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South India Revealed

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South India Revealed

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Description

Unplug from everyday routine and head to the beaches and backwaters of southern India. Explore the lush landscapes, intriguing cultures, bustling bazaars, and incredible cuisine of this region. Jump on and off local transport and go rural through coconut groves and fishing villages, discovering the heart of the subcontinent. See ancient ruins and stunning temples, eat spicy curries, and drink luscious lassis. You’ll zen out in the relaxed, unique towns of Varakala and Hampi. Explore the Keralan Backwaters in a pole boat before heading to an island village for an overnight homestay with a local family. Join the bustle of city streets and, at the end of it all, unwind on the beautiful beaches of Goa.

Trip Name
South India Revealed
Last Updated
2024-08-29
Days
16
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Golden beaches and age-old fishing villages make Goa one of India’s most popular retreats – and a perfect place to consider extending your southern India adventure.
  • Take the atmosphere of Shimla or Darjeeling, add lush tropical jungle and you have the Western Ghats: a hotspot of thundering waterfalls, tea plantations, spice markets, and echoes of a colonial past.
  • Glide through the backwaters of Kerala on a pole boat, going ashore for a village homestay – a beautiful break from hotels and a perfect way to get close to local customs and culture.
  • Cross into Kochi – a colonial centre and major port city in India’s southwest. Explore the seaside Fort Kochi area and consider watching a traditional Kathakali dance performance in your free time.
  • Paddle by canoe to your guesthouse in the temple town of Hampi to enjoy a special stay on the banks of the Tungabhadra River.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support 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.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - Trivandrum
Welcome to India! Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting this evening at 6 pm. Afterwards, join your local leader on an orientation walk around Trivandrum. Tonight is all about introductions, so perhaps get together with your group after the walk and have an optional dinner – your leader will be able to suggest the best neighbourhoods for a delicious local meal.
Day 2 - Varkala
In the morning, head up the coast by private vehicle for around 2 hours to the town of Varkala. Once settled into your hotel, use the free time to explore the Keralan coast, which is home to some of India’s best beaches. Soaring cliffs protect Varkala’s sandy bay and, depending on the time of year, dolphins can be spotted from high up on the rocks. In the evening, maybe head into town to one of the numerous restaurants serving fresh, local seafood caught right off the coast.
Day 3 - Varkala
Enjoy a free day in Varkala. This is a great place to sit back and relax, but if you want to get active there are plenty of water activities on offer, such as surfing and windsurfing. Even though this is a popular destination for Indian tourists, the beaches are quiet and pretty laidback. Today is also the perfect time to check your Lonely Planet app and see what else is popular around the area. Take the rest of the day to relax, beachside, or otherwise, before the rest of South India beckons.
Day 4 - Kerala Backwaters
This morning, take a 3-hour train journey along the Keralan coastline to Alappuzha (Alleppey). Once an important trading port and now renowned for the annual Snake Boat race in August, Alappuzha is the starting point for most journeys into the backwaters. An auto-rickshaw will take you from the train station to the boat boarding point before heading to an island village for an overnight homestay with a local family. Get settled, then explore the Keralan Backwaters in a pole boat, your guide will also take you on a walk around the village and introduce you to the community.
Day 5 - Kochi
