South India Family Adventure
Suggested Itinerary
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Overview
Sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and the fertile hills of the Western Ghats, Kerala has with good reason been christened Gods Own Country. A land of beaches and backwaters, lush tea plantations and spices, it enjoys a cultural heritage that can trace its influences back to Chinese, Arab and European traders.
The journey begins in historic Cochin, The Queen of the Arabian Sea, where you’ll have a chance to enjoy its rich mix of Indian and European traditions including Kathakali ...
Sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and the fertile hills of the Western Ghats, Kerala has with good reason been christened Gods Own Country. A land of beaches and backwaters, lush tea plantations and spices, it enjoys a cultural heritage that can trace its influences back to Chinese, Arab and European traders.
The journey begins in historic Cochin, The Queen of the Arabian Sea, where you’ll have a chance to enjoy its rich mix of Indian and European traditions including Kathakali dancing and Keralan cuisine, before boarding your own private houseboat to explore the beautiful and idyllic backwaters. Next continue into the Western Ghats to the hill resort of Munnar. Set against the backdrop of lush tea plantations, you will then explore the wildlife rich landscapes of Periyar Tiger Reserve by bamboo raft and on foot. The next part of the journey takes you east into Madurai and Tamil Nadu. Often overlooked, Tamil Nadu is the cultural heartland of South India and taking in some of the country’s most authentic cultural experiences, known for the finest cuisine, providing a richly contrasting insight into the traditions, heritage and flavour of one of India's most fascinating regions.
Have time to explore the pristine Palani hills in Dindigul. Enjoy some uniquely crafted tours around Madurai and Chettinad and visit traditional artisan workshops that have endured and flourished for generations. The final part of this journey will take you to the beaches of Goa, where you can choose to spend time relaxing by the beach and also go backwater kayaking and cycling to discover the rich biodiversity of Goa!
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Embark on a private cruise through the Kerala Backwaters and enjoy the tranquil beaches of Goa
- Learn to cook delicious traditional Keralan dishes in Nemma’s kitchen with her family
- Visit the tea plantations and hills of the Western Ghats in Munnar & Eravikulam National Park
- Kayak in the mangroves and cycle in the jungles of Goa searching for birds and wildlife
- Bamboo raft through the natural beauty of Periyar National Park, searching for wildlife and bird species
- See a live classical Kathakali dance performance and go hiking in the Palani hills
Suggested Itinerary
This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 ARRIVE COCHIN
Day 1 ARRIVE COCHIN
On arrival in Cochin you will be met by a Wild Frontiers representative and transferred to your hotel to freshen up. This evening you will then get the chance to enjoy a remarkable performance of Kerala's famous Kathakali dancing. With origins in the 17th century, Kathakali is a highly stylised classical dance characterised by its bright costumes and the heavily painted faces of the performers, giving an insight into the ancient stories and heritage of South India.
Day 2 COCHIN
Day 2 COCHIN
This morning you will be taken to a local chef’s home where you will learn how to cook a traditional Keralan meal before enjoying the meal with your host in her dining room. Explore the local market and learn about the different ingredients and enjoy a true culinary adventure with one of Cochin’s top experts. After your delicious lunch, you can enjoy a tour of the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’. The oldest European settlement in India, Cochin is a vibrant mix of Arab, Chinese, European and Indian influences and home to the oldest church and the oldest synagogue in the country. Make sure to also visit Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, a fine example of Keralan architecture fused with colonial influences.
Day 3 COCHIN - BACKWATERS
Day 3 COCHIN - BACKWATERS
Cycling along the backwaters of Kerala is the quintessential Keralan experience. Ride along the Kochi coast with views of unevenly spread backwaters accompanying you all the way. Cycling through small fishing villages and past lush coconut trees, you will reach a serene part of the backwaters. Hop on to a canoe and immerse yourself in the beautiful backwater scenery as you float through a small stretch of the backwaters. Enjoy a short break in a village before the tour comes to an end and you transfer a short way by car to the jetty, here you will board your private houseboat for an exploration of the remarkable Keralan backwaters, the ideal way to observe life amongst the channels and waterways of the west coast.
Day 4 BACKWATERS - MUNNAR
Day 4 BACKWATERS - MUNNAR
Today you leave the backwaters of Kerala behind and head into the lush hills of the Western Ghats and the hill-town resort of Munnar. Strategically located at the confluence of three rivers, the town sits high amongst the cool highlands, surrounded by tea plantations and the mist shrouded hills of the Western Ghats.
Day 5 MUNNAR
Day 5 MUNNAR
Today explore Munnar and its surroundings, starting with a visit to the Tea Museum and some of the tea plantations which the town is famous for. Here you will learn about the different varieties of the most consumed beverage in the world and the different stages of processing it, finishing with a tea tasting session. Then proceed to the nearby Eravikulam National Park which, with an area of 97 sq. km, is home to the largest population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, an endemic species of ungulates in the south-western Ghats and is the state animal of Tamil Nadu. Other species you may be lucky to spot include the Nilgiri marten, small clawed otter, ruddy mongoose, dusky striped squirrel, several endemic species of birds and rare butterflies. Later in the day return to your hotel and in the evening enjoy a short cycle ride around the hill plantations.
