Treasures of South India

Day 1: Arrive Bangalore International Airport & Transfer to the hotel ( 1 hour drive )
Welcome to Bangalore! The city has an interesting history attached to it. It was ruled by Sultans, Mughals, Marathas and British for a long time before India got independence in the year 1947. Under British rule from 1831 to 1881, Bangalore started developing into a city with all the contemporary facilities. Post-independence, Bangalore became the capital of Karnataka. As soon as you land at the airport, After you complete your check-in formalities, relax for the day and take off your travel stress. If you wish to, in the evening, you can stroll around the Hotel in Bangalore. Overnight stay at the hotel in Bangalore.

Day 2: Bangalore Sightseeing & City Tour - Morning visit the Bangalore Palace,after lunch depart for a city tour of Bangalore
Post breakfast, head for sightseeing tour in Bangalore. Visit the Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, one of the popular attractions in Bangalore. Tipu Sultan was one of the greatest warriors of his time and a great ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore. The palace is a testament to his battle against Britishers during the 18th century. Built in the year 1791, the palace once use to be the summer residence of the Sultan. The palace is famous for its teakwood carvings and magnificent Indo-Islamic architecture. Later, you can explore the handicraft workshops and if time permits, participate in the sandalwood craft, wood carvings and Mysore paintings. Later in the evening, visit the Iskcon temple. It is one of the largest Iskcon temples in the world. Built in a magnificent architectural style, the temple is a perfect mix of spirituality and modernity. After the temple visit, head back to the hotel for the overnight stay. 

Day 3: Bangalore to Mysore (4 hours drive)
On the way, visit Srirangapatna Fort which is an important historical site in Karnataka. This heritage fort is worth admiring for its captivating Indo-Islamic style of architecture and high historical significance. Dating back to 15th century, this fort is also known as Tipu Sultan Fort. The fort is said to be the strongest fort in India owing to its double walls and four majestic gates. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is situated inside the fort. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu whose idol can be seen in resting posture on a bed of serpent Aadi Sesha. It is said to be one of the biggest idols of Lord Vishnu in the reclining posture. The temple has magnificent architecture dating back to Vijayanagar and Hoysala style. After fort and temple visit, head to St Philomena’s Cathedral in Mysore. It is said to be one of the largest churches in India and the second largest church in Asia. Apart from its religious significance, the church allures tourists with its exceptionally beautiful Neo-Gothic or the Victorian style architecture. 

Day 4: Mysore sightseeing
After a hearty hotel breakfast, venture out into the splendid city of Mysore for a sightseeing tour commencing at around 10am. First, visit the famous Mysore Palace, characterised by Indo-Saracenic architecture and one of the most beautiful palaces in the world. Built in 1912, it attracts visitors from far-flung corners of the globe. Next, head to Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery and feast your eyes on Japanese furniture, paintings, woodcarvings, musical instruments and other artefacts spanning decades. Today you will also take a tour of the Mysore Railway Museum, home to vintage locomotives and established in 1979. Then, continue to Chamundi Hill for a spellbinding view of the city from 1000 metres up. If you have the energy, climb the 1008 steps up to the sacred Chamundeshwari Temple and Bull Statue. Finally, visit Brindavan Gardens – home to unique species of flora and fauna and terrace gardens with colourful fountains. Overnight stay at the hotel in Mysore. 

Day 5: Mysore to Kabini (2 hours drive)
Today you will check out from Mysore and drive down to Kabini. It is located at a distance of 59.3 kms and it takes around 2 hours to reach. On arrival in Kabini, check in at the resort and later head for a wildlife safari. Located in the southern edge of the Nagarhole National Park, Kabini is an ideal destination for all nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The wildlife safari, the breath-taking landscapes and the serene backwaters of the River Kabini attract tourists in large number making in an amazing holiday destination. It is also a haven for wildlife photographers. It is a year-round destination and boasts of its wide variety of flora and fauna which is in abundance here. A wildlife tour at Kabini offers you an opportunity to spot Tiger, Leopard, Elephant and Black Panther. In fact, it is the only wildlife park in the entire world where you get to sight the Black Panther so often. Apart from that above mentioned animals, you also get to spot other species such as Deer, Sambar, Dholes, Mongoose and a plethora of birds.Moreover, the park remains open even in the monsoon season when almost all other national parks shut down. After having an exhilarating day at the park, head back to the resort for a comfortable overnight stay.  

