South India Unplugged
Trip Details
- Duration: 16 day(s) days
- Visited Areas: India
Unplug from everyday routine and head to the beaches and backwaters of southern India. Explore the lush landscapes, the intriguing religions, the contrasts of daily life and the exotic bazaars. Jump on and off local transport, go rural with spice plantations and fishing villages and discover the heart of the subcontinent. See ancient ruins and beautiful temples, eat spicy curries and drink luscious lassis, join the bustle of city streets and, finally, unwind on the gorgeous beaches of Goa.
Itinerary
Day 1 Chennai
Revel in an exciting mix of modern commercialism and tropical languor - hang out with the locals along Marina Beach or check out the museums, palaces and bazaars.
Day 2 Mamallapuram
Relax on the beaches or cycle around the village to see the worn and weathered Shore Temple. Indulge in a feast of freshly caught seafood by the beach.
Days 3-4 Madurai
Weave through chaotic streets filled with bazaars, pilgrims and rickshaws or explore the labyrinthine corridors of the Sri Meenakshi Temple.
Days 5-6 Varkala
Take a dip in the Arabian Sea, sip chai at a cliff-top cafe, practise some yoga or visit the ancient Janardhana Temple.
Day 7 Kerala Backwaters Homestay
Cruise past palm trees, rice fields and coconut groves on a sunset boat trip through the winding backwaters of Kerala. Enjoy an island homestay.
Days 8-9 Kochi
Explore the heart of Kerala on a local ferry. See spice bazaars, the beautiful Dutch Palace and perhaps a Kathakali dance performance.
Days 10-11 Mysore
Famous for its silk, incense and sandalwood, relaxed Mysore also boasts amazing temples. Take time to climb Chamundi Hill and be sure to visit the Maharaja's Palace.
Days 12-13 Hampi
Wander through the ruins of the Vijayanagar Empire, nestled in an outlandish boulder-strewn landscape. Hampi also has plenty of temples, chilled cafes and great little markets to explore.
Days 14-16 Goa
This southern adventure concludes in Goa, famed for its palm-fringed beaches and relaxed pace. The Portuguese influence endures in the city's whitewashed churches.