+977 01 4516813 / 4512647 info@crystalmountaintreks.com

Login

Sign Up

After creating an account, you'll be able to track your payment status, track the confirmation and you can also rate the tour after you finished the tour.
Username*
Password*
Confirm Password*
First Name*
Last Name*
Birth Date*
Email*
Phone*
Country*
* Creating an account means you're okay with our Terms of Service and Privacy Statement.
Please agree to all the terms and conditions before proceeding to the next step

Already a member?

Login
+977 01 4516813 / 4512647 info@crystalmountaintreks.com

Login

Sign Up

After creating an account, you'll be able to track your payment status, track the confirmation and you can also rate the tour after you finished the tour.
Username*
Password*
Confirm Password*
First Name*
Last Name*
Birth Date*
Email*
Phone*
Country*
* Creating an account means you're okay with our Terms of Service and Privacy Statement.
Please agree to all the terms and conditions before proceeding to the next step

Already a member?

Login

South India: Coast to Coast

0
Price
From$2,700
Price
From$2,700
Booking Form
Enquiry Form
Full Name*
Email Address*
Your Enquiry*
* I agree with Terms of Service and Privacy Statement.
Please agree to all the terms and conditions before proceeding to the next step
The tour is not available yet.

Proceed Booking

Save To Wish List

Adding item to wishlist requires an account

1569

Similar Tours

Why Book With Us?

  • Over 30 years experience
  • Nepal based, Nepali owned
  • No hidden costs
  • Personalized services

Got a Question?

Do not hesitate to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.

+977-01-4416813

info@crystalmountaintreks.com

Recent Articles

Everest Base Camp
Training tips by previous Nepal trekkers
August 17, 2023
Rhododendrons on the trail on the Pikey Peak Trek
Trees found on treks in Nepal
August 11, 2023
At Renjo La
My Everest Three Passes Trek
July 22, 2023
12 days, 11 nights
Availability : November through April
Min Age : 10+
Max People : 15

From earth to sky, markets to mangroves, temples to beaches, South India soothes with a scintillating mix of elevations and experiences. Travel coast to coast to sample Tamil Nadu’s rich history and artisan culture, and Kerala’s lush jungles and beckoning backwaters. Experience Indian family life and learn how to cook South Indian cuisine with an esteemed Chettinad chef. Search for elephants and Bengal tigers high in the misty mountains, and sample cinnamon bark from the tree. Relax into the ayurvedic culture for which this area is known, and try an authentic massage. South India has it all!

Highlights:

  • Search one of India’s most famous wildlife reserves for the elusive Bengal tiger
  • Watch in wonder as Mahabalipuram’s stone carvers magically transform stone into sculture before your eyes
  • Visit a temple complex larger than any you’ve ever imagined!
  • Cruise the Keralan backwaters in a luxurious rice boat (kettuvallum) watching fishermen and farmers at work
  • Experience the thrill of riding an autorickshaw
  • Taste your way through a working spice garden
  • Admire Cochin, South India’s former trading colony, and experience myriad cultures present there
Crystal Mountain Trek Icon
Trip at a glance

Brief Itinerary

Day Description Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Chennai Chennai
Day 2 Drive to Mahabalipuram Mahabalipuram
Day 3 Explore Mahabalipuram Mahabalipuram
Day 4 Drive to Chennai. Fly to Trichy. Drive to Chettinad Chettinad
Day 5 Explore Chettinad Chettinad
Day 6 Drive to Madurai Madurai
Day 7 Drive to Periyar Periyar
Day 8 Explore Periyar Periyar
Day 9 Drive to Kumarakom. Board houseboat. Houseboat
Day 10 Allepey Allepey
Day 11 Allepey to Kochi. Kochi
Day 12 Final departure  
Crystal Mountain Trek Icon
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1Arrival in Chennai

Arrive in Chennai, the chaotic capital city of Tamil Nadu province. Spend the afternoon getting acclimated to Indian time and culture. Meet your other tour mates at a group dinner at the hotel.

