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Experience Overview
Travel off the tourist trail on this 13-day Premium adventure to discover southern India’s swaying palm trees, rolling hills and calm backwaters. Head into the home of a local family and be immersed in their culture, wander the French-inspired streets of Puducherry and explore the maze of food stalls in Madurai. Go into the wilderness of Periyar National Park to look for local wildlife and tiger tracks, watch a live kalarippayattu performance and visit tea plantations to learn how this popular beverage is grown and made. Sink into a blissful Keralite Ayurvedic massage and feel firsthand the wisdom of this ancient healing method. With local food, a converted houseboat stay and an expert local leader by your side, this will be a trip of a lifetime.
Highlights
- Find out what makes Indian cuisine so special during Exclusive Experiences like an off-the-beaten-path food tour in Madurai, a home-cooked meal with a local family and a fragrant lunch at a spice plantation.
- Enjoy a high-energy Exclusive Experience with a live performance of kalarippayattu in Thekkady – believed to be the oldest surviving martial art in India.
- Unwind with a traditional Ayurvedic massage in Kerala, learn the fundamentals of this ancient holistic healing method, and take part in an Ayurvedic cooking demo.
- Experience a thousand shades of green as you tour a scenic tea plantation in Munnar and track footprints in search of wild elephants in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Spend a night in a converted houseboat on the Kerala backwaters – your Feature Stay for this adventure – and watch the world go by as you float along the river.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2090
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Unknown
Transport: Private vehicle, Ferry
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Explorer, Budget
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: HHPS
Starts: Chennai, India
Finishes: Kochi, India
Duration: 13 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (12), Lunch (2), Dinner (4)Accommodation: Hotel (9 nights), Houseboat Feature Stay (1 night), Kochi Feature Stay (2 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $4895 ($377 /day)
Itinerary
Namaste! Welcome to India! Your adventure begins in Chennai, India’s cultural heart and fourth-largest city. You’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel when you arrive. Meet your fellow travellers and experienced leader at a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, you may like to visit the market stalls of Georgetown Bazaar. After your meeting, join your group for a welcome dinner at Chennai’s first chain restaurant, serving an iconic array of south Indian vegetarian dishes like idly, dosa and poori.
Included Activities:
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
- Chennai - Welcome dinner
Accommodation:
- The Residency Towers or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, leave the city behind and drive along the scenic East Coast Road to the fishing town of Mamallapuram. Visit the 8th-century Shore Temple and its mandapams (carved pillars) and watch locals pay their respects to Shiva. Later, continue to Puducherry. A French colony until 1954, the old parts of town retain a distinctly European feel, with leafy boulevards lined with houses and boutiques. When you arrive, the evening is free to explore. Puducherry has a varied food scene with Indian and classic French influences, so ask your leader where to grab dinner.
Included Activities:
- Mamallapuram - Shore Temples guided tour
Accommodation:
- The Residency Towers or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning is free, then head out for a walking tour with your leader to see local temples and the French Quarter. Stroll past mustard-coloured buildings draped with vibrant bougainvillea as your leader shares stories of the revolutionaries, generals and kings who once walked these streets. Stop by the pastel pink Church of Notre Dame, then at a cafe in White Town to try local snacks, then enjoy a free evening to explore at your own pace.
Included Activities:
- Puducherry - Leader-led French Quarter walking tour
- Puducherry - Sri Aurobindo Ashram
- Puducherry - snack stop at local cafe
Accommodation:
- The Residency Towers Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Continue to Madurai today, with plenty of chai stops along the way. Arrive in the late afternoon and head out on a short orientation walk to get acquainted with one of India’s oldest cities. When you’ve got your bearings, join your leader on a tour of the city’s Tamil cuisine. Madurai is bursting with street food stalls, family-owned restaurants and regional delicacies, and your leader will show you dishes that aren’t on the tourist menus. Taste mutton dosa or fish gravy as your leader shares stories of centuries-old recipes, then round out the night with Jigarthanda, Madurai’s celebrated dessert.
Included Activities:
- Madurai - Leader-led street food tour
Accommodation:
- Heritage Madurai or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Continue your exploration of Madurai today. Your leader will guide you through the Tailor’s Market, local bazaars and Sri Meenakshi Temple. Still in use today, this ancient temple is a maze of lamp-lit corridors leading to shrines where traditional rituals take place. Next, visit the National Gandhi Museum, dedicated to the life and achievements of India’s independence leader, then stop by the 17th-century Thirumalai Nayak Palace. This evening, immerse yourself in Tamil culture during a visit to a local family for a traditional home-cooked dinner featuring dishes like chettinad chicken, egg paratha and vegetable korma.
