south india tour packages for 10 days

Step into a slice of France in India as you explore Pondicherry's charming streets. The morning light reveals pastel-coloured colonial buildings and cafes serving fresh croissants. Wander through the French Quarter, where bougainvillea cascades down heritage buildings. The peaceful Sri Aurobindo Ashram offers a glimpse into spiritual India, while the evening brings alive the bustling promenade where locals gather for seaside walks. Activities:

• Morning heritage walk through French Quarter
• Visit to Sri Aurobindo Ashram
• Auroville day trip
• Evening promenade stroll
• Authentic French-Indian fusion dinner

Discover the magnificent Brihadeeswara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage marvel. The morning sun illuminates the 216-foot tower, casting intricate shadows on ancient stones. Watch in wonder as local artists demonstrate the famous Thanjavur painting technique, using gold leaf and precious stones. The Royal Palace Museum houses centuries of art and cultural treasures. Activities:

• Sunrise visit to Brihadeeswara Temple
• Thanjavur painting demonstration
• Royal Palace Museum tour
• Traditional bronze casting workshop
• Evening classical music performance

Wake up to the spiritual energy of Madurai, home to the magnificent Meenakshi Temple. Watch as thousands of oil lamps illuminate the temple's corridors during the evening ceremony. Experience the bustling streets where spice traders have conducted business for centuries. The afternoon brings you to the Gandhi Museum, telling tales of India's freedom struggle. Activities:

• Early morning temple ritual viewing
• Spice market tour
• Gandhi Museum visit
• Evening aarti ceremony
• Night market exploration

Ascend into the Western Ghats mountains, where endless carpets of tea plantations await. The cool mountain air carries the fresh scent of tea leaves. Visit a working tea factory to learn about the journey from leaf to cup. Take gentle walks through cardamom plantations and watch the sunset paint the hills in golden hues. Activities:

• Tea factory tour and tasting
• Spice plantation walk
• Tea picking experience
• Eravikulam National Park visit
• Evening cooking demonstration

Descend from the hills to the famous Kerala backwaters. Board your private houseboat, a converted rice barge with modern comforts. Glide through serene waterways, watching local life unfold along the banks. Spot exotic birds and enjoy fresh seafood prepared by your onboard chef. Activities:

• Houseboat check-in
• Village life observation
• Sunset cruise
• Fishing demonstration
• Stargazing from deck

Experience the historic spice trading port of Cochin, where Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences blend seamlessly. Watch the iconic Chinese fishing nets in action, explore the Jewish Quarter, and enjoy a mesmerising Kathakali dance performance in the evening. Activities:

• Chinese fishing nets demonstration
• Jewish synagogue visit
• Spice warehouse tour
• Kathakali performance
• Sunset harbour cruise

Enter the royal city of Mysore, famous for its magnificent palace. The morning takes you through local markets filled with fresh flowers and sandalwood incense. The afternoon palace visit reveals opulent halls and intricate artwork. End your day at Chamundi Hills for panoramic city views. Activities:

• Devaraja Market visit
• Mysore Palace tour
• Silk weaving demonstration
• Chamundi Hills sunset
• Evening palace illumination

Dive deeper into Mysore's cultural heritage. Start with a yoga session at a traditional school, explore the centuries-old Srirangapatna Fort, and learn about India's ancient wellness science at an ayurvedic centre. The evening brings a special farewell dinner featuring Karnataka specialities. Activities:

• Morning yoga session
• Srirangapatna Fort visit
• Ayurvedic centre tour
• Art gallery visit
• Farewell dinner

Conclude your South Indian journey in the garden city of Bangalore. Take a morning heritage walk through Cubbon Park and the Victorian-era buildings of MG Road before your departure. Time permitting, visit the historic Bull Temple or the modern ISKCON temple. Activities:

• Morning heritage walk
• Cubbon Park visit
• Last-minute shopping
• Airport transfer

While South Indian cuisine can be spicy, our partner restaurants cater to various preferences. You can always request mild versions of dishes.

We recommend budgeting £300-400 for personal expenses, including lunches, shopping, and optional activities. Most places accept cards but carry some cash for local markets.

Yes, UK citizens need an e-visa for India. Apply online at least 4 weeks before travel. Our team can guide you through the process.

We provide 4-star hotels throughout the journey, including heritage properties and a luxury houseboat. All rooms have en-suite facilities and modern amenities.

Stick to bottled water, which we provide daily. Avoid tap water and ice in local establishments. Our partner restaurants use filtered water.

Pack light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, and modest attire for temple visits. We'll provide a detailed packing list upon booking.

Moderate walking is required, typically 2-3 hours per day at a leisurely pace. We ensure regular breaks and offer transport options when needed.

Yes, we cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs. Please inform us when booking so we can make the necessary arrangements.

We limit groups to 12 people to ensure personal attention and comfort. This allows for authentic local experiences and better interaction with guides.

Yes, all entrance fees to temples and monuments mentioned in the itinerary are included. Any optional temple visits will be charged separately.

We recommend exchanging some money at UK airports and using ATMs in India. Major towns have exchange bureaus, and most hotels accept cards.

October to March offers pleasant temperatures (20-30°C) with low humidity. Early mornings and evenings can be cooler, so pack a light jacket.

All hotels offer Wi-Fi, though speeds may vary. We recommend purchasing a local SIM card for consistent connectivity.

Yes, we can customize this itinerary for private groups with flexible dates, additional activities, and specific interests. Contact our team for details.