Stay: Hotel Raintree

Day 2Drive to Mahabalipuram.

After a short drive, we will spend the day exploring Mahabalipuram (formerly Mamallapuram), the historic, picturesque town that is world-renowned for their highly skilled stone carvers. The sweeping stretch of golden sands lacing the Bay of Bengal has defied time and retained its pristine nature, and is the setting for the amazingly well preserved shore temples that date back to the 8th century. Visit the World Heritage Site Five Rathnas and you’ll see five impressive shrines carved out of pink granite and named after five famous characters from the Mahabharata. In the afternoon, watch the Indian fisherman practice the labor intensive ancient art of pulling in their haul by hand from the beach.

Stay: Ideal Beach Resort

Day 3Explore Mahabalipuram

Known for being the “City of a Thousand Temples”, it is also the home of the widely acclaimed Kanchipuram hand woven silk sarees. The temples, an excellent example of Dravidian architecture, were built by the rulers of the various dynasties over the millennia, each elevating and refining the structures to their own liking. The Vaikuntha Perumal Temple should be on everyone’s “must-see list” of South India! Then you’ll visit a silk weaving factory, a centuries-old tradition in South India, made famous here for their double warp and double weft that make these sarees some of the finest quality in all of India. Return to Mahabalipuram to spend the evening.

Stay: Ideal Beach Resort

Day 4Fly to Trichy. Drive to Chettinad.

After breakfast, you’ll depart for Chennai where you will catch a flight to Trichy. Situated on the banks of the river Cauvery is the fourth largest city in Tamil Nadu, Tiruchirappalli or Trichy. A fine blend of tradition and modernity built around the Rock Fort, it is home to many churches, colleges and missions dating back to the 18th century. From here, you’ll head towards Chettinad where you’ll relax for the evening.

Stay: The Bangala

Day 5Explore Chettinad

Known for its cultural heritage and culinary delicacies, Chettinad is the You’ll visit the Chettinadu Mansion, a 100-year-old architectural marvel that contains more than 100 rooms with classical features reminiscent of a bygone era. The mansion was originally created by the Chettiars, the business tycoons of the South . In the evening, you’ll learn the art of authentic South India cuisine at a cooking class, and then dine on the delicacies that you’ve helped to prepare.

Stay: The Bangala

Day 6Drive to Madurai

From Chettinad, you’ll make your way to the second largest city in Tamil Nadu, Madurai. Endowed with a rich cultural heritage and glorious traditions, Madurai is considered one of the “antique” cities of India. With history dating back to the 6th century BC, it’s often called “The Athens of the East”. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the elaborate Meenakshi Amman Temple complex, which is the largest dedicated to Shiva; in the world. The soaring towers rise from solid granite bases and are covered with intricate stucco figures of deities, mythical animals and monsters painted in vivid colors. You’ll end the evening with an adventurous auto rickshaw ride through town, returning to the hotel for dinner.

Stay: GRT Residency

Day 7Drive to Periyar

After breakfast you’ll make your way to Periyar, literally “land where pepper grows”, into a new climate, state and elevation. Located in Kerala, Periyar is home to a tiger reserve, abundant wildlife, lush forests and spice plantations. For centuries people have been drawn here by the romance and wild beauty of the land. You’ll see every conceivable shade of green in a fertile outpouring, flecked with the crimson and gold of mountain flowers.

Stay: Shalimar Spice Garden

Day 8Explore Periyar

Rising early, you will explore Periyar, searching for the wide variety of birds, reptiles and mammals that call this home. Periyar was originally the hunting grounds of the Maharajah of Travancore, and was declared a wildlife reserve in 1933. Animals you might spot include Bengal tigers, Nilgiri langur, Asiatic elephants, monkeys, hyenas, wild boar, porcupines, sloth bear, otters and numerous varieties of exotic birds. Binoculars are a must! Beginning with a three-hour cruise on a bamboo raft you will traverse a variety of habitats while searching the shoreline for signs of life. You will have panoramic views of the forest clad hills reflected on the lake. We will eat a picnic lunch en route, and make our way back to the boat landing by foot around 5:00 pm.

