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Great Southern Getaway

15 days

PRIVATE TOUR: Discover exotic stone carved temples, princely palaces and colonial hill stations. Take a train journey on the scenic Blue Mountain Railway, cruise the backwaters of Kochi and spot elephant from your jungle hide-away at both Mudumalai and Nagarhole National Parks.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Tour Overview

Duration

15 days

Starts

Chennai

Ends

Kochi

Range

Private

Tour Guide

Yes - for all included sightseeing

Group Size

Minimum age

15 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Departs

Every day of the year

Hotel Rating

Our rating: Standard

Countries

India

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

Yes

Meals included

Breakfast: 13, Lunch: 6, Dinner: 6
1
of 2 pages
Per person from
R 87,825.00
Total From
R 175,650.00
Deposit From
Final payment
R 19,998.00
R 165,651.00

Tour Highlights

Blue Mountain Railway - Travel this UNESCO World Heritage listed railway
Mudumalai National Park - Explore the home to the endangered Indian elephant and the Bengal Tiger
Mysore - Tour the palaces, gardens and old world charm
Srirangapatnam Island and Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary - Visit and explore this island and sanctuary
Somnathpur - See the home of the famous Keseva Temple
Coonoor Hill Station - Stroll around and enjoy the mountain scenery, coffee and tea plantations
Mahabalipuram – Discover the striking Shore Temple which sits on the beautiful Bay of Bengal
Nagarhole National Park - Explore tiger and elephant country
Guruvayur - Explore the famous Krishna Temple and Elephant Stables
Kochi - Visit the Parsi Synagogue, Dutch Palace and St Francis’ Church
Wayanad - Discover the Sultan Battery's Abandoned Jain Temple
Coastal Chennai - Visit the capital of Tamil Nadu

Included

12 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 dinners
13 nights 3-4 star hotels
Touring and excursions as per itinerary
Kathakali dance performance
Blue Mountain railway toy train journey
Visit to Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
3 game drives - Mudumalai National Park
3 game drives - Nagarhole National Park
Entrance fees for all included sightseeing
Services of English-speaking Indian specialist guides for all included sight-seeing
1 overnight sleeper train journey on the Nilgari Express, Chennai to Mettupalayam
An airport arrival transfer day 1 and a departure transfer day 15
All relevant transfer and transportation in private modern Chauffeur driven air-conditioned vehicles (excluding game drives)

Not Included

International flights and visa
Tipping - An entirely personal gesture

Itinerary

Day 1 - Chennai

Arrive Chennai airport and transfer to the seaside town of Mahabalipuram. Situated on the Bay of Bengal, Mahabalipuram offers long white sand beaches and some of the best archeological sites to be found in the state of Tamil Nadu.

Overnight: Mahabalipuram

Day 2 - Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram - Coonoor. Touring the town’s sites to the rhythm of chisels chipping granite provides evidence of the strong stone carving traditions that have endured since the 8th century - Pallava dynasty. Visiting the beautiful ancient stone carved Shore Temple, presiding over the long, flat beach we discover high wall friezes, intricately carved bas reliefs and shrines dedicated to both Siva and Vishnu. It is also of interest to inspect the east facing alter designed to catch the rising sun and the large stone pillar with mountings to hold a beacon for sailors at night out at sea. Later we return to Chennai in time to board the Nilgari Express bound for Mettupalayam.

Overnight: Train
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 - The scenic blue mountain railway

Upon arrival to Mettupalayam we board the narrow gauge Blue Mountain Railway toy train destined for Coonor. Operating since 1899, the Blue Mountain Railway with its blue and cream steam livery has chugged from Mettupalayam to Otty via Coonoor, negotiating 16 tunnels, 31 major bridges and climbing to 2193 metres. The charming 4 hour journey offers sweeping mountain views and breathtaking scenery. Upon arrival to Coonoor, transfer to hotel and afternoon at leisure.

Overnight: Coonoor

Days 4-5 - Mudumalai

Coonor - Mudumalai - breakfast. Today we drive to the nearby Mudumalai National Park for a 2 night stay. Wake up each day with a foray of India’s great wildlife right at your doorstep. The 322 sq km predominantly deciduous forest is a sanctuary for Indian bison, Nilgiri langur, bonnet macaques (monkeys), peacock, jackel, hyena and a few tigers and leopards. The northern reaches of the park are home to one of the largest population of elephant in all of India. Over the following days enjoy morning and afternoon jeep safaris and in the evening retire to your jungle lodge equipped with all the mod-cons to make for an enjoyable and relaxing stay.

Overnight: Mudumalai National Park
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2

Days 6-7 - Mysore

Mudumalai NP - Mysore. This morning its goodbye to your jungle hideaway and onward travel to Mysore - the former capital of the princely state, ruled by Wodeyars dynasty royalty from 1399 - 1947. The city of former glory and grandeur, enchanted admirers with its quaint charm, rich heritage, magnificent palaces, beautifully laid-out gardens, imposing buildings, broad shady avenues and sacred temples. After exploration we continue to Somnathpur, visiting the only complete temple of the Hoysala empire in the region. The small but exquisite Keseva Temple, dates from the 11th century. Day 7 offers a city tour of Mysore and visits to the island of Srirangapatnam and the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary.

