- Experience India’s laid-back side on a small-group adventure in the south
- Embark on a tour of the historic landmarks in the old spice port of Kochi
- Trek through the vivid tea plantations in Munnar with an expert local guide
- Witness the temple town of Madurai wake from its slumber on a dawn city walk
- Search for elephants, wild pigs and more on a nature walk in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Cruise the backwaters of Kerala on a traditional rice barge – a classic experience in South India!
The Tropical South
14 Days
Excluding Flights From
15 Days
from
Incl. taxes
Excl. flights
Culture
Activity Level
Easy & Moderate
See our Activity Level Guidelines to check if this holiday is right for you.
Comfort Level
Classic
Itinerary
Kochi (Cochin) Kovalam
Depart London
Flights usually depart London in the afternoon.
Start Kochi; optional afternoon harbour cruise around Fort Kochi and explore historic spice port
The adventure starts in Kochi (formerly Cochin) on the Malabar (or Pepper) Coast. It’s believed to have been the first European settlement in the country and retains a relaxed atmosphere, despite recent growth. You can arrive at the hotel at any time, but check-in is normally from 2pm.
After, we have free time to explore or relax. Alternatively, for those arriving in time, join an afternoon harbour cruise around Fort Kochi (please arrive at the hotel by 1pm to join the cruise).
Accommodation: Abad Atrium Hotel (or similar)
Sightseeing around Kochi
Today we take a sightseeing tour of Kochi, taking in the adjacent historic neighbourhoods of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry. In Fort Kochi, we’ll visit St Francis Church, where Portuguese explorer Vasco de Gama died in 1524; see Santa Cruz Cathedral, originally used as a warehouse by the British; and wander past fishing nets lining the harbour entrance, which were introduced by the Chinese in the late-14th century.
In Mattancherry, we visit Mattancherry Palace, built by the Portuguese in the mid-1500s in a traditional Keralan style, and Jew Town, once home to a Jewish community and now a great place to peruse antique shops and warehouses. Those interested can visit Thomas Chettan in the Little Queen Embroidery shop to learn about hand lace work, a dying art using bobbin lace.
There is the option in the late afternoon to see a Kathakali dance performance. Please note, a similar show is also available in Periyar on Day 8.
Accommodation: Abad Atrium Hotel (or similar)
To Munnar; afternoon visit to Srishi, a social service organisation for tea pickers
After breakfast, we drive away from the coastal plain to Munnar, which is set among the highest mountains in Kerala. The drive is 100mi (160km) and should take approximately five to six hours.
Munnar is a beautiful hill station on the Western Ghats, once a summer resort for the British government. It is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams (Mudrapauzha, Naliathanii and Kundala) and is surrounded by lakes, reservoirs, forests and several tea estates. Anamudi, the highest peak in southern India at 9,725ft (2,695m), dominates the skyline and the many smaller peaks are a walker’s paradise.
In the afternoon, we visit Srishti, a charitable trust aiming to improve life for people with disabilities from the tea planter families of Munnar. They are trained for three industries – deli (bakery), aranya (cloth dyeing) and atulya (paper making). It’s wonderful to see their work and learn about the organic products used for dyeing and making paper. Please note, the Srishti organisation is closed on public/religious holidays and may also close at short notice due to operational reasons. Your tour leader will update you on any changes to the itinerary in these instances.
Accommodation: Eastend Hotel (or similar)
Morning trek through tea plantations and the Munnar hills
After an early breakfast, we take a short drive through old Munnar and travel down to the tiny village of Nagarmudi, where we start our trek accompanied by a local guide. It begins with a long, gradual ascent winding through tea plantations and then climbs into the Seven Malai Hills. Our hard work is rewarded with spectacular views over Chittrapuram Dam, Changulam Lake, Anamudi, Munnar and other villages (weather dependent). We then descend back to our vehicle. Please note, there are a couple of steep ascents and descents on this trek, but the pace is slow and steady with plenty of rest stops along the way.
In the afternoon, there is also an optional visit to a tea museum followed by an optional tea-tasting session.
