Grand Tour of South India

+13

+12

+11

+10

tourhub | UncleSam Holidays | Grand Tour of South India | GTOSI15 | Map

9 Views

15 Days From

~~$4203~~

$1681

Grand Tour of South India

15 Days Starting in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India and ending in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Visiting: Bengaluru, Mysuru, Coonoor, Kochi, Alappuzha, Kumarakom, Periyar, Madurai, Thanjavur, Chennai

Tour operator:

UncleSam Holidays

Tour code:

GTOSI15

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 10

Physical rating:

Low, Easy

Age range:

1-90

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Kosher, Jain, Halal

Tour operated in:

English , French , German , Spanish

Private Available:

From: $4203 $1681 (USD) Operator discount: -$2522 -60%

NB: Prices correct on 30-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 15-day journey through South India, starting with your arrival in Bangalore. Explore the historic charm of Srirangapatna and Mysore, then travel to the serene hill stations of Ooty and Coonoor. Enjoy the refreshing climate and lush landscapes before heading to Coimbatore and Cochin, where you’ll soak in the vibrant culture and heritage. Cruise along the tranquil backwaters in Alleppey and Kumarakom, then experience the wildlife of Periyar/Thekkady. Discover the ancient temples of Madurai, Trichy, and Thanjavur, culminating in a scenic drive to Chennai. Each destination offers a unique blend of history, nature, and culture, making this a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and exploration.

Highlights

• Discover the historical charm of Mysore, known for its grand Mysore Palace, vibrant markets, and its royal heritage.
• Explore the hill stations of Ooty and Coonoor, nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, with scenic landscapes, beautiful gardens, and stunning waterfalls.
• Experience a traditional Kathakali dance show, a classical dance-drama from Kerala, known for its elaborate costumes, makeup, and dramatic storytelling.
• Explore the historic town of Kochi, visiting the Parsi Synagogue, Dutch Palace, St. Francis Church, and Fort Cochin.
• Stroll along the waterfront, where you’ll see the famous Chinese fishing nets and colorful boats.
• Cruise through Kerala's famous backwaters on a traditional rice boat in Alleppey, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil waters.
• Enjoy the tropical beauty of Kumarakom with its serene backwaters, peaceful lakes, and rich biodiversity.
• Explore the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady, a protected area known for its elephant and tiger reserves. Enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake amidst dense forests.
• Visit Madurai, a heritage city famous for its Dravidian-style temples, including the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a stunning example of Dravidian architecture.
• Dive deep into the history, culture, and traditions of South India, known for its ancient temples, colonial influence, vibrant festivals, and rich cultural heritage.

Itinerary

tourhub | UncleSam Holidays | Grand Tour of South India | GTOSI15 | Route Map

Not what you're looking for?

People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:

Adventure tours in India Adventure tours Tours in India Safari tours Cultural tours History tours Boat/Cruise Excursion tours Sightseeing tours

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrival at Bangalore

Location: Bengaluru

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 3 Star Deluxe

Meals Included: Breakfast

On the day of arrival at Bangalore airport, our UncleSam Holidays representative will assist you at the airport and later transfer to your pre-booked hotel for night stay.

After refresh yourself, later proceed for guided tour to Bangalore, visit Lalbagh Botanical Garden, the 16th century Bull Temple and drive pass to the Vidhana Soudha.

Rest of the day free for your own leisure activities.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 2 : Bangalore - Srirangapatna - Mysore (145 Kms / 3.30 Hrs)

Location: Mysuru

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 3 Star Deluxe

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today morning after breakfast at hotel, later check out and drive to Mysore, via en-route visit Srirangapatna fort and Temple, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple also visit Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary and Tipu Sultan's summer palace. Upon arrival at Mysore check-in to your pre-booked hotel for night stay.