Day 6 MUNNAR - THEKKADY
Day 6 MUNNAR - THEKKADY
Today you will be collected from your hotel in Munnar and transferred to Thekkady. The journey will take you past the lush forests of the Western Ghats and beautiful spice plantations. En route, stop at a spice plantation, before continuing to Thekkady and the Periyar Nature Reserve, home to numerous species of mammals and birds.
Day 7 THEKKADY: PERIYAR NATURE RESERVE
Day 7 THEKKADY: PERIYAR NATURE RESERVE
The morning will be spent in Periyar Nature Reserve, hiking and bamboo rafting through some of the wilder forest of the reserve. Animals such as tigers, elephants, sambar, giant squirrels and Nilgiri langur may be spotted, as well as native tribes people fishing or swimming. Periyar Nature Reserve is a treat for wildlife enthusiasts and ornithologists alike, with its rich fauna and vast open land, a wonderful place to experience some of southern India’s wildlife. In the early evening you can also enjoy a birdwatching walk led by a specialist naturalist guide.
Day 8 THEKKADY - MADURAI
Day 8 THEKKADY - MADURAI
Today you will be collected from your hotel in Thekkady and transferred to the vibrant temple city of Madurai. Along the way, you will have the chance to stop for a cup of tea and to take photographs. Later this afternoon explore the backstreets and markets of Madurai, learning about its history which dates back some 2500 years, and visit a temple for the evening ceremony, involving music and chanting.
Day 9 MADURAI - DINDIGUL
Day 9 MADURAI - DINDIGUL
This morning you will be transferred to Dindigul, where on arrival you can enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the beautiful countryside or relaxing on the property.
Day 10 DINDIGUL
Day 10 DINDIGUL
Let the hillside views and smell of coffee and lemon growing on the estate lull you into a deep sense of serenity. This 18th century property has changed very little over the last century and so has the lifestyle. One thousand metres above sea level ensures a welcome escape from the South Indian tropical heat. Spend your free day visiting the farm and nearby village, looking for birdlife along an estate path or snoozing in the hammock under the shade of the trees. There are also guided excursions from the estate such as nature walks and visits to the hill station of Kodaikanal.
Day 11 DINDIGUL - CHETTINAD
Day 11 DINDIGUL - CHETTINAD
Today you will be collected from your hotel in Dindigul and transferred to Chettinad via the beautiful landscapes of the Palani Hills.
Day 12 CHETTINAD
Day 12 CHETTINAD
After breakfast, your driver and guide will show you around the Chettinad region. The area is known for its art, culture and heritage, with grand mansions which were built by the Chettiar community, wealthy bankers and businessmen who emigrated in the late 19th and 20th centuries and sent back lavish furnishings and materials to their families in Tamil Nadu. The mansions feature impressive hand-made tiles, which you can observe being made at a local Athangudi tile factory. There may also be the chance to visit a nearby sweet factory and try making some treats yourself, as well as a cotton sari weaving centre to learn how to wear a sari. Spend some time learning about the strong religious beliefs of the Chettiars with visits to some of the temples.
Day 13 CHETTINAD - TRICHY - GOA
Day 13 CHETTINAD - TRICHY - GOA
This morning you will be transferred to Trichy airport in time to catch your flight to Goa. On arrival, settle into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 14 GOA
Day 14 GOA
Today you will set off in search of the elusive humpback dolphins of Goa. Led by a conservation expert, you will be given an introduction to not only the dolphins but also the diverse marine life in this area. For those looking for something a little more active, you may prefer to explore the backwaters by kayak as you take to the water and explore the mangrove forest.
Day 15 GOA
Day 15 GOA
Spend the morning cycling along the forest trails of the Mapusa Plateau with an expert guide. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Mapusa city, this woodland is a living haven for birds, monkeys, butterflies and insects alike. The trail runs through a family-owned property spread across a verdant 33 acres of pristine forests, maintained and protected by the custodians of the land. They have very kindly allowed us exclusive access to explore hidden trails as well as helping us to understand the challenges of preserving forest land on the borders of a growing city. You will be transferred back to your hotel and the rest of the afternoon and evening are free to relax at leisure.
Day 16 DEPART GOA
Day 16 DEPART GOA
This morning you will be transferred to the airport in time for your onward flight.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Windermere Hotel, Munnar
Located just outside Munnar, on a 60 acre coffee and cardamom plantation set along the slopes of the Western Ghats, the Windermere Hotel is a traditional property with 18 comfortable rooms and cottages that overlook the mountains and the lush hills of the Chithirapuram Valley. All the rooms come with balconies and large panoramic windows, whilst the hotel's restaurant offers local Keralan cuisine, family inspired recipes and a western style breakfast. Please note the restaurant does not sell alcohol. Guided trekking options around the estate and the surrounding plantations are also available.
