South India Revealed
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Experience Overview
Unplug from your everyday routine and head to the beaches and backwaters of southern India on this 16-day adventure. Explore the lush landscapes, intriguing cultures, bustling bazaars and incredible cuisine of this region, all with the guidance of a local leader. Jump on and off local transport and travel through coconut groves and fishing villages, discovering the heart of the subcontinent. See ancient ruins and stunning temples, feast on spicy curries and Zen out in the relaxed towns of Varkala and Hampi. Opt to explore the Kerala Backwaters in a pole boat, plus stay with a local family in an island village. End your journey on the beautiful beaches of Goa.
Highlights
- Discover the golden beaches and age-old fishing villages that make Goa one of India’s most popular retreats – and a perfect place to consider extending your southern India adventure.
- Make the most of free time in Varkala, Madurai and Mysore with all the best recommendations from your local leader. Wile the afternoons away on the beach, visit nearby temples or uncover local culture at the museums.
- Glide through the backwaters of Kerala on an optional pole boat ride, going ashore for a village stay – a scenic break from hotels and a perfect way to get close to local customs and culture.
- Cross into Kochi – a major port city in India’s southwest. Explore the seaside Fort Kochi area and consider watching a traditional Kathakali dance performance in your free time.
- Opt to visit a spice plantation in Periyar and breathe in the scents of cardamom, pepper, clove, cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla. Then, maybe go on an optional guided nature walk at Periyar National Park where you can look out for tiger tracks.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2108
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Basic
Transport: Overnight sleeper train, Private vehicle, Public bus, Auto rickshaw, Taxi, Train, Canoe, Boat
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Explorer, Budget
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: HHRS
Starts: Trivandrum, India
Finishes: Goa, India
Duration: 16 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (1), Lunch (1), Dinner (1)Accommodation: Local Guesthouse (1 night), Hotel (11 nights), Overnight sleeper train (3 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $1095 ($68 /day)
Itinerary
Welcome to India! Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting this evening at 6 pm. Tonight is all about introductions, so maybe get together with your group after your meeting and head out for an optional dinner – your leader will be able to suggest the best neighbourhoods for a delicious local meal.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
In the morning, travel up the coast by private vehicle to the town of Varkala. Settle into your hotel, then you’ll have free time to explore the Keralan coast – home to some of India’s best beaches. Soaring cliffs protect Varkala’s sandy bay and, depending on the time of year, dolphins can be spotted from high up on the rocks. In the evening, maybe head into town to one of the numerous restaurants serving fresh, local seafood caught right off the coast.
Accommodation:
- Resort (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a free day for you to discover Varkala at your own pace. This is a great place to sit back and relax, but if you want to get active, there are plenty of water activities on offer, like surfing and windsurfing. Even though this is a popular destination for Indian tourists, the beaches are quiet and have a laidback vibe. Take the rest of the day to relax, beachside or otherwise, before the rest of south India beckons.
Accommodation:
- Resort (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, board a train along the Keralan coastline to Alappuzha (Alleppey). Once an important trading port and now renowned for the annual Snake Boat race in August, Alappuzha is the starting point for most journeys into the Kerala backwaters. An auto-rickshaw will take you from the train station to your boat, which will take you to an island village. You’ll spend the night at a homestay owned and managed by a local family. Get settled, then you’ll have the option to explore the Kerala backwaters in a pole boat. Your local guide will also take you on a walk around the village, through paddy fields and small canals. This is a great opportunity for you to learn about the local ways of the backwaters.
Included Activities:
- Kerala Backwaters - Guided village walk
Optional Activities:
- Kerala Backwaters - Pole boat ride (500 INR)
Accommodation:
- Local Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
In the morning, cross the backwaters by private boat back to Alappuzha. You’ll then take a local bus to Kochi, arriving around midday. When you arrive, go for a walk around the Fort Kochi area, where you’ll be staying for the next two nights. In the early evening, there’s the option to attend a classic Kathakali dance performance – a snapshot into traditional cultures of this region.
Optional Activities:
- Kochi - Kathakali performance (600 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, head to the Mattancherry part of Fort Cochin to explore the old Jewish quarter, synagogue, and Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace) on a guided walking tour. After the tour, the rest of your day is free for you to do as you wish.
Included Activities:
- Kochi - Leader-led Fort Kochi walking tour
Optional Activities:
- Kochi - Dutch Palace (20 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, get ready for a day of travel as you head by private vehicle to Periyar National Park. After checking in to your hotel, you might like to head out on an optional tour of a local spice farm. Walk through the winding pathways among the plantations as the scent of cardamom, pepper, clove, cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla lingers in the air. Take in the beauty of the cardamom flowers, feel the cool breeze and watch the sunlight seep in through the leaves of the pepper plants surrounding you. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxed evening back at your accommodation, maybe settling in for an early night.
