From CAD 2,075
Guarantee
Small Group
Light
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Discover a thousand shades of green, indulge in some of the continent’s freshest food, and share moments of connection with locals on this 13-day tour. Travel down the scenic East Coast Road into the countryside and across to the west coast before finishing in India’s deep south. Experience the cultures, religions, and histories of this region through its small rural towns, fishing villages, and the scented spice plantations set in the picturesque Western Ghats mountains. This revelatory trip introduces you to an area less travelled from the comfort of a private vehicle.
Highlights
- Take a nature walk in the acclaimed Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, looking out for tiger tracks with your local village guides.
- Explore Puducherry and discover its French Quarter and colourful multi-tiered temples, and cruise along the dreamy palm-lined waterways of the Kerala backwaters.
- See behind the scenes of local cuisine during a home-cooked meal in Periyar, an insightful ayurvedic cooking demonstration in Kochi and lovingly made Keralan favourites at a restaurant that provides training and employment to local women.
- Discover the diversity and incredible history of Kochi through a tour of its buildings, like India’s oldest functioning synagogue and a mixture of Portuguese, Dutch and British architecture.
- Witness the dramatic beauty of Kathakali, a captivating storytelling dance that artists must study for over a decade before performing.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, Positive Change for Marine Life. Donations help them to nurture ocean health with community-led conservation initiatives that inspire coastal restoration, sustainable fishing practices and waste-management. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2076
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Comfortable
Transport: Private vehicle,Ferry
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: HHKS
Starts: Chennai, India
Finishes: Kovalam, India
Duration: 13 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (12), Lunch (1), Dinner (5)Accommodation: Hotel (10 nights),Resort (2 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 2075 (CAD 160 /day)
Itinerary
Welcome to Chennai, India! Formerly Madras, this frenetic city is South India’s largest, and the perfect place to dive straight into the culture, religion and cuisine of the region. On arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to your hotel. Your adventure begins with an important group meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll meet your local leader and the fellow travellers joining you on your journey. If you arrive in Chennai with time to spare, perhaps take a walk along Marina Beach, check out the Santhome Cathedral or get your hands on a cup of the city’s famous filter coffee.
Included Activities:
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
From Chennai, drive along the scenic East Coast Road to the fishing village of Mamallapuram. Join a local guide for a tour around the town’s laidback beaches and temples, keeping an eye out for the sculptures and carvings dotted around the place. Visit the incredible 8th-century Shore Temple and its mandapams (carved pillars) to pay your respects to the deity Shiva. Continue onto Puducherry (Pondicherry) in the late afternoon and enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the White Town area of the city. Known for its French colonial-era villas and leafy streets, a post-dinner stroll along the beachfront promenade is a lovely way to end your day.
Included Activities:
- Mamallapuram - Shore Temples guided tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Explore Puducherry, which was under French rule until 1954, and the European style of the town extends from beautiful colonial architecture right down to the uniforms of the police. Enjoy a walking tour to see local temples, the French Quarter, and the spiritual community of Sri Aurobindo Ashram. The rest of the day and evening is free. Puducherry’s food scene is truly unique, as Indian classics have a distinctly French spin on them – be sure to ask your leader for tips on the best places to grab dinner this evening.
Included Activities:
- Puducherry - Leader-led French Quarter walking tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Drive to Karaikudi today. On arrival, check into your heritage property accommodation, an elegantly decorated mansion built in 1902. After settling in, take a walk around the village with your leader to learn about the lives of the local communities. Along the way, you’ll stop off to admire havelis – these old mansions were ornately decorated as a display of wealth, and many remain around this region today.
Included Activities:
- Karaikudi - Havelis
- Karaikudi - Leader-led village walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Continue on to Madurai. Here you will wander through the colourful markets and bazaars, then visit the Sri Meenakshi Temple in the city’s centre. Still in use today, this ancient temple is a maze of lamp-lit corridors leading to shrines where traditional rituals take place, including the remarkable thousand pillar hall. You might also like to explore the National Gandhi Museum (optional), dedicated to the life and achievements of the 'Father of the Nation' and the leader of India's fight for independence. Your evening is then free to spend as you please.
Included Activities:
- Madurai - Sri Meenakshi Temple guided tour
- Madurai - Leader-led walking tour
Optional Activities:
- Madurai - Gandhi Museum - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
The day is yours for your own explorations of one of India’s oldest cities. Madurai has a wealth of treasures to uncover, from buzzing bazaars and tailors’ markets to roadside stalls selling cold glasses of jigarthanda and savoury idli rice cakes. Perhaps visit the Art Museum to see a superb collection of carvings, or check out the Tirumalai Nayak Palace. Be sure to ask your leader where to find local favourites like crispy dosa, fluffy idiyappam and sweet halwa.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Drive through rubber and pineapple plantations to Thekkady. Your accommodation here is on the outskirts of Periyar National Park, perched lakeside in the ranges of the Western Ghats. The sanctuary surrounds a picturesque lake, which was formed as a result of a dam that was built in 1895. It ambles through the contours of the wooded hills and is a permanent source of water for local wildlife. This afternoon, take a tour of a local spice plantation. Here you’ll gain insight on the plant life, spices, herbs, fruits and flowers of the region, and how they are used in Ayurvedic medicine. Find out how the spices are grown, harvested, dried and prepared. Later in the day, you may like to attend a demonstration of Indian martial arts (kalaripayattu) at the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre.
