Karnataka & Kerala Explorer with Wildlife, Hills & Backwaters
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Duration 13 nights / 14 days
About This Tour
Discover the best of South India on this Karnataka & Kerala Explorer, featuring vibrant cities, scenic hill stations, wildlife adventures, heritage sites, and tranquil backwaters. Explore Bengaluru’s landmarks, relax amid Coorg’s coffee plantations, and enjoy thrilling safaris in Nagarhole National Park. Experience Mysuru’s royal charm, Ooty’s misty Nilgiri landscapes, and Kochi’s fascinating colonial heritage. Cruise through Kerala’s iconic backwaters on a traditional houseboat and unwind in the peaceful lakeside retreat of Kumarakom. This journey combines nature, culture, history, and authentic local experiences, offering an unforgettable South India holiday filled with wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and timeless traditions.
Tour Plan
Welcome to Bengaluru, India's dynamic "Garden City" and the cosmopolitan capital of Karnataka. Upon arrival at Bengaluru International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax after your journey or explore the city's pleasant cafés and green boulevards at your own pace. Overnight stay in Bengaluru.
After breakfast, embark on a guided sightseeing tour of Bengaluru. Visit the historic Bangalore Fort, the iconic Bull Temple, the beautifully landscaped Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Cubbon Park, and admire the magnificent Vidhana Soudha from outside. Later, drive through the scenic countryside to the mist-covered hills of Coorg (Kodagu), renowned for its coffee estates, spice plantations, waterfalls, and tranquil landscapes. Upon arrival, check in to your resort and enjoy a relaxing evening amidst nature. Overnight stay in Coorg.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before discovering the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Coorg. Visit a coffee plantation to learn about coffee cultivation, explore the sacred Omkareshwara Temple, admire the panoramic views from Raja's Seat, and visit the impressive Abbey Falls. If time permits, stop at the Madikeri Fort and local spice markets before returning to your resort. Overnight stay in Coorg.
Following breakfast, drive to the pristine wilderness of Kabini or Nagarhole National Park, one of India's finest wildlife destinations and part of the UNESCO-listed Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Check into your wildlife lodge before setting out on an exciting afternoon jeep safari accompanied by experienced naturalists. Search for elephants, gaur, deer, wild dogs, leopards, and the elusive Bengal tiger amidst lush forests and riverine landscapes. Overnight stay in Kabini/Nagarhole.
Today is dedicated to exploring the extraordinary biodiversity of Nagarhole National Park. Participate in both morning and afternoon jeep safaris, offering excellent opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. The park is home to one of the highest densities of Asian elephants in India, along with numerous bird species and rich tropical forests. Between safaris, relax at your jungle lodge and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Overnight stay in Kabini/Nagarhole.
After breakfast, drive to the royal city of Mysuru, celebrated for its grand palaces, vibrant markets, sandalwood craftsmanship, and rich cultural traditions. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. You may choose to stroll through the local markets or simply relax at your hotel. Overnight stay in Mysuru.
Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Mysuru's architectural and cultural treasures. Explore the magnificent Mysore Palace, one of India's most spectacular royal residences, followed by visits to Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery, Chamundi Hill with its revered temple and colossal Nandi statue, and the beautiful St. Philomena's Church. In the evening, visit the enchanting Brindavan Gardens, famous for its illuminated musical fountains and beautifully landscaped terraces. Overnight stay in Mysuru.
After breakfast, journey through the picturesque Nilgiri Hills to Ooty, South India's most celebrated hill station. Surrounded by rolling tea gardens, eucalyptus forests, and mist-covered mountains, Ooty offers a refreshing escape from the plains. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the cool mountain air at leisure. Overnight stay in Ooty.
Spend the day exploring the scenic beauty of the Nilgiris. Visit the Government Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, Doddabetta Peak, and picturesque tea estates. You may also choose to ride the famous UNESCO-listed Nilgiri Mountain Railway to Coonoor (subject to availability), where attractions include Sim's Park, Dolphin's Nose, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking endless tea plantations. Overnight stay in Ooty.
After breakfast, drive through the Western Ghats into Kerala and arrive in Kochi, the historic port city known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea." A fascinating blend of colonial architecture, spice trading history, and multicultural heritage awaits. Check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Kochi.
Today's guided tour introduces you to Kochi's remarkable cultural heritage. Visit the Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace), the centuries-old Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church, and the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets along Fort Kochi waterfront. Wander through charming colonial streets lined with art galleries and cafés before concluding the day with a captivating Kathakali dance performance showcasing Kerala's classical performing arts. Overnight stay in Kochi.
After breakfast, drive to Kumarakom and board your traditional Kerala houseboat for one of the highlights of your journey. Cruise through the tranquil backwaters, passing coconut groves, lush paddy fields, fishing villages, and peaceful canals. Enjoy freshly prepared Kerala cuisine served onboard while watching everyday village life unfold along the waterways. Spend a memorable night aboard your private houseboat.
After breakfast, disembark the houseboat and transfer to your lakeside resort in Kumarakom. The remainder of the day is free to relax amidst Kerala's serene backwaters. Enjoy Ayurvedic spa treatments, birdwatching, cycling through nearby villages, or simply unwind beside the lake while taking in the peaceful surroundings. Overnight stay in Kumarakom.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out of your resort. Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Kochi International Airport for your onward journey, taking home unforgettable memories of Karnataka's royal heritage, abundant wildlife, misty hill stations, and Kerala's enchanting backwaters.
