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Luxury Small Group Holiday in South India
The Great Grand Tour
Tour highlights
► Choose to start your day with an energising yoga session under the care of an expert, certified yoga master.
► Visit Fort St George in Chennai (Madras)– the first British fort in India.
► Wander around Mahablipuram's magnificent, World Heritage–listed temples and carvings.
► Put a goddess to sleep in Madurai.
► Witness rituals that are in constant practise since the classical age, from 2500 BC!
► Live a colonial tea platers life in Munnar.
► Explore Kerala, rated as the top travel destinations in the world.
► Head out to the wilderness to South India’s most acclaimed tiger reserves.
► Explore ancient churches, Portuguese heritage and history, and visit some of Goa’s most scenic beaches.
The Timeless South India Holiday features a perfect blend of the ancient, the contemporary, mountains, forests and beaches.
Truly an experience of a lifetime.
Travel Style: Experiential
Service Level: 5 Star hotels
Trip Type: Small Group, 10 travellers
Escorted by Expert Cultural Custodians, not mere guides.
The Great Grand Tour Holiday
From ancient temples, unbroken culture and traditions from the time of the Egyptian pharaohs to tea plantations and busy towns, this three-week journey through India's south is a true adventure. Winding through varied scenery - from bustling cities to the tranquil mountains of the Niligiris and the peaceful Kerala backwaters - get a taste for Indian culture, cuisine, and history, visiting palaces, national parks and villages along the way. Palaces and temples - Visit the ornate Maharajah's Palace in Mysore and discover the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur. Mudumalai Tiger Reserve- Go on a jungle safari into core jungle areas and search for endemic wildlife including tigers, leopards, elephant, cheetal and bison. Badami and Aihole - Go where most visitors unfortunately skip and visit the spell binding ancient city of Badami and Aihole. Relax in the fables beaches of Goa. All the while accompanied by local, expert cultural custodians who will immerse you in the ethos of Southern India
This experiential South India small group holiday really has it all!
What is included
- Accommodation in 5 star hotels and resorts .
- Daily breakfasts.
- All meals in Mudumalai and Kabini.
- Modern, air-conditioned coaches throughout.
- Services of an experienced and expert local Tour Manager throughout.
- All entrance fees where applicable.
- 1 wildlife Safari in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve.
- Pick up and drop from airport.
What is not included
- Travel insurance.
- Flight Tickets.
- Drinks.
- Visas and any Visa related expenses.
- Pick up and drop if not on arrival or departure dates / city from where tour starts and ends.
- Camera fees where applicable.
- Anything that is not explicitly mentioned in the what is included section.
Dates and Pricing
Indian Expeditions Small Group touring holidays to Southern India delivers exceptional value for money. Our group sizes are really small – with a maximum of 12 guests and children under age 14. This affords us to pay individual attention to everyone, and lets you enjoy your vacation with like minded people who you will keep in touch with for years after the holiday. Or, take advantage of our Private Touring option and enjoy the exclusivity and flexibility of travelling with just your own group or even as a couple. Contact us for Private Touring supplements.
Book tours departing after Aug, 2025 before March 2025 and get 10% off!
| Dates | Availability | Price | To Book |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sept 08 - Sept 28, 2024 | SOLD OUT | £2999 PP | CONTACT US |
| Oct 06 - Oct 26, 2024 | SOLD OUT | £3299 PP | CONTACT US |
| Nov 03 - Nov 23, 2024 | SOLD OUT | £3349 PP | CONTACT US |
| Dec 02 - Dec 22, 2024 | SOLD OUT | £3599 PP | CONTACT US |
| Dates | Availability | Price | To Book |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 12 - Feb 01, 2025 | CLOSED | £3399 PP | CONTACT US |
| Feb 02 - Feb 22, 2025 | 02 Rooms | £3399 PP | CONTACT US |
| Mar 02 - Mar 22, 2025 | 03 Rooms | £2999 PP | CONTACT US |
| Aug 10 - Aug 30, 2025 | Available | TBA | CONTACT US |
| Sep 07 - Sep 27, 2025 | Available | TBA | CONTACT US |
| Oct 05 - Oct 25, 2025 | Available | TBA | CONTACT US |
| Nov 02 - Nov 22, 2025 | Available | TBA | CONTACT US |
Detailed Itinerary
Arrival. You’ll be picked up from the airport and dropped at your hotel. Hotel check in starts 14:00 hrs (2 PM Indian Time)
Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is today the 4th largest city in India. It was here that the British, in the 16th century, gained a firm footing which enabled them to conquer and rule India and much of South East Asia. We will start tour of South India by visiting Fort St George – the first British fort in India. We will then explore at leisure the rest of Chennai, including the St Thomas Basilica, where St Thomas, the apostle is said to have been buried and the Egmore Museum which houses the finest collection of India artefacts from the 5th-15th century.