After refresh yourself, later visit to Brindavan gardens & spectacular musical fountains, followed by flower and sandal wood market, handicraft museum. Rest of the day free for your own leisure activities.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 3 : At Mysore

Location: Mysuru

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 3 Star Deluxe

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today morning after breakfast at hotel, later proceed for full day guided tour to Mysore, visit Mysore Palace - famous for its veritable treasure trove of exquisite carvings and works of art from the world over, the Chamundi Hills for a panoramic view of Mysore city and the Rajendra Art Gallery, which houses a remarkable collection of paintings by Raja Ravi Verma. Rest of the day free for your own leisure activities.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 4 : Mysore - Ooty - Coonoor (150 Kms / 4 Hrs)

Location: Coonoor

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 3 Star Deluxe

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today morning after breakfast at hotel, later check out and drive to Coonoor, via en-route drive to Ooty, visit the Dodda betta Peak, the highest peak in the Nilgiri mountains, the beautifully landscaped Botanical Gardens and the scenic Ooty lake where you can enjoy an optional boat ride.

After finish your sightseeing tour at Ooty, later continue drive to Coonoor. Upon arrival at Coonoor check-in to your pre-booked hotel for night stay. Rest of the day free for your own leisure activities.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 5 : At Coonoor

Location: Coonoor

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 3 Star Deluxe

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today morning after breakfast at hotel, later proceed for full day sightseeing tour to Coonoor, visit tea gardens, Wellington golf course, Hidden valley, Droog fort, Lamb's rock, Sim's park and Dolphin's nose. Also if time permits visit to Avalanche Seven Angels Waterfalls which is 40 kms one way.

Rest of the day free for your own leisure activities.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 6 : Coonoor - Coimbatore (70 Kms / 2.30 Hrs) - Cochin (By Train)

Location: Kochi

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 3 Star Deluxe

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today morning after breakfast at hotel, later check out and drive to Coimbatore railway station to board the train for Cochin. Upon arrival at Cochin railway station, our representative will meet you and later transfer to your pre-booked hotel for night stay.

Rest of the day free for your own leisure activities.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 7 : At Cochin

Location: Kochi

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 3 Star Deluxe

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today morning after breakfast at hotel, later proceed for full day sightseeing tour to Cochin visit, Fort Kochi, Jewish synagogue, St.Francis Church, Marine Drive, Hill Palace, Dutch Palace, Pareekshit Thampuran Museum, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, Bolgatty Island, Indo Portuguese Museum.

In the evening time enjoy the kathakali dance show, one of India's most famous classical dances with lavish costumes, exotic makeup & masks intensify the beauty of the dancers, intricate moments.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 8 : Cochin - Alleppey (53 Kms / 1.30 Hrs)

Location: Alappuzha

Accommodation Name: Deluxe Houseboat

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today morning after breakfast at hotel, later check out and proceed for backwater to enjoy the houseboat journey.

Upon arrival at Alleppey check-in to your pre-booked houseboat for night stay. Later proceed for backwaters & lagoons on Alappuzha, Enjoy your lunch and dinner at houseboat. Evening walk around the local street of Alappuzha.
Overnight at Houseboat.

Day 9 : Alleppey - Kumarakom (32 Kms / 1 Hrs)

Location: Kumarakom

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 3 Star Deluxe

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today morning after breakfast at houseboat, later check out and drive to Kumarakom “Town of Backwaters”. Upon arrival at Kumarakom check-in to your pre-booked hotel for night stay.

After refresh yourself, later proceed for sightseeing tour to Kumarakom, visit Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumarakom Beach, Kumarakom Backwaters and Bay Island Driftwood Museum. Also enjoy the boat ride to Pathiramanal Island. Rest of the day free for your own leisure activities.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 10 : Kumarakom - Periyar/Thekkady (130 Kms / 3.30 Hrs)

Location: Periyar

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 3 Star Deluxe

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today morning after breakfast at hotel, later check out and drive to Periyar. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary one of the biggest wildlife sanctuaries in India's which covers 777 Sq. Kms (300 Sq. miles) for a Tiger Reserve. Upon arrival at Periyar check-in to your pre-booked hotel for night stay.

