Overview
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on G Adventures 14 Day Best of Southern India. From calm Kerala backwaters and spice plantations to incredible temples, have your camera ready as you experience the highlights of Southern India. This two-week adventure offers a great balance of guided excursions and free time to explore on your own. Travelling by train, bus, rickshaw, and country boats will bring you closer to the locals and is a fascinating way to gain insight into the peaceful backwaters of Kerala and stunning temples of Tamilnadu.
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Our Price From
US$1,162 per person
Price shown based on twin share
Save up to $387 per person
Trip Length
14 Days
Trip Starts
Kochi
Trip Ends
Kochi
Departures
May 2026 to Jan 2028
Countries Visited:
Operator
G Adventures
Trip Style
Classic
Budget
Affordable
Age Range
6-99 Years
Max. Group Size
16
Pace
Leisurely
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
AHBS
Itinerary
Arrive at any time. There are no planned activities before the evening welcome meeting, so check into the hotel and enjoy the city. After the welcome meeting, visit the harbour to enjoy sunset over the Chinese fishing nets followed by an optional group dinner.
Accommodation:
Hotel Gama Heritage
Included Experiences
- Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Walk along the cobblestone streets of Fort Kochi on a sightseeing tour of this historic city. The rest of the day is yours to explore as you wish. Tonight, take an overnight train to Bangalore.
Accommodation:
KTDC Pepper Grove
Included Experiences
- Fort Kochi Visit: Enjoy your stay in charming Fort Kochi, which evokes an era long gone. Walk through the cobblestone streets, visit delightful tea houses, and have a relaxing drink while sitting by the water. Be sure to check out Vasco de Gama's tombstone and the famous blue synagogue.
- Free Time: Enjoy an afternoon free to explore Kochi.
- Basic Overnight Train (beds): Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.
After a night on the train, we'll pull into Bangalore in the morning. The first stop of the day is breakfast. Second stop of the day is to the beautiful Lal Bagh Botanical garden. Walk through the incredible green houses full of colourful flowers and unique sculptures. The remainder of the day is yours to see the city. In the evening, regroup for an orientation walk through the main iconic commercial streets of Bangalore.
Accommodation:
Treebo Akshaya Lalbagh Inn
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Lal Bagh Gardens Visit: Enjoy a visit to the splendid Lal Bagh—literally "red garden"—a delightful botanical garden that was built in the 1760s by Mughal royalty. One of the most famous attractions in Bangalore, it boasts India's largest collection of tropical plants. Walk around the gardens and check out the lake and famous Glass House—a huge greenhouse where a popular flower show is held each year.
- Free Time: Spend the day exploring Bangalore on your town terms.
- Bangalore Orientation Walk: Take an orientation walk around Bangalore's Mahatma Gandhi Road, Brigade Road and Church Street, the heart of the city's most commercial zone.
Optional Experiences
- Bangalore Palace Visit: Get a taste of life with the royals with a visit to this magnificent palace, built between 1862 and 1944. Owned by the Mysore royal family, it was built in Tudor style architecture that has been said to resemble Windsor Castle in England.
Depart from Bangalore and drive to Srirangapatna to visit the incredible Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple and the Tipu Sultan's tomb. Then continue on to Mysore for an afternoon of free time to explore the city before an evening orientation walk in Devraja Market and an optional group dinner.
Accommodation:
Akshaya Mahal Inn
Included Experiences
- Devraja Market Visit and Orientation Walk: Visit the beautiful Devaraja Market, where fruit and flowers are seemingly arranged in colourful coordination. Get acquainted with the liveliness of the market and the city of Mysore.
- Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple Visit: Visit the ornately beautiful Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple. Standing over 73 m tall (240 ft), the main structure can be seem from across the city. Visit the colourful temple dedicated with Ranganatha, the resting form of Vishnu.
- Tomb of Tipu Sultan: Visit the beautiful Tipu Sultan's tomb. Constructed in 1782, Tipu Sultan, known as the Tiger of Mysore, originally built this white mausoleum for his parents' grave. See the amazing architecture, learn of its history and wander the gardens.
Explore the best of Mysore today with visits to Chamundeshwari Temple at Chamundi Hills, the Mysore Palace and St. Philomena Cathedral. The rest of the day is yours to explore this historic, opulent city.
Accommodation:
Akshaya Mahal Inn
Included Experiences
- Chamundi Hills Visit: Enjoy a visit to the gorgeous temple devoted to the Hindu goddess, Chamundi, located on Chamundi Hill.
- Mysore Palace Visit: This stunning palace was the home of the Maharajas of Mysore, the former royal family, which ruled from 1399 to 1950. Learn about the rich history of Indian royalty and soak in the splendor of an era long gone.
