This is a great holiday to introduce you to the delights of Southern India. It was a magical experience and I'd recommend it to anyone interested in this part of the world.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Uncover the delights of tropical Kerala in India's deep south on this 8-day group tour. From Kochi visit the picturesque hill station of Munnar with its verdant tea plantations as well as Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spend a night aboard a houseboat, gliding along the tranquil, palm fringed backwaters.
Natural landmarks sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kochi, Munnar, Periyar, Kumarako
Kochi, Munnar, Periyar, Kumarakom, Kerala Backwaters
25% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
18% OFF TODAYThis deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Swaying palm trees, rolling hills and calming backwaters make up southern India's lush surface and on this 13-day Premium adventure, you’ll travel off the tourist trail. Head into the home of a local family and be immersed into their culture, head down the French-inspired streets of Puducherry and explore the maze of food stalls in Maduraito to sample some delicious local cuisine. Go into the wilderness of the Periyar National Park to look for local wildlife and tiger tracks, watch a live performance of kalarippayattu and visit tea plantations to learn how this popular beverage is grown and made. With heaps of local food, a night in a converted houseboat and a knowledgeable local leader to help you uncover local secrets – this will be a trip of a lifetime.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kochi, Chennai, Kerala & Tamil N
Kochi, Chennai, Kerala & Tamil Nadu, Kerala Backwaters, Pondicherry, Madurai, Thekkady, Periyar National Park, Munnar
18% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
15% OFF TODAYThis deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Explore the highlights of Southern India, from Chennai to Kochi on this 14-day tour. Visit some of the most intricate and beautiful UNESCO world heritage temples of Southern India and uncover the delights of tropical Kerala in India's deep south. Visit the former hill station of Munnar and its sprawling tea plantations, spot elephants in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and spend a night aboard a houseboat, gliding along the tranquil, palm fringed backwaters.
Discover the best of north and south India on a Premium adventure, from bustling Delhi to multicultural Kochi. Experience the magic of the heritage-rich north at the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, and immerse yourself in local culture as you meet the owner of a royal haveli and cruise down the Ganges. Take in the natural charms of the south while looking for elephants in Periyar National Park, walking through the tea plantations of Munnar and cruising the Kerala backwaters. Travel with local leaders who will show you the vibrant heart of a country that delights, surprises and intrigues.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
New Delhi, Kochi, Chennai, Puduc
New Delhi, Kochi, Chennai, Puducherry, Madurai, Thekkady, Periyar National Park, Munnar, Kerala Backwaters, Agra, Jaipur, Lucknow, Varanasi
13% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
25% OFF TODAYThis deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Uncover the delights of India’s famed Golden Triangle - Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, then head south to tropical Kerala. From Kochi visit the picturesque hill station of Munnar with its verdant tea plantations, spot elephants in Periyar Wildlife Sancutary, relax in sleepy Kumarakom and spend a night aboard a house-boat, gliding along the palm fringed backwaters.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
New Delhi, Kochi, Periyar, Kumar
New Delhi, Kochi, Periyar, Kumarakom, Kerala Backwaters, Agra, Karauli, Jaipur, Munnar
25% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Experience the real India on this comfortable introduction to the cultures of the north and the natural beauty of the south. Travelling from Delhi to Kovalam, see what India has to offer on an 18-day adventure. The country’s highlights and hidden jewels are revealed against a backdrop of green through the Western Ghats and in the vibrant towns of Rajasthan. Visit India's bustling cities contrasted with quiet tiny fishing villages, along with tea gardens, tribal homes and historic enclaves. This wonderful introduction to India includes lavish palaces, vibrant bazaars and the incomparable Taj Mahal – one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Rickshaw, cycle or local transport tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
New Delhi, Kovalam, Kochi, Munna
New Delhi, Kovalam, Kochi, Munnar, Periyar, Kumarakom, Agra, Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur
