Admire the mish-mash of colonial styles in Fort Kochi, Experience island life on a homestay, Savour the scents of spice and tea plantations, Join pilgrims in Madurai, Soak up the French influences in Pondicherry, Cycle around the fishing village of Mamallapuram, Be lit up by the lights of Mysore, Safari into the jungle, Learn the secrets of snooker in Ooty
Lush, tropical southern India is an inspiration. Amid the green shades of a coastal paradise, encounter locals in their fishing villages and tribal homes. Join them in the bazaars, and on buses and boats, or even on pilgrimage in Madurai, the city of temples. South India's spirituality, mist-clad Nilgiri ranges, friendly people and wild animal sanctuaries make this a fabulous part of India to explore.
Physical Rating: 2 Culture Shock Rating: 3 Accommodation: Guesthouses/hotels (11 nts), village family homestay (1 nt), dormitory accommodation (1 nt) overnight train (1 nt) Transportation: Overnight train, ferry, private boat, local bus, cycle and auto-rickshaw Trip Style: Intrepid Original Group Size: Maximum of 12 travellers per group Departure: Departure is guaranteed Budget: Allow USD $225 for meals not included.
Call (800) 533-5343 for more information or to book today! Mention code 6067566
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Duration
15 Days
Escorted
Escorted - Yes
Itinerary
Day
Destination
Description
Days 1-2
Kochi
Visit fragrant spice bazaars, antique shops and a Dutch palace in Fort Kochi, a fascinating mix of colonial influences.
Day 3
Keralan backwaters
Experience Keralan life on an island homestay. Meet the local families, dine on traditional food and explore the island and its meandering backwaters on a sunset boat ride.
Days 4-5
Periyar National Park
Travel through rubber, tea, coffee and spice plantations by boat. At Periyar National Park, join a forest guide to try and track herds of elephants.
Day 6
Madurai
Colourful and chaotic, this is southern India at its lively best. Visit the Sri Meenakshi Temple, a labyrinth of lamp-lit corridors and shrines, to witness mysterious rituals. Wander through the tailors' market and maybe visit the Ghandi Museum.
Day 7
Pondicherry
Follow the scenic coastal road to the French-influenced Pondicherry. Nearby is Auroville, home to the world's largest crystal.
Days 8-9
Mamallapuram
Cycle around the Shore Temples and massive rock carving known as Arjuna's Penance.
Day 10
Mysore
See the incredible illuminations at Mysore Palace and witness a puja ceremony in Chamundi Hill.
Day 11
Masinagudi
Stay in a jungle retreat at the foot of the Nilgiri Mountains. Safari into the wilds of Bandipur National Park to try and spot tigers, leopards, elephants and spotted deer.
Days 12-13
Ootacamund
Take a walk in the Eucalyptus-covered Nilgiri Mountains and tea plantations of 'Ooty', stopping at a tea factory for a lesson in brewing.
Days 14-15
Kochi
There's time for more sightseeing and shopping in vibrant Kochi.
Dates/Pricing
Disclaimer
* The prices listed are based on the costs and exchange rates current at the
time of printing/posting. Intrepid reserves the right to alter these prices
at any time. For trips departing between 01 January 2007 and 31 December
2007, the land price of your trip is guaranteed when you have paid in full.
For trips departing beyond 31 December 2007, prices are indicative only. The
itineraries and dates online and in our printed brochures are applicable
from 01 January 2007 until 31 December 2007. Beyond 31 December 2007 dates
and itineraries are indicative only and are subject to change. All
information is accurate to the best of our knowledge at time of
printing/posting, but please note that changes to our trips (which can be
significant) can and do occur. Intrepid will make every effort to keep you
informed of any changes, but cannot be held liable for any alterations made
to the published itineraries. Please refer to our website for the most
recent update to any trip. Please note that these conditions apply to
Intrepid group trips only. Variations may apply for Intrepid Independent
trips.
Loss of monies paid applies to all cancelled reservations. The date of trip
cancellation is the date on which the written cancellation is received by
Intrepid.
Please ask your Travel Agent about our full Booking and Cancellation
Conditions.
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