HIGHLIGHTS: An in-depth journey through Southern India- worlds away from the bustling cities and desert vistas of the North. This small group journey takes in vibrant Cochin, the Kerala Backwaters and abundant wildlife.

DAY 1: ARRIVE BANGALORE

Welcome to Bangalore! Upon arrival you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, join your group for welcome drinks and a briefing. Overnight: Bangalore, The Chancery Hotel for 1 night.

DAY 2: BANGALORE - MYSORE

This morning, tour the city of Bangalore, visiting the Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, Parliament buildings and the Bull Temple. Travel to Mysore, stopping at Srirangapatnam to visit the fort, ancient temple and summer palace of the Tipua Sultan. Overnight: Mysore, Metropole Hotel for 2 nights. (B)

DAY 3: EXPLORE MYSORE

Journey to the temple complex at Somnathpur, renowned for its detailed and well-preserved carvings. Continue on to explore the town, including the Maharajah's Palace and Chamundi Hill. (B)

DAY 4: MYSORE - OOTY

Depart Mysore by road and journey to Ooty, situated in the scenic Nilgiri Mountains. Travel through Mudumalai and Bandipur national parks. On arrival, visit the Botanical Gardens, famous Pleasure Lake and St. Stephen's Church. Overnight: Ooty, Savoy Hotel for 1 night. (B)

DAY 5: OOTY - PALAKKAD

This morning, take a ride on Ooty's toy train to Coonor. Continue on to Palakkad by road, enjoying lunch en route. Explore the surrounds this afternoon, including a walk in the weaver's village. Spend this evening with your homestay family to learn about Keralan traditions and culture. Overnight: Palakkad, Homestay for 1 night. (B,L,D)

DAY 6: PALAKKAD - MUNNAR

Journey to Munnar today - the center of South India's tea trade. Stop at a family owned plantation to learn about crops that characterize the region. Arrive in Munnar around sunset. Overnight: Munnar, Blackberry Hills for 2 nights. (B,L)

DAY 7: EXPLORING MUNNAR

This morning explore the surrounding tea plantations. Afterwards, journey to the beautiful Eravikulam National Park and spend the afternoon exploring by foot, spotting wildlife. (B)

DAY 8: MUNNAR - MADURAI

Travel to Madurai. Visit the Tirumalai Nayak Palace and Meenakshi temple. This evening, enjoy the temple's famous night ceremony. Overnight: Madurai, Hotel Sangam for 1 night. (B)

DAY 9: MADURAI - PERIYAR NATIONAL PARK

Travel from Madurai to Kerala. Visit a spice garden then the jungles of Periyar for a boat ride. Enjoy the scenery and spot wildlife at the water's edge. Overnight: Thekkady, Spice Village for 1 night. (B)

DAY 10: PERIYAR NAT'L PARK -KUMARAKOM

Continue deeper into the heart of Kerala and enjoy a walking tour of a pineapple and rubber plantation. On arrival in Kumarakom, travel to your resort on Vembanad Lake. Overnight: Kumarakom, Coconut Lagoon Resort for 2 nights. (B,L)

DAY 11: EXPLORE KUMARAKOM

This morning, visit the local churches, temples and markets. Join a cooking class to learn about traditional Keralan cuisine. (B,L)

DAY 12: KUMARAKOM- KERALA BACKWATERS

Today, board a houseboat and cruise the famous backwaters of Kerala. Each cabin is fan cooled with a private ensuite. Overnight: Kerala Backwaters, Houseboat for 1 night. (B,L,D)

DAY 13: KERALA BACKWATERS - COCHIN

Wake up early to see the waterways come to life. Travel by road to Cochin, built on a series of islands, and enjoy a sunset cruise on Cochin Harbor. Overnight: Cochin, Arches Hotel for 2 nights. (B)

DAY 14: COCHIN CITY TOUR

This morning visit Fort Cochin, St Francis Church, the Dutch Palace museum and the Synagogue. Tonight, enjoy the Kathakali dance theater. (B)

DAY 15: DEPART COCHIN

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight (flight not included). (B)