Discover Kochi, Kerala and Munnar on this 5-day tour, beginning with an introduction to Kochi’s historic sights including Fort Kochi and local markets. Then, journey to Alleppey for an unforgettable houseboat cruise through Kerala’s scenic backwaters. Continue to Periyar for a boat ride on Lake Periyar with the chance to spot local wildlife. Head to Munnar to visit tea gardens and learn about tea cultivation before concluding with a return to Kochi.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kerala & Tamil Nadu, Kochi, Alle
Kerala & Tamil Nadu, Kochi, Alleppey, Periyar, Munnar
This was my first trip as a single person and I had a fabulous time. The group of 12 (four couples and four singles) really gelled and were very friendly, supportive and fun. The itinerary was very good, with at least one specific thing to do, see or visit each day. The high points were the tea plantation, the spice farm, the cookery evening, the wonderful scenery and the houseboat . The accommodation was generally very good, but the homestay was too basic to be an enjoyable experience. It didn't feel as though we were guests in someone's home, it felt more like a commercial exercise (eg the host talked of building a hotel next year to accommodate more guests). The food was excellent in most places with some well-chosen restaurants/snack bars, and plenty of choice for vegetarians, but I was a little disappointment at the street food experience, which was just selecting one cold, precooked snack (such as samosa, vada or fritter.) I was anticipating some freshly cooked food (while we looked on) such as rice and dahl or pani puri. Also, I thought that the purpose of visiting the market was to select spices and vegetables to use later in our cookery evening, but there wasn't an obvious link. Our guide, Sree, was flexible, knowledgeable and very accommodating of all our needs.
Overall a really great experience with a great group of people. Will definitely use Explore again for another adventurous trip.
City sightseeingSight
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Start your adventure in vibrant Chennai with a warm welcome and briefing. An optional city tour introduces you to its highlights. Afterward, embark on a scenic coastal drive south, stopping at the UNESCO-listed Mahabalipuram to marvel at the Shore Temple and other ancient rock carvings. Arrive in charming Pondicherry for free time to explore.
Experience Pondicherry's unique blend of French and Tamil influences. Stroll the French Quarter, find tranquility at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, and admire the vibrant Manakula Vinayagar Temple. Conclude your day with a relaxing walk along Promenade Beach. Next, immerse yourself in Tamil Nadu's rural culture at the Mohanam Cultural Center. Witness traditional arts, create Kolam artwork, and enjoy a Tamil-style lunch while supporting the community's heritage preservation. Continue to the historical city of Tanjore.
In Tanjore, admire the architectural marvel of the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a testament to the Chola dynasty's power. Journey south to the ancient city of Madurai. Feel the vibrant spiritual energy, explore bustling bazaars, and revel in the grandeur of the Meenakshi Amman Temple. Reflect on your Indian adventure during a scenic train ride back to Chennai before your departure flight the following day.
Next we head to Kerala! Travel to the picturesque hill station of Munnar, passing plantations of many varieties along the way.
Let Munnar's tea-covered hills, crisp air, and swirling mists enchant you. Explore a spice-scented market, tour a tea plantation, observe tea pickers, and savor a tea tasting. Venture onward to Thekkady for wildlife viewing. Take a scenic boat ride through Periyar National Park, with the chance to spot elephants, water birds, and maybe even a tiger.
Our next stop is Kumarakom, a tranquil backwater paradise. Glide through palm-fringed waterways aboard a traditional Shikara boat, and immerse yourself in the heart of a local village, witnessing the age-old craft of coir making. Your backwater adventure reaches its peak with a luxurious overnight stay on a traditional houseboat, complete with modern comforts. Surrender to the gentle rhythms of the water, savor local delicacies, and witness a breathtaking sunset. Say farewell to Kerala in vibrant Kochi, exploring its rich history and culture. Perhaps even catch a captivating Kathakali dance performance, leaving you with cherished memories before your journey home.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
8-95 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Chennai, Kumarakom, Kerala Backw
Chennai, Kumarakom, Kerala Backwaters, Kochi, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Madurai, Munnar, Thekkady
This 9-day tour combines the charm of Kochi, tea-covered hills of Munnar, wildlife of Periyar National Park and the tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom whilst travelling on a traditional houseboat.
