This 18-day Discover South India tour is a grand exploration of the subcontinent, taking you from the vibrant streets of Mumbai to the cultural heartlands of Tamil Nadu, the
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Hightlight tour
Rich Cultural Activities
Cuisine
Sightseeing
Itinerary
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Day 1: Welcome to Mumbai
Your exciting journey begins with your arrival at the International Airport in Mumbai. Following the completion of customs and immigration procedures, as well as the collection of your luggage, you will be warmly received by our representative, who will escort you to your hotel. Enjoy a restful overnight stay at the hotel.
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Day 2: Exploring Mumbai
After a delightful breakfast, set out to visit the iconic Gateway of India and embark on an excursion to the mesmerizing Elephanta Caves. In the afternoon, explore the rich heritage of Mumbai with visits to the Prince of Wales Museum, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Mani Bhawan, the serene Hanging Gardens, the bustling Crawford Market, and a drive past the magnificent Haji Ali shrine. You’ll also have the chance to witness the unique Dhobi Ghat, an open-air laundry. Rest comfortably at the hotel.
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Day 3: Mumbai to Kochi (by Flight)
Following a satisfying breakfast, it’s time to catch your flight to Kochi, formerly known as Cochin. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel, and the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Relax and unwind at the hotel.
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Day 4: Discovering Kochi
After breakfast, embark on a fascinating exploration of Kochi. Your itinerary includes visits to St. Francis Church, the Roman Catholic Santa Cruz Cathedral, the Jewish Quarter with its historic Old Synagogue, and the Dutch Palace. Later, experience a boat cruise to visit Bolghatty Palace and witness the captivating Chinese fishing nets in action. In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant art of Kathakali with a captivating dance performance. Enjoy a peaceful night at the hotel.
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Day 5: Kochi to Thekkady (By Road)
After a hearty breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Thekkady, where you’ll check in at your hotel. In the afternoon, set out on a tour of a Spice Garden, a delightful and aromatic experience. Enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel.
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Day 6: Thekkady (Periyar)
Start your day with an early morning jungle walk, followed by a delicious breakfast at the hotel. In the afternoon, delight in a boat ride on the serene Lake Periyar. Your evening is free to explore the local bazaar in Thekkady and perhaps purchase some of the famous spices cultivated in the region. Rest comfortably at the hotel.
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Day 7: Thekkady to Kumarakom (By Road)
After an early breakfast, depart for Kumarakom, a journey of approximately 80 kilometers that takes about 3 hours. Here, you’ll board a traditional houseboat and embark on a journey through the enchanting backwaters of Kerala. All meals and overnight accommodation are provided on the houseboat, offering a truly immersive experience.
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Day 8: Kumarakom to Alleppey and Kovalam (By Houseboat)
Following breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and drive straight to the picturesque Kovalam Beach, covering approximately 190 kilometers in about 5 hours. Your evening is free to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel.
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Day 9: Leisure in Kovalam
Take full advantage of a day at leisure for relaxation, indulging in Ayurvedic massages, beachcombing, and pursuing personal activities. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at the hotel.
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Day 10: Kovalam to Kanyakumari and Madurai (By Road)
After breakfast, depart for Madurai with a stop in Kanyakumari on the way. Visit the Temple of Goddess Kumari and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial. After lunch, proceed to Madurai, where you will check in at your hotel. Enjoy a peaceful night’s rest.
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Day 11: Exploring Madurai
Post breakfast, set out to explore the vibrant city of Madurai. Visit the Meenakshi temple, the Thirumalai Nayak Temple, and the fascinating Temple Art Museum. Rest comfortably at the hotel.
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Day 12: Madurai to Thanjavur (By Road)
After breakfast, drive to Thanjavur (Tanjore) and check in at your hotel. In the afternoon, explore the remarkable Brihadisvara Temple, the Tanjore Palace, and the Museum. Enjoy a comfortable night at the hotel.
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Day 13: Thanjavur to Pondicherry (By Road)
Following breakfast, journey to Pondicherry, a drive of approximately 170 kilometers that takes about 4 hours. Explore the serene ashram at Auroville and the 400-year-old Manakula Vinayagar Temple. Enjoy a restful night at the hotel.
