South India: from western Ghats to coast

Today, you leave Bangalore and head to the charismatic city of Mysore, which is a three-hour drive away. This southern city resembles many aspects of a northern city with lively markets, spiritual influences, and a rich empire history. Visit Mysore's City Palace this afternoon, or Amba Vilas as it is known, which was completed in the early 20th century. It is quite simply a fantasy of eclectic styles. Its scale is striking, being one of the largest palaces in India.

South India is renowned for its temple architecture and intricate carvings. This morning you meet the artisans who are behind these ornate artworks at the Mysore Palace, or who carved the majestic statues in the roundabouts that stand witness to its royalty. After meeting the artists, you will return to your hotel for some rest. Later this afternoon your guide will help you explore the historic sights and bazaars of Mysore, including some stops to try the famous Mysore dosa and the ‘Mysore Pak’.

As you leave the city today, you will head into the rural land surrounding Nagarhole National Park, one of Karnataka's best wildlife getaways. After lunch, you will be taken for your afternoon jeep safari.

Head out early for a morning game drive. You may be fortunate enough to see a leopard, elephant, or even a tiger. This afternoon you will have a game drive on board the boat; this gives you a chance to see the animals as they come to drink during the afternoon heat.

Leave the parkland today to ascend into the Western Ghats to reach the colonial hill station of Ooty. The drive takes you through rubber, tea, cardamom and coffee plantations, accompanied by spectacular views. Today's drive takes you toward the tea-growing country of the Nilgiri Mountains and its colonial heritage as a summer retreat during the Raj era. You may wish to visit Ooty Lake, walk through the tea plantations or visit one of the stunning botanical gardens.

Today, travel to the town of Mettupalayam on the Nilgiri Blue Mountain Railway. A diesel train will first take you to Coonoor, where you'll connect to a steam engine — it's then a dramatic descent from tea plantations to the subtropical jungle below. You have a guide on hand to make sure your journey runs smoothly. On arrival at your final station, your driver will be there to meet you and drive you to your hotel to relax. The train times can vary, but the journey lasts about four hours.

This morning you have time to relax at your hotel. This afternoon, drive to Cochin. The four-and-a-half-hour journey finishes near Cochin's imposing fort.

Today, explore Cochin on a private tour with a local guide. This is an attractive city which is spread over a number of interlinked islands, making it particularly picturesque. Highlights of Cochin include the Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church and Santa Cruz Basilica. Finish your tour by taking a walk to see the iconic Chinese fishing nets and hopefully see some in action. In the evening you may like to see a cultural performance or a traditional Keralan Kathakali dance.

This morning you will take a short drive of approximately two hours to Alleppey, where you will board a traditional rice barge and cruise along the tranquil Backwater canals overnight. This evening you can enjoy an authentic dinner on-board, cooked by your private chef.

Disembark your houseboat this morning after breakfast to be met by your driver. Drive the short one-hour drive to Marari Beach for a few days' relaxation to end your trip.

This morning you might like to take an early stroll along the beach to see the fisherman returning to the shore with their catch. Today is free to simply relax or enjoy the facilities of your hotel. You might like to take a yoga class or try a traditional Ayurvedic massage in the spa.

Today you will be driven by private transfer on a three-hour drive to Cochin Airport to catch your onward flight. Your return flight will arrive the same day.