Accommodation: Eastend Hotel (or similar)
To Madurai; optional closing ceremony at the Sri Meenakshi Temple
Leaving Kerala, we drive 100mi (165km) through the hills to the colourful temple town of Madurai, in Tamil Nadu. The drive should take approximately six to seven hours, arriving mid-afternoon.
After an early dinner, you can join an optional tour to witness the nightly closing ceremony at the Sri Meenakshi Temple. You are whisked into the city centre in a tuk tuk convoy, led by your local guide, to a historic Hindu temple on the bank of the River Vaigai dedicated to Parvati, known as Meenakshi, and her consort, Shiva, here named Sundareshwara. The ceremony can happen at any time after the temple closes for the night (approximately 9.30pm), so you may need to wait for an hour or so to witness the extraordinary procession but it’s well worth it. Your local guide will walk you through the temple explaining the purpose of the ceremony and bringing the temple history and culture to life. We recommend applying mosquito repellent before leaving for the temple (including feet as you are barefoot inside). You will likely be back at the hotel, depending on the ceremony time, between 10.30pm and 11pm.
Accommodation: Sterling V Grand Madurai (or similar)
Dawn city walk with Sri Meenakshi Temple visit. Afternoon Thirumalai Nayaka Palace, Gandhi Memorial Museum and flower market tour
We rise early morning for what many consider a highlight of this trip! Walking in small groups through Madurai as the sunrises and the city wakes, we observe the community going about their everyday life: milking cows, creating kolams (intricate artworks on the floor) and preparing breakfast at roadside food stalls. Along the way, try local drinks and a snack to keep you going. Ending the morning walk at the most famous landmark in the city, we visit the Sri Meenakshi Temple, an outstanding example of Vijayanagar temple architecture, built between the 16th and 18th century. It is a hive of activity and the scene of an almost continuous religious festival. We return to the hotel for a late breakfast and relax.
This afternoon, we delve back into the city, this time taking in the Thirumalai Nayaka Palace, built in 1636 in the Indo-Mughal style by the Nayak dynasty, and the Gandhi Memorial Museum, where you can see a visual biography of Gandhi containing photos, paintings, sculptures, manuscripts and copies of his letters. After the memorial visit, we stop at the local flower market before returning to the hotel.
In the evening, there are many restaurants to visit; some of the best are on rooftops with fantastic city views.
Accommodation: Sterling V Grand Madurai (or similar)
To Thekkady; cooking demonstration in local family home
Leaving Madurai in the morning, we drive to the small bustling village of Thekkady. The drive is spectacular as the road climbs through the Western Ghats and we have fantastic views across Tamil Nadu (driving time approximately four to five hours). In the afternoon, we have free time to explore the village and bazaar, where we can visit shops selling cardamom, vanilla, peppercorns, turmeric and other spices.
The whole area is a centre for spice growing, and this evening there is a short walk around a spice garden, where we see many different spices growing. We then have a special dinner and a cooking demonstration with a local family in their home.
Accommodation: Peppervine Hotel (or similar)
Explore Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary; morning jungle walk followed by an optional boat trip on the lake
Before breakfast, we join our local guide for a nature walk in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the largest parks in India (approximately two to three hours) and return to our hotel for breakfast.
In the afternoon, there is the option to join a boat cruise on the lake, in which you could spot elephants, otters, wild pigs and buffalos. There is also an abundance of bird life – kingfishers, storks and hornbills are the most spotted. Your onboard guides can help you capture great photos, using clever techniques with their binoculars. Tickets can be purchased online in advance (approximately 900 rupees/US$10.90 per person, minimum four people). We recommend doing this to avoid a long wait at the ticket office. Please inform your leader on Day 1 if you wish to book this in advance as it’s also popular with domestic tourists and last-minute booking requests may lead to disappointment.
Other optional activities today include an Ayurvedic massage, Kathakali dance show, and a martial arts performance.
