Best of Southern India
Use code BONUS10 to get an extra 10% off all tours — for a limited time only. T&Cs apply
From AUD $1499 Was AUD $1999
Small Group
Light
Rating
(20 reviews)
Best of Southern India
Use code BONUS10 to get an extra 10% off all tours — for a limited time only. T&Cs apply
14 days
Small Group
Budget
Light
English
Experience Overview
From calm Kerala backwaters and spice plantations to incredible temples, have your camera ready as you experience the highlights of Southern India.
Includes
Activities
- 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
Accommodation
- Hotels (12 nts), homestay (1 nt, multi-share).
- 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
Transport
- Train, private vehicle, cycle-rickshaw, auto-rickshaw, ferry.
Highlights
- 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
Trip Details
14 days
Train, private vehicle, cycle-rickshaw, auto-rickshaw, ferry.
English
Kochi, India
Kochi, India
Budget
Classic, Budget
Light
Itinerary
Day 1: Kochi
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - 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.Accommodation - Hotel Gama Heritage
Day 2: Kochi/Bangalore
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - 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.Transport - Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.Accommodation - KTDC Pepper Grove
Day 3: Bangalore
Meals included: Breakfast
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - 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.Activity - Take an orientation walk around Bangalore's Mahatma Gandhi Road, Brigade Road and Church Street, the heart of the city's most commercial zone.Accommodation - Treebo Akshaya Lalbagh Inn
Day 4: Bangalore/Mysore
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - 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.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - 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.Activity - 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.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Akshaya Mahal Inn
Day 5: Mysore
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Enjoy a visit to the gorgeous temple devoted to the Hindu goddess, Chamundi, located on Chamundi Hill.Activity - 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.Activity - 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.Accommodation - Akshaya Mahal Inn
Day 6: Mysore/Māmallapuram
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.Free_time - Spend the afternoon at leisure in Mamallapuram.Accommodation - Vilasam Rooms
Day 7: Māmallapuram
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - 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.Accommodation - Vilasam Rooms
Day 8: Māmallapuram/Thanjavur
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.Activity - 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.Activity - 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.Accommodation - Hotel Tawfeeq Palace
Day 9: Thanjavur/Madurai
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - 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.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Rio Grande Hotel Madurai
Day 10: Madurai
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - 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.Activity - 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.Activity - 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.Accommodation - Rio Grande Hotel Madurai
Day 11: Madurai/Thekkady
Meals included: Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Enjoy a free afternoon in Thekkady.Activity - 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!Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Michael's Inn
Day 12: Thekkady/Kerala 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.
Meals included: Lunch,Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Climb aboard and get your float on.Activity - 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).Accommodation - Greenpalm Homes
Day 13: Kerala Backwaters/Kochi
Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Climb aboard and get your float on.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - 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!Activity - 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.Activity - 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.Accommodation - Hotel Gama Heritage
Day 14: Kochi
- Flights to and from origin and destinations
- Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
- Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
- Recommended gratuities/tipping
- Optional activities/tours
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.
You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.
Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.
This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.
Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.
If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.
If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.
Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.
- It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
- Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
- Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
From
AUD $1999
Duration: 14 days
Trip Type: Small Group
Activity Level: Light
From calm Kerala backwaters and spice plantations to incredible temples, have your camera ready as you experience the highlights of Southern India.
Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 03 May 2026
Customer Reviews
12/30/2023
Small group tour, good contact with local people. Enough options and activities and a reliable responsive guide.
12/30/2023
The Hotels were awful in terms of hygiene. The hotels were so dirty and disgusting that they'really impacted the quality of trip.
Tour Operator
G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.
In Business Since 1990
12/30/2023
Small group tour, good contact with local people. Enough options and activities and a reliable responsive guide.
12/30/2023
The Hotels were awful in terms of hygiene. The hotels were so dirty and disgusting that they'really impacted the quality of trip.
12/30/2023
I was due to commence tour of Southern India in December. Unfortunately on my arrival to India, I was refused entry as my visa had expired. On receipt of my visa I informed the relevant authorities that expiry date predated my arrival to India. However, I was reassured that the visa activated on my arrival to India. This was not the case as I discovered. While this misfortune as nothing to do with G Adventures I was not impressed that you were not prepared, to offer any form of compensation. I appreciate it was a last minute cancellation owing to the circumstances, but when I suggested putting some of the fee paid for Southern India trip towards another one, it was dismissed and not considered. It was my first trip booked with G Adventures and I was looking forward to it very much.
12/30/2023
I work for G, and therefore I know that G is a great option, so I recommend G.
12/30/2023
Good and varied itinerary, small groups, people from different continents and ages, local guides with lots of knowledge, previous experiences with G
12/30/2023
Reliable and you know what to expect.
12/30/2023
No time to really enjoy sights and nature. Endless hours spent commuting between places.
12/30/2023
Tours are great for organising the itinerary and logistics of a trip, as well as having the safety of a group, but the pace and rigidity isn',t for everyone
12/23/2023
The appalling standard of hotels chosen by G Adventures in Southern India was the worst I have ever seen. I paid an extra 500 euro for single supplement and it was a total waste of money. Filthy rooms , damp and stained bed linen , mouldy and rusty bathrooms , nothing attractive about them at all. Below the basic tourist standard in India. I will be looking for a full explanation from your head office and compensation on my trip due to the dreadful experience we all had with the accommodation.
12/23/2023
The accommodations provided during the tour fell significantly below acceptable standards. The quality of the hotels, in terms of cleanliness, amenities, and overall comfort, was disappointing and, in some instances, unacceptable. These conditions greatly impacted our enjoyment of the trip. The primary reasons for my dissatisfaction include: Hygiene and Cleanliness Issues: Several hotels lacked proper cleanliness and hygiene standards. This compromised the overall comfort and well-being of the guests. Inadequate Facilities: The facilities provided were inadequate, and in some cases, did not match the promised standards. This resulted in a less-than-optimal experience for the travelers. Unpleasant Ambiance: The ambiance of some hotels was not conducive to a positive and enjoyable stay. This created a disheartening contrast to the vibrant and enriching experiences we had during the day. I understand that travel can present unforeseen challenges, but the standard of accommodation significantly impacted the overall value for money. As a result, it is with regret that I cannot wholeheartedly recommend the G Adventures tour to friends or colleagues based on this experience. I believe that honest feedback is crucial for the continual improvement of your services, and I hope that this input will contribute to enhancing the overall quality of future G Adventures tours. Thank you for your understanding.
12/16/2023
Local leader. Local experiences. Cost effective.
12/09/2023
I think that you are one of the best organizations providing this style of travel.
12/09/2023
This score would have been a 10 until my most recent trip, which unfortunately fell short of the mark due to the extremely poor standard of accommodation. Despite this, I still feel that the CEO?s and tour itineraries are great.
12/09/2023
This is the third G Adventures we have been on and will the general shape of these tours
12/09/2023
I have done several trips with G Adventures and have always thoroughly enjoyed them, until this one. I was very disappointed in some of the itinerary but mostly with the hotels. The home stay was wonderful and that type of accommodation was what I expected from the entire two week trip. The hotels selected were not clea, often did not have working wifi, air conditioning and the bathrooms were smelly and not clean.
12/09/2023
The poor standard of accommodation drops the score, the CEO and Tour Itinerary was great
12/02/2023
If the accommodation was better it would be a 10
12/02/2023
The tour covered the areas of interest Southern India, a good selection of areas to visit and also included many sightseeing hotspots.
12/09/2023
Highly organised and efficient
12/09/2023
Great value for money.
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