- St. Philomena's Cathedral Visit: Visit the Neo Gothic Catholic church in Mysore, one of the largest cathedrals in all of India. Built in 1936, it was constructed with inspiration of the Cologne Cathedral in Germany.
- Free Time: Spend the afternoon free to explore Mysore.
Take a train to Chennai and transfer to a private vehicle to arrive to Mamallapuram by the afternoon. This famous town is steeped in myth and history, so enjoy the opportunity to experience it with a free afternoon.
Accommodation:
Vilasam Rooms
Included Experiences
- Train: Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
- Free Time: Spend the afternoon at leisure in Mamallapuram.
An early morning is dedicated to a tour of the Shore Temple, an iconic complex of temples and shrines known to the be one of the oldest stone temples in India, and best viewed at sunrise. After an incredible walking tour, take the remainder of the day for your own exploration of Mamallapuram. Most use this time to enjoy a visit to the beach or a yoga class.
Accommodation:
Vilasam Rooms
Included Experiences
- Sunrise Shore Temple Visit: Explore this impressive group of monuments that were sculpted during the 7th and 8th century, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, at sunrise. Of these, the Shore Temple stands out for its a marvelous view of the Bay of Bengal's shore. Made of granite, it's actually a twin-temple dedicated both to the Hindu gods, Vishnu and Shiva.
- Free Time: Enjoy a free afternoon in Mamallapuram.
Leave Mamallapuram and drive to Chennai. Then transfer to a train to arrive in the afternoon to Thanjavur, a town renowned globally for its bronze metal sculptures. After settling in, visit the 200+ foot tall Brihadeeswarar Temple and walk around the markets.
Accommodation:
Hotel Tawfeeq Palace
Included Experiences
- Train: Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
- Bronze Casting Workshops: Admire the famous Thanjavur bronze statues. Explorethe traditional bronze casting workshops that still follow the age-old "lost wax technique" to cast statues and idols.
- Brihadeeswara Temple: Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ancient Hindu temple built in 1010 AD. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this popular pilgrimage site is a stunning example of the Great Living Chola Temples.
This morning, drive to Kanadukathan, known as the land of Chettiars, the collection of over 75 villages. Here we will visit the traditional houses of Chettinad, famous for their spaciousness, opulence and intricate tiles. Afterwards, continue on to Madurai, considered the home of goddess Parvati in her form of Meenakshi - the fish eyed goddess.
Accommodation:
Rio Grande Hotel Madurai
Included Experiences
- Chettinad Traditional House Visit: Visit the traditional Chettinad houses in Kanadukathan and see the making of the beautiful Athangudi colored tiles on a CEO led tour of this heritage village.
Explore the best of Madurai, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with tours of Thirumalai Nayakar Palace and Meenakashi Temple. The afternoon leaves you with time to venture on your own before our very own CEO leads us on a walking foodie tour of the town!
Accommodation:
Rio Grande Hotel Madurai
Included Experiences
- Thirumalai Nayak Palace Visit: Visit what remains of the 17th century palace of the ruler Thirumalai Nayak -- he contributed extensively to the gorgeous Meenakshi Temple, which is located less than 2km away.
- Meenakshi Temple Visit: Visit the gorgeous Meenakshi Temple, considered to be the finest in South Indian religious architecture. This enormous temple complex is dedicated to Shiva and his consort Parvati, or Meenakshi. Even before you pass through the massive stone walls of the temple, the nine striking gopurams (monumental gateways covered with stucco figures of deities, mythical animals, and monsters all painted in vivid colours) loom high above.
- Madurai Foodie Tour: Follow your CEO to know the real (and really delicious) Madurai. Taste local street food, local favorites and lots of yummy snacks and get to know this historic city.
Drive to Thekkady this morning. Thekkady, adjacent to Periyar National Park, is the spice capital of India. Take a guided tour of spice plantations in the Cardamom Hills. Enjoy the rest of the day to explore Thekkady how you wish maybe on a boat tour on Periyar Lake or an ayurvedic massage.
Accommodation:
Michael's Inn
Included Meals:
Dinner
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Enjoy a free afternoon in Thekkady.
- Cardamom Hills Spice Plantation Tour: Enjoy a guided tour of the plantation and tea factory and learn more about spice and tea production and of this region. You might even get to enjoy a sample or two!
Optional Experiences
- Ayurvedic Massage: Ayurvedic medicine is a system of Hindu traditional medicine, and Ayurvedic massage has been practiced in India for centuries and is viewed as a part of holistic medicine. These massage techniques provide relaxation, improve circulation, and eliminate of toxins. Lie back and enjoy!
