The dominant features of Southern India are the tropical climate, lush green vegetation in the coastal areas and the architecture, culture, languages and lifestyle at the core. Between the two long coastlines of the south lie some of Indias most interesting states, each with its own distinct identity.

Tamil Nadu and Chennai, once known as the Coromandel Coast boasts some of the most remarkable temple architecture in India. Together with temple towns like Tanjore and Madurai and the former french territory of Pondicherry with it's own distinctive colonial inheritance, this is a rewarding state to visit.

Kerala, the better known and most visited South Indian state, with its coconut fringed beaches, beautiful landscapes and backwaters and excellent infrastructure sets it apart from its neighbours.

Karnataka, where north and south meets, offering the visitor a mix of interests, in particular the distinctive architectural styles like those found in the haunting Hampi.

Goa, a well known area of India which has been visited by western travellers for many years, offers pristine beaches, chic, boutique hotels and some of the best local markets selling goods from all over India.

Other less travelled southern regions include the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. For those who seek something unique and different, these Islands offer some of the most pristine flora and fauna imaginable. With limited flights and availability, you need to book well in advance in order to enter this fascinating place. Of special interest are the aboriginal tribal people who live there.

The essence of southern culture is the tapestry of magnificent Hindu temple architecture dating back to the 6th century, the unaltered traditions of food, religion and handicrafts, the heritage of sandalwood, silk, rosewood and brass and the grandeur of classical dance and music. Spend a few days on a converted rice boat, drifting down the rivers of Kerala, watching the world slowly slip past and then retreat to one of the many Ayurvedic beach resorts for which the region is justly famous.






Classic Kerala - 12 Days
This tour of Kerala includes visits to Munmar, a historic hill-station, Thekaddy, Periyar National Park for a river safari, Kumarakom for a night on a rice barge and relaxing on the beaches of Trivandrum. Click here to download.

Tamil Nadu & Kerala - 17 Days
This tour of Tamil Nadu & Kerala includes visits to Chennai, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Madurai, the Periyar National Park, Thekkady, Munnar, the backwaters and sightseeing in Cochin. Click here to download.

Kerala & Beyond - 17 Days
Arrive in Kumarakom, board your rice barge the next day and spend a night on the river. Also visit Cochin, Sulthans Battery, Nagarhole, Mysore and finish your tour in Cochin. Click here to download.


Kerala & Lakshadweeps- 17 Days
Combine your tour of the South with a stay on the Lakshadweep Islands. The Lakshadweep or Laccadive Island, as they were formerly called, are a string of little known islands, lying approximately 200 miles off the South West Coast of India. Bangaram Island, spread over 128 acres is uninhabited except for occasional visitors from the nearest island of Agatti, where the airport is situated. Click here to download.