Mahabalipuram was an ancient port, known to even the ancient Romans. Today, it’s an UNESCO designated world heritage site, and houses some of South India’s greatest rock cut temples and reliefs. A visit to Mahabalipuram has been the highlight of many a traveller we have hosted, and they; historians, art lovers and the casual traveller included have described the day as one of their most enthralling visits ever, anywhere! Onwards to Pondicherry.
The French Rivera of east, Pondicherry is simply fascinating with an old world French charm everywhere. We spend the morning exploring the city and head to Kumbakonam.
Idyllic rice plantations, tall coconut trees gently swaying in the breeze – and ancient temples everywhere! The rice and ancient temple belt of the South, Kumbakonam and Thanjavur are home to some of India’s greatest and oldest temples with rituals that are in constant practice since the classical age, from 2500 BC! We will explore some of the regions most mighty ands striking temples and dwell into ancient Indian art and architecture.
Madurai is one of the worlds oldest cities and is home to the magnificent Madurai Meenakshi Temple. After visiting the temple, we will stroll through Madurai’s ancient and bustling bazaars –an experience you will never forget!
Up to the fabled tea estates of South India today! A drive through the mountains will have us in Munnar, an area known for it’s misty mountains, fabulous tea and trekking trails. Those of you are adventurous can head out on a trek that fits you best – easy to hard! Munnar is also an important birding area in South India. We will visit tea factories and spice gardens.
Kumarakom is where the Vebanad lake – one of India’s largest fresh water lake is. Explore the Vembanad lake and its canals on a houseboat and go birdwatching in one of India’s most important bird sanctuaries. A day of leisurely exploration among a rural, palm lined backwaters. The next day, head over to Alleppey, which has been rated as one of the top destinations in the world. Spend a leisurely day at beach, sipping Toddy – a local mildly acholic drink made from palm sap.
Explore Kochi, an enchanting port city on the Malabar Coast and the site of the earliest European settlement in India. Visit Mattancherry Palace—built in the mid-16th century by Portuguese colonists and expanded later on by the Dutch—and venture to the colourful streets of the Jewish Quarter, where antique shops and cafés abound. Visit some of India’s oldest churches.
Head out to the wilderness to South India’s most acclaimed tiger reserves – Mudumalai. Check in Jungle Hut, one of South India’s finest wilderness resorts. Go birdwatching in the morning, and hop on a private safari in to the jungles in the afternoon. Relax by the bon fire or by the swimming pool in the wild.
A centre of sandalwood-carving, silk and incense production, and dotted with palaces and gardens, Mysore (officially Mysuru) is one of south India’s more appealing and cleanest cities. This cultural capital remains a charming, old-fashioned place, changed by neither an IT boom nor its now well-established status as a top international yoga destination.
We visit the fabled temples of Hasan – some of the finest and most intricate temples in South India and onwards to Chikmangaluru – an important coffee region of the South.
The caves Badami and cluster of monuments in Aihole are one of India’s oldest and most splendid monuments and also one of India’s earliest cities. Early temple art and architecture was perfected in this region and went on to become the template for temples till today.
We finally reach and unwind in Goa – India’s most laid back and fun loving regions. We will explore ancient churches, the Portuguese heritage and history, and visit some of Goa’s most scenic beaches.
Depart, Drop off Dabolim international Airport, Goa.
HOTELS - THE GREAT GRAND TOUR
At Indian Expeditions, we understand the importance of good hotels throughout a touring holiday. All the hotels on our tours of South India have been personally selected by our directors to ensure they meet the highest standards. We have personally stayed in the hotels and experienced first hand how their services are. We have also hosted many groups of travellers in them. Furthermore, we have paid special attention in making sure the hotels we stay in suit the western traveller. Each hotel on our South Indian Tours has its own unique style and character, but all share the same high and excellent standard.
Though our tours are advertised as tours with 5 star hotels, some boutique hotels may not have a star rating, but have the same level of service and comfort as a 5 star. In some places, like in Badami, we stay in a lower category as there are no proper luxury hotels, but the hotel will be clean and comfortable.
Due to the growth in tourism in India, it may not always be possible to stay at our listed accommodation and an alternative of equal standards will be found.
