Southern India Encompassed

Duration

22 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Budget

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Over 22 unforgettable days, western and southern India unfold like a storybook of colour and culture. Wander Mumbai’s lively streets, trace Goa’s Portuguese charm, and watch the sun dip behind Hampi’s ancient ruins.

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
Colaba Sunrise Walk
Guided exploration of Elephanta Caves
Heritage walk of Fontainhas (Portuguese quarter)
Visit to Old Goa churches
Sunset visit and exploration of Hampi ruins
Guided exploration of Halebidu ruins
Hoysaleshwara Temple
Scenic train journeys: Mumbai → Goa, Goa → Hampi, Mangalore → Kochi
Fort Kochi Visit
Free Time in Kochi
Lal Bagh Gardens Visit
Free Time Bangalore
Bangalore Orientation Walk
Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple Visit
Tomb of Tipu Sultan
Devraja Market Visit and Orientation Walk
Chamundi Hills Visit
Mysore Palace Visit
St
Philomena's Cathedral Visit
Mysore Free time
Free time in Mamallapuram
Sunrise Shore Temple Visit
Brihadeeswara Temple
Bronze Casting Workshops
Chettinad Traditional House Visit
Thirumalai Nayak Palace Visit
Meenakshi Temple Visit
Cycle-Rickshaw Tour
Cardamom Hills Spice Plantation Tour
Free Time in Thekkady
Boat through Kerala Backwaters
Kerala Backwaters Homestay
Lunch at Theruvarom Women Empowerment Project
Orientation Walk in Kochi
Kathakali Dance

Accommodation

Hotels/ Guesthouses (twin-share, 18 nights); Overnight Trains: (2 nights); Homestay: (1 nt, multi-share)

2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

Transport

Private vehicle, Walking, Basic Overnight Train, Local Train, Boat.

Group Leader

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.

Highlights

Drift through the peaceful backwaters of Kerala on a traditional boat
Watch the sunset glow over Hampi’s ancient ruins
Explore Mamallapuram’s Shore Temples and wander local markets
Ignite your senses on a spice plantation tour in Thekkady

Trip Details

Duration

22 days

Transportation

Private vehicle, Walking, Basic Overnight Train, Local Train, Boat.

Guide Language

English

Starts

Mumbai, India

Finishes

Kochi, India

Accommodations

Budget

Travel Style

Classic, Budget

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

Day 1: Mumbai

Arrive at any time. In the evening, join your CEO for a welcome meeting, followed by an orientation walk around Colaba and the waterfront market.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Walk through the charming Colaba neighbourhood of Mumbai.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 Manama

Day 2: Mumbai

Spend the day getting acquainted with Mumbai on a sunrise walking tour followed by a driving tour of the city. For a cooler, quieter and even more beautiful experience, we head out around sunrise to see places like Gateway of India, Flaura Fountain and Rajabai Clock Tower. Then hop into a local taxi to visit places like Dhobi Ghat and Baangang Water reservoir.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Walk through Colaba and the Gateway of India at sunrise, visiting some highlights along the way. Enjoy the architecturally splendid Gateway of India, magnificent colonial buildings, popular with tourists from India and around the world, was built during the British rule and offers amazing views of the Arabian Sea, with boats bobbing in the water close to it, as well as charming cafes, and high-end boutiques.Activity - Visit the main highlights of Mumbai on either a half-day or full-day driving tour of this lively city. Tours will visit the Victoria Terminus Train Station (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Marine Drive, and Dhobi Ghat, the largest open-air laundry area in Mumbai, among other highlights.Free_time - Spend the afternoon at leisure in Mumbai.Accommodation - Hotel Manama

Day 3: Mumbai/Goa

An early morning train brings us to Goa by the mid afternoon. After checking into the hotel, join your CEO for an orientation walk of Panjim Fontainhas.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Follow your CEO on an orientation walk of the Panjim Fontainhas, the historic Portuguese Quarters of Goa. Admire the colourful colonial architecture, beautiful streets and red tiled roofs.Transport - Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.Accommodation - Alor Holiday Resort

Day 4: Goa/Hubballi

Today is yours to explore the amazing beach town of Goa. Choose to spend the day however you'd like, from taking a tour of Old Goa Church, visiting a spice plantation or relaxing on the beach. In the evening, take an overnight train towards Hampi.

