Discover Kerala with Boutique Hotels

Superior Private Tour

The beauty of India

Southern India offers lush greenery and waterside tranquility that contrasts with the arid north. This tour takes in the beautiful sights and serene landscapes of Karnataka and Kerala. Included are the immense Maharajah’s Palace in Mysore, the wildlife of Nagarhole National Park, the lush landscapes of Wayanad, a rail ride through the Nilgiri mountains and a cruise along the peaceful backwaters of Kochi.

All the things you need to know

Fly from London (regional connections available) to Bengalaru (Bangalore) with Emirates, via Dubai.
 
 
On arrival, check in for an overnight stay at the Leela Bangalore. This afternoon, enjoy a guided walk tracing Bangalore’s captivating history.
 
Travel to Mysore for two nights at the Radisson. En route, stop at the island fortress of Srirangapatna, the former capital of south India’s most powerful 18th-century rulers. Evening food tour of Mysore’s celebrated gastronomical delights including Mysore masala dosa. Return to the Maharajah’s Palace this evening to see it illuminated by over 100,000 light bulbs.
 
Walking tour visiting some of Mysore’s architectural wonders. Tour the Maharajah’s Palace, which combines Hindu and Saracenic architecture. Afternoon visit to the Keshava temple at Somnathpur. 
 
Travel to Kabini for an overnight stay at the Serai Kabini. The prey density of Nagarhole National Park is one of the highest in Asia including tigers, leopards and wild dogs. Afternoon boat safari in search of the park’s endemic wildlife.
Early morning 4×4 safari. Travel to Wayanad for two nights at Wayanad Wild. Wayanad is an area of outstanding natural beauty with tropical forests, valleys, waterfalls and sprawling plantations. 
 
Morning at leisure. Enjoy an interactive Keralan cooking class and lunch. Take part in a guided nature walk following elephant trails. 
 
Leisurely drive to the hill station of Coonoor. Enjoy lunch on the terrace of the Taj Savoy. Afternoon tour of the botanical gardens in Ooty, filled with more than 1,000 varieties of plants, shrubs and trees. Continue to Coonoor for two nights at the Gateway Coonoor. 
Drive to Ooty and ride the Blue Mountain Railway to Coonoor. The scenic narrow-gauge railway runs across plains, plantations and the verdant hills of the Nilgiri Mountains. Visit a planter’s house for afternoon tea and a walk through the tea plantation. 
 
Travel to Coimbatore and enjoy lunch before boarding the train to Ernakulam. Transfer to the Eighth Bastion, located in the heart of Fort Kochi for two nights. Remainder of the day is at leisure to explore the local area.
 

Visit some of the highlights of this enchanting port, taking in the architectural styles that reveal Arab, Jewish and European influences. View the remarkable, cantilevered Chinese fishing nets, explore the 16th-century Portuguese-built Mattancherry Palace, the Church of St Francis and the world’s oldest active Jewish synagogue in historic Jew Town. Wander through markets and visit the vibrant Dhobi Ghats. Later, visit the Kathakali dance studio to see a traditional performance. 

Drive to the backwater region of Kerala this morning. En route, enjoy a backwater cruise by shikara boat through narrow canals. This cruise explores the picturesque waterways, revealing boats carrying loads of coir, copra and cashews and, along the water’s edge, numerous churches and markets. Stay for two nights at the Coconut Lagoon. 

Day at leisure. Optional village life experience or visit to Phillip Kutty farmhouse with lunch.

Morning transfer to the airport and fly to London, via Dubai, with Emirates.

  • See Mysore Palace illuminated by 100,000 lightbulbs

  • Culinary tour of Mysore

  • Afternoon tea at a planters house

  • Ride the scenic Blue Mountain Railway

  • Boat safari in Nagarhole National Park
  • Small group size – average 14 people (max 18)

  • 4- & 5-star accommodation

  • International flights with Emirates

  • Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles

  • Experienced local tour manager

  • 12 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 3 dinners

  • Guided sightseeing & entrance fees

  • Porterage at airports & stations

  • Included safari & national park fees

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