Taj Club House, Chennai
Set in the heart of Chennai, The Taj Club House is a strikingly contemporary 5 star hotel with elegant and extremely comfortable rooms. Perfect to recharge after a long haul flights and to get ready for the tours. Rooms are well-appointed with luxury, contemporary comforts and furnished with local artefacts, and the large picture windows ensure that natural light floods in.
Maison Perumal, Pondicherry
Maison Perumal is a 130 year old family mansion dating back to French colonial times in Pondicherry. It was built by a member of one of the prosperous Tamil communities settled around the temple area in those days and expresses an architectural character that integrates the vernacular with the colonial in a novel and striking manner. It is now one of the finest and most luxurious boutique hotels in South India.
Mantra Koodam, Kumbakonam
Mantra Koodam is designed like an ‘agraharam’ – the characteristically Brahmin (priests in India) street lined with ‘illams’ (homes). It’s a tribute to the region’s heritage and its historic stature as a seat of power in South India. The cottages are designed like traditional Tamil homes – with large verandahs, hand made tiles on the floor, ornate Burmese teak doors and open-to-air bathrooms.
The Heritage, Madurai
Steeped in the history of the 2,500-year-old city of Madurai, Heritage Madurai exudes an old world charm that resonates throughout its architecture and interiors. Beautifully designed accommodation with modern amenities and facilities are accompanied by the hotel’s Olympic-sized pool and stunning setting, offering blissful relaxation. How many places can you dine beneath a 200-year-old banyan tree accompanied by the delightful melodies of chirping birds? The Banyan restaurant offers just that, along with a variety of traditional and western buffet-style meals.
Coconut Lagoon, Kumarakom
Coconut Lagoon is located in a sheltered and enchanting cove in Kumarakom, this resort reflects the diversity and magnificence of Vemband Lake. An experience that respects the rich but delicate ecosphere and the vibrant culture of Kuttanad region. Where old agrarian homes are reconstituted to offer you an entry into a charming world following the gentle pulse of the backwaters.
Eighth Bastion, Kochi
Legend has it that there were seven bastions in Fort Kochi, built by the Portuguese and strengthened by the Dutch. Adding on to this 500-year-old legacy of defending oncoming conquests is the Eighth Bastion. Built by blending contemporary and colonial styles each room has a distinct appeal. The echoes from the past come alive here while the air carries an unmistakable spicy-sweet scent.
Jungle Hut, Masinagudi
Jungle Hut is situated at the foothills of the picturesque Nilgiri Hills in the hamlet of Bokkapuram, near Masinagudi. This area constitutes the buffer area of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve which is home to a wealth of wildlife including the Bengal Tiger, Leopard (panther), Asian Elephants, Indian Gaur (Bison), Sloth Bear, Hyena, Wild Boar, Cheetal and many others. Jungle Hut and the surrounding areas are a hot spot for bird life so much so that they are referred to as a bird watchers paradise.
Radisson Blu, Mysore
Nestled in the heart of the city, the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Mysuru offers spacious guest rooms complete with top-notch amenities and breathtaking views of the Chamundi Hills. Its city-centre location, close to local transport hubs, makes it a convenient base to explore the delights of the city, such as Mysuru Palace, Mysuru Zoo, modern shopping malls and traditional markets.
Gateway, Chikmagalur
The Gateway Hotel Chikmagalur is a Taj property and features a blend of colonial architecture, contemporary efficiency and absolute luxury. Set in the coffee estates of Chikmagalur, the hotel has luxuriously appointed rooms. A perfect getaway in the lap of nature.
Hilton Goa Resort
Located atop the scenic, terraced slopes of Saipem Hills, overlooking the Nerul River, the Hilton Goa resort extends Hilton’s signature hospitality and tranquil retreat to leisure and business travelers. The chic full-service resort is 34 kilometers from the Goa International Airport and is ideally located 10 minutes away from the popular Candolim and Calangute beaches
The Great Grand Tour Map
Trip Information
CLIMATE
Sun-kissed – in a word! Glorious sunny days with bright blue skies is the norm. The climate of South India is tropical. Summer temperatures on the plains are very hot, but cooled by the South-West Monsoon, which lasts from June- September. During these months it can be very wet and therefore very humid. At hill stations, temperatures can become quite cool at night even in the summer and may drop below 15 C between December and February so warm clothing is necessary. The rest of south India remains warm and sunny during the winter months. Summer starts from April, with May – mid July being the hottest, where it can reach temperatures of over 40 C during the day. From August, it starts cooling down, with it being the coolest between December to end of February. The west coast (Kerala, Goa, parts of Karnataka) experiences rain between June and September, and in the east coast – Tamil Nadu, it rains mostly in November up to mid December. During the first 3 weeks of November, sporadic rainfall occurs, sometimes heavy for brief periods. The hurricane or cyclone season starts end of November and ends by around the 20th of December. One can expect intense spells of heavy rain and wind during this period, especially during the first 2 weeks of December.