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Day 14: Pondicherry to Chennai (By Road)
After breakfast, drive to Chennai, a journey of 150 kilometers that takes about 3 hours. En route, visit Mahabalipuram, renowned for its Rathas (temples resembling chariots). Settle in for a restful night at the hotel.
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Day 15: Chennai Exploration
Post breakfast, embark on an enlightening day of exploration in Chennai. Visit the National Art Gallery, the Museum, India’s oldest surviving British church, St. Mary’s Church, the iconic Marina Beach, and the majestic clock towers. Enjoy an overnight stay at the Hotel.
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Day 16: Chennai to Mysore (By Train)
Early in the morning, board a train to Mysore, departing at 06:00 hours and arriving at 13:00 hours. Upon your arrival, you will be transferred and checked in at your hotel. In the afternoon, visit the majestic Maharajah’s Palace and the sacred Shri Chamundeswari Temple. Alternatively, there is an option to transfer to the airport to catch a flight to Bangalore and, upon arrival, continue the journey to Mysore. Enjoy a comfortable night at the hotel.
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Day 17: Mysore to Srirangapatna and Bangalore (By Road)
Following breakfast, set out for Bangalore, covering approximately 145 kilometers in about 3.30 hours. En route, visit Srirangapatna, a place steeped in history. Upon arrival in Bangalore, check in at your hotel. In the afternoon, explore the city, visiting the Vidhana Soudha, Cubbon Park, Tipu Sultan’s Palace, and the vibrant Lal Bagh Garden. Enjoy a restful night at the hotel.
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Day 18: Departure from Bangalore
In a timely manner, our team will ensure your smooth transfer to the airport for your onward journey. We hope you carry back cherished memories from this unforgettable adventure.
This 18-day Discover South India tour is a grand exploration of the subcontinent, taking you from the vibrant streets of Mumbai to the cultural heartlands of Tamil Nadu, the serene backwaters of Kerala, and the royal cities of Karnataka.
Explore a wealth of history and architecture, including the iconic Gateway of India, the rock-cut temples of Mahabalipuram, the majestic Brihadisvara Temple in Tanjore, and the opulent Maharaja’s Palace in Mysore.
Experience the diverse soul of India with a mesmerizing boat ride on Lake Periyar, an immersive houseboat stay in Kumarakom, rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages in Kovalam, and a scenic train journey to the historic city of Mysore.
Enjoy a well-rounded itinerary featuring domestic travel, classic temple tours, coastal relaxation, and comfortable stays in handpicked hotels and a traditional houseboat.
Price includes
A guided tour of important places
A two-person English-speaking Travel Director and Driver team with you for the duration of your journey
Beautifully illustrated souvenir map
Current Hotel Taxes and Service Charges
Entrance tickets to monuments and museums mentioned on the itinerary
Sightseeing and activities as described in your itinerary
All accommodations – First class or best available hotels in the area based on the hotel price category booked
Breakfast daily and some evening meals as described in your trip itinerary.
Meals, unless expressly states
Observation and participation in allowed activities
Professionally guided tour
Arrival and Departure Airport transfers
Transport to and from hotel listed on itinerary
Bottled water
Price does not include
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes
Departure Taxes
Visa processing arrangements
Extra pre and / or post hotel nights for before and after your trip. These can be booked through Lotus of India and or your Travel Agent and be added during the booking process.
Handling fees
Excess baggage charge
Increases in airfares or Government imposed taxes
International Air, unless expressly paid for
Medical Travel insurance and emergency insurance
Visas and Travel Insurance.
Other International and domestic flights not mentioned on the itinerary.
Personal expenses.
Porterage for a maximum of two bags per person.
All porterage and restaurant gratuities.
Services not specifically stated in the itinerary.
Tips to guide and driver.
Optional Experiences. Optional Experiences are additional add-on experiences unique to the destination that are booked and paid for (credit card or cash) when you are on your tour. As Optional Experiences are pre-bookable, this allows you the flexibility to pick and choose what you feel like when you’re on your trip.
Any taxi fares or personal spending money including for non-included items, meals.
Level of Physical fitness required for the Lotus of India tour?
A moderate amount of walking is involved at both attractions.
Check recommended level for travelers with back problems or any other issues.
Check the dress codes for proper vestments for religious sites or county customs.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, comfortable clothes and hiking or tennis shoes.
