Tours for people who don’t do tours. Plan your journey
© 2026 All India Permit Tours Limited. All Rights Reserved
South India Adventure
South India Adventure
02 – 16 OCT 2027
$10,895 NZD
per person/twin-share
2 Spots Left!
About This Tour
About This Tour
Slow down and discover a completely different side of India on this immersive 14-night journey through the tropical landscapes of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Cruise the tranquil backwaters aboard a traditional houseboat, wander fragrant spice plantations and rolling tea estates, relax on palm-fringed beaches and explore magnificent temples, colonial towns and vibrant local communities. Designed for travellers seeking a more relaxed pace, this carefully curated itinerary combines luxury accommodation, incredible food and authentic cultural experiences with the confidence of travelling alongside one of Australasia's most experienced India specialists.
-
Duration: 14 Days & Nights
-
Group Size: Maximum 14 Guests
-
Accommodation: Premium 5-Star, Heritage Hotels & Luxury Houseboat
-
Style: Culture, Food & Relaxation
-
Fitness Level: Easy to Moderate
-
Hosted By: Sarah Meikle
-
-
Cruise Kerala's famous backwaters aboard a luxury houseboat
-
Stay in premium beach, plantation and heritage accommodation
-
Discover the colonial charm of Fort Kochi and Puducherry
-
Explore the tea plantations of Munnar
-
Experience authentic South Indian cooking classes
-
Visit magnificent temples and UNESCO World Heritage Sites
-
Meet local artisans and communities
-
Travel with a small group of like-minded travellers
-
-
14 nights premium accommodation
-
Daily breakfast
-
Selected lunches and dinners
-
All airport meet & greets and transfers
-
Air-conditioned transport throughout
-
Luxury overnight backwaters houseboat cruise
-
Guided sightseeing and entrance fees
-
English-speaking local guides
-
Traditional cooking experiences
-
Tea plantation and spice garden visits
-
Temple and heritage site entrances
-
Pre-departure support and visa guidance
-
24/7 local assistance while in India
-
-
International Flights
-
Departure taxes (if required)
-
Health & Travel Insurance (you are required to have travel insurance)
-
Meals not listed
-
Additional tips (mainly hotel porters)
-
Spending Money
-
Indian entry visa
-
Vaccinations (if required/desired)
-
Additional travel arrangements/activities not noted on itinerary
-
Tour Cost: NZ$10,895 per person twin share
Single Supplement: NZ$4,400 per person*
Deposit: NZ$2,500 per person*
Balance Due 90 days before departure.
Payment Options:
-
Bank transfer (preferred)
-
Credit and debit cards accepted (fees apply)
Please Note:
Payment plans are available. All payments are made in NZD. Prices are correct as of September 2026 and are subject to exchange rate fluctuations.
*Deposit is non-refundable but can be transferred. Refer to Terms & Conditions for more information.
-
If you're drawn to lush landscapes, incredible food, tropical beaches and a slower pace of travel, this journey offers a completely different perspective on India.
South India is less hectic than the north, yet equally rich in history, culture and unforgettable experiences. You'll cruise peaceful backwaters, wander tea plantations, discover centuries-old temples, learn traditional recipes from local cooks and stay in some of India's most beautiful heritage properties.
Perfect for travellers who enjoy authentic cultural experiences, exceptional food and time to truly soak up each destination rather than rushing from one landmark to the next.
Day 1–2 | Fort Kochi
Arrive in the historic port city of Kochi and ease into India at a relaxed pace. Explore colourful streets lined with colonial architecture, browse spice and antique markets, visit the famous Chinese fishing nets and discover the fascinating blend of Portuguese, Dutch and British influences that shaped this unique coastal city.
Day 3–4 | Marari Beach
Escape to Kerala's idyllic coastline where swaying coconut palms, golden beaches and luxurious accommodation provide the perfect opportunity to unwind. Enjoy a hands-on cooking experience with local chefs, explore nearby villages or simply relax by the sea.
Day 5 | Alleppey Backwaters
Step aboard a traditional luxury houseboat and cruise through Kerala's peaceful backwaters. Drift past villages, rice paddies and coconut groves while enjoying freshly prepared local cuisine during one of India's most iconic travel experiences.
Day 6–7 | Munnar
Journey into the cool hills of the Western Ghats to discover rolling tea plantations, fragrant spice gardens and spectacular mountain scenery. Learn about tea production, stroll through working estates and experience a quieter side of India surrounded by nature.
Day 8–9 | Madurai
Discover one of India's oldest continuously inhabited cities and explore the magnificent Meenakshi Temple, one of the country's greatest architectural masterpieces. Visit a jasmine farm as the day begins and share dinner with a local family and experience South Indian hospitality firsthand.
Day 10–11 | Chettinad
Travel through the historic Chettinad region, renowned for its grand merchant mansions, distinctive architecture and world-famous cuisine. Take part in a traditional cooking class and visit local silk weavers to gain insight into generations of craftsmanship.
Day 12–13 | Puducherry
Wander the leafy boulevards and colourful streets of this former French colony, where European charm meets Indian culture. Explore the waterfront, boutique cafés and heritage buildings, with the option to visit the nearby experimental township of Auroville.
Day 14 | Mahabalipuram & Chennai
Visit the remarkable Shore Temple and UNESCO-listed stone carvings of Mahabalipuram before continuing to Chennai, where your South India adventure comes to an end.
Day 15 | Departure
Transfer to Chennai Airport for your onward journey or continue exploring India at your own pace.
DOWNLOAD FULL ITINERARY
