traditional Tamil and French architecture. The heritage property is a restored 130-year-old Chettiar mansion featuring impressive columns, airy courtyards and high ceilings. The fourteen rooms are also an ode to Chettiar interior design yet feature modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Some rooms also feature a bathtub and/or look over the quiet indoor courtyard. The speciality of the restaurant is creole cuisine but there are also many other dining options within walking distance.
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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
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EXPERT TEAM
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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.
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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