Guidelines for Different Religious Sites
Typical Dress Code for Churches and Cathedrals
Churches, particularly in Europe, often require covered shoulders and knees. Bringing a scarf or shawl can be handy if you need to cover up quickly.
Dress Codes in Mosques
Mosques typically require women to cover their hair with a scarf or hijab and both men and women to wear long pants or skirts. Some mosques provide appropriate attire at the entrance.
Typical Dress Code for Temples and Shrines.
In Hindu and Buddhist temples, it is respectful to wear long sleeves and long skirts or pants. Removing shoes is often mandatory, and wearing socks might be required in some places.
Tips for Respectful Attire
Removing Hats or Headwear
While head coverings may be required in some religious sites, hats and caps are generally considered disrespectful and should be removed before entering.
Layering for Comfort and Respect
Bringing a lightweight layer, like a cardigan or shawl, allows you to adapt your outfit as needed. This is especially useful when transitioning from a hot climate outside to a cool interior within religious buildings.
Understanding Local Customs
Researching or asking about local customs before visiting can prevent unintentional disrespect. Each religious site may have unique expectations regarding dress code.
Additional Information
Confirmation will be received at time of booking and payment
Tours can be customized, by request with a multi-lingual guides option: (English, Spanish, French, Italian, German and Portuguese).
Daily Tours departures times will be announced by your guide a day prior to the tour date.
The tour starts times ranges based on the activity booked.
Waiver will need to be signed attesting to good health conditions
Cancellation and Refunds Policies
For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours after booking payment.
In the event of cancellation, Traveler should notify Lotus of India in writing at – least 60 days prior to travel.
If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Any changes made after paid booking before the experience’s start date / time will be subject to modification fees.
If the experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
This experience requires a minimum number of travelers ( 2 ). If it’s canceled because the minimum wasn’t met, you’ll be offered options and recalculated prices.
A cancellation fee will be charged by Lotus of India for all cancelled bookings, as per the following cancellation terms.
Foreign travelers often worry about physical strain, especially seniors and couples. Physical comfort is managed proactively rather than reactively.
Private tours control walking distances. Vehicles drop travelers close to sites, and visits are planned during less crowded hours.
Food concerns are extremely common. Travelers worry about hygiene, food spice levels, and digestive issues.
Private tours ensure meals are taken in reputable restaurants and hotels where hygiene standards are controlled. Spice levels are adjusted, and dietary needs are respected.
Most food-related problems occur when travelers eat randomly or without guidance.
Travel anxiety often peaks around “what if” scenarios. Delays, illness, missed connections, or fatigue worry travelers before booking.
Private tours include contingency handling. Drivers, guides and operators respond immediately to changes without traveler involvement.
This safety net is one of the strongest reasons foreign travelers choose private tours.
Fear of rushed itineraries is common, especially among travelers who have seen aggressive group tour schedules.
Private tours are paced according to traveler energy, not preset checklists. Days are balanced, and sightseeing is spread logically.
Foreign travelers often say they see less but understand more, which improves satisfaction.
India requires more planning than many destinations because of its scale and diversity. Foreign travelers often underestimate travel times, climate differences, and regional variations.
Private tour planning absorbs this complexity. Routes are optimized, rest is built in, and seasonal factors are considered. Good planning reduces surprises, which is essential for confidence.
There is a misconception that private tours are only for ultra-luxury travelers. Private tours exist across comfort levels. The defining feature is personalization, not price.
Even mid-range private tours offer better control and ease than budget independent travel. Luxury private tours simply enhance comfort further through premium hotels and experiences.
Foreign travelers choose private tours not to show wealth, but to avoid friction.
Many travelers imagine private tours as rigid luxury packages. Private tours are flexible frameworks.
Each day begins and ends based on traveler comfort. Sightseeing is adjusted in real time. If a site feels crowded or energy is low, plans change without stress.
This adaptability is what foreign travelers value most. They are not following a script; they are being supported.
Safety questions often come from lack of familiarity rather than real risk. Foreign travelers worry about crime, harassment, scams, and medical emergencies.
Private tours significantly reduce exposure to unsafe situations. Drivers manage routes and timing, guides handle interactions, and hotels provide secure environments.
Most foreign travelers report feeling safer in India on private tours than in many other countries they have visited independently.
Language concerns are common, especially for travelers who do not speak any Indian languages. In practice, language is rarely an issue when traveling privately. English is widely spoken by guides, hotel staff and drivers working with international tourists.