In the evening, enjoy a walk around Estate or free for own activities.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 11 : At Periyar/Thekkady

Location: Periyar

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 3 Star Deluxe

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today morning after breakfast at hotel, later proceed for full day sightseeing tour to Periyar visit Bamboo Rafting & Border Hiking are a unique program available in Periyar, Also enjoy the Elephant safari at Periyar wildlife sanctuary, Kumily and Mangala Devi Temple.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 12 : Periyar/Thekkady - Madurai (150 Kms / 4 Hrs)

Location: Madurai

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 3 Star Deluxe

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today morning after breakfast at hotel, later check out and drive to Madurai, via en-route visit to Chokkanathar Temple and Samanar Hills also known as Samanar Malai or Amanarmalai at Keelakuilkudi. Upon arrival at Madurai check-in to your pre-booked hotel for night stay.

After refresh yourself, later proceed for guided tour to Madurai, visit Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, Gandhi Memorial Museum and Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam.

After finish your guided tour to Madurai, later experience the evening prayer ceremony at the Meenakshi Temple.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 13 : Madurai - Trichy - Thanjavur (190 Kms / 3.30 Hrs)

Location: Thanjavur

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 3 Star Deluxe

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today morning after breakfast at hotel, later check out and drive to Thanjavur, via en-route visit to Trichy (Tiruchirappalli), visit Rock Fort Temple, Jambukeshwara Temple, Arulmigu Uchi Pillaiyar Temple and Sri Rangam Temple.

After finish your sightseeing tour at Trichy, later continue drive to Thanjavur. Upon arrival at Thanjavur check-in to your pre-booked hotel for night stay.

Rest of the day free for your own leisure activities.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 14 : Thanjavur - Chennai (340 Kms / 6.30 Hrs)

Location: Chennai

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 3 Star Deluxe

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today morning after breakfast at hotel, later check out and proceed for sightseeing tour to Thanjavur, visit the Schwartz Memorial & Church, Sivaganga Garden, Lord Murugan Temple, Brihadeeswara Temple, Thanjavur Maratha Palace.

After finish your sightseeing tour at Thanjavur, later continue drive to Chennai. Upon arrival at Chennai check-in to your pre-booked hotel for night stay.

Rest of the day free for your own leisure activities.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 15 : Departure from Chennai

Location: Chennai

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today morning after breakfast at hotel, later check out and transfer to Chennai airport to board the flight for your next destination / Home.

What's Included

14 Nights accommodation based on double / twin sharing basis
Assistance during arrival and departure by UncleSam Holidays
Dining Inclusions

14 Breakfast at Hotel, 1 Lunch & 1 Dinner at House Boat
All sightseeing including airport transfers by an AC vehicle
English speaking guide at Bangalore, Mysore, Cochin, Madurai and Thanjavur

(Other languages guides are available on additional charges)
Visit to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Experience the wildlife at Preiyar National Park
Enjoy a boat ride at Preiyar Lake
One mineral water bottle per person per day

What's Not Included

Visas Fee (if applicable)
Monument entry fees
Tips (always optional, but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information pack you’ll receive after booking)
Beverages other than drinking water & any costs of a personal nature
International/Internal flights to/from the start/finish of the trip

Mode of Transport

All sightseeing including airport transfers by an AC Car MUV / SUV / Sedan car with an English speaking driver. Drivers of our private vehicles are experienced with good knowledge of the road conditions and well trained. The type of vehicles provided are as follows :

Passenger Vehicle type
• 1-2 persons Air-conditioned medium car such as Etios / Dezire or similar
• 3-4 persons Air-conditioned large car such as Toyota Innova or similar
• 5-10 persons Air-conditioned mini-van such as Tempo Traveler or similar

Accommodation

Accommodation at 3 Star deluxe hotels.
4 or 5 Star hotel upgrade are available on request basis.

Check out our Q&As

Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

Yes
Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?