Accommodation: Peppervine Hotel (or similar)
To Kumarakom; walk through rubber plantation; traditional Keralan meal with local family
We head to Kumarakom today, a cluster of small, picturesque islands around Vembanad Lake. The journey takes around 3hr 45min, but we stop en route at the Kanjirapally Plantation Bungalow, which sits within a serene rubber plantation. Here we take a walk through the estate and watch a rubber-tapping demonstration, before a traditional Keralan lunch with the resident family.
Accommodation: Renai Green Fields (or similar)
Interactive walk through Manjira village; visit Coir Museum; houseboat cruise through the backwaters
We start before breakfast today (approximately 6am) to embark on a village exploration in the cool morning air. The journey begins in a shikhara boat, cruising to the banks of Manjira village. Through our local guide and the community, we learn about many of their practices and products, including the art of climbing a coconut tree and coconut leaf weaving. We also see a skilled fisherman cast his net and enjoy a stroll by the green paddies. For a light refreshment, try a freshly cut coconut before learning about (and sampling) fresh Kerala toddy, a specialty of the area.
Return to the hotel for breakfast before checking out and continuing our journey. Stopping en route, we visit the Coir Museum, learning how coconut husks were historically manufactured and how so many products we use daily are created.
At midday, we board a houseboat and journey along the Kerala backwaters – one of the trip highlights! These enchanting boats, built of anjili (wild jack) wood and bamboo, transported goods for hundreds of years; now, they have been decorated and made into comfortable cruise boats. As we meander through tropical vegetation, we can see prolific bird life and gain a different perspective on village life. The cruise takes us along shallow, palm-fringed canals where coconut fibre, coconut meat, and cashews are loaded onto dugout canoes. In the evening, we anchor by a bank and watch the sun set over the paddy fields.
Accommodation: Houseboat
Drive along the Malabar Coast to Kovalam beach town; visit Mannarasala temple
After breakfast, we leave our houseboat in Alleppey and drive (approximately four to five hours) along the scenic Malabar Coast to the beach town of Kovalam. We visit Mannarasala temple en route, which is decorated with more than 100,000 snake images. Couples seeking fertility come here and your tour leader will explain the origin of snake worshiping. Continuing, we stop in Quilon for a tea break before arriving at our destination. Once a relaxing hideaway on the old hippie trail, Kovalam has now been discovered, but the influx of tourism has not diminished this beautiful setting. Our hotel is on a cliff with easy access to the beach below.
Accommodation: Soma Palmshore (or similar)
Free day to explore the coastal town Kovalam or join an optional trip to Kanyakumari
Today is free to unwind on the sandy beach or visit the shops for last-minute souvenirs. This is a great chance to enjoy fresh seafood from one of the many small beach restaurants. Try tandoori dishes – the clay ovens add an exquisite taste to bread and curries.
You could also join an optional day’s sightseeing from Kovalam to Kanyakumari, the end point of India where three oceans meet: the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal. If it’s open, the trip can also take in the old wooden palace at Padmanabhapuram (extra cost), a wonderful building with fantastic wood carvings, and the Hindu temple at Suchindran, with amazing stone carvings. This trip can be booked and paid for locally. Please note, it is a long day (approximately 8am-6pm) and roads can be prone to traffic delays, but it’s always a popular activity.
Accommodation: Soma Palmshore (or similar)
Morning at leisure; afternoon tour of Thiruvananthapuram
This morning is free, allowing you the chance to make use of the hotel pool or unwind on the beach. Alternatively, you could join an optional excursion to Vizhinjam. A trip to this popular harbour and fishing village gives you the chance to see fishermen readying and repairing their nets and taking part in the fish auction.
In the afternoon, we explore Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala. Here, we see the impressive golden façade of the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the richest temples in India. We also visit the Kuthiramalika Palace, built in 1840 for maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma; the Napier Museum, an art and natural history museum, and the Sree Chitra Art Gallery, which showcases the work of Indian artist Raja Ravi Varma and more.
Accommodation: Soma Palmshore (or similar)
End Kovalam
The adventure ends today. Begin your return journey home or, if you’d like a bit more time to explore Kovalam, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
Please note, airport security does not permit any spices/pepper to be carried in hand luggage so please pack these in your main luggage. Electronic devices and batteries should be packed in hand luggage as these are not permitted in your hold/main luggage.