Your Kerala journey begins in Kochi, where you'll be warmly welcomed and briefed on the upcoming adventure. From coastal Kochi, you'll embark on a scenic journey to the picturesque hill station of Munnar. Along the way, you'll witness vast rubber plantations and learn about rubber tapping. If time permits, you may even detour to visit a pineapple plantation or a majestic waterfall amidst the lush scenery.
Munnar will steal your heart with its rolling green hills blanketed in tea plants, crisp mountain air, and swirling mists. Explore a vibrant local market filled with the scent of spices and discover a tea plantation. See tea pickers at work, and follow the transformation of tea leaves from plant to cup, culminating in a delightful tea tasting. From Munnar, you’ll venture to Thekkady. Witness abundant wildlife on a scenic boat ride through Periyar National Park, potentially spotting elephants, an array of water birds, and perhaps even a majestic tiger.
Kumarakom, a haven of serene backwaters, awaits. Experience the magic of the palm-fringed waterways aboard a traditional Shikara boat, and delve into the heart of a local village to witness traditional crafts like coir making. Your backwater adventure culminates in a luxurious overnight stay on a traditional houseboat equipped with modern comforts. Immerse yourself in the slow rhythms of the waterways, enjoy local delicacies, and witness a breathtaking sunset. Bid farewell to Kerala in vibrant Kochi, exploring its historical and cultural treasures, and perhaps witnessing a traditional Kathakali dance performance. With cherished memories, it's time to return home.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
8-95 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kerala & Tamil Nadu, Kochi, Munn
Kerala & Tamil Nadu, Kochi, Munnar, Periyar, Kumarakom, Kerala Backwaters
Explore India's vibrant contrasts on this 16-day tour! Discover the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), stay in a rural village, then head south to explore Kochi, hilltop Munnar, Thekkady's wildlife, and Kumarakom's tranquil backwaters.
Begin your journey in Delhi, where history and modernity intertwine. Experience the vibrant energy of Old Delhi – its Mughal-era marvels, bustling streets, and irresistible street food. Ride a rickshaw for a classic Delhi experience!
Next, discover Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. Support the Sheroes Cafe, a heartwarming initiative aiding acid attack survivors, then join the Mughal Heritage Walk with a local villager. See rural life unfold around you and enjoy unique views of the Taj Mahal. Witness its iconic beauty at sunrise before a night at a stunningly converted palace, immersing you in the rhythms of rural India.
Jaipur, the "Pink City," awaits! Explore the majestic Amber Fort, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar Observatory. Delve into Jaipur's craft markets and try your hand at block printing.
Now, fly to Kochi, the gateway to Kerala! Explore this vibrant city's rich history and culture, perhaps even witnessing a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance. Ascend to the scenic hill station of Munnar, surrounded by lush landscapes of tea plantations, waterfalls, and fragrant spice markets. Learn the art of tea-making, from plucking to tasting!
In Thekkady, embark on a Periyar National Park boat ride teeming with wildlife. Spot elephants, vibrant birds, and with luck, even an elusive tiger!
Finally, unwind in Kumarakom's tranquil backwaters. Glide along on a traditional Shikara boat, witness local crafts like coir making, and spend a luxurious night on a houseboat. Savour local flavors, stunning sunsets, and the gentle pace of life on the water. This unforgettable Indian adventure concludes in Kochi, from where you can depart to your next destination.
The accommodations used on this tour have been carefully selected and include a home-stay style hotel whilst in Delhi, a mix of 3 to 5-star hotels (including some heritage hotels) and a luxurious houseboat on the Keralan backwaters.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Home-stay, Hotel, Resort
Age Range
8-95 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
New Delhi, Delhi & Golden Triang
New Delhi, Delhi & Golden Triangle, Munnar, Periyar National Park, Kerala Backwaters, Kochi, Agra, Jaipur
