Classic option from US$3225* PP
Trip code: SOS-C-14 |
Group size: Max 16, Avg 12
START Bangalore, Mysore, Nagarhole National Park, Coonoor, Ooty, Munnar, Kumarakom & the Backwaters, Cochin FINISH
Explore the lush landscapes and unique cultural riches of the south of India. Wander incense-laden markets and fragrant tea plantations, and marvel at the sight of India’s greatest remaining elephant herds in the jungles of Nagarhole. Be enchanted by the tranquil backwaters stretching languidly across the tropical Kerala lowlands.
Availability
800 342 1957
2013
DAYS 1-3: BANGALORE & MYSORE
On arrival in Bangalore, transfer to your hotel. Take a short walk in the beautiful Lalbagh Botanical Gardens before the drive to Mysore. A cultured and quiet town famous for its silk and sandalwood, Mysore is also home to ornate Hindu temples, the vivid and fragrant Devarajah Market and the nearby temples of Somnathpur. Admire the grandeur of the extravagant Maharajah’s Palace.
Hotels: Monarch Luxur, Royal Orchid Metropole Mysore
DAYS 4-7: NAGARHOLE & COONOOR
Roaming the forested ranges and waterways of Nagarhole National Park are the largest remaining herds of Indian Elephants. Witness these incredible animals by boat and jeep safaris, and watch for tigers and other rare wildlife. Travel into the resplendent Nilgiri Hills and the distinctly British air of quirky hill station Coonoor. Experience the magic of India’s heritage trains with a ride on the famous Nilgiri Queen ‘toy train’ to Ooty and visit St Stephens and the Botanic Gardens, and take a stroll down ‘The Mall’.
Hotels: The Serai Kabini, The Gateway Hotel Church Road
DAYS 8-9: MUNNAR
Gaze out on tropical mountain scenery on your way to Munnar, where dramatic vistas across thriving tea plantations set the scene. Learn about tea cultivation at the Tea Museum and take a hill safari which includes a visit to the Shrishti children’s project.
Hotel: Ambady Estate
DAYS 10-11: KUMARAKOM
Return to the tropical lowlands and serene Kumarakom. Drift along a tropical canal by small boat to your resort perched on the edge of Vembanad Lake. Lounge in the balmy morning air and then travel to a Keralan backwaters farmhouse and lunch on scrumptious local fare after an illuminating cooking demonstration.
Hotel: Coconut Lagoon
DAYS 12-14: KERALA BACKWATER S & COCHIN
Board your traditional kettuvalayam, an iconic local houseboat, and cruise the idyllic backwaters surrounded by lush, tropical scenery. Dine on a delicious lunch on board before alighting at Allepey for the drive to historic Cochin, a melting pot of cultural influences and one of India’s most attractive and best-preserved trading cities.
Hotel: Grande Residencia
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