Hotels and houseboat
We spend our nights in a mixture of hotels and on a traditional Keralan houseboat. Our hotels are all in the heart of the towns we stop in. Your first hotel in Kochi is conveniently situated in the commercial hub, close to the main textile and jewellery shops plus plenty of restaurants.
The accommodations typically used are on the day-to-day itinerary. However, below are a few of the notable accommodations on this trip.
Peppervine Hotel, Thekkady
The four-star Peppervine is conventiently located for our adventures, close to Periyar Tiger Reserve and a short walk from Kumily town (the local town name of Thekkady) where you’ll find plenty of shopping options, including locally grown spices and an eclectic assortment of souvenirs. Surrounded by woodland, the hotel offers comfort and tranquillity, with spacious bedrooms, an outdoor swimming pool and open-air restaurant. So close to wildlife, you won’t find it hard to spot the monkeys swinging in the neighbouring trees as you relax.
Keralan houseboat, Alleppey
No trip to Kerala is complete without a houseboat stay. Typically, the boats are converted barges (known locally as kettuvallam), once used to transport rice from farm to market. All cabins have private bathrooms and the staff will keep you well fed. The houseboats have a deck and dining area, although the style/layout varies between boats. There is a cook, driver and assistants for each boat and the food is traditional Keralan fare using local produce. Houseboats have two to five twin-bedded rooms. Larger groups may be split over several boats; however, the group reunites at riverside stops and the overnight anchor point where your leader will be available.
Worth knowing
- Indian hotels usually do not have heating. However, you can request more blankets or the hotel may be able to provide a standing heater for your room (subject to availability). Please talk to your tour leader if you need help in this matter.
- Please note, single rooms are very limited on the houseboat so cannot be guaranteed and you may be required to twin share for this night.
Trip Experts
Sarah Puttnam
Product Manager Asia
Reviews
Add your own reviewAmazing Experience, not to be missed
As a first time visitor to India I was not disappointed. This is a full on trip with lots of time spent travelling between locations but this means you get the full flavour of both Kerala and Tamil Nadu from the stunning tea plantations in the North to the Southern Tip of India where three oceans meet.
Most Inspirational Moment
So many but in particular the walk through the spectacular tea plantations and the visit to the inspirational Charitable trust Srishti. The dawn walk through Madurai is not to be missed and neither is the boat trip through Manjira village, both of which give a real flavour of the way many local people still lead their lives.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Biju is an inspiration . I have been on several trips with Exodus and have always rated my guides as excellent but Biju is in a category on his own - he is simply outstanding. Nothing was too much trouble for him and everything was always done with a beautiful smile. He took us to local restaurants thereby introducing us to to the local food; he explained so much about the Indian culture and religion and took a great delight in the fact that our group wanted to try everything that was on offer. Together with the driver Vinod they make a great team.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Don't leave it too late to get your visa. Take a plug for the sink as none of the hotels had one. Don't worry about changing money, there are plenty of ATM's or money changers where you can exchange either dollars or sterling for rupees. Everything was ridiculously cheap - we had some lunches for eq£1 including a tip!! Biju collected money at the start , in sterling or dollars, to cover tips for various guides, coffee stops and the driver which made things much simpler and quicker as we went along. Biju suggested that we saw the Kathakali dance in Kochi on day 2 rather than waiting until day 8 in Periyar and he was right as there are plenty of other things to do there. You need to be aware that the Sri Meenakshi Temple is being repainted and so the towers are covered in scaffolding and should remain like that for the rest of the year . This was a big disappointment but Biju made sure that we stopped at a much smaller but beautifully painted temple on another day.
Simply the best!
Every single day was a new exciting experience. A fantastic insight to the culture and history of the region, made easy by an excellent well planned itinery.