Included Activities:
- Madurai - Sri Meenakshi 1000 Pillar
- Madurai - Sri Meenakshi Temple
- Madurai - Gandhi Museum
- Madurai - Leader-led walking tour
- Madurai - Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace
- Madurai - Local family visit and home-cooked Tamil dinner
Accommodation:
- Heritage Madurai or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Make your way to the countryside town of Thekkady today, driving past pineapple and rubber plantations. Thekkady is the gateway to Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve, sitting high in the Western Ghats. Stop at a spice plantation, where a local expert will help you taste, smell and learn about the spices that colour and flavour India’s cuisine. Put your new knowledge to good use during a flavoursome lunch made with spices from the plantation. The evening is yours to enjoy in Thekkady – maybe wander the spice and tea shops or relax by the palm-fringed pool at your resort.
Included Activities:
- Thekkady - Expert-guided spice plantation visit and lunch
Accommodation:
- The Elephant Court or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, take a guided nature walk in the acclaimed Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Your expert guide will help you look for tiger tracks, spotted deer, Indian elephants and gaur – the world’s largest buffalo species. You’re most likely to encounter bonnet macaques and the Malabar giant squirrel, a species native to India. You’ll have some free time before unwinding with a traditional Keralite Ayurvedic massage, learning the fundamentals of Ayurveda – this ancient holistic healing method restores harmony between mind and body through natural therapies and herbal oils. In the evening, attend a demonstration of kalarippayattu at the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre. Originating in Kerala, it’s believed to be India’s oldest surviving martial art and the high-energy fighters are a thrilling sight.
Included Activities:
- Periyar - Kalaripayattu (Indian Martial Art) performance
- Periyar - Guided nature walk
- Periyar – Ayurvedic Treatment
Accommodation:
- The Elephant Court or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, drive north to Munnar – an old British hill station sitting in the surrounding valley. At 1525 m (5003 ft) above sea level, there’s likely to be a dramatic drop in temperature. When you arrive, tour a tea plantation, where a resident expert will guide you through the tea-making process. Follow narrow pathways, see workers picking the best leaves, learn how the leaves become one of the world’s most popular beverages and sample different varieties. There may be an opportunity to visit the tea museum, though opening hours are irregular and cannot be guaranteed. This evening, relax at your mountain resort.
Included Activities:
- Munnar - Tea plantation view point
- Munnar - Tea Museum
Accommodation:
- Fragrant Nature Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, take a guided walk around the lush hills of Munnar, often shrouded in clouds. Have your camera ready as the landscape unfolds in front of you. In the afternoon, journey to the scenic Mattupetty Dam, where you’ll find a man-made lake and spectacular views of the surrounding valleys. Here, you can take an optional motorboat ride around the lake. After some time to appreciate the scenery, return to Munnar for a free evening.
Included Activities:
- Munnar - Mattupetty Dam
- Munnar - Leader-led town walking tour
Accommodation:
- Fragrant Nature Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Drive to Kerala’s backwaters this morning and discover Alleppey’s palm-shaded waterways. Once a trading port, the town is now famed for its snake boat races. The backwaters were once busy with kettuvallams – wooden boats used to transport rice and spices. Today, these traditional vessels have been transformed into houseboats, allowing you to explore the lagoons in total comfort during your Feature Stay. Conversions use natural materials, with bamboo roofing, coir flooring and beds crafted from coconut-tree wood. These floating cottages include western toilets, private bedrooms, a dining area and an open deck where you can watch rural Kerala drift by.
Included Activities:
- Kerala Backwaters – Houseboat cruise
Accommodation:
- Spice Route Houseboat (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Enjoy a peaceful morning on the Kerala waters before driving to Kochi in the afternoon. Cochin, as it was formerly known, is spread over several islands and is a melting pot of Portuguese, Dutch, Chinese and British influences. Join your leader on an orientation walk to see how these influences appear in the city’s architecture, restaurants and daily life. Later, take time to enjoy the city – maybe head to Princess Street for a coffee. Tonight, watch a Kathakali dance performance, a classical Indian dance from Kerala combining symbolic storytelling and physical technique.
Included Activities:
- Kochi - Kathakali performance
- Kerala Backwaters – Houseboat cruise
Accommodation:
- Fragrant Nature or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, take a tuk-tuk sightseeing tour of Fort Kochi. Wander antique shops and spice bazaars as your leader shows you how to haggle. Stop by the famous Chinese fishing nets, then visit Mattancherry Palace, built by the Portuguese and later claimed by the Dutch. Continue to the Paradesi Synagogue, India’s oldest existing Jewish synagogue, then try sweets at Shantilal S. Mithaiwala, open since 1953. In the early evening, meet an Ayurvedic doctor, learn about Satvik Bhojan – the Ayurvedic diet – and join a cooking demonstration followed by dinner using the methods and recipes discussed. Kerala is widely regarded as the heartland of Ayurveda, where this ancient healing tradition has been practised and preserved for centuries.
Included Activities:
- Kochi - Jewish Synagogue
- Kochi - Ferry to Mattancherry
- Kochi - Dutch Palace
- Kochi - Keralan cooking class
- Kochi – Fort Kochi Tuk Tuk Tour
Accommodation:
- Fragrant Nature or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. If you’d like to extend your stay in India, speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation or transfers.