For foreign tourists, communication becomes effortless when handled professionally.
Comfort is the first unspoken concern. Foreign travelers are not asking whether India has luxury hotels; they are asking whether daily life between destinations will feel manageable.
India becomes comfortable when travel is structured. Private car travel in India, professional drivers, well-located hotels and guided sightseeing remove most discomfort factors. Without structure, even good hotels cannot compensate for chaotic movement.
Persons arriving from Yellow Fever endemic countries or those who have visited such countries during the past 6 days immediately preceding their entry into India will be required to possess a valid certificate of Yellow Fever vaccination from an authorized vaccination center. Persons arriving from a country having public health risk may be required to undergo medical screening or additional measures as decided by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of India.
Minimum six months of validity and two blank pages for the Immigration stamps. Note that the visa validity starts from the issue date.
All foreign visitors need a visa, expect citizens of Nepal and Bhutan. Visa-on-Arrival facility is available to the citizens of Japan, South Korea & UAE (only for such UAE nationals who had earlier obtained e-Visa or regular/paper visa for India). Others can apply online at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in
Our partners make every effort to accommodate any special needs requests, whether it be a dietary restriction or physical limitations. In order to accommodate your needs as best possible, we ask that you let your Travel Specialist know at the time of booking. You may be asked to fill out a form depending on the type of request.
You may bring one suitcase per person weighing up to 50 lbs. You may also bring one piece of hand luggage provided it is small enough to take on the coach. These details will also be provided in your travel documents. Please note that air carriers may have their own restrictions and requirements including weight. We recommend that you contact the airlines directly for additional information. You can also learn more about checked baggage fees and allowances here.
Traveling solo traveler and prefer the privacy of your own room, a supplement will be applied to the price of your trip. The cost will depend on your trip and is available on request. If you’d rather not incur the additional expense, consider sharing option to avoid the extras. We’ll advice you if some other solo travelers requesting sharing. We will accommodate you with a fellow guest of the same gender, on a twin-bed basis. Please note that room shares are not valid on all trips.
Customization is one of the most asked about aspects. Foreign travelers want reassurance that itineraries are not fixed templates.
Private tours are built around interests, pace, and comfort. Changes can be made before and during the trip. This flexibility builds trust and confidence.
Some travelers worry that private tours might feel artificial or disconnected. The opposite is true. Authenticity comes from understanding, not exposure.
Private tours allow deeper interaction because guides explain context, facilitate conversations and choose meaningful experiences
Planning your first trip to India can raise many questions about safety, visas, transport, and the best places to visit. Our experienced travel specialists are here to guide you every step of the way.
Most major credit cards are widely accepted throughout India. Credit cards and most debit cards can be used for ATM cash withdrawals onshore. We recommend bringing at least one credit card plus an ATM card. Try to avoid carrying euro notes larger than €100, as merchants may be hesitant to accept them due to counterfeiting. Limited currency exchange available at all major hotels have exchange facilities. Travelers Checks are not recommended. It’s always a good idea to let your credit card issuer and bank know of your plans to travel abroad so they can expect foreign transactions on your account.
All tour deposits are non-refundable. However, we do offer deposit protection within our company, which means your tour only base deposit can be used toward a future Lotus of India, Lotus of Asia, or Travelonica, a sister tour brands holiday within the next year ( 12 months ).
If your booking is confirmed you will have received an invoice shortly after booking both for tour deposits, and for tours where you’ve paid in full. Please always check your junk, spam, or promotions folder. If any additions and changes to your booking, including any payments made, we will send you an updated invoice.
You can see your full payment due date in our Payment Terms. Full payment is available at the time of booking.
All payment dates and amounts will appear on your invoice once you’ve booked. Please note, deposit and full payment terms may vary for special offers. Please familiarise yourself with our full Booking Conditions.
Payment process will vary depend on how you booked your tour and there are several ways you can make payments.
You can Contact Us and we’ll send you a one-time secure payment link or take your payment over the phone.
If you booked with a Travel Agent: Contact your Travel Agent to make payments for your tour directly through them.
If you are you are Travel Agent? You can make payments directly through the Travel Agent Portal where you can also view your booked invoices.
We accept the following payment methods: Credit/debit cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover and PayPal
Serene Tropical Temples
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