Time difference to GMT
+5.5 hours
Plugs
3 Pin Round
Religion
Hindu, Islam, Catholicism, Protestant, Buddhism.
Language
English is spoken widely. Other major languages are Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada and Telugu. Our tours are conducted in English.
FOOD AND DRINK
The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may charge more. The water quality is poor and therefore it is recommended to avoid drinking tap water during your trip.
Lunch price
£8 / $ 10
Dinner price
£8 / $ 10
Beer price
£3 / $4
Water bottle price
£0.5 / $ .05
Foreign Exchange
LOCAL CURRENCY
Indian Rupee (INR)
RECOMMENDED CURRENCY FOR EXCHANGE
GBP/US$ are the best currency to change into local currency.
WHERE TO EXCHANGE
The Indian rupee is a restricted currency and it is best not to obtain in the UK as rates are very poor. We strongly advise you not to exchange at airports on arrival as they give very poor rates. Your Tour Leader will advise you on the best places in each town. Both GBP and USD cash are easy to exchange. It’s not possible to change money using a credit or debit card.
ATM AVAILABILITY
ATMs are available widely. You must inform your bank that you are travelling to India and ask them to enable your cards to have withdrawal / transactions enabled for India.
CREDIT CARD ACCEPTANCE
In most establishments that are medium to large.
TRAVELLERS CHEQUES
Opportunities to exchange are limited.
CLOTHING
South India is a tropical region with high humidity. Lightweights are needed all year round with some warmer clothes for the cooler winter evenings (November to February) in hill stations such as Munnar, Thekkady and Chikmagalur. Casual clothes are the most practical: tight fitting garments, brief shorts and skirts should be avoided, since they attract unwelcome attention. Swim wear can be worn in very few beaches but in all resorts and hotels if you are using the pool. Bring a light and easy to carry water bottle.
FOOTWEAR
Walking shoes or trainers and sandals are recommended. Note that temples do not allow footwear to be worn inside, and footwear must be left at the entrance of temples. You can wear socks inside.
LUGGAGE
While our maximum cap on luggage per person is 50 KG – two main pieces of luggage and day sac, we highly recommend that you do not overload yourself. One main piece of baggage and a day sac per person are recommended. Note that domestic airlines in India usually allow 15 KGS of checked in baggage and 7 kgs of cabin baggage per person. Most hotels where we stay at offer express laundry services for about USD 1 – USD 2 per piece.
EQUIPMENT
Binoculars, torch, sun screen, insect repellent.
TIPPING
Although entirely voluntary, tipping is a recognized part of life in this region of the world. Some local staff (like in hotels, or drivers) will look to members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided. In order to make things easier for you, your leader may organise a group’s tips kitty for included activities and meals and if this is the case, they will account for it throughout the tour.
Accordingly, you should allow GBP35 / $ 40 approx. 3’000 Indian Rupees for group tipping.
For all non-included services and meals on your trip please tip independently at your discretion.
Transport Information
Sedans, such as the Toyota Etios. SUVS such as the Toyota Innova / Volkswagen Taigun. Minibuses such as the Force Tempo or Force Urbania. All vehicles used will be in excellent condition, fitted with individual bucket seats and with air conditioning. The type of vehicle used will be at our discretion, though if you have any preference do send us an email and we will try to accommodate your request.
Accommodation notes
Accommodation in South India is as varied as the region itself and standards might not always meet those back home. We have chosen the best of the best resorts and hotels for your adventure.
All rooms are twin-share and they have their own bathroom attached. All towels and bedding are provided.
Government Travel Safety Advice
We strongly recommend that you check your government’s travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. For UK citizens, check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice.
Price Guarantee
Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the circumstances. However, please note that if you voluntarily make any changes to your booking including changing your trip or departure date, any additional costs or charges incurred will not be covered. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing information.
Visa and Passport Information
India: Holders of passports endorsed British citizen, as well as Australian, New Zealand and US passport holders may be eligible for the e-Tourist Visa to enter India.
The visa can be applied for through the official Indian government visa website only – https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html . Please check all eligibility criteria that can be found on the website but important points are listed below –
You must be arriving into one of 29 selected entry points which can be found via the official Indian Government website link above. However, you can exit from any of the authorised immigration check posts in India.
