Madurai’s ancient temples and Kerala’s striking mountain vistas provide the perfect backdrop for a truly unique solo travel experience. 

Discover the rich cultural heritage of India’s tropical south with a journey stretching from the forested uplands and plantations of the Western Ghats to the sprawling cityscapes of Madurai and Kochi, where you’ll experience the Keralan sights on a traditional rickshaw ride. Guided tours of the impressive Meenakshi Temple, an iconic sight amidst Madurai’s skyline and a sacred site for Hindus across the world, and Mattancherry Palace, adorned in spectacular murals, follow promising memorable insights into the vibrant history of the region.   

Take in the tropical landscapes and vibrant wildlife of India’s south with a cruise along palm-studded Periyar’s lakes. You’ll also be immersed in the culture with stops in rural fishing villages as you trace Alleppey’s backwaters and observe age-old traditions with thrilling Kathakali and Kalaripayattu performances. Cultural delights, paired with accommodation of a very high standard and a friendly tour manager accompanying you from start to finish, make this an ideal introduction to the country for solo travellers. 

Highlights:

• Discover Kochi’s landmarks with a sightseeing tour of the coastal metropolis and witness the city’s fishnets
• Cruise along Kerala’s backwater with an overnight stay on a Kettuvallam (traditional South Indian houseboat)
• Glide along the tranquil waters of Periyar Lake during a wildlife cruise
• Witness a thrilling Kalaripayattu (traditional South Indian martial arts) performance in Thekkady and an authentic Kathakali dance
• Experience India’s thriving spice and tea industries with guided tours, from plantations to packaging factories
• Explore Madurai’s rich history and enjoy a rickshaw ride around some of its most famous highlights
• Observe the sacred ‘Going to Bed’ ceremony at Meenakshi Temple
• Unwind in comfort with our specially curated list of hotels and resorts along your South Indian travels

Price Includes:

• Eight nights’ half-board hotel accommodation in Kochi (2 nights), Munnar (2), Madurai (2) and Thekkady (2)
• One night’s full-board accommodation aboard a houseboat in Alleppey
• Tour of tea plantations and visit to the Tata Tea Museum
• Guided tour of Madurai’s landmarks, an evening ceremony in Meenakshi Temple and a rickshaw ride
• Evening food tour of Madurai’s local markets
• Tour of a Periyar spice plantation
• Wildlife cruise on Periyar Lake
• Kathakali and Kalaripayattu performances
• A sightseeing tour of Kochi
• Comfortable, air-conditioned coach travel and transfers throughout
• Return flights to Kochi
• Fully escorted by a friendly, experienced tour manager