Included Activities:
- Periyar - Spice plantation visit
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
In the morning, take a guided nature walk in the acclaimed Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (approximately 3 hours). If you’re lucky, you could spot tiger tracks, spotted deer, Indian elephants and gaur – the world's largest species of buffalo. You may also have the chance to see Bonnet macaques and the Malabar giant squirrel, a species native to India. In the afternoon, unwind with an optional ayurvedic massage or just relax in this scenic setting. Be welcomed into a local home this evening, for a dinner cooked with fragrant local produce by a palate that is finely tuned to the pepper, cloves and cinnamon that are prevalent in many Keralan dishes. Sure to be a highlight of your trip, don't forget to ask for tips on how to recreate these delicious dishes in your own home.
Included Activities:
- Periyar - Guided nature walk
- Periyar - Home-cooked meal
Optional Activities:
- Periyar NP - Ayurvedic Massage (700 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
In the morning, drive to Kochi, aka Cochin. Today is a long driving day, but your journey will be broken up with plenty of stops, and the fantastic scenery is sure to keep your occupied. Kochi is a veritable melting pot of Portuguese, Dutch, Chinese and British influences. On arrival, you may like to stretch your legs and wander along the beach at sunset.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Visit the Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace), which was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese before the Dutch renovated it. Then check out the oldest functioning Jewish synagogue in India, the Paradesi Synagogue. For lunch today, you’ll meet a local expert and learn all about Satvik Bhojan, the ayurvedic diet. Take part in a cooking demonstration using the methods and recipes discussed, then enjoy the dishes for lunch. In the evening witness a classic Kathakali performance, a dramatic dance that combines storytelling with physical technique.
Included Activities:
- Kochi - Leader-led Fort Kochi walking tour
- Kochi - Kathakali performance
- Kochi - Jewish Synagogue
- Kochi - Dutch Palace
- Kochi - Ferry to Mattancherry
- Kochi - Ayurvedic cooking demonstration with lunch
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Drive from Kochi to Kumarkom to your resort along the riverside. This sleepy village is quintessential Kerala backwaters, with its shady palm trees, winding waterways and traditional houseboats. On arrival, get out on the water and take a short cruise around the backwaters. Sail under palm trees and weave in between the rice fields while you see local residents going about their daily lives in this unique and tranquil environment. Dinner tonight is at a women-run restaurant, serving up fish curries, dal and idli. This venue is a favourite for its excellent local flavours and for the training and employment opportunities it provides to local women.
Included Activities:
- Kumarakom - Backwaters boating excursion
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
In the morning, drive to Kovalam via Kerala’s capital, Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram). Kovalam was once a quiet coastal village known for its export of fresh fish and coconuts, but is now one of India’s more popular beach resorts. Visit the ancient temple of Attukal Bhagavathy in the afternoon. If you have free time, explore the old signaling station of Anchuthengu Fort or the 16th-century Koyikkal Palace. Head out with the group for a farewell meal together tonight – the local cuisine is known for its use of coconuts, curry leaves and fresh seafood, so dig in while you have the chance.
Included Activities:
- Kovalam - Leader-led walking tour
Optional Activities:
- Kovalam - Anchuthengu Fort (50 INR)
- Kovalam - Koyikkal Palace (50 INR)
Accommodation:
- Resort (Number of Nights: 1)
Your trip comes to an end after breakfast and you’re free to leave the accommodation at any time.