Most Inspirational Moment
Impossible to single out any particular moment. The tour just continued to be inspirational throughout.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Bijou, the guide was amazing. His knowledge of every aspect of the tour was first class. His attention to detail combined with ensuring the welfare of the group was excellent. I believe that his pride and work ethic was above and beyond what every group member expected. Combined with the bus driver (Vinod), they are a fantastic team.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Book it! The entire trip is excellent value for money. So much is to be seen and experienced within a short time, something that cannot be achieved on your own. Being part of a group adds to the experience.
A wonderful varied trip exploring The Tropical South
This was an absolutely brilliant trip with varied itinerary seeing a mixture of busy cities and daily life within, walking barefoot in beautiful temples, watching traditional Kathakali dance show, trekking in stunning mountainous tea plantations and also in jungle in the Periyar National Park, cruising on a houseboat on the beautiful backwaters, staying in an amazing home stay being looked after by the lovely owner Grace and finishing with relaxing time on beautiful beaches.
The scenery as you drive around is simply stunning with some incredible views. We had such a really lovely fun group of people and the locals were so warm, gentle and smiley and hotel staff went out of their way to look after us, in particular Ripon at the Peppervine, best kindest service ever!
We had the most incredible knowledgeable guide Biju, who gave us so many interesting insights into his wonderful country and was the warmest, kindest most thoughtful person, looking after us all so incredibly well, he helped make this holiday a best ever . Vinod our driver was excellent, so friendly and smiley and he kept the bus immaculate and drove us so safely .
A wonderful trip and no wonder it’s known as Gods own country, it’s simply stunning, with an exceptional guide Biju and such lovely locals who really touched me, I left a piece of my heart there!
Most Inspirational Moment
Trekking in the tea plantations and in Periyar National Park, the early morning walk in Madurai and walking barefoot through the incredible Meenakshi temple complex amongst pilgrims, Grace and staying in her beautiful homestay, the backwaters, the daily interactions with the lovely local people , so many inspirational moments and happy memories.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Biju was an absolutely exceptional group leader, so proud of his country and he shared so many wonderful and interesting insights. He is cheerful , professional, well organised, knowledgeable, warm, smiley and so kind and he looked after us all so well. He went out of his way to ensure everyone was having the best time, nothing was ever too much trouble for him. Biju made this the most wonderful trip for which thank you so much Biju !
Advice for Potential Travellers
Food and drink is very cheap in comparison with the UK. Take a small bag for your overnight stay on the houseboat. Smile at the lovely locals and they will smile back, such a wonderful country and such warmth from the people , a very special place which touches you. Just book this holiday, it’s brilliant!
A fabulous trip to the Tropical South
My Exodus trip to Kerala and Tamil Nadu was truly amazing in so many ways. The beautiful scenery, lush green and full of fascinating wild life, the range and style of vegetarian food, and the overwhelming gentleness and warmth of the local people were all way beyond my expectations. Our outstanding guide Biju was at the heart of it all with his supreme organizational skills, endless information on every topic imaginable and, above all, his patience and kindness towards everyone in the group. The itinerary was perfect as it exposed us to so many very different aspects of the region: rural and urban settings, magnificent Hindu temples as well as Christian churches, historically important public buildings but also the homes of ordinary people going about their daily lives. A solo trip to India could never have offered such an enlightening and wide ranging experience as we gained from this trip. I would highly recommend it to others especially for a first trip to India and if they are as lucky as we were they may even have Biju as a guide too.
Most Inspirational Moment
Dawn city walk through Madurai
Thoughts on Group Leader
Outstanding in every way.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Read the trip notes and book it. It's really great.
Everything you'd hope for and more
If I could give this trip 10 stars I would! It was perfectly paced and covers a fascinating range of locations. Our tour guide, Biju, was quite simply the best tour guide ever. So patient, knowledgeable and helpful. Normally the time spent on the bus between locations would be unwelcome but he made it something to look forward to as it was the perfect opportunity to learn more about the politics, religion and history of this amazing place. Highlights for me included the tea plantation trek, the houseboat on the backwaters, and the snake temple.