Overnight: Mysore
Meals: Breakfast x2

Days 8-9 - Nagerhole NP

Mysore - Nagarhole NP. Today we drive west to Nagarhole National Park, once the Maharaja’s reserve forest turned national park in 1955. The park name, Nagarhole is derived from the Kannada word, naga meaning snake and hole meaning stream. True to its name Nagarhole is criss-crossed with serpentine streams. Covering gentle hills bordering Kerala, the area includes swampland, streams and tributaries, moist deciduous forest, stands of bamboo and valuable teak and rosewood trees. Spot Asian elephant, four horned antelope, flying squirrels and on occasion leopard and tiger. A jeep safari is offered on the afternoon of day 8. Day 9 - morning and afternoon safaris.

Overnight: Nagerhole NP
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2

Days 10-11 - Wayanad

Nagarhole NP – Wayanad. Wayanad, the green paradise is nestled among the mountains of the Western Ghats, forming the border world of the greener part of Kerala. Clean and pristine, enchanting and hypnotizing, this land is filled with history and culture. Located at a distance of 76 km from the seashores of Kozhikode, this verdant hill station is full of plantations, forests and wildlife. Wayanad hills are contiguous to Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu and Bandipur in Karnataka, thus forming a vast land mass for the wildlife to move about in their most natural abode.

Enjoy the days at leisure and consider optional activities available within your resort including nature walks and trails.

Overnight: Wayanad
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2

Day 12 - Kozhikode

Wayanad – Kozhikode. Drive from Wayanad to Kozhikode (Approx 90 kms - 4 hours). Arrive and transfer to your hotel.

Kozhikode is a coastal city in the south Indian state of Kerala. It was a significant spice trade center and is close to Kappad Beach, where Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama landed in 1498. The rest of the day is spent at leisure. Consider visiting central Kozhikode Beach, which overlooks and old lighthouse and is a popular spot to watch the sunset.

Overnight: Kozhikode
Meals: Breakfast

Days 13-14 - Kochi

Kozikode - Kochi. Today we drive to Kochi. Stops are made at Krishna Temple and the Punnathur Kotta Elephant Stables. Krishna Temple is one of the holiest sites in Kerala. The heaving Hindi pilgrimage centre is filled with stalls and thronged with devotees wanting to take darshan - a viewing with the deity. It is said to be one of the wealthiest temples in India, with a waiting list for the auspicious duty of lighting its oil lamps filled up until 2025. Afterwards, we arrive in Kochi and check in to the hotel.

Day 14, offers a guided sightseeing tour with visits to the Parsi Synagogue, Dutch Palace, St Francis’ Church and an evening Kathakali dance performance.

Overnight: Kochi
Meals: Breakfast x2

Day 15 - Kochi

Kochi - breakfast. Arrangements conclude after breakfast and onward transfer to the airport.

Meals: Breakfast

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Ideal Beach Resort
Mahabalipuram

The Ideal Beach is a lovely resort set in lush, tropical gardens. The rooms are stylishly furnished with traditional Indian fabrics in rich reds and golds and are a good size. The extravagant dining hall is the perfect place to feast on some sumptuous meals. Cuisine from China, India and Sri Lanka all make regular appearances within these hallowed walls. Prepared with the utmost attention to detail, you won't be disappointed. The resort is on the beach front and close to the Mahabalipuram Orchid Farm.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Orchid Square Boutique Hotel
Coonoor

Begin your trip on the right note by staying Orchid Square Boutique Hotel, where complimentary Wi-Fi is available in all rooms. Located conveniently in the Coonoor area of Ooty, the hotel is located within easy reach of attractions and enticing dining choices. Be sure not to miss a visit to the renowned Ooty Lake before you depart. The property offers guests access to massage services, a hot tub, and a fitness center on-site, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay in Ooty.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
The Windflower
Mudumalai

Nestled along Mangala village road within the scenic Bandipur reserve area, Windflower offers an immersive natural retreat surrounded by lush trees, occasional sightings of deer, and boars, emphasizing its close connection to nature. With complimentary car parking and easy access to attractions and dining venues, guests can kickstart their trip with ease. The property ensures a high-quality stay with on-site restaurant facilities and an indoor pool for added relaxation, making it the ideal destination for those seeking rejuvenation amidst the wilderness.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Fortune JP Palace
Mysore

Situated in Mysore, the Fortune JP Palace offers panoramic vistas of Chamundi Hills, setting a picturesque backdrop for guests. Boasting a swimming pool, three dining venues, and spacious accommodations adorned with modern decor and parquet flooring, the hotel ensures a luxurious stay. Each room features large windows providing captivating views of the surrounding greenery, along with amenities such as a safety deposit box and tea/coffee maker for added comfort. Guests can use the on-site fitness center, or dine in at the 24-hour Orchid Restaurant.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Red Earth Kabini
Nagerhole NP

