Southern Coastal Explorer

Detailed Itinerary

• Day 1 : Arrival in Mumbai

  Welcome to Mumbai! Upon arrival, you’ll be met and assisted with the transfer to your hotel. Relax and prepare for the adventure ahead. Overnight in Mumbai.

• Day 2 : Mumbai

  Start your day in India’s bustling metropolis, Mumbai, a city teeming with life and diversity. Begin your tour at the iconic Gateway of India, then marvel at the grand colonial architecture in the oldest parts of the city. Visit the Dhobi Ghats, the world's largest open-air laundry, and enjoy some leisure time at Chowpatty Beach, a favorite among locals. In the afternoon, either head north to explore the ancient rock-cut temples of the Kanheri Caves or visit the Prince of Wales Museum, home to Mumbai’s finest collection of Indian artifacts. Overnight in Mumbai.

• Day 3 : Mumbai (Elephanta Island)

  Embark on a morning boat ride across Mumbai Harbour to the mystical Elephanta Island, where you’ll explore ancient caves adorned with intricate carvings. The afternoon is yours to discover Mumbai’s vibrant markets and hidden treasures. Overnight in Mumbai.

• Day 4 : Mumbai – Fly – Mangalore

  Transfer to the airport for your flight to Mangalore on the stunning Sapphire Coast of northern Kerala. Upon arrival, a short drive will take you to your beach resort. Overnight near Mangalore.

• Day 5 : Mangalore

  Enjoy a day of leisure at the resort, soaking in the tranquility of the Sapphire Coast. Swim in the Arabian Sea and take advantage of the resort’s amenities. Overnight near Mangalore.

• Day 6 : Mangalore – Coorg

  Take a scenic 5 hours drive to Coorg, famous for its coffee plantations. Visit the Elephant Training Camp at Dubare, where you can interact with these majestic creatures. Coorg’s picturesque landscapes also offer excellent trekking opportunities, an extra day or two can easily be added here to enable you to walk in one of the most picturesque parts of Kerala. Overnight in Coorg.

• Day 7 : Coorg

  Start your day with a tour of a local coffee and spice plantation, learning about the region’s famed produce. Visit the nearby Tibetan settlements, offering a unique cultural experience. You can also explore the source of the mighty Cauvery River, a serene and picturesque spot. For those seeking a bit more adventure, take a leisurely cycle ride along a quiet road to a traditional tribal village, where you can experience the local way of life. Overnight in Coorg.

• Day 8 : Coorg – Nagarhole

  Drive 2 hours to Nagarhole National Park, one of South India’s richest wildlife habitats. Embark on a jeep safari with a trained naturalist in search of elephants, deer, and perhaps even a tiger or leopard. Overnight in Nagarhole.

• Day 9 : Nagarhole

  Embark on an exciting journey through Nagarhole National Park, starting with an early morning jeep safari. The park's lush grasslands and Kabini Lake are a haven for large herds of elephants, deer, and a variety of other wildlife. In the afternoon, switch gears with a tranquil boat safari on Kabini Lake, where you can witness the rich biodiversity from a unique perspective. Keep a look out for majestic creatures and enjoy the serene beauty of the park. Overnight in Nagarhole.

• Day 10 : Nagarhole – Thalassery

  Start your day with a final, thrilling jeep safari at dawn, capturing the early morning wildlife activity. After breakfast, drive 2 hours back to the coast and check into your charming beachside homestay near the historic town of Thalassery. This area of the Kerala coast boasts a rich and captivating history, along with a unique cultural flavor that sets it apart from the rest of the state. Unwind by the beach and soak in the serene coastal ambiance. Overnight in Thalassery.

• Day 11 : Thalassery

  Spend the day soaking up the sun and enjoying the warm waters of the Arabian Sea. Watch local fishermen skillfully casting their nets, or take a trip to the nearby district headquarters in Cannanore. The highlight of the day is the chance to witness the enigmatic Theyyam ritual, a shamanistic dance form unique to this region. These performances, rich in cultural and spiritual significance, take place in local villages and follow their own time frame, often occurring in the early hours of the morning. This genuine and mysterious ritual is an unforgettable experience that defies complete understanding. Overnight in Thalassery.

• Day 12 : Thalassery – Train – Cochin

  Enjoy a leisurely morning before boarding on a picturesque 5-hour train journey through the lush agricultural plains of coastal Kerala. Watch the serene landscapes unfold as you travel towards Cochin. Upon arrival, you'll be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. Take the evening to relax and explore the vibrant streets of Cochin at your own pace. Overnight in Cochin.