Most Inspirational Moment
Wildlife spotting and watching life go by on the Aleppey backwaters.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Outstanding. Biju deserves to win your Leaders award. I have done multiple tours with various companies and he is hands down the best group leader I have ever had. Patient, warm, helpful and incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about his country. Normally the time spent on the bus between locations would be unwelcome but he made it something to look forward to as it was the perfect opportunity to learn more about the politics, religion and history of this amazing place.
The Tropical South
Excellent
Most Inspirational Moment
Excellent
Advice for Potential Travellers
Book it
Fascinating exploration of Southern India
Southern India is less well known than the golden triangle – but that’s why this trip is so special. It shows you a new side to this amazing country. The Keralan backwaters showed us wonderful wildlife and opened our eyes to the culture and life of the local people. An excellent blend of nature and culture, we made new discoveries every day.
Most Inspirational Moment
So many to choose from - the early morning walk around Madurai finishing with the Meenaskshi temple visit, walking and boating through the Periyar wildlife sanctuary, (loved the otters!) and the houseboat backwater cruise. Then there were the unexpected encounters - especially the Hindu festival in full swing as we drove past a temple. Our driver pulled in and we were welcomed in and shown where to stand to get a good view by the worshippers who greeted us with smiles.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Biju was an absolute star, anticipating our requirements, going the extra mile unasked, always cheerful, a terrific ambassador for the state of Kerala. Our driver Vinod, was great too.
Advice for Potential Travellers
If, like us, you've only done the golden triangle and think you know India - you don't. Come and try Kerala - a different experience. Take the option al trip on the last day and travel down to the tip of India - it rounded off a really great holiday.
Superb varied experiences
Very varied experiences from city life, to tea plantations, to a Homestay and Houseboat overnight trips. Good optional excursions which majority took. Visits to Hindu temples with explanations of the culture and way of life, as well as other churches. Don’t hesitate book it. It was brilliant.
Most Inspirational Moment
Walking in the tea plantations in the Western Ghats. Beautiful scenery. Loved sailing down the waters in the various boats, walking in the nature reserve with the unexpected way of getting across the water. Witnessing the various ways taken to travel and how many they get on a motorbike.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Biju was exceptional. One of the best I’ve experienced. An awareness of the group needs, willingness to help out in any way, including cooking lunch when the kitchen staff were short staffed. Very honest and open about his own way of life, and the culture of the country. Gave us lots of information often during the long journeys, so we learnt a lot about Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Advice for Potential Travellers
It is hot and can be humid. Take binoculars, there are lots of opportunities for bird watching. Ladies, make sure you put a few sheets of toilet paper in your pocket from the hotels, as outside of them there isn’t any. Stick to the rules,” if you can’t peel it or cook it don’t eat it”, and no ice in drinks and you’ll be fine. We did and no one was ill on our trip. Take some sterling and a preloaded Visa card. Don’t use the money changers at the airport, there’s an ATM just before you go outside and anyway, you won’t need money until the first full day when you’ll be given opportunity to us an ATM. I paid for majority of optional excursions with the sterling. There are plenty of opportunities for ATMs throughout the trip.
Brilliant- highly recommended!
I’d always wanted to visit Kerala. This trip exceeded my expectations. The sheer variety and planning that went into this trip is mind boggling. I loved the people, the food, the countryside, the wildlife, the culture…I loved it all!
Most Inspirational Moment
The mountains and waterways are breathtaking. Travelling to see tea and spice and then plunging down the mountains (all well driven in a comfy coach) to see reservoirs, lakes and canals- I think we did four different types of boat trip! And just seeing everyday Kerala life going on around us- the traffic, the shops, the temples, the families, the school children, the animals. Being able to see ambitious cities, bubbling towns and quiet villages gave us a unique and valuable perspective. I felt more like a traveller than a tourist.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Biju Kumar is a great Amassador for India, for Kerala and for Exodus. He deserves a pay rise and a trip to the UK at the least! He MADE this trip- his professionalism, knowledge, humour, patience and humanity- he was the beating heart that pushed this trip from great to out of this world.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Relax! If you can just relax into Kerala- it will love you back. India and Kerala have a proud and noble history and a bright future. Particularly as a British person, it’s wise to bring your humility and gratitude to this great nation.
