Overview
This immersive journey through South India has been thoughtfully designed to showcase the region’s diverse cultural heritage, spiritual depth, scenic landscapes, and unique wildlife experiences. Beginning in Bangalore, the itinerary takes you to the awe-inspiring ruins of Hampi, followed by the royal grandeur of Mysore and the rich wildlife of Kabini.
The journey then transitions into the cultural heart of Tamil Nadu, covering Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Thanjavur, Madurai, and Rameswaram, before concluding amidst the lush greenery and tranquil backwaters of Kerala, including Thekkady, Kumarakom, and Cochin.
Carefully balanced with comfortable travel, curated experiences, and premium stays, this itinerary ensures a seamless blend of exploration and relaxation.
Destinations Covered
Bangalore Hampi Mysore Kabini Chennai Mahabalipuram Pondicherry Thanjavur Madurai Rameswaram Thekkady Kumarakom CochinHighlights
- Discover the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi, featuring the iconic Stone Chariot and Vijayanagara ruins
- Experience the cultural and mythological charm of Anegundi and Tungabhadra region
- Visit the opulent Mysore Palace and enjoy the illuminated beauty of Brindavan Gardens
- Enjoy exclusive wildlife experiences in Kabini, including boat and jeep safaris in Nagarhole National Park
- Scenic coastal drive along the East Coast Road with a guided visit to Mahabalipuram's UNESCO monuments
- Explore the French Quarter of Pondicherry and the spiritual ambience of Auroville
- Visit the architectural masterpiece Brihadeeswara Temple, Thanjavur (UNESCO)
- Spiritual excursion to Rameswaram & Dhanushkodi, one of India's most sacred pilgrimage sites
- Explore the vibrant Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai
- Experience Kerala's natural beauty with a Periyar Lake boat safari and spice plantation visit in Thekkady
- Relax on a private houseboat cruise in Kumarakom backwaters with traditional meals
- Explore historic Cochin and witness a classical Kathakali dance performance
Package Includes
Accommodation in carefully selected premium hotels and resorts on double/twin sharing basis
Daily breakfast at hotels & all meals during the houseboat stay
All transfers and sightseeing by private air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver
Domestic flights as per itinerary
Monument entrance fees as per itinerary (if included)
Services of experienced local guides at key destinations
Wildlife safaris in Kabini (boat & jeep) with forest department permissions
Periyar Lake boat ride and guided spice plantation visit in Thekkady
1-night private houseboat experience in Kumarakom with meals
All applicable taxes
Itinerary
Arrive in Bangalore by evening flight from Delhi (19:00 – 21:55). Upon arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. As the hotel (Taj Bangalore) is conveniently located at the airport, the transfer will be quick and comfortable. After check-in, the evening will be at leisure to relax after your journey.
Overnight at Taj Bangalore
Early morning, proceed to the airport to board your flight from Bangalore to Hubli (07:30 – 09:00). Upon arrival at Hubli, you will begin your scenic drive to Hampi, which takes approximately 3 hours. En route, you will explore the cultural and mythological sites on the Anegundi side, including Pampa Sarovar, believed to be associated with the Ramayana, followed by a visit to the Lakshmi Temple. Continue to Anegundi Village, a charming heritage village offering glimpses of traditional life and landscapes dotted with boulders and banana plantations. If time permits, you may also stop at the Tungabhadra Dam for a brief photo opportunity. Arrive in Hampi by late afternoon (around 4:30 PM), check in at your resort, and spend the rest of the day at leisure enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
Overnight at Hampi's Boulders Resort / Evolve Back Hampi
After an early breakfast, embark on a full day of sightseeing in Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning ruins and temple complexes. Begin with the iconic Vittala Temple complex, famous for its intricately carved Stone Chariot and musical pillars, located along the Tungabhadra River. Continue to visit the Lakshmi Narasimha statue and the nearby Badavilinga Temple, both significant monolithic structures. Proceed towards the Royal Enclosure area to explore the impressive remains of the Vijayanagara Empire, including the Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stables, Hazara Rama Temple, and the stepped tank within the royal complex. Later, visit the Virupaksha Temple, one of the oldest functioning temples in India, followed by a walk through the historic Hampi Bazaar. If time and energy permit, conclude your day with a sunset view from Hemakuta Hill or Matanga Hill, offering panoramic views of the surreal boulder-strewn landscape. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Overnight at Hampi's Boulders Resort / Evolve Back Hampi
After breakfast, the morning will be at leisure to relax or explore nearby areas at your own pace. Later, you will proceed by road to Hubli Airport (approximately 3 hours’ drive) to board your evening flight to Bangalore (20:15 – 21:40). Upon arrival in Bangalore, you will be transferred to your hotel for overnight stay.