- Periyar Lake Boat Ride: Enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake -- it's a great way to get to know the region and spot some animals. An early morning provides the best opportunity to catch monkeys, wild boars and elephants starting their day. Periyar National Park is also home to over 200 species of birds and the view from the boat offers a unique perspective for birdwatching.
Travel down to Allepey and catch a private boat for the short ride to the village homestay. In the afternoon, explore the island with a local person to observe the different facets of local life — it's a great opportunity to meet and talk with the people who live in this unique location. Just before sunset, hop on a small country boat and journey along with the locals to enjoy sunset on the winding backwaters. For this homestay, you will only need to take a small overnight bag. Your main bags will be transferred directly to the hotel in Kochi.
Accommodation:
Greenpalm Homes
Included Meals:
Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Boat: Climb aboard and get your float on.
- Kerala Backwaters Homestay: Enjoy strolling under the palm trees, weaving in between the rice fields that cover the island, and learn more about the lifestyles of the locals. Watch the sunset on the winding backwaters with locals in a small country boat. There may even be time to kick back and enjoy a local toddy (alcoholic drink made from coconut).
Spend the morning enjoying your last moments with your host family before departing for Kochi. On the way, stop at your G Adventures-supported project TWE, a coop run by local women, for lunch. Head out for an orientation walk after arrival in Kochi, then enjoy an evening performance of Kathakali, a form of traditional dancing from Kerala.
Accommodation:
Hotel Gama Heritage
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Boat: Climb aboard and get your float on.
- Lunch at Theruvarom Women Empowerment Project: Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch prepared by women of the Planeterra Theruvarom Empowerment Project, which provides women from rural areas an alternative source of income by honing their hospitality and culinary skills. Learn about the local cuisine and socio-economic fabric of the region as you get to know the women. All while taking in live entertainment!
- Orientation Walk: Get to know the delightful city of Kochi through this guided walk, with a chance to explore St Francis Church, the oldest church in India.
- Kathakali Dance: Considered one of the oldest dance forms in India, Kathakali is a combination of drama, dance, music, and ritual. Characters with vividly painted faces and elaborate costumes re-enact stories from the Hindu epics, Mahabharata and Ramayana. This dance drama is famous for amazing costumes, extensive makeup, and explosive body movements, and is performed exclusively by men.
Depart at any time.
Trip Inclusions
- Relax in the peaceful backwaters of Kerala.
- Spot wildlife in beautiful parks.
- Uncover ancient temples.
- Explore tea and spice plantations.
- Take a rickshaw ride through the streets of Madurai.
- Your G for Good Moment: Lunch at Theruvarom Women Empowerment Project, Alleppey
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
- Your Local Living Moment: Kerala Backwaters Homestay, Alleppey
- Fort Kochi orientation walk
- Kathakali dance show
- Wayanad Tea Factory and Plantation Visit
- Chaumundi Temple and Mysore Palace visit
- Mamallapuram Shore Temple visit
- Pondicherry orientation walk
- Madurai cycle-rickshaw ride and Sri Meenakshi Temple visit
- Cardamom Hills spice plantation tour
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Train, private vehicle, cycle-rickshaw, auto-rickshaw, ferry
- Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides
- Hotels (12 Nights), Homestay (1 Night, Multi-share)
- A variety of styles of hotels/guest houses are used in India. These can vary in terms of service, efficiency and cleanliness. In many instances they might not be like what you are used to back home. Power cuts can and are a regular occurrence in many places, especially throughout North and Central India. Although a number of hotels have generators there may be times when these won’t work. It is also recommended when you are in your room to lock the door, as staff will sometime enter without reason.
- 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.
Operator
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, giving you meaningful more experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: Classic
Get the best of both worlds with G's Classic trips as your knowledgeable CEO (Chief Experience Officer) leads you to iconic highlights and hidden gems, while ample free time lets you discover what excites you most. Enjoy included meals showcasing local flavours, plus opportunities to dive deeper into the food scene independently. Stay in comfortable hotels, authentic homestays, and unique accommodations that capture the spirit of each destination.
Dates & Pricing
USD
Sunday
12 Apr 2026
12 Apr 26
Kochi
Saturday
25 Apr 2026
25 Apr 26
Kochi
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$1,549
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Friday
17 Apr 2026
17 Apr 26
Kochi
Thursday
30 Apr 2026
30 Apr 26
Kochi
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$1,549
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Sunday
19 Apr 2026
19 Apr 26
Kochi
Saturday
02 May 2026
02 May 26
Kochi
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$1,549
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Sunday
26 Apr 2026
26 Apr 26
Kochi
Saturday
09 May 2026
09 May 26
Kochi
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$1,549
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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