Kerala and The Western Ghats were fantastic - with a few changes, this trip could be a 5-Star trip
For us the highlights of the trip were very clear – the Western Ghats (Munnar, Thekkady, Periyar), the Backwaters of Alleppey, the beaches of Kovalam at the end of the trip and, of course, Biju and Vinod looking after us!
The “areas for improvement” were also clearcut –
a) the choice of hotel in Kochi – while the Abad Atrium is ok, it’s in completely the wrong place! We all wanted to be located actually in Fort Kochi, to avoid the several hours in the bus and the heavy traffic, getting to and from Fort Kochi
b) we felt that the Homestay in Erattupetta was a wasted night – the welcome felt begrudging and the rooms are tatty; we would have much preferred an extra night up in the hills (Munnar or Thekkady) or on the Houseboat in Alleppey (SO relaxing!)
c) the conclusion to a tiring fortnight turned out to be staying up until half-past midnight, for a transfer to the airport and then a flight at 04.30 – ghastly; this ensured we had an exhausting day of travel home. We would have liked to at least been offered the option of the Etihad flight out the next morning (at about 10.00 am)
Most Inspirational Moment
The early-morning nature walk in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Thoughts on Group Leader
Biju was an outstanding leader and guide for the group; he worked really hard to maximise our enjoyment, understanding and pleasure; whatever you pay him is not enough! And don’t forget the driver, who so often is the “unsung hero” of such trips; Vinod navigated the long and often “challenging” drives with great skill and composure; he managed the luggage without a hitch and kept the bus spotlessly clean.
Advice for Potential Travellers
1. Consider other options for flying home; the Emirates flight at 04.30 almost guarantees that you get NO sleep that night 2. You don’t need a mosquito net (at least not in January) at the Homestay or on the Houseboat 3. There’s no need to take US dollars - we exchanged sterling at a good rate and used those rupees for all our costs, including the excursions 4. Don’t worry about some reviews of the final hotel (Soma Palmshore) -it’s not luxury, for sure, but the staff were great and the location is perfect; as well as a pool, it effectively has a private beach below it!
Start
Finish
Availability
Land Only Trip Price
Optional Single Supplement
Sunday Saturday
13 Apr 2025 12 Apr 2025
Saturday Saturday
26 Apr 2025 26 Apr 2025
Availability Guaranteed (On Request)
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 2173Now USD 2025Saving USD 148 Usually USD 2173Now Saving USD 148
Optional Single Supplement +USD 555
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
28 Sep 2025 27 Sep 2025
Saturday Saturday
11 Oct 2025 11 Oct 2025
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2175 Book with USD 543 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 555
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
19 Oct 2025 18 Oct 2025
Saturday Saturday
01 Nov 2025 01 Nov 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 2173Now USD 1995Saving USD 178 Usually USD 2173Now Saving USD 178 Book with USD 500 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 555
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
26 Oct 2025 25 Oct 2025
Saturday Saturday
08 Nov 2025 08 Nov 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 2173Now USD 2100Saving USD 73 Usually USD 2173Now Saving USD 73 Book with USD 525 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 555
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
02 Nov 2025 01 Nov 2025
Saturday Saturday
15 Nov 2025 15 Nov 2025
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2175 Book with USD 543 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 555
