India | Spice of the South
On this 14-day sojourn, be transported back in time in the spice trading port of Cochin, be seduced by Kerala's tropical backwaters and enchanted by Ooty and its toy train. Wander the incense laden markets of Mysore and the fragrant tea plantations of Munnar, and marvel at the sight of India's greatest remaining Elephant herds in the jungles of Nagarhole.
| Duration: | 14 Days |
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| Tour Code: | ITW109 |
| Trip Style: | Superior - 4 star |
| Departure Dates: | 22 Nov 2011, 27 Dec 2011, 24 Jan 2012, 21 Feb 2012, 06 Mar 2012, 10 Apr 2012, 25 Sep 2012, 16 Oct 2012, 20 Nov 2012, 01 Jan 2013, 29 Jan 2013, 19 Feb 2013, 05 Mar 2013 |
| Price: | From $3,620 |
| Single Supplement: | From $1,650 |
| Places you'll visit: |
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| Highlights: |
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Ideal for Solo Travellers
This small group journey is the perfect way for solo travellers to experience Asia. The style of travel means that you will experience Asia as a group of friends, not as part of an anonymous coach-load. Join your western tour leader and fellow travellers for an evening meal or sunset drink, or strike out on your own. The choice is always yours. This tour generally attracts a mix of couples, friends and solo travellers. The group never exceeds 16 passengers, which means you will always have the chance to get to know your fellow travellers.
If you don't want to pay a single supplement you can choose to share and pay the twin-share price. If there isn't one other person of the same sex willing to share on your departure, you will stay in a single room at no extra cost. Alternatively, you can ensure a room to yourself by paying a single supplement.
Trip Details
SEASONAL PRICE RANGE: $3,620 to $4,130
Single Supplement: $1,650 to $1,800
GROUP SIZE: 18 max.
Your Journey starts Bangalore, ends Cochin
Days 1-3 ~ Bangalore & Mysore
Arrive in Bangalore, India's most modern metropolis. Visit the beautiful Lalbagh Botanical Gardens before the short drive to Mysore. A cultured and quiet town famous for its silk and sandalwood, Mysore is also home to some ornate Hindu temples. Wander the colourful Devarajah Market, the nearby temples of Somnathpur and admire the carvings and mosaics at the extravagant Maharajah's Palace.
Hotels: Monarch Luxur, Metropole
Days 4-6 ~ Nagarhole & Ooty
We continue on to the forested ranges of Nagarhole National Park, home to the largest remaining herds of Indian Elephants. Sightings of these incredible creatures are virtually guaranteed from our boat and jeep safaris. Continue into the beautiful Nilgiri Hills and the quirky hill station of Ooty, with its distinctly British air, staying overnight in one of the region's most atmospheric colonial-style hotels. Visit St Stephens and the Botanic Gardens, and take an evening stroll down The Mall.
Hotels: Cicada Resort, Savoy
Days 7-9 ~ Palakkad & Munnar
Enjoy a ride on the famous Nilgiri Queen ‘toy train' before heading on to Palakkad. Explore this quiet, green village and visit a local weaving community. Drive to Munnar through tropical mountain scenery, stopping to visit a family owned plantation for lunch. Dramatic mountain views and thriving tea plantations set the scene: learn about tea cultivation and take a walk in Eravikulam National Park, home to the Nilgiri Tahr, a rare species of mountain goat.
Hotels: Tharavad homestay, Ambady Estate
Days 10-11 ~ Kumarakom
Drive to the peaceful village of Kumarakom and travel by small boat along tropical canals to our resort on the edge of Vembanad Lake. After some time spent relaxing, travel by boat to a traditional Keralan house and enjoy a lunch of delicious local fare after a cooking demonstration.
Hotel: Coconut Lagoon
Days 12-14 ~ Kerala Backwaters & Cochin
Board your traditional ‘kettuvalayam', the iconic local houseboats, for a Kerala Backwaters cruise. Explore the lush, tropical scenery, cruising the network of waterways. Enjoy lunch on board before ending at Allepey for the drive to Cochin. Cochin features a melting pot of cultural influences and is one of India's most attractive and unusual cities.
Hotel: Arches Hotel
Trip grading: MODERATE
Suitable for travellers with an average level of fitness and independent mobility. Expect lots of walking and prepare for some long road journeys.
Inclusions
- 12 nights hotel accommodation
- 1 night home-stay
- all road transport by air-conditioned vehicles
- all sightseeing as specified, entrance fees (excluding camera fees)
- Western tour leader based on a minimum of seven travellers
- local English-speaking guides throughout
- arrival and departure transfers
- breakfast daily, 7 lunches and 4 dinners
Terms & Conditions
Click here for our Terms & Conditions
For more information, availability and pricing and options, please contact our expert travel specialists at Inspired Travel Worldwide on (02) 9449 8598 or send us an email. We look forward to hearing from you.