Optional Activities:
- Periyar - Spice plantation visit (200 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a free day – maybe head out on an optional walk around Periyar National Park. Encounters with animals in the wild are never guaranteed, and this is more of a jungle walk than an animal-spotting tour, but do keep an eye out for tiger tracks, spotted deer, Indian elephants or gaur – the world's largest species of buffalo. This afternoon, you might like to unwind with an optional ayurvedic massage, watch a performance of Kalaripayattu (an ancient Indian martial art) or just relax in your scenic surroundings.
Optional Activities:
- Periyar - Guided nature walk (1400 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
In the morning, take a private transfer to Madurai. This buzzing city is crammed full of bazaars, pilgrims and cycle rickshaws. Go on a walking tour to see the highlights, then maybe visit the Sri Meenakshi Temple. This ancient temple is still in use and features a labyrinth of lamplit corridors leading to shrines.
Included Activities:
- Madurai - Leader-led walking tour
Optional Activities:
- Madurai - Sri Meenakshi Temple (50 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a free day in Madurai. Consider heading to the Gandhi Museum to learn about the man who fought for India’s independence or wander through the 1000 pillars of Aayiram Kaal Mandapam. This is also a great opportunity to haggle with vendors at the bazaars and the tailors' market. This evening, you’ll take an overnight sleeper train to Mysore. Before you board, you may want to stock up on some extra snacks for the journey.
Optional Activities:
- Madurai - Gandhi Museum - Free
Accommodation:
- Overnight Sleeper Train (Number of Nights: 1)
Disembark from your train and transfer to your hotel in Mysore – an easy-going town with a pleasant climate. Go on an orientation walk with your group, checking out the ornate Mysore Palace along the way. There’s also the option to visit the Keshava Temple in Somnathpur, which is a stunning example of Hoysala architecture.
Included Activities:
- Mysore - Leader-led walking tour
Optional Activities:
- Mysore - Keshava Temple (200 INR)
- Mysore - Maharaja's Palace (200 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a free day in Mysore, with plenty of optional activities to keep you busy. If you’ve seen all you need to in town, maybe explore the countryside surrounding Mysore. You could climb up Chamundi Hill to the Sri Chamundeswari Temple at the top, which is dedicated to the goddess Durga. At around 7 pm tonight, meet up with your group and board an overnight train to Hampi.
Optional Activities:
- Mysore - Chamundi Hill & Temple (100 INR)
Accommodation:
- Overnight Sleeper Train (Number of Nights: 1)
In the morning, arrive in Hampi and travel to your hotel. Hampi is a temple town situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. Once you’re settled in, make an optional visit to the architectural masterpiece of Vittala Temple. This 16th-century temple contains mandapas (pillared pavilions), a pool, a palace and the popular stone chariot – according to Hindu mythology, this was the vehicle of the Lord Vishnu.
Optional Activities:
- Hampi - Vittala Temple (500 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you might like to explore the ruins of the Vijayanagar Empire and the huge boulders on the outskirts of town. In the early evening, board a private vehicle to Hubli, where you’ll hop on an overnight train to Goa.
Accommodation:
- Overnight Sleeper Train (Number of Nights: 1)
Once your train arrives in Goa, head to the hotel and check in. Brimming with Portuguese influences and known for the sandy beaches lining its coast, Goa is a fascinating region in India's south-west. The rest of your day is free to spend however you like. Maybe relax on the beach, sip a cocktail at a local bar or go for a city walk. Tonight, why not get together with your travel crew for a beachside dinner – Goa is cause for celebration.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
There are no activities planned for the final day and your adventure comes to an end. Goa is a great place to end the trip – if you can, it’s highly recommended you extend your stay for a couple of nights to relax and explore. If you would like to spend more time in Goa, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).