After breakfast, proceed for a half-day sightseeing tour of Bangalore. Visit key attractions such as Lalbagh Botanical Garden, known for its beautiful landscapes and glasshouse, followed by a drive past Vidhana Soudha and Cubbon Park. Later, depart by road to Mysore (approx. 3.5–4 hours). Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. In the evening, visit the magnificent Mysore Palace, one of India’s most iconic royal residences, and later proceed to the Brindavan Gardens to witness the musical fountain show (subject to timings).
Overnight at Mysore
After breakfast, drive to Kabini (approx. 2.5–3 hours), located on the edge of Nagarhole National Park. Upon arrival, check in at your wildlife resort and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, proceed for a boat safari on the Kabini backwaters, offering excellent opportunities to spot wildlife such as elephants, deer, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species in a serene setting. Return to the resort in the evening and spend the rest of the time at leisure.
Overnight at Kabini
After an early morning safari and breakfast at the resort, check out by noon and proceed to Mysore. Depending on time, you may have a brief stop or lunch in Mysore before continuing your transfer to the airport to board your evening flight to Chennai (19:10 – 20:25). Upon arrival in Chennai, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Overnight at Chennai
After breakfast, proceed for a drive past tour of Chennai, covering landmarks such as Marina Beach, Fort St. George, and San Thome Basilica. Later, drive along the scenic East Coast Road towards Pondicherry. En route, stop at Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore the Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, and the Five Rathas, showcasing remarkable rock-cut architecture. Continue your drive to Pondicherry, a charming coastal town with French colonial influences. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel.
Overnight at Pondicherry
After breakfast, explore Pondicherry starting with the serene Sri Aurobindo Ashram, followed by a walk through the French Quarter with its colonial architecture, quaint cafés, and bougainvillea-lined streets. Visit the Promenade Beach and, if interested, Auroville, an experimental township known for the Matrimandir (view from outside). The rest of the day is at leisure to explore local markets or relax at a café.
Overnight at Pondicherry
After an early breakfast, drive to Madurai (approx. 7–8 hours). En route, stop at Thanjavur to visit the magnificent Brihadeeswara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Chola architecture. Continue your journey to Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel.
Overnight at Madurai
After an early breakfast, proceed for a full-day excursion to Rameswaram (approx. 3.5–4 hours one way). Visit the sacred Ramanathaswamy Temple, known for its long corridors and spiritual significance, along with Dhanushkodi, a scenic ghost town at the edge of the Indian peninsula. After sightseeing, return to Madurai by evening.
Overnight at Madurai
In the morning, visit the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple, a vibrant and architecturally stunning temple complex, followed by a brief city tour if time permits. Later, drive to Thekkady (approx. 4–5 hours), located in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary region. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax amidst the lush greenery.
Overnight at Thekkady
After breakfast, enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake, offering chances to spot wildlife such as elephants, deer, and birds along the forested banks. Later, visit a spice plantation to learn about the cultivation of spices like cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight at Thekkady
After breakfast, drive to Kumarakom (approx. 4–5 hours), located along the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. Upon arrival, board your houseboat, where you will cruise through the serene backwaters, passing lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and local village life. Enjoy freshly prepared meals onboard and a peaceful overnight stay on the houseboat.
Overnight at Kumarakom
After breakfast on the houseboat, disembark and proceed to Cochin (approx. 1.5–2 hours). Upon arrival, enjoy a sightseeing tour covering Fort Kochi, the Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, and Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace). In the evening, witness a traditional Kathakali dance performance, showcasing Kerala’s classical art form.
Overnight at Cochin
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Cochin Airport for your onward journey, marking the end of a memorable South India experience.