Yes
What currencies are required for this tour?

INR is local currency.
Are vaccinations required for this tour?

Yes
Are flights included in this tour?

No

Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

Yes
What is the tipping policy?

Tips always optional.
Are airport transfers included in this tour?

Yes
Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

Yes
What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?

100% Departure if there is single traveller.
Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

Yes
Company Instant Book

Yes
Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

Yes
What is the maximum group size?

10
Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. Every traveller is required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their tour. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey. Its only suggestion from team Unclesam Holidays.
Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

Yes
What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

Easy
Do you require a visa for this holiday?

Only for foreign national traveller.
How many people will be on my trip?

UncleSam Holidays provide private and group tour it's completely depend on you which category you are choose. if you are choosing a group tour there is maximum 40 guests.
Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

UncleSam Holidays is a not-for-profit organisation established in 2011. So far, UncleSam Holidays work hard to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe
What are the coaches like?

We pride ourselves on having the finest fleet of fuel-efficient, fully air-conditioned coaches – all with reclining seats and on-board restrooms. The high vantage point from your coach’s window means you can take in all the glorious scenery, whether it’s a vast rural landscape or an urban city center.
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

We select our hotels for their quality, impeccable service and comfort, with the majority of them having air-conditioning. Few hotels don't have air conditioning due to the colder climate.
How much luggage can I bring?

You can bring one suitcase per person and weight not exceeding 23 kg (50 lbs) due to the limited space on the coach. You can also bring one piece of hand luggage, provided it is small enough to take on the coach and does not have telescopic handles.
Are the travel guides experience?

Our Travel Guides come from a variety of backgrounds but they all share a passion for travel. These experienced professionals show you what the guidebooks can’t – a true insider’s perspective of each destination. Each Travel Guide have at least five years’ experience under their belt.
What if I have special dietary requirements?

We can accommodate guests who are vegetarian and can assist with diabetic, gluten-free and other medically-recommended diets. Please advise us at time of booking. Unfortunately, we’re unable to supply meals in accordance with strict religious requirements. We can’t provide salt-free, Kosher, Halal, requests for specific dietary supplements such as soya milk, and high protein or low-carb meals.
Will I need a visa?

You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas prior to the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks prior to your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult your Travel Agent and the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
Do I need travel insurance?

We strongly recommend that all guests have a travel insurance policy to ensure your peace of mind before and while travelling. It's important that you protect yourself in case of trip cancellations, an interruption for any reason, baggage delays or loss of baggage and medical expenses.

Reviews of this operator

Sandra Gurvis

Great trip to India

12-Nov-2024

Highly recommended to everybody for holiday packages in India. I really appreciate them for their management everything was well managed on every tour and will keep travelling with them in future also.

Julia

Perfect Trip

16-Aug-2024

Very helpful staff helped me during my trip too regarding all bookings thanku fir making my trip a memorable one

Mike

Well Mananged Services

02-Oct-2024

i dont have words to explain my excellent experience with unclesam holidays, I will travel one' again with your company and will share this valuable experience with friends and family

Want a private tour?

Personalise your trip

Make changes to the itinerary, accommodation, or transport method
Travel more exclusively

Your tour guide can focus all their attention on your group
Travel for a special occasion

Celebrate an important event by only travelling with your friends or family

1 Select your preferred date

Apr
2025 May
2025 Jun
2025 Jul
2025 Aug
2025 Sep
2025 Oct
2025 Nov
2025 Dec
2025 Jan
2026 Feb
2026 Mar
2026 Apr
2026 May
2026 Jun
2026 Jul
2026 Aug
2026 Sep
2026 Oct
2026 Nov
2026 Dec
2026 Jan
2027 Feb
2027 Mar
2027 Apr
2027 May
2027 Jun
2027 Jul
2027 Aug
2027 Sep
2027

Wednesday - Wednesday

Apr 02, 2025 - Apr 16, 2025

~~$4203~~ $1681 (USD)