Passports must have at least 6 months validity from the date of arrival in India and at least two blank pages for stamping. Visa applications will take approximately 4 days to process.
Those applying for a 30 day electronic visa can only apply within 30 days of arrival for your visa to be valid. Furthermore double entry is permitted and you can only obtain two 30-day visas in a calendar year.
Please note these costs are subject to frequent change so you should check on the official Indian government visa website mentioned above. Biometric data will be collected on arrival in India.
If you are not eligible for the e-Tourist Visa, please refer to VFS Global to apply for your Indian visa – https://www.vfsglobal.com/india/uk/how_to_apply.html
Whilst the online form offers a relatively quick way to apply for a visa, some applicants have reported difficulty in completing the form. If you would like to use a visa service to process your visa on your behalf, we recommend CIBT Visas. They have expert knowledge in visa requirements, and are dedicated to ensuring that obtaining your visas is as efficient and hassle-free as possible.
CIBT provide various levels of visa service, including detailed information about which visas and documentation you and your party require, clear and user-friendly application forms, and a full concierge service to manage your application from start to finish. There is a team of experts on hand to offer advice, and liaise with embassies on your behalf.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity for your chosen destination.
Booking conditions
Before booking your Indian Expeditions trip, please ensure that you read both our Essential Information and Booking Conditions.
Your safety and enjoyment on tour
We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable holiday, so we ask you to confirm when booking this trip that you are fit and able to fully participate in all elements of the itinerary. If you have any concerns about your fitness or ability to complete any of the activities, please get in touch with our Customer Relations team at info@experienceindia.co.uk as soon as possible.
Our tour leaders are trained and experienced in managing differing abilities within a group, but if they have concerns about a group member’s ability to safely participate in any element of the itinerary or believe someone’s presence could affect the safety or enjoyment of the holiday for others, in accordance with our Booking Conditions our tour leaders have the authority to ask an individual to miss an activity or activities. This decision would never be taken lightly, but on the rare occasions our tour leaders ask someone to sit out part of the tour, refunds will not be offered and individuals may be liable for additional costs incurred.
Your Tour Leader
We believe that our Tour Leaders are the key to the success of our tours; they are local experts who are bursting with first-hand knowledge which they love to share, and their unique insights will bring the destination to life. Your Tour Leader will be on hand throughout your tour to make sure arrangements run smoothly, to organise all the local logistics and to keep you safe. Your Tour Leader should be your first point of contact if you encounter any difficulties or disappointments on trip – please raise any concerns, however small, with your Tour Leader as they are best placed to assist you.
Insurance
It is a condition of booking with Indian Expeditions that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your policy includes medical emergency evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the entire duration of your holiday. Please ensure that you are covered for the full duration of your holiday, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy.
Vaccinations
Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against Tetanus, Infectious Hepatitis, Typhoid and Polio. Please consult your travel clinic for the latest advice on Malaria, Dengue and Zika Virus. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.
Testimonials
The people who know best
Our South India adventure with Indian Expeditions was nothing short of extraordinary! The 21-day tour covered all the highlights, and the inclusion of offbeat locations made it truly unique. All the hotels were exceptional, providing comfort and luxury. Special thanks to Seetharam, our guide, for his exceptional knowledge of South India’s history.
Rating ★★★★★
Indian Expeditions truly impressed us with their 21-day South India tour. The comprehensive itinerary included all the must-see spots and introduced us to hidden treasures. The hotels added a touch of luxury, and our guide, Chandan, provided a fascinating narrative with his deep knowledge of South India’s history.
Rating ★★★★★
Embarking on the 21-day Comprehensive South India tour with Indian Expeditions was a journey filled with awe and wonder. The itinerary was well-thought-out, covering all the major attractions and some hidden gems. The 5-star hotels were a luxurious retreat, and our guide, Chandan, added a layer of depth with his exceptional knowledge of South India’s history.
Rating ★★★★★
Our South India tour with Indian Expeditions was phenomenal! The 21-day itinerary covered all the major highlights and some offbeat surprises. The 5-star hotels were exceptional, providing a luxurious haven at the end of each day. Special thanks to Seetharam, our guide, for his exceptional knowledge of South India’s history.
Rating ★★★★★
Indian Expeditions’ 21-day Comprehensive South India tour was a delight from start to finish. The comprehensive itinerary ensured we experienced the best of South India, including offbeat locations. The 5-star hotels were a luxurious retreat each night, and our guide, Seetharam, made it a truly enriching journey with his deep knowledge of South India’s history.
Rating ★★★★★
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