Stay: Shalimar Spice Garden

Day 9Periyar to Kumarakom

You will depart after breakfast heading towards Kumarakom, deep in the tropical heart of Kerala. “God’s Own Country” as the locals call it, Kerala has the country’s highest literacy rate at 91%. It’s mostly known for its lush backwaters, which are a peaceful slice of heaven far away from the clamor of India. Kumarakom is an emerald peninsula jutting into the beautiful Vembanad Lake, where you’ll see plenty of traditional country crafts, boats and canoes. The fresh water of the lake runs through the flat lands of Kerala. You’ll enjoy a delicious, traditional Keralan dinner bursting with local flavors and seafood at the hotel.

Stay: Coconut Lagoon or Philip Kutty Farm House

DAY 10 Kumarakom to Allepey

Today we will board a “rice barge” for a tour through the backwaters where land, sea and sky come together. Cruise comfortably on an air-conditioned boat through quiet canals lined with coconut palms and rice paddies. Before roads were built the waterways were the highways of South India and they still are in a different way as you’ll see.

Stay: Evergreen House Boats

DAY 11 Drive to Kochi

After disembarking from the houseboat, you’ll travel about an hour north to Cochin, the distinctive colonial town that has been home to Jewish settlers, Portuguese and Dutch traders, Chinese visitors with threads of Syrian, Christian and Portuguese merchants. Cochin clings to its vibrant historical traditions such as Kalarippayat, a gravity-defying martial art, and a trance-induced ritual Kathakali, a blend of religion and dance.

Wake up and meet the fishermen at Cochin’s famous Chinese fishing nets during their morning catch. The strong are invited to help pull in a net! Enjoy a fascinating walking tour of Cochin’s heritage sites including St. Francis Church, the Jewish Synagogue, Mattancherry Palace, and the world famous spice markets. Shopping opportunities abound! If all that walking has you tired, indulge in one of Kerala’s famous ayurvedic massages.

Stay: Malabar House

Day 12Final departure

Depart from Cochin airport to home, or extend your stay with one of our post-tour extensions. (B)

Crystal Mountain Trek Icon
Detailed Cost Information

Per person valid until Dec 31, 2020

STANDARD HOTELS (3 and 4 STAR HOTELS)
2 to 3 persons: $3,000 USD per person
4 or more: $2,700 USD per person
Single Supplement: $1,250 USD

DELUXE HOTELS (5 STAR AND BOUTIQUE HOTELS)
2 to 3 people: $3,500 USD per person
4 or more: $3,150 USD per person
Single Supplement: $1,650 USD

(Final prices may vary based on hotels selected. A December and January peak season surcharge may apply)

 

 

Price Includes

  • All airport transfers
  • Sightseeing as indicated in the itinerary; all entrance fees
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Double occupancy accommodation
  • Transfers by private air-conditioned vehicles

Price Excludes

  • Your international airfare
  • Tips
  • India visa fee (must be obtained prior to arrival in India)
  • International airport tax, if applicable
  • Travel Insurance
  • Bottled/canned beverages including soft drinks, alcoholic beverages and mineral water
  • Expenses of a personal nature
Crystal Mountain Trek Icon
Map
Trip Gallery

Options

While this is a pretty comprehensive South India trip, there are lots of other areas in India you could include in your trip. We are happy to customize. Please write to us for more details.

Crystal Mountain Trek Icon
Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

How do I get an Indian visa?

You must get an Indian visa prior to arrival in India. You may submit your visa online. Click on this Indian Government website for details.

What should I wear in India?