Old Harbour, Cochin
Carefully built inside a restored 300-year-old building in the historic heart of Kerala, this boutique hotel contains 13 unique rooms, each named after the surrounding streets. Crafted with Portuguese and Dutch influences, the high ceilings, four poster beds and art on the walls make this an exquisite place to stay. There are three cottages in the garden for added exclusivity. Guests can enjoy the swimming pool, gardens and Ayurvedic spa, who's products are purely organic, as are the soap and shampoos in the bathroom and the delicacies in the restaurant. There is no Wi-Fi or television in the rooms to encourage disconnection, but Wi-Fi dongles and televisions can be provided upon request.
Visalam, Chettinad
Visalam is a real gem in the heart of Tamil Nadu where a warm and friendly staff will go out of their way to make your stay an unforgettable experience. This century old mansion, has been converted into a lovely boutique hotel comprising of 15 very spacious rooms, simply furnished yet with a warm and elegant character. The central courtyard surrounded by colonnades and featuring traditional tiles transports you to the opulent time of the Chettiar lifestyle. Hidden within the garden is an outdoor pool with bubble jets, located next to the dining area. At Visalam you can savour the flavours and aromas of Southern India and even try your hand at cooking by attending the hotel’s culinary demonstration. Alcohol is not served here. As with most CGH properties, filtered water is served in glass bottles and there are daily experiences included such as Kolam making or village cycling.
Alila Diwa Goa, Goa
A real gem of a hotel situated amidst lush rice paddy fields and a short walk to the beach. It’s a luxury hotel in south Goa adjacent to sandy Majorda beach and only a 20 minute drive from Goa International Airport. The rooms are built in contemporary Goan style and include all the modern comforts one could wish for. The resort leisure activities include the Alila Spa, swimming pool and several dining opportunities serving traditional Goan and international cuisine.
Spice Village, Thekkady
Spice Village is set within fourteen acres of forest covered hills on the border of Periyar Tiger Reserve. Influenced by the native people of the region who have lived in harmony with their surroundings for generations, the roofs of the 47 cottages are thatched using elephant grass in the unique way of Mannan tribes of Periyar. The cottages are surrounded by fruit trees and spice plantations, which attract squirrels and monkeys, and all feature private bathrooms and a verandah. The restaurant serves Keralan cuisine, whilst the unique 50 Mile restaurant resources its ingredients only from within 50 miles of the resort in order to reduce its carbon footprint. For a more intimate outdoor dining experience, a romantic candle-lit dinner can be arranged in the middle of the wilderness. Hidden within the spice garden are basketball, badminton and tennis courts for the more active guests, whilst the Tiger Club exhibition is a haven for any wildlife enthusiast. The swimming pool is surrounded by swaying palms that provide a sense of tranquillity and calm, especially when paired with an Ayurveda massage. Venture outside the village into the tiger reserve or Thekkady town, only a short walk away. Having won Wild Asia’s Responsible Tourism award, Spice Village is a chemical free zone, has its own vermicomposting plant where most of the daily waste is recycled and almost all the energy is resourced from solar power. As with most CGH properties, filtered water is served in glass bottles and there are daily experiences included such as paper making, cooking demonstrations and musical performances.
Heritage Madurai, Madurai
Once the housed community of a British company, Heritage Madurai is now a four-star hotel within the city of Madurai. The reception leads onto the breakfast room, lounge bar and temple style outdoor pool. There is also the special opportunity to dine under a 200-year-old banyan tree in the restaurant designed by Geoffrey Bawa. The rooms are set in blocks and the villas feature private plunge pools and a sun deck. A pottery demonstration area and traditional tea shop are complimentary for guests and are in the gardens. Additionally, there is a spa, badminton court and a gym for recreational time.
Rajakkad Estate, Dindigul
Set in the Palami Hills of Tamil Nadu, amidst forest and coffee plantations, the Rajakkad Estate is a small garden hotel that offers peace and tranquillity - a paradise for bird lovers. Seven spacious bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms have their own entrance connecting to the surrounding garden, courtyard pools and covered walkways. Delicious South Indian food and freshly ground coffee are served with fresh ingredients from the local farm.
Xandari Houseboat, Alleppey
Experience seamless panorama of life and scenery on the backwaters in a one bedroom, two bedrooms, or three-bedroom houseboat, each designed with great care and attention to detail by Xandari and built by local craftsmen. These 'Kettuvallams', as they’re known locally, are comfortable and plush, and are built to deliver the escape and relaxation that take one away from all kinds of stress. Each bedroom is spacious enough in its 14 square meters, with en suite bathrooms, large picture windows, and an option of either one double or two single beds. To maintain a tranquil backwater experience, our boats are television free zones. Xandari Riverscapes is a water-based houseboat operation, and so relationships have been established with local farmers to supply the local rice from Kerala’s noted paddy, and as much produce as possible. Additionally, duck farmers throughout the backwaters supply their meats daily, and local fishermen provide much shellfish and the famous local fish, Karimeen otherwise known as Pearl Spot.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
GUIDELINE PRICE & WHAT'S INCLUDED
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EXPERT TEAM
ACCOMMODATION
WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on a family of four (children 12 years or younger), travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
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Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.
24-HOUR SUPPORT
Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.Meet the expert, Shalmali
Shalmali is our Indian Subcontinent expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Shalmali by calling
+44 (0)20 3944 6258