Day 6: Nagarhole National park in Kabini & Afternoon Wildlife Safari in Kabini
Enjoy wholesome breakfast at the resort. This day is at leisure and you will spend it the way you like. You may explore the in-house resort property or head for a leisurely walk around the resort. One of the main attractions in Kabini is the spectacular wildlife and bird life on the banks of River Kabini. The lush greenery and the sounds of diverse fauna is eye and ear pleasing in every way. In the evening, you can enjoy a 1 hour boat ride through the Kabini River and watch the wildlife closely. Later you can also participate in an hour long Jungle Safari through the Kabini Forest. This is going to be a great experience that you will cherish for your lifetime. Later head back to your resort and enjoy good night’s sleep. 

Day 7: Kabini to Ooty (4 hours drive)
After breakfast, depart for Ooty around 10 00 ,a journey totaling approximately 5 hours and covering a distance of 145 Kms (approx. 4 hours &30 minutes) Ooty the "Queen of hill stations" and the capital of Nilgiris district. It is one of the most popular tourist resorts in India. Nilgiris which means "Blue Mountains" is a land of picturesque picnic spots and was once a popular summer and weekend getaway for the British during the colonial days. Like with other hill stations - Ooty, Coonoor, Wellington - founded by the British, Lovedale still retains its colonial flavor in the form of old-world cottages, bungalows and gothic church. En route, take a lunch break near Ooty, After Lunch visit the Botanical Garden in Ooty , check in at the hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing at Ooty or Visit the Tea factory & Tea Garden. At Tea Factory you will learn about the origins of tea in the world and India.  You can witness the entire process of tea making right from plucking of tea leaves to the final product. Tea Garden comprises of tea plantation spread across vast area of land. You can understand the whole process of tea gardening which taking a tour through it. Overnight stay at the hotel in Ooty.  

Day 8: Ooty to Spice Tree Chinnar Near Pollachi ( 4 hours & 30 Minutes drive)
Hunker down over a delicious breakfast before checkout & depart to Coonoor around 10 00 a m  Coonoor is well known for its beautiful tea estates, peppering the surrounding Nilgiri Hills. Kick-start today with an early, nutritious breakfast before heading to Sim’s Park, one of Coonoor’s most popular attractions. This sprawling park/botanical garden is brimming with a wide range of vegetation and 150-year-old trees. After Lunch from a local restaurant drive from Coonoor to Spice Tree Eco Living Resort in Chinnar near Pollachi. The total travel distance is 130 km and it will take around 4 hours to reach the resort. Spice Tree Chinnar Eco living and culinary focused retreat that is located on the highlands of the Western Ghats. Spread across 20 acres of organic farming, it is one of the finest boutique hotels in South India that offers a splendid view of the most pristine mountain ranges of Western Ghats at Kumbapara and Chinnar. This eco-dwelling lets you reconnect with nature and discover its magical healing powers. The resort is beautifully enveloped between endless grasslands, dense forests and vast stretches of green. The amenities and facilities at the resort are thoughtfully curated keeping your comfort and luxury in mind. The place offers a beautiful amalgamation of traditional and modern architecture. The luxury resort offers tastefully constructed 6 Garden Pool villas with a sense of style and elegance which make your stay a unique experience. Savour the scrumptious meals prepared by the master chef which include a vast selection of local, Indian and international cuisines. You can also participate in cooking sessions with the master chef to learn the art of cooking South Indian meals ( Subject to availability) 

Day 9: Spice Tree Chinnar Eco Living Near Pollachi
Start the day with a delicious breakfast spread. Make a visit to the Coconut farm to find out about coconut farming and learn how the nuts are harvested. Witness the entire process and learn the organic method of cultivating coconuts on the farm. Next, you can head for a rejuvenating nature walk through the plantation which will help you reconnect with Mother Nature. It is going to be an experience in itself as you walk through the greens. Enjoy bird watching activity and explore different species of birds flocking to the resort. The melodious chirping sounds of birds will make you forget all your worries. You can also enjoy cycling alongside the resort and catch a view of the entire property on the wheels. Overnight stay at Spice Tree Chinnar Eco Living Resort.  