It is best to be conservative so cover up and dress in light, loose clothing. You can buy cheap and colorful Indian clothes once you get there. Also bring a light cardigan or pullover. It can get chilly in Munnar.

When is the best time to travel on this trip?

The best time to travel in South India is during the winter months – December through February. You could extend this time frame to November through April. During these months humidity is at a minimum and the temperature ranges from the 70’s to the 90’s. Munnar is cooler especially in the evenings. Note, it is monsoons/summer from May through October.

Are there ATM's availabe? Can I use my credit card?

Yes, ATM’s are widely available in all cities and towns of India. And most vendors will accept credit cards.  There are also other forms of payment.

What are some essentials I should pack?

While traveling in India, things will not always go according to plan. So be patient. Here are some items you could include in your pack:

  • Charcoal Tablet/Electrolytes: To deal with diarrhoea and the famed ” Delhi Belly”.
  • Toilet paper/Wet wipes: Easily available anywhere in India.
  • Ear plugs: Good to have, especially if you are sensitive to noise. India can be noisy.
  • Insect repellent: Very important for mosquitoes and other bugs.
  • Sunscreen: The sun is quite bright. You do need to take precautions to avoid adverse effects on your skin.

Is India safe?

YES. As long as you apply the same level of carefulness as you would in any other large city. Petty theft and pick-pocketing is prevalent in some places and you must always be aware of your belongings. 

As far as safety for women, India is generally safe. Women may experience unwanted attention from men. Dressing conservatively helps. And it is highly recommended not to travel or arrive at a destination late at night. Especially if you are traveling alone.

What kind of food should I expect?

Indian food is SPICY; especially for those who have a bland palate. Spicy does not necessarily mean chilli spicy, but it also means the use of spices such as ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric etc. And, South Indian food is usually cooked in coconut oil which some people may not like after a few meals. That said, a wide variety of world cuisine is available. So you could choose what you want to eat.

How do I get an Indian visa?

You must get an Indian visa prior to arrival in India. You may submit your visa online. Click on this Indian Government website for details.

What should I wear in India?

It is best to be conservative so cover up and dress in light, loose clothing. You can buy cheap and colourful Indian clothes once you get there. Also bring a light cardigan or pullover.

When is the best time to travel on this trip?

The best time to travel in South India is during the winter months – December through February. You could extend this time frame to November through April. During these months humidity is at a minimum and the temperature ranges from the 70’s to the 90’s. Munnar is cooler especially in the evenings. Note, it is monsoons/summer from May through October.

Are there ATM's availabe? Can I use my credit card?

Yes, ATM’s are widely available in all cities and towns of India. And most vendors will accept credit cards.  There are also other forms of payment.

What are some essentials I should pack?

While traveling in India, things will not always go according to plan. So be patient. Here are some items you could include in your pack:

  • Charcoal Tablet/Electrolytes: To deal with diarrhoea and the famed ” Delhi Belly”.
  • Toilet paper/Wet wipes: Easily available anywhere in India.
  • Ear plugs: Good to have, especially if you are sensitive to noise. India can be noisy.
  • Insect repellent: Very important for mosquitoes and other bugs.
  • Sunscreen: The sun is quite bright. You do need to take precautions to avoid adverse effects on your skin.

Is India safe?

YES. As long as you apply the same level of carefulness as you would in any other large city. Petty theft and pick-pocketing is prevalent in some places and you must always be aware of your belongings. 

As far as safety for women, India is generally safe. Women may experience unwanted attention from men. Dressing conservatively helps. And it is highly recommended not to travel or arrive at a destination late at night. Especially if you are traveling alone.

What kind of food should I expect?

Indian food is SPICY; especially for those who have a bland palate. Spicy does not necessarily mean chilli spicy, but it also means the use of spices such as ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric etc. And, South Indian food is usually cooked in coconut oil which some people may not like after a few meals. That said, a wide variety of world cuisine is available. So you could choose what you want to eat.

WordPress PopUp Plugin