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
09 Nov 2025 08 Nov 2025
Saturday Saturday
22 Nov 2025 22 Nov 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available) Only 5 spaces left!
Land Only Trip Price USD 2475 Book with USD 618 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 555
Diwali Festival Departure
Diwali Festival Departure
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
23 Nov 2025 22 Nov 2025
Saturday Saturday
06 Dec 2025 06 Dec 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 2173Now USD 2100Saving USD 73 Usually USD 2173Now Saving USD 73 Book with USD 525 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 555
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
30 Nov 2025 29 Nov 2025
Saturday Saturday
13 Dec 2025 13 Dec 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 2173Now USD 2025Saving USD 148 Usually USD 2173Now Saving USD 148 Book with USD 506 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 555
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
07 Dec 2025 06 Dec 2025
Saturday Saturday
20 Dec 2025 20 Dec 2025
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 555
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
14 Dec 2025 13 Dec 2025
Saturday Saturday
27 Dec 2025 27 Dec 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 2323Now USD 2220Saving USD 103 Usually USD 2323Now Saving USD 103 Book with USD 555 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 555
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
11 Jan 2026 10 Jan 2026
Saturday Saturday
24 Jan 2026 24 Jan 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
18 Jan 2026 17 Jan 2026
Saturday Saturday
31 Jan 2026 31 Jan 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
25 Jan 2026 24 Jan 2026
Saturday Saturday
07 Feb 2026 07 Feb 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
01 Feb 2026 31 Jan 2026
Saturday Saturday
14 Feb 2026 14 Feb 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
08 Feb 2026 07 Feb 2026
Saturday Saturday
21 Feb 2026 21 Feb 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
15 Feb 2026 14 Feb 2026
Saturday Saturday
28 Feb 2026 28 Feb 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
22 Feb 2026 21 Feb 2026
Saturday Saturday
07 Mar 2026 07 Mar 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
01 Mar 2026 28 Feb 2026
Saturday Saturday
14 Mar 2026 14 Mar 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
08 Mar 2026 07 Mar 2026
Saturday Saturday
21 Mar 2026 21 Mar 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
15 Mar 2026 14 Mar 2026
Saturday Saturday
28 Mar 2026 28 Mar 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
22 Mar 2026 21 Mar 2026
Saturday Saturday
04 Apr 2026 04 Apr 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
29 Mar 2026 28 Mar 2026
Saturday Saturday
11 Apr 2026 11 Apr 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Thursday
03 Apr 2026 02 Apr 2026
Thursday Thursday
16 Apr 2026 16 Apr 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2100 Book with USD 525 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
12 Apr 2026 11 Apr 2026
Saturday Saturday
25 Apr 2026 25 Apr 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2100 Book with USD 525 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
19 Apr 2026 18 Apr 2026
Saturday Saturday
02 May 2026 02 May 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2100 Book with USD 525 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
20 Sep 2026 19 Sep 2026
Saturday Saturday
03 Oct 2026 03 Oct 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2100 Book with USD 525 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
27 Sep 2026 26 Sep 2026
Saturday Saturday
10 Oct 2026 10 Oct 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
04 Oct 2026 03 Oct 2026
Saturday Saturday
17 Oct 2026 17 Oct 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
11 Oct 2026 10 Oct 2026
Saturday Saturday
24 Oct 2026 24 Oct 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
18 Oct 2026 17 Oct 2026
Saturday Saturday
31 Oct 2026 31 Oct 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
25 Oct 2026 24 Oct 2026
Saturday Saturday
07 Nov 2026 07 Nov 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
01 Nov 2026 31 Oct 2026
Saturday Saturday
14 Nov 2026 14 Nov 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
08 Nov 2026 07 Nov 2026
Saturday Saturday
21 Nov 2026 21 Nov 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Diwali Festival Departure
Diwali Festival Departure
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
15 Nov 2026 14 Nov 2026
Saturday Saturday
28 Nov 2026 28 Nov 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
22 Nov 2026 21 Nov 2026
Saturday Saturday
05 Dec 2026 05 Dec 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
29 Nov 2026 28 Nov 2026
Saturday Saturday
12 Dec 2026 12 Dec 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
06 Dec 2026 05 Dec 2026
Saturday Saturday
19 Dec 2026 19 Dec 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2250 Book with USD 562 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
20 Dec 2026 19 Dec 2026
Saturday Saturday
02 Jan 2027 02 Jan 2027
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 2400 Book with USD 600 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 615
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWould you like to include flights with your booking?
- ATOL protected
- Competitive flight prices
- Full refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
- Specialist support to rearrange flights and transfers
- Regional flights available from many UK airports
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The Tropical South
14 Days
Excluding Flights From
15 Days
from
Incl. taxes
Excl. flights