Similar Tours
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Fiona - Traveled, March 2024
Had a wonderful time on this trip, our guide Thilip was amazing, and absolutely made the trip. His love of this land is palpable and the insights he gave so generously added so much depth to the experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/15/2024
Gillian - Traveled, February 2024
Southern India was so different from the North. The people, the food and the scenery. Less frenetic. The tea Plantations, Backwaters and beaches are stunning. So glad we have seen this part of India
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/01/2024
Colin - Traveled, January 2024
People, places, religions, culture, economy, policies, politics, livelihoods and daily life: all were well interpreted by our excellent and experienced guide on this carefully designed tour. The richness and diversity of South India were revealed by the many visits to temples, reserves, other historic sites and the wayside stops on the sometimes long drives - which also enabled us to see the beauty and verdancy of the natural environment and the intensiveness which which it is often used - also significantly something of the ordinary life of the people. It goes without saying that the food was marvellous - including street food and the cooking experiences in homes.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/24/2024
Emma - Traveled, December 2023
Great trip - some long drives but very interesting scenery. Such variety as you go from east to west, and unbelievable food. Parik was a great guide - learnt so much from him!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/05/2024
Caroline - Traveled, December 2023
What an amazing holiday. I learnt so much about this fascinating country. Usha Mary was the best guide. The activities were so varied too. I loved it, loved it, loved it. Thank you Intrepid you excelled with this one!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/31/2023
Ann - Traveled, November 2023
We had a fantastic trip and would recommend this tour to explore the magic of southern India. Thilip our guide was fantastic!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/11/2023
Sarah - Traveled, November 2023
Great trip around Southern India with a lovely group and superb guide!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/10/2024
Francoise - Traveled, November 2023
My first experience in India, loved the country, nature, people, food, smells, but was a little disappointed on the activities included in this premium package
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/26/2023
Linda - Traveled, November 2023
I highly recommend Southern India: less hectic than the north, beautiful scenery, markets, temples, and people. We especially enjoyed the spice farm and tea plantations, old Kochi, and tropical (yes tropical) vegetation. Our guide, Thilip, gave many options above the itinerary. I left feeling very satisfied and in awe of this beautiful country.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/30/2023
Jane - Traveled, November 2023
Having previously done an Intrepid tour of Rajasthan this was a great follow up. Fabulous trip. Good pace. Fabulous leader. Good to have 2 nights in most places. No way we could have done this trip on our own. Intrepid make it so easy. Not our first Intrepid and won’t be our last.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/17/2023
Glenn - Traveled, November 2023
"Incredible India" the country's slogan comes true with Intrepid at the helm. I wouldn't attempt this trip without their guidance and knowledge, and I have seen the world. Our guides answered every question and knew every hidden gem. Truly memorable!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/17/2023
megan - Traveled, October 2023
This trip covers the varied regions of Southern India very well. From the very busy coastal city of Chennai to the quiet hill station of Thekkady in the cool mountains & back to the island city of Kochi with an overnight stay on a houseboat. A very enjoyable trip & highly recommended.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/06/2023
John - Traveled, October 2023
An excellent way to gain an understanding of Southern Indian history, culture and lifestyle. Quality accomodation, transport and inclusions are part of the package. Experienced leadership from both Anant and Vinit enhanced the experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Glen - Traveled, October 2023
I recommend this trip to anyone interested in exploring South India. Everything was taken care of and I could simply enjoy and take it all in. Anant and Vinit were our guides and both were excellent.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/18/2023
Dianne - Traveled, February 2024
When combined with the Northern trip I feel that I have a much better understanding and appreciation of India and would recommend both.or either trip to anyone.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/23/2024
Victoria - Traveled, February 2024
This trip is an adventure that you do not want to miss
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/23/2024
Jennifer - Traveled, January 2024
Fifty words is not enough to describe fully the experience of travelling through South India with Intrepid. The variety and range of different experiences was so unexpected, the food was varied with restaurants happy to adjust the level of spiciness and most importantly our guide Aathi was friendly and very helpful.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/13/2024
Marine - Traveled, October 2023
Absolutely recommend experiencing South India with Intrepid! The tour leader was absolutely amazing and we felt like we were able to experience the regions and everything it has to offer to the fullest!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/13/2023
Vicki - Traveled, September 2023
This was an excellent trip. Saw a lot, did a lot but also enough ‘down time’ to relax or do your own thing. Accommodation was very good, food was varied and also very good. Special shout out to tour leader Afshar who was an excellent leader, relaxed but always upbeat and knowledgeable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/11/2023
Helle - Traveled, September 2023
A trip of a lifetime with Usha as our tour leader. Usha is one of the best tour leaders I have ever come across, caring, fantastic knowledge and very passionate about her job. Well done Interpid for creating such an amazing product which offers great value for money, fantastic inclusions and a perfect itinerary. I will be back!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/07/2023