In the morning, cross the backwaters by private boat back to Alappuzha. You’ll then take a 2-hour local bus to Kochi, arriving around midday (12 pm). Once arrived, go for a walk around the Fort Kochi area, where you’ll be staying for the next two nights. In the early evening, there’s the option to attend a classic Kathakali dance performance – a snapshot into traditional cultures of the region.
Day 6 - Kochi
Today, head to the Mattancherry part of Fort Cochin to explore the old Jewish quarter, synagogue, and Dutch Palace (Kochi Palace) on a guided walking tour. The tour takes around three hours, with the rest of the day free to do as you wish. Afterward, why not join an Urban Adventure day tour, such as Aromas of Kochi, to get more of an in-depth look into this city and its cuisine. Visit urbanadventures.com/destination/kochi-tours for more information, and check with your local leader in advance if you’d like to book one of these trips.
Day 7 - Periyar
This morning, get ready for a day of travel as you head by private vehicle to Periyar National Park (approximately 7–8 hours). After checking in to your hotel, head out on a tour of a local spice farm. Walk through the winding pathways among the plantations as the scent of cardamom, pepper, clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla lingers in the air. Take in the beauty of the cardamom flowers, enjoy the cool breeze and watch the sunlight seep in through the leaves of the pepper plants surrounding you. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxed evening around your accommodation, perhaps settling in for an early night.
Day 8 - Periyar
After breakfast, enjoy a free day with an optional walk around Periyar National Park. Encounters with animals in the wild are never guaranteed, and this is more of a jungle walk than an animal-spotting tour, but do keep an eye out for tiger tracks, spotted deer, Indian elephants, or gaur – the world's largest species of buffalo. In the afternoon, unwind with an optional ayurvedic massage or just relax in your scenic setting.
Day 9 - Madurai
In the morning, take a local bus to Madurai (approximately 4–5 hours). This buzzing city is crammed full of bazaars, pilgrims, and cycle rickshaws. After a walking tour to see the sights, perhaps visit the Sri Meenakshi Temple. This ancient temple is still in use and features a labyrinth of lamplit corridors leading to shrines.
Day 10 - Madurai – Overnight Train
Today is a free day in Madurai. Perhaps head to the Gandhi Museum to learn about the man who fought for India’s independence or wander through the 1000 pillars of Aayiram Kaal Mandapam. This is also a great opportunity to haggle with vendors at the bazaars and the tailors' market. Keep in mind that this evening, you’ll take an overnight sleeper train to Mysore. The journey is approximately 14 hours, so you may want to bring some extra snacks.
Day 11 - Mysore
On arrival, transfer to your hotel in Mysore. Mysore is an easygoing town with a pleasant climate. Go on a walk with your group, checking out the ornate Mysore Palace along the way. There’s also the option to visit the Keshava Temple in Somnathpur, which is a stunning example of Hoysala architecture. The temple is a 1-hour drive out of town.
Day 12 - Mysore – Overnight Train
Today is a free day in Mysore, with plenty of optional activities to keep you busy. If you’ve seen all you need to in town, perhaps explore the countryside surrounding Mysore. Climb up Chamundi Hill to the Sri Chamundeswari Temple at the top, which is dedicated to the goddess Durga. At around 7 pm tonight, meet up with your group and board a 10-hour overnight train to Hampi.
Day 13 - Hampi
In the morning, arrive in Hampi and travel to your guesthouse. Hampi is a temple town situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. Once you’re settled in, make an optional visit to the architectural masterpiece of Vittala Temple. This 16th-century temple contains mandapas (pillared pavilions), a pool, a palace, and the popular stone chariot, which according to Hindu mythology was the vehicle of the Lord Vishnu.
Day 14 - Hampi - Overnight train