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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
Jacek - Traveled, February 2024
The whole trip met my expectations, I had good transport ,good Accommodation, excellent tour leader, who helped me visit so many places. Thank you intrepid for a great trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/23/2024
Stanley - Traveled, February 2024
If choosing between North India and South, choose North. Southern itinerary is terrific, but should be experienced at much slower pace; overnight trains seem efficient, but they’re deleterious to health/ sense of wonder. Hampi’s the only spot where you need a guide; choose your own local restaurants and activities.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/15/2024
Sabina - Traveled, January 2024
I enjoyed seeing a different side of India, although found this trip a lot slower paced/less included and planned activities than other Basix Intrepid trips I've done. The South is more relaxed, beachy, touristy and a very different vibe to the North.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/31/2024
Paul - Traveled, January 2024
Great trip and fantastic group of people to shard our journey with
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/26/2024
Lauren - Traveled, March 2024
For all prospective travellers: this is a BASIX trip. It is an incredible experience designed for fit, healthy, adventurous, flexible, adaptable, independent travellers who thrive off the beaten track. You are not getting a luxury tour for a bargain - you are getting a grassroots adventure. PLEASE - READ THE TRIP NOTES CAREFULLY and seriously consider whether this trip is ACTUALLY suitable for you. Be capable and willing to carry your own bag and take responsibility for your own adventure.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/03/2024
Trevor - Traveled, January 2024
The South India trip was a mixture of amazing sights and enjoyable activities. The highlights were the people we met along the way. They took pride in showcasing their culture and were welcoming and friendly. Our trip leader was an expert on the history of the area, and he communicated this brilliantly to us. Would highly recommend
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/19/2024
Helen - Traveled, January 2024
An authentic experience of South West Indía without the stress of choosing and organising your own itinerary, this trip offers participants an insight into Indía with experiences ranging from city to rural life, coastal and mountainous locations all in the company of likeminded travelers. At 16 days, the length of the trip and the nature of the itinerary, allowed us to cover significant distances without too much difficulty and for the group to feel comfortable with each other. Thoroughly recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/26/2024
Sophia - Traveled, December 2023
I had a wonderful tour of South India with Afshar as group leader. I did it as part of the longer Iconic India tour. I learned so much about the history, variety of cultures and even some of the languages! Everything was very well organised and we had a great time. I would definitely recommend Intrepid to any traveller. I am looking forward to booking future Intrepid tours to India and to other parts of the world. ??
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/14/2024
Katrina - Traveled, December 2024
Having just completed the South India Revealed basic tour.. I can highly recommend for a more relaxed itinerary than what I believe the North is. The time Dec-Jan provided us with great weather to enjoy at our beachside destinations and in some cases hotels with pools. The group was small, Leader Chandra was ace. You get a real mix of experiences along the way and certainly come away a more culturally rich person for it. As this is a basic trip, ensure you read your itinerary and notes so you know exactly what you are signing up for.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/09/2024
Brian - Traveled, March 2024
South India revealed was a fascinating trip through a beautiful part of India, experiencing a variety of modes of transport and meeting such friendly people. The historical sites and natural landscapes were an absolute pleasure to behold and our guide was so friendly and informative, I feel that everyone came away with a new understanding of this beautiful part of the world.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/28/2024
Laura - Traveled, March 2024
The South India Revealed tour by Intrepid has been an amazing experience - it’s a great mix of culture, history, beaches, local food and sights. Our guide Chandra was very generous with his knowledge about the area and made the trip so much fun! I had such a great time exploring the different cities and towns (and trying different local dishes!)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/28/2024
Simon - Traveled, March 2024
India is a very diverse country with a rich and colourful history. Be prepared to be immersed into something very different and accept the chaos as the normal . Our guide steered us through with great aplomb and I feel enriched for the experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/17/2024
Michelle - Traveled, March 2024
I enjoyed my trip of south India with all its complexities, culture, history and food. It was a little rough at times as I expected and it was worth it. Vinit was a professional, helpful and knowledgeable leader and also provided some lovely extra experiences beyond the itinerary
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/17/2024
Sonia - Traveled, December 2023
Accommodation is poor. Rooms are not clean and bathrooms filthy. The use of 3 overnight trains is excessive, particularly when alternatives were available. optional tours or trips which should have been included as part of the tour. Optional tours or trips should be included as part of the tour.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/16/2024
Amanda - Traveled, December 2023
Excellent itinerary - didn't find comparable range of destinations elsewhere. Trains were surprisingly clean (even toilets) and relatively comfortable. Mainly independent travel, with minimal included activities. Even for basic trip, hotels were generally poor quality.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/09/2024
Lisa - Traveled, December 2023
I enjoyed the trip with about 6 other people. One should keep in mind that India is a developing country and lacks the infrastructure and funds to maintain things at the level of western countries. Don’t come here and expect the same standards as the west, India is different and unique, but is the source of many good things in the world, you just need to look deeper than the surface level. It is difficult in India, chaotic, noisy, but every day is unique and different.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/02/2024
Jacinta - Traveled, November 2023
This trip is really great at showcasing the wonders of South India. It’s completely different to the North, so leave your expectations at the door. Our leader Afshar was amazing- so definitely ask for him when you book this tour!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/13/2023
Margaret - Traveled, November 2023
Glad I did this compensative South India trip, which did reveal wonderful sites and experiences. Intrepid is a fantastic company. Would highly recommend..I am 66 yrs old and planning more intrepid trips
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/23/2023
Samantha - Traveled, November 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this trip, I really feel I got a flavour for South India, from the beaches to the mountains to the ancient ruins of Hampi. There’s a lot of moving on this one, but also free time to rest if you need it. Great variety of activities, I would definitely recommend !
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/19/2023
Irma - Traveled, September 2023
I really enjoyed the 37 day Iconic India experience! We had a bit of every corner of India
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/07/2023