Similar Experiences
Classical India with Nepal::Classic
12 Days from CAD 4,650
Premium South India
13 Days from CAD 2,625
Premium North & South India
23 Days from CAD 6,975
India South & North
29 Days from CAD 3,587
Kerala: Beaches & Backwaters
7 Days from CAD 449
Essential India & Maldives Sailing
14 Days from CAD 2,149
Premium India & Nepal
19 Days from CAD 6,195
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Lynda - Traveled, January 2024
A window into Southern India. It’s a huge country so you can only ever take bite-sized pieces which this trip enables you to do with the excellent guidance of a knowledgeable tour leader. See the main sights plus a unique opportunity to meet families in their homes and places of work. Cultural feast for all the senses.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/08/2024
Ron - Traveled, January 2024
My first Intrepid trip to India was in 2008. I am now 76, and thought I was too old for Intrepid. I was proven wrong I was made very welcome and certainly was able to participate in all activities and felt totally invigorated by the experience
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/08/2024
Rosemary - Traveled, January 2024
The Classic South India tour is an interesting and varied introduction to this region. From teeming city to quiet rural area, there is something for everyone. The accommodation ranges from urban hotel to peaceful retreat. Delicious food, plenty of colour and a friendly welcome everywhere.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/07/2024
Robert - Traveled, January 2024
Apart from the first couple of days, which were fairly uneventful regarding highlights, this was a fantastic tour with lots of great and varied experiences. Vinit the guide was brilliant. Overall a wonderful holiday and great exposure to local Indian culture.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/25/2024
Smail - Traveled, January 2024
We fell in love with India all over again. Intrepid’s Classic South India Tour was the perfect way to explore Tamil Nadu & Kerala.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/26/2024
Kate - Traveled, January 2024
This is a fabulous trip. It has the right balance of getting out in India and experiencing it, and then coming back to the air conditioning and a nice pool after a long day of site seeing. The coach was comfortable and tour guide wonderful! I would really recommend it!!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/24/2024
Stefanie - Traveled, December 2023
You would be lucky to get Thilip showing you around Southern India. I highly recommend you experience the people, the food, the culture! Especially with Thilip’s enthusiasm, energy and organisation, it was an unforgettable adventure!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/02/2024
Shirley - Traveled, March 2024
We did the Classic South India trip the last 2 weeks of March. Very hot and humid so would have been more comfortable going a few months earlier. A great variety of included activities and I particularly loved the visits to the Intrepid sponsored programs including the women’s run restaurant. The river cruise and houseboat cruise on Kerala Backwaters was excellent and I also loved the Martial Arts show. We had a great bunch of fellow travellers. Our tour leader, Afshar was just awesome. He went above and beyond. The driver, Vinot and his assistant Barty were great and always helped us and greeted us with smiles every day. Hitels overall were good. I would absolutely recommend Intrepid for a well organised and worry free holiday.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/28/2024
Chris - Traveled, March 2024
Afshar is an excellent your leader who ensured that all of the group had an awesome experience !
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/27/2024
Elizabeth - Traveled, March 2024
The Classic South India tour was an excellent trip but very hot in March. The humidity was extreme. Dec/Feb would be a much better choice. Only 11 on our trip, mostly Aussies and 2 English ladies and all were great company. Our tour leader Afshar was brilliant and there was a great variety of activities including a nature walk (no elephant or tiger sightings) and Kerala backwater cruise which was an extra cost of 3500 INR. Hotels at the comfort level were very nice overall and great service from all staff. Our driver Vinot and his assistant Barty were lovely and always looked out for us and greeted us with the biggest smiles. Overall a fantastic 2 weeks was had by all. I can't recommend Intrepid enough for a worry free trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/28/2024
Arup - Traveled, February 2024
A great introduction to the Southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Many highlights including temples, cultural performances and of course the food!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/11/2024
Ron - Traveled, February 2024
Well organised tour hitting region's key sights. Especially enjoyed cooking demonstrations. Glad I could do the house boat cruise.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/06/2024
Leigh - Traveled, February 2024
Nice introduction to south India: a world apart from the north – some fabulous sights to see, if sometimes a little rushed – comfortable hotels
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2024
Lisa - Traveled, February 2024
This is a fantastic introduction to southern India. The scenery and experiences are varied and interesting. The auto rickshaw safari through Madurai, Kerela houseboat, Kathakali theatre, Periyar martial arts and Chettinad mansions were highlights for me. Our tour leader Vinit was beyond excellent. He is a font of information and made the tour safe, fun and fascinating.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/03/2024
Alan - Traveled, February 2024
This trip has a good mix of everything. Vinit our guide was wonderful. The Sri Meenakshi Temple was very impressive, Karaikudi was very interesting, we took the extended boat ride in Kerala which was worth it. All hotels very good with tea/coffee in rooms nearly all had pools which was great after a hot day out. Food was good and plenty of choice. Use ATM to get cash, approx £90 per person for tipping over the trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/04/2024
Jerry - Traveled, February 2024
This was an excellently run, safe, active tour that showed the contrast between India's busy southern cities and the beauty of the natural world in smaller towns. There was much walking and discovery. It was a joy. Vinit is an amazing group leader.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/03/2024
Jane - Traveled, February 2024
The Classic South India trip is a fantastic experience. Highlights for me included the old parts of Puducherry with its French history and Karaikudi where we stayed in heritage accommodation that was simply devine.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/29/2024
Kim - Traveled, December 2023
This trip far exceeded my expectations! The highlight, though, was the backwaters of Kerala - mesmerising in terms of their beauty! Definitely a part of India not to be missed. And our leader, Thilip, ensured that we had the best trip possible. Thank you Thilip!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/03/2024
Kathryn - Traveled, November 2023
This was a great trip and Aathi was a fantastic tour leader. We would recommend it highly to anyone thinking of travelling to South India.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/22/2023
Nicky - Traveled, November 2023
South India trip was excellent the food was full of variety and very tasty. Deepa was an excellent guide. India has captured my heart
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/21/2023
Share a personalized trip brochure!
Why book with us?
Best Rate Guarantee
Mytours.Travel makes sure you always have the best available rate
Best Selection
The best operators from around the world
Trusted Payments
Secure payments with Stripe
Expert Advice
Our expert agents will assist you in booking the perfect experience