Day 10: Pollachi to Kochi (4 hours drive)
Check out at 10 00 & depart to Kochi (colonial name Cochin) is a vibrant city situated on the south-west coast of the Indian peninsula in the breathtakingly scenic and prosperous state of Kerala, hailed as 'God's Own Country'. Informally, Cochin is also referred to as the Gateway to Kerala. check in at the hotel in Kochi after 14 00 hours, Enjoy a day of complete relaxation taking in the diversity of a multi-cultural town. Cochin has been influenced by the British, Dutch, French and the Portugese and you will find a wonderful mix of cultures. The area of Fort Cochin is excellent to enjoy leisurely walks and explore the city on foot. In the evening we could take you on a harbour cruise along one of the finest natural harbours in Asia  

Day 11: Kochi Sightseeing
Begin your day with a wholesome breakfast and spend the morning at leisure. Depart for a half-day sightseeing tour of Kochi after 12 00 noon. Today you will explore the historical sites of Kochi. Visit Dutch Palace, also known as The Mattancherry Palace. Next, head to the Jewish Synagogue, the house of gathering of the Jews. Back then when Jews were being exterminated from across the globe, they found shelter in Cochin. Jewish Synagogue serves as a symbol of the tolerant religious ethos of India. Later head to St Francis Church where the body of the late legendary explorer Vasco da Gama was buried. It is believed to be the first Portuguese church in India founded in 1503. It features a Persian style façade and beautiful architecture. Your next stop will be Santacruz Basilica, one of the eight Basilicas in India. This beautiful Roman Catholic Church serves as the cathedral church of the Diocese of Cochin. When you are in Cochin, a stop at the Chinese fishing nets is a must. It is a symbol of the culture and history of Kerala. It sets beautifully along the seafront and offers picturesque views. For more cultural insight, you can head for a traditional Kathakali dance performance – a classical dance drama of Kerala. Explore the heritage dance form along with the attractive make-up of the characters, detailed ornaments and elaborate costumes.  

Day 12: Kochi to Alleppey Houseboat (1 hour 30 minutes drive)
After breakfast you will drive to Alleppey Enjoy a day of relaxation as you head for a houseboat to take a scenic cruise through the backwaters. Watch the world go by and see how the local people live on the shores of the canals, while marvelling at the natural beauty of your surroundings. One of the highlights of the trip, you’ll have the chance to sample a range of different local cuisine onboard and will stay overnight on the rice barge.

Day 13: Alleppey Houseboat to Marari Beach (45 minutes drive)
After breakfast you will disembark and head North to Mararikulam, located close to the backwaters and Cochin. Marari has a long stretch of beach and there are plenty of activities you can do around here. It is close to a small fishing village and has a lovely beach to relax. The Marari Beach Resort also has a good Ayurveda centre. On arrival you will check into the hotel stay for the last 2 nights. 

Day 14: Marari Beach
Full day is at leisure at the beach resort in Marari Beach. Experience yoga & meditation at the resort. Enjoy village walk with a guide and participate in the interactive cooking class with the Chef at the resort. Overnight stay at the beach resort, Overnight stay at the beach resort.  

Day 15: Marari Beach to Kochi International Airport ( 2 hours Drive)
Your South India holiday will come to an end at Kochi. You’ll be transferred to the Kochi International airport for your flight back home. Take with you numerous wonderful memories of a fantastic trip to Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala states in South India.