Nestled on the serene backwaters of Kabini Dam, Red Earth Resort invites guests to take in the breathtaking views from its outdoor pool. Each elegant cottage offers a private hot tub, providing the perfect sanctuary for relaxation. The accommodations feature a sofa seating area, cable TV, and a private patio to soak in the scenic surroundings. The spacious en suite bathrooms boast hot/cold shower facilities for added comfort. Guests can rejuvenate with a selection of spa treatments or stay connected at the business center. Embracing an outdoor dining concept, Poshini Restaurant offers a fusion of Indian and continental cuisine.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Wayanad Wild - CGH Earth
Wayanad

Located in Lakkidi, Wayanad Wild offers a unique accommodation experience with rooms nestled amidst the treetops, providing a picturesque view, and a refreshing swimming pool for guests to enjoy. The on-site restaurant serves delectable meals. The fan-cooled rooms are equipped with essential amenities such as a desk, wardrobe, and attached bathrooms featuring showers and complimentary toiletries. Designed with families in mind, Wayanad Wild ensures a memorable and comfortable retreat amidst the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
The Raviz Kadavu
Kozhikode

Nestled amidst the serene backwaters and coconut plantations of Calicut, Kerala, The Raviz Resort and Spa, Kadavu sprawls over 9 acres, offering a luxurious retreat. Facing the Chaliyar River, the resort features an outdoor pool, indulgent spa treatments, and a yoga center. Elegantly appointed air-conditioned rooms provide modern amenities including flat-screen TVs and minibars, with some rooms offering picturesque views of the river and coconut groves. Guests can enjoy a range of activities including exercise at the fitness center, relaxation in the sauna, or perusing books in the library.

Our Rating
Deluxe
Local Rating
5 Star Hotel
Casino Hotel
Kochi

Casino Hotel is a modern hotel located on Willingdon island, set in tropical gardens it is a beautiful blend of art deco and colonial Indian architectural styles. With a large pool and and spacious comfortable rooms this hotel offers a fantastic experience when in Kochi. Casino Hotel boasts 2 restaurants, a 24-hour health club as well as free wifi in public areas.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
The Fern Ecotel Hotel
Kochi

Nestled on the tranquil Willingdon Island, The Fern Hotel, formerly known as the Trident Hotel, offers a comfortable stay filled with indulgent amenities. Guests can unwind at the Ayurvedic spa, take a refreshing dip in the inviting outdoor pool, or stay active in the modern fitness center. The elegantly designed, air-conditioned rooms and suites overlook lush gardens or the pool, and each room is equipped with modern conveniences like satellite TV and minibars. Suites add an extra touch of luxury with spacious, separate living areas. With four diverse restaurants, The Fern Hotel invites guests on an exceptional culinary journey.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
5 Star Hotel

Prices & Dates

'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room, based on a travelling party of at least 2 adults.

Prices are indicative and will vary depending on your chosen hotels, room availability as well as time of travel i.e. during India’s peak travel season of 21 Dec - 10 Jan, additional supplements will apply. Equally, if you with to travel to India during the summer, rates will be cheaper than those quoted. Please bear this in mind if comparing prices as we always aim to deliver exceptional value. This itinerary is based upon standard accommodation. Superior and deluxe accommodation is available on request. Please note that discounts will apply if there are more 4 our more people in your travelling party, since fixed costs like transportation and guiding are shared across the group.

2024
Twin/Double
Single
22 Nov - 6 Dec
Sold Out
Sold Out
23 Nov - 7 Dec
Sold Out
Sold Out
24 Nov - 8 Dec
Sold Out
Sold Out
25 Nov - 9 Dec
Sold Out
Sold Out
26 Nov - 10 Dec
Sold Out
Sold Out
27 Nov - 11 Dec
Sold Out
Sold Out
28 Nov - 12 Dec
R 87,825
R 128,705
29 Nov - 13 Dec
R 87,825
R 128,705
2025
Twin/Double
Single
10 Jan - 24 Jan
R 87,825
R 128,705
11 Jan - 25 Jan
R 87,825
R 128,705
12 Jan - 26 Jan
R 87,825
R 128,705
13 Jan - 27 Jan
R 87,825
R 128,705
14 Jan - 28 Jan
R 87,825
R 128,705
15 Jan - 29 Jan
R 87,825
R 128,705
16 Jan - 30 Jan
R 87,825
R 128,705
17 Jan - 31 Jan
R 87,825
R 128,705
2026
Twin/Double
Single
10 Jan - 24 Jan
R 95,705
R 140,255
11 Jan - 25 Jan
R 95,705
R 140,255
12 Jan - 26 Jan
R 95,705
R 140,255
13 Jan - 27 Jan
R 95,705
R 140,255
14 Jan - 28 Jan
R 95,705
R 140,255
15 Jan - 29 Jan
R 95,705
R 140,255
16 Jan - 30 Jan
R 95,705
R 140,255
17 Jan - 31 Jan
R 95,705
R 140,255

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