Serene South India
ITINERARY

1-3
Kochi
City
Day 1 has arrived and you’ll be jetting off through the night and flying east before touching down in the charming coastal city of Kochi on South India's west coast. Here, you’ll be whisked off deep into the city's heart where you'll be staying in historic Fort Cochin. Take the time to check in before heading out to meet with a local Ayurvedic doctor and yoga guru to learn all about the ancient roots of yoga in India. Spend the evening at your own leisure, taking in an Indian sunset over the harbor or sampling some of Kerala's delectable seafood. 

Wake up the following morning with a rejuvenating yoga session before setting off by bike, for a guided tour of Fort Cochin. Famous for its Chinese fishing nets and colonial houses, you’ll whizz around these quarters on a non-stop journey of culture. Step into the main sights, such as the Mattancherry Dutch Palace and Jewish Synagogue before sinking into the afternoon where you can spend the time as you wish. 

In the evening you'll gain a true insight into Keralan culture as you attend a traditional Kathakali dance, where bright costumes and make-up help bring the stage to life in these enthralling performances. 

THINGS TO DO
Fort Cochin Walking Tour
Fort Cochin Walking Tour
Half-day experience
Explore the fortified city of Fort Cochin on foot to see its varied colonial influences and interesting fishing methods.

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Fort Cochin Cultural Cycling Tour
Fort Cochin Cultural Cycling Tour
Half-day experience
Explore Fort Cochin on two wheels and gain an introduction to its different religious and ethnic communities.

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Evening Kathakali Performance
Evening Kathakali Performance
Evening Experience
Watch stories being told with colorful costumes and bright make-up through the medium of traditional dance.

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4-5
Wayanad
General Tour
You’ll be eager to jump out of bed this morning, as you’ll be catching a train to the coastal city of Calicut. As India’s railway stations are known to be full of life, you’ll be met by a bustling atmosphere as you make your way through the station to board the train. You’ll pull into Calicut at around lunchtime, and then be transported to the rural lands of Wayanad.

Say hello to 400 acres of spectacular surroundings as you check in to the Tranquil Hideaway, nestled within the tropical rainforest. This private coffee and vanilla plantation makes for a magical setting and here you'll be staying in your very own Tree House.

Your two days here are yours to spend exactly as you wish. For those wanting some peace and relaxation, nothing beats sometime in the property's pool or a well-deserved Keralan Ayurvedic massage. For the more energetic traveler, why not take a stroll through the rugged landscape surrounding the Hideaway. See how many tropical birds you can spot as you explore the winding trails that spiral out from the property through the dense forest and lush plantations.

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6-7
Mysore
City
This morning wake up to a fresh Indian chai before being driven to the endearing city of Mysore where you’ll be welcomed with open arms at a local homestay. As the home of Ashtanga Yoga, you’ll get a true Mysore welcome in the afternoon with your own calming yoga class. 

Day 7 and another early start but this time, you’ll take to two wheels and hit the streets before much of the city has awoken. Explore this wonderful city at its quietest and then finish up with a famous Dosa breakfast! This much loved Indian snack is a type of mouth-watering crispy pancake, stuffed with spicy potato curry and accompanied with cool coconut chutney. 

Once you’ve had time to digest this delectable treat, take to the city sights with a visit to the historical Mysore Palace. As the official residence of the Wadiyar dynasty and the seat of the Kingdom of Mysore, you’ll be dazzled by such a stunning spectacle.

Head to the centuries-old Devaraja Market in the afternoon, where you can bask in the display of authentic spices, sandalwood, and silk. And as evening beckons, take a wander up to the glorious Chamundi hill. Boasting unforgettable views of the city, absorb an Indian sunset in style to round off your time in this lively city. 

THINGS TO DO
Mysore Palace and market tour
Mysore Palace and market tour
Half-day experience
Explore the lavish palace and lively markets of this historic trading city.

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Chamundi Hill at sunset
Chamundi Hill at sunset
Evening experience
Join pilgrims climbing Chamundi Hill’s 1000 steps to see its vast Nandi Bull and enjoy views over the city from the top.

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Morning Cycle Ride in Mysore
Morning Cycle Ride in Mysore
Half-day experience
Hit the streets of Mysore at first light to explore on two wheels and see the city waking up.

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8-9
Coorg
Activity and Adventure
After a leisurely drive this morning, you’ll arrive at the verdant scenery and vibrant greenery of Coorg. Nestled amongst the 180-acre rainforest and sitting strikingly above sea level, you’ll feel truly on cloud nine as you settle into the beautiful Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa, eager to delve into the resort’s activities. Then, take a seat in any one of the exceptional restaurants for sumptuous food and panoramic rainforest views.

On your second day in the misty hills of Coorg, you can spend the day at your own pace. From hiking or biking to indulging in your wild side as you take a zip-lining tour through the treetops. Top off this fantastic day with a soothing sit down in the Guddha spa, followed by a special Ayurveda therapy session, lasting for 75 minutes. What a way to end the day.

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10-15
Neeleshwar
Beach / Cruise
As you move towards the final few days of this memorable wellness trip, there is so much more to uncover as you drive onwards towards the tiny town of Neeleshwar. Take in the endless stretch of calming coastline before putting your feet up at the Neeleshwar Hermitage; a secluded slice of Indian paradise. Set beside the Arabian Sea, this sparkling gem will be the last stop on your trip.

Wellness is the name of the game at this beautiful resort, and what better way to see out your tour with a few days of uninterrupted utopia. On arrival, you’ll be greeted by the property's yoga instructor who'll introduce you to your on-the-house yoga, meditation and massage treatments to enjoy during your stay. While away your days relaxing on the palm-fringed beach, navigating the winding lanes and fishing villages on bikes and enjoying the lounging in the stunning pool.

On your final day, you’ll take to the backwaters and cruise along on a private houseboat. Watch the life of the locals pass you by as you gently inch along the flowing waters, spending quality time together. On your final evening, you’ll gaze at the stars as you tuck into a romantic, candlelit dinner on deck before spending overnight onboard. 

As you disembark the houseboat on your very last morning, make sure you take full advantage of the resort’s plentiful offerings and tuck into an appetizing lunch of freshly caught fish or a nourishing vegetarian meal at one of the various restaurants. Then, it’s off to Mangalore to catch evening flights and leave this astonishing tropical world behind.