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Essences of South India

(21 days & 20 nights in India) travel through Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu
Highlights
  • The ruin of Hampi (in the 16th Century this was the world's largest city)
  • marvellous architecture of the Hoysala dynasty at the temples of Halebid and Belur
  • wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala and Tamil Nadu famous for elephants and Indian bison
  • The citadel Minakshi temple of Madurai
  • Keralite houseboat cruise in backwaters

Good Season: August to March; Best Season: November to February.

Tour Type: Cultural Hotel: Heritage & boutique hotels 3* & above Transportation: Air-Conditioned Deluxe Vehicle

Itinerary: D1. Arrive Banglore D2. Banglore ~ Hospet (night train) D3. Hampi D4. Hampi D5. Night train to Banglore D6. Hassan
D7.
Hassan
D8. Mysore D9. Massinaguri D10. Ooty D11. Cochin D12. Cochin D13. Back Water cruise D14. Periyar D15. Madurai
D16.
Madurai
D17. Tanjour D18. Pondichery D19. Pondichery D20. Mahabalipuram D21. Transfert to the airport D22. Fly out

The peninsula of Kerala is the tropical home to coconuts, spices, palms and Ayurvedic massage. The neighboring Coromandal and Karnataka regions echo this same heavenly paradise, along with some of the most beautiful temples and cities of the world. In ancient times, kings, princes and powerful dynasties independently ruled South India. They were great builders, travelers and lovers of the fine arts. At this time Hampi was the world's biggest and most Opulent city. The Romans and other Europeans came here to trade in gold, silvers, gems, silks and spices. Today, the palaces and monuments of Hampi, including the 17 meter-high Jain statue of Gommateshwara, are testament to the decadence of ancient Hampi's thriving industry. The temples of Mahabalipuram, Gangaikondaicholapuram, Darasuram, Tanjore, Trichy and Madurai belong to the 7th - 18th centuries and personify the fine decoration that has come to artistically represent the South. In this tour you will have opportunities to immerse yourself in the markets, still alive with trade and entertainment. You will Visit the wildlife sanctuaries of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, renowned for their elephants and Indian bison. You will watch the unique dances of South India called 'Kathakali' or 'Bharatyanatyam'. Try Keralian cuisine, regarded as some of India's best food, at a local house.

Finally, just relax with an Ayurvedic massage as you gently cruise down the backwaters in a Keralian houseboat.

Note: We design only tailor-made tours, using our years of knowledge to create experiences that exceed expectations. It is a time consuming and specialized process, accordingly our prices reflect this personalized service. If you have a program from another agent that you’re happy with, please do not contact us to compare rates.