After breakfast, explore the ruins of the Vijayanagar Empire and the huge boulders on the outskirts of town. In the early evening, drive for around 3 hours by private vehicle to Hubli, where you’ll board a 9-hour overnight train to Goa.
Day 15 - Goa
Once your train arrives in Goa, head to the hotel and check in. Brimming with Portuguese influences and known for the sandy beaches lining its coast, Goa is a fascinating region in India's south-west. The day is free to do what you like. Perhaps relax on the beach, sip a cocktail at a local bar, or go for a city walk. Tonight, why not get together with your travel crew for a beachside dinner – Goa is cause for celebration.
Day 16 - Goa
There are no activities planned for the final day and you’re able to depart the accommodation at any time. Goa is a great place to end the trip – if you can, we recommend staying on for a couple of nights to relax and explore. If you would like to spend more time in Goa, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
18-10-202402-11-2024AUD $ 1,512-
25-10-202409-11-2024AUD $ 1,344-
30-10-202414-11-2024AUD $ 1,710-
05-11-202420-11-2024AUD $ 1,428-
08-11-202423-11-2024AUD $ 1,428-
13-11-202428-11-2024AUD $ 1,745-
16-11-202401-12-2024AUD $ 1,745-
22-11-202407-12-2024AUD $ 1,720-
24-11-202409-12-2024AUD $ 1,780-
04-12-202419-12-2024AUD $ 1,680-
17-12-202401-01-2025AUD $ 1,615-
04-01-202519-01-2025AUD $ 1,705-
10-01-202525-01-2025AUD $ 1,670-
17-01-202501-02-2025AUD $ 1,735-
24-01-202508-02-2025AUD $ 1,735-
31-01-202515-02-2025AUD $ 1,735-
07-02-202522-02-2025AUD $ 1,785-
14-02-202501-03-2025AUD $ 1,805-
19-02-202506-03-2025AUD $ 1,805-
21-02-202508-03-2025AUD $ 1,805-
28-02-202515-03-2025AUD $ 1,805-
07-03-202522-03-2025AUD $ 1,860-
14-03-202529-03-2025AUD $ 1,805-
21-03-202505-04-2025AUD $ 1,735-
28-03-202512-04-2025AUD $ 1,735-
04-04-202519-04-2025AUD $ 1,735-
11-04-202526-04-2025AUD $ 1,670-
18-04-202503-05-2025AUD $ 1,670-
02-05-202517-05-2025AUD $ 1,670-
16-05-202531-05-2025AUD $ 1,670-
06-06-202521-06-2025AUD $ 1,670-
04-07-202519-07-2025AUD $ 1,670-
15-08-202530-08-2025AUD $ 1,670-
05-09-202520-09-2025AUD $ 1,670-
19-09-202504-10-2025AUD $ 1,670-
03-10-202518-10-2025AUD $ 1,735-
17-10-202501-11-2025AUD $ 1,735-
24-10-202508-11-2025AUD $ 1,805-
31-10-202515-11-2025AUD $ 1,805-
05-11-202520-11-2025AUD $ 1,805-
07-11-202522-11-2025AUD $ 1,805-
14-11-202529-11-2025AUD $ 1,805-
19-11-202504-12-2025AUD $ 1,805-
21-11-202506-12-2025AUD $ 1,735-
28-11-202513-12-2025AUD $ 1,735-
05-12-202520-12-2025AUD $ 1,735-
12-12-202527-12-2025AUD $ 1,735-
19-12-202503-01-2026AUD $ 1,670-
26-12-202510-01-2026AUD $ 1,670-
03-01-202618-01-2026AUD $ 1,755-
09-01-202624-01-2026AUD $ 1,755-
16-01-202631-01-2026AUD $ 1,755-
23-01-202607-02-2026AUD $ 1,820-
30-01-202614-02-2026AUD $ 1,820-
06-02-202621-02-2026AUD $ 1,820-
13-02-202628-02-2026AUD $ 1,895-
18-02-202605-03-2026AUD $ 1,895-
20-02-202607-03-2026AUD $ 1,895-
27-02-202614-03-2026AUD $ 1,895-
06-03-202621-03-2026AUD $ 1,895-
13-03-202628-03-2026AUD $ 1,895-
20-03-202604-04-2026AUD $ 1,820-
27-03-202611-04-2026AUD $ 1,820-
03-04-202618-04-2026AUD $ 1,820-
10-04-202625-04-2026AUD $ 1,755-
17-04-202602-05-2026AUD $ 1,755-
01-05-202616-05-2026AUD $ 1,755-
15-05-202630-05-2026AUD $ 1,755-
05-06-202620-06-2026AUD $ 1,755-
03-07-202618-07-2026AUD $ 1,755-
14-08-202629-08-2026AUD $ 1,755-
04-09-202619-09-2026AUD $ 1,755-
18-09-202603-10-2026AUD $ 1,755-
02-10-202617-10-2026AUD $ 1,820-
16-10-202631-10-2026AUD $ 1,820-
23-10-202607-11-2026AUD $ 1,820-
30-10-202614-11-2026AUD $ 1,895-
04-11-202619-11-2026AUD $ 1,895-
06-11-202621-11-2026AUD $ 1,895-
13-11-202628-11-2026AUD $ 1,895-
18-11-202603-12-2026AUD $ 1,895-
20-11-202605-12-2026AUD $ 1,895-
27-11-202612-12-2026AUD $ 1,820-
04-12-202619-12-2026AUD $ 1,820-
11-12-202626-12-2026AUD $ 1,820-
18-12-202602-01-2027AUD $ 1,820-
25-12-202609-01-2027AUD $ 1,755-

Accommodation

Homestay (1 night),Hotel (11 nights),Overnight sleeper train (3 nights)

Transport

Overnight sleeper train,Private vehicle,Public bus,Auto rickshaw,Taxi,Train,Canoe,Boat

Map

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