• Day 13 : Cochin

  A city with over 500 years of trading history that has created a rich tapestry of cultural influences. Visit the historic Fort Cochin and Mattancherry areas, where you will encounter a unique blend of Arab, Jewish, Chinese, Dutch, Portuguese, and British heritage. Visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and Santa Cruz Basilica, a stunning example of Indo-European architecture. Explore the Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace) with its impressive murals and artifacts, and visit the Jewish Synagogue, built in 1568 and one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth. Don't miss the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, introduced by Chinese traders in the 14th century. In the evening, unwind with a serene sunset cruise on Cochin Harbour, offering a perfect view of modern-day Cochin without the hustle and bustle of the city's traffic. Overnight in Cochin.

• Day 14 : Cochin – Alleppey Houseboat

  Drive 2 hours to Alleppey and board a private houseboat to cruise through Kerala’s iconic backwaters. This unique region of rivers, canals, and reclaimed land offers a serene escape. Overnight on the houseboat.

• Day 15 : Alleppey Backwater Homestay

  Disembark the houseboat and check into a charming backwater homestay or resort, offering a more intimate experience of the area. Explore the less-visited parts of the backwaters that larger houseboats cannot reach. Enjoy a peaceful walk, ride a bicycle along the scenic paths, or embark on a dugout canoe trip with a local fisherman navigating your way through the tranquil waters. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty and authentic charm of the region. Overnight at a backwater homestay or resort.

• Day 16 : Alleppey – Kovalam Beach

  After breakfast, check out of your homestay or resort and drive 4 hours south to the renowned beaches of Kovalam, located near the southern tip of the subcontinent. Spend the rest of the day unwinding on the sandy shores, enjoying the sun and sea. Kovalam's picturesque beaches offer a perfect retreat. Overnight in Kovalam.

• Day 17 : Kovalam – Kanyakumari – Madurai

  Drive 2 hours to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India, where you can take a scenic boat ride and visit the Gandhi Memorial, dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Experience the dramatic landscape of India’s "Land's End" before continuing your journey to Madurai. Arrive in Madurai, Tamil Nadu’s second-largest city and a significant pilgrimage center, known for its rich cultural heritage and historic temples. Overnight in Madurai.

• Day 18 : Madurai – Trichy

  Start your day with a guided tour of Madurai, visiting the renowned Meenakshi Temple, famous for its majestic gopurams (entrance towers), and the historic Nayak Palace. In the afternoon, drive 2.5 hours to Trichy to explore the impressive Srirangam Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in Asia, which spans over 60 hectares and resembles a town centered around the temple. In the evening, wander through the bustling local bazaar to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Trichy. Overnight in Trichy.

• Day 19 : Trichy – Tanjore – Tranquebar

  In the morning, drive 1.5 hours to Tanjore to explore the grand palace and historic temples. Continue your journey to the coast and the quaint, lesser-known town of Tranquebar. While this fishing village may seem unassuming, it has a unique history, with a Danish presence along the Tamil Nadu coast from the 17th to mid-19th century. Discover the remnants of this Danish era, including a striking fort on the beachfront. Enjoy the peaceful charm and intriguing historical quirks of Tranquebar. Overnight in Tranquebar.

• Day 20 : Tranquebar – Pondicherry

  Start your day with a leisurely morning at the beach and a stroll around Tranquebar. Then, drive 2.5 hours north to Pondicherry, a city with a distinctive blend of French and Tamil influences. As the headquarters of the Union Territory of Pondicherry, it showcases more than two centuries of French colonial history. In the afternoon, engage on a self-guided heritage walking tour of the French Quarter, exploring its charming streets and colonial architecture. In the evening, experience the vibrant Tamil part of town, bustling with lively markets and boutique shopping. Overnight in Pondicherry.

• Day 21 : Pondicherry – Mahabalipuram

  Take a short 2-hour drive to Mahabalipuram. Explore several UNESCO World Heritage listed monuments, including Arjuna’s Penance, the world’s largest bas-relief carving, various rock-cut shrines, and the famous Shore Temple. These monuments reflect Mahabalipuram’s historical significance as a major port and capital during the Pallava dynasty over 1000 years ago. Enjoy a leisurely evening by the pool or on the beach. Overnight in Mahablipuram.

• Day 22 : Mahabalipuram – Chennai Departure

  After a relaxed morning in Mahabalipuram, drive 90 minutes to Chennai airport for your departure.

  End of the tour!

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