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Spend the day exploring Goa on your terms.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 - Alor Holiday Resort

Day 5: Hubballi/Hampi

Pull into Hubballi early this morning and switch to a private vehicle for the remainder of the way to Hampi, famous for its incredible ruins and historic temples. After arrival, drop your things at the hotel, eat some breakfast then enjoy some free time to rest or explore. We'll head to Raghunatha Temple in the evening for an amazing sunset view over the temple boulders.

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery as you journey to your next destination.Free_time - Spend some time on your own to explore Hampi or rest before the evening activity.Activity - Visit the beautiful temple atop the boulder for sunset.Accommodation - Dream Hampi Villa & Home Stay

Day 6: Hampi

Start the day by watching the sun rise over Bada Nandi, the famous monolithic bull sacred to Lord Shiva. The Hampi adventure continues with a tuktuk tour through the famous ruins. Learn about the interesting history of this place while admiring some of India's most incredible temple ruins and historic architecture. Following the tour, enjoy a free afternoon. Opt to visit the Kishkinda Foundation, a project dedicated to supporting the development of the local women and children.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Hampi Bada Nandi, aka the Monolithic Bull. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this single-boulder granite sculpture is 8-feet tall and a symbol of power and devotion to Hinduism.Activity - Explore the spectacular ruins of Hampi Palaces, Hazararama Temple, and the boulders on the river on this tuktuk tour.Free_time - Enjoy a free afternoon in historic Hampi.Accommodation - Dream Hampi Villa & Home Stay

Day 7: Hampi/Halibedu

Head out for a scenic drive to Halibedu, the ancient capital of the Hoysala Empire and known for its amazing temples. After arrival, take a tour of the Halibedu ruins and learn of the long, interesting history if this place twice plundered by the Muslim armies of Northern India.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Visit the 12th-century Hindu temple, the Halebidu Temple, dedicated to lord Shiva.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Mallige Residency

Day 8: Halibedu/Mangalore

Visit the spectacular Hoysaleswara Temple at sunrise this morning, the only surviving monument in Halibedu. In the afternoon, drive to Mangalore and enjoy a restful evening.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Visit the Hoysaleswara Temple, an iconic image of Southern India from the 12th century with bout 340 large hindu relief sculptures.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Free_time - Spend the afternoon free in Mangalore.Accommodation - Treebo The Horizon Kankanady

Day 9: Mangalore/Kochi

Travel by train and tuktuk to Kochi, a historic port town in Southwest India. Enjoy the day to rest or explore. Then, in the evening, join your CEO for an orientation walk of Fort Kochi.

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.Transport - Jump in India's traditional mode of transport - the tuk tuk.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.Accommodation - Hotel Gama Heritage

Day 10: Kochi/Bangalore

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.

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.

Day 11: Bangalore

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.

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 12: Bangalore/Mysore

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.

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 13: Mysore

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.

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 14: Mysore/Māmallapuram

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.

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 15: Māmallapuram

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.

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 16: Māmallapuram/Thanjavur

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.

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 17: Thanjavur/Madurai

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.

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 18: Madurai

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 we hop on a cycle rickshaw for a tour of the city.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Sit back and relax during this eco-friendly tour -- you'll be pulled along by a bicyclist! See the sights at a slower pace and form street level. Check out the fruit and vegetable market, watch the pressing of oil by bullocks, and the famous Gandhi museum and palace.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.Accommodation - Rio Grande Hotel Madurai

Day 19: Madurai/Thekkady

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.

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 20: Thekkady/Kerala Backwaters

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.

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 21: Kerala Backwaters/Kochi

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.

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 22: Kochi

Depart at any time.

Exclusions

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.

Important Information

Meals

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.

Luggage

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.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

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.

Sightseeing

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.

Visas

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.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

From
AUD $3999

AUD $3,399

(Tour only)

Offer ends 01 May, 2026 Per Person Standard

Duration: 22 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 05 Sep 2026

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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

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