Today is dedicated to exploring the breathtaking Hoysala temples of Belur and Halebid, masterpieces of architecture from the Hoysala Empire, which flourished between the 11th and 14th centuries. These temples are renowned for their intricate carvings, where sheer quantity meets unparalleled craftsmanship, creating a visual spectacle that is both awe-inspiring and historically significant. After a full day of discovery, we return to our resort in the late afternoon for a second night of relaxation.

Leaving Hassan behind, we journey to Coorg, a hidden gem nestled in the coffee and spice-growing region of Karnataka. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, Coorg is also home to the Kodavas, a unique community with origins believed to trace back to Kashmir or even Kurdistan. Our stay will be at an eco-lodge set within an organic plantation in the lush rainforests of the Western Ghats. The proceeds from our visit support a local environmental NGO dedicated to promoting sustainable organic farming. In the afternoon, we take a guided tour of the plantation, gaining insight into the cultivation of coffee, spices, and other crops. As the day winds down, we gather around a cosy campfire, enjoying a pre-dinner drink while soaking in the serene surroundings.

Spend the morning at your leisure, either by taking an optional walk through the plantation and surrounding countryside, or simply unwinding in the peaceful ambiance of this stunning location. After lunch, we set off for Mysore, one of India’s most culturally rich cities. Upon arrival, time permitting, we may take a brief orientation walk to get a glimpse of this vibrant city before settling in for dinner.

Mysore has long been celebrated for its grand festivals and regal architecture, with the Mysore Palace standing as one of the most magnificent landmarks in South India. Originally built in the 14th century, the palace as seen today is a masterpiece of Indo-Saracenic design, envisioned by British architect Henry Irwin. Still serving as the official residence of the Wodeyar royal family, it showcases a stunning fusion of European and Indian styles.

This morning, embark on a guided walking tour through the city, exploring the palace and the bustling markets. Later, drive to the surrounding Chamundi Hills, where you’ll visit the Sri Chamundeswari Temple and the sacred Nandi bull, an awe-inspiring monolithic structure. The day’s journey also takes you to Srirangapatna, the historic island town that houses the 18th-century remains of Tipu Sultan’s Fort, Palace, and Mausoleum.

Today, we travel to Kabini, our gateway to the rich wilderness of Nagarhole National Park. After checking in and settling into our accommodation, we embark on an afternoon safari, offering the opportunity to encounter the park’s diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for majestic Asian elephants, agile langur monkeys, and graceful sambar deer, along with a remarkable variety of over 250 bird species.

At dawn, we set out on another exhilarating safari in Nagarhole National Park, hoping to catch a glimpse of its elusive big cats—tigers and leopards—along with the park’s other remarkable wildlife. After breakfast, we journey across the border into Kerala, heading to Calicut, a historic coastal city famed for its role in the spice trade and as the landing site of Vasco da Gama in 1498. This evening promises to be a trip highlight as we visit a traditional Kalari gymnasium to witness Kalaripayattu, one of the world’s oldest martial arts, with a history spanning over 1,500 years.

Today, we journey south towards Cheruthuruthy, a charming town nestled along the banks of the Nila River. After enjoying a traditional Keralan lunch, we will have the chance to engage with local artisans, including potters, weavers, and toymakers, gaining insight into their centuries-old crafts. In the evening, we may have the opportunity to witness a captivating performance of local folk music and dance, offering a deeper connection to Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.

We plan to make an early morning visit to a Kalamandalam, a renowned performing arts centre dedicated to preserving and teaching Kerala's rich artistic traditions. Afterward, we will head south towards the famous Keralan backwaters, where we will spend the night in the serene town of Kumarakom. The drive will take us approximately 160 km and about 4 hours.

This morning, we will drive to Alleppey to embark on a journey through one of India's most beautiful and unique landscapes—the Keralan backwaters. Boarding our traditional houseboats, we will spend the next two days cruising the winding waterways and channels that weave through the coastal plains, parallel to the Arabian Sea. This unique ecosystem is home to a rich variety of aquatic life and offers a glimpse into a time-honoured way of life in India. The scattered villages along the canals have remained largely unchanged for generations, with the Kettuvallams (traditional Kerala houseboats) once transporting rice, grain, and even royalty through these very channels.

Today, these houseboats offer the perfect opportunity to experience the tranquillity and traditions of southern India. As we glide through the backwaters, we'll pass isolated communities, vibrant gardens of hibiscus and vegetables, and stop along the way to visit local sights. Each evening, we will moor our houseboats beside the peaceful shores of the backwaters. With two nights aboard our private chartered houseboats, we can venture deeper into this serene waterway, capturing glimpses of life seldom seen by foreign visitors to Kerala.

After disembarking from our boats this morning, we will drive to Kochi, the shimmering "Queen of the Arabian Sea." As the oldest European settlement in India, Kochi is a lively blend of Arab, Chinese, European, and Indian influences. Once a major trading hub, the arrival of the Portuguese, Dutch, and English transformed it into a bustling town where European and Asian styles fused seamlessly.

We’ll embark on a walking tour of the historic streets of Fort Cochin and Mattancherry, once the heart of the Malabar spice trade. Highlights include the iconic Chinese fishing nets, the Santa Cruz Basilica, and the Church of St. Francis, where Vasco da Gama was first buried. This evening, enjoy a serene sunset cruise on the harbour, followed by a hands-on Keralan cooking class with a local family.

Today, we journey into rural Kerala to immerse ourselves in the heart of village life, spending time with the friendly people of Vaikom. We’ll have the chance to witness and perhaps even participate in traditional activities such as rope and basket-making, toddy-tapping, mat-weaving, and for those seeking adventure, canoeing and coconut-tree climbing! This day provides a wonderful opportunity to experience a side of Kerala far removed from the typical beach resorts and discover the richness of rural traditions.

After our day in the village, we’ll return to town for our final dinner together, a time to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories we’ve made throughout this journey.

The tour concludes after breakfast at our hotel. For those on our suggested flights, you will depart early for the airport, taking with you memories of a remarkable journey through Kerala.