11 Nights and 12 Days

Karnataka Hills & Kerala Backwaters

Bangalore - Mysore - Coorg - Wayanad - Thekkady - Munnar - Alleppey - Cochin -

Overview

Embark on a 12-day journey through the enchanting landscapes of South India, blending Karnataka’s royal heritage, coffee-scented hills, and forested charm with Kerala’s serene backwaters and misty tea gardens. Begin in Bangalore, the vibrant Garden City, before exploring Mysore’s royal legacy and Coorg’s lush plantations. Continue to the scenic beauty of Wayanad and the wildlife of Thekkady, followed by the tea-carpeted slopes of Munnar. Conclude with a tranquil houseboat stay in Alleppey and a glimpse of Cochin’s colonial charm—an unforgettable odyssey through nature, culture, and tradition.

Highlights

At a glance

Local Guides

The full services of a Kapil India Tours with local guides where appropriate.

Private Transport

Private air-conditioned vehicles with experienced, dedicated drivers, unless otherwise stated.

Bespoke Journeys

As specified in the itinerary, using some of our favourite local properties.

24X7 Support

As specified in the itinerary, sampling some of the country's finest cuisine.

Map & Itinerary

Itinerary

Arrive in Bangalore

Arrive in Bangalore, the cosmopolitan capital of Karnataka, known for its lush gardens and colonial architecture. After a warm welcome, transfer to your hotel. Later, enjoy a short city tour covering Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Vidhana Soudha, and Bull Temple. Overnight in Bangalore.

Drive to Mysore

After breakfast, drive to the heritage city of Mysore. En route, visit Srirangapatna, Tipu Sultan’s historic capital. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. In the afternoon, explore Mysore Palace, a masterpiece of Indo-Saracenic architecture, followed by a visit to Chamundi Hill for panoramic views of the city. In the evening, stroll through the illuminated Brindavan Gardens. Overnight in Mysore.

Drive to Coorg

After breakfast, drive to Coorg, Karnataka’s “Scotland of India.” En route, enjoy the rolling landscapes of coffee and spice plantations. Later, visit Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, and a local coffee estate to experience plantation life firsthand. Overnight in Coorg.

Explore Coorg

After breakfast in the morning, proceed for an excursion to Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement (approximately 40 kms from Coorg, visit subject to permission). This vibrant town is home to nearly 7,000 Tibetans and features several agricultural settlements and magnificent monasteries representing all major Tibetan Buddhist traditions. The area is also renowned for its Buddhist institutes and universities dedicated to advanced spiritual learning and monastic education.

Later, visit Talacauvery, the sacred origin point of the River Cauvery, nestled amidst the scenic Brahmagiri hills. Conclude the day with a visit to the Omkareshwara Temple, a unique blend of Islamic and Gothic architectural styles, adding a distinctive charm to Coorg’s cultural landscape. Evening at leisure amidst misty hills or enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Coorg coffee. Overnight in Coorg.

Drive to Wayanad

After breakfast, journey through the Western Ghats to Wayanad in Kerala—a region of lush forests and misty peaks. Visit Edakkal Caves with prehistoric carvings and enjoy the natural charm of Pookode Lake and Soochipara Falls. Overnight in Wayanad.

Drive to Thekkady

After breakfast, drive to Thekkady, a nature lover’s paradise located near the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Upon arrival, check in at your resort surrounded by spice plantations. The rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Thekkady.

Explore Thekkady

After breakfast, drive to Thekkady, home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Afternoon visit the Spice Plantation. In the evening, witness a thrilling Kalaripayattu performance, showcasing Kerala’s ancient martial art form. Overnight in Thekkady.

Drive to Munnar

After breakfast, drive to Munnar, Kerala’s beloved hill station known for its mist-covered mountains and tea estates. En route, stop at Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls. Upon arrival, relax at your resort nestled amidst green slopes. Overnight in Munnar.

Explore Munnar

After breakfast, head to Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahrand, known for its sweeping views of mist-covered hills and tea plantations. Continue sightseeing with visits to Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Kundala Lake, surrounded by lush green valleys. Later, visit the Srishti TATA Project, a heartwarming initiative by Tata Global Beverages that supports and rehabilitates differently-abled individuals. Spend some time shopping for eco-friendly, handcrafted products made by the community before returning to your hotel. Overnight in Munnar.

Drive to Alleppey

After breakfast, drive to Alleppey—famed for its tranquil backwaters. Board your traditional Kerala houseboat and cruise through palm-lined canals and paddy fields. Relish authentic Kerala cuisine on board and watch life unfold along the riverbanks. Overnight on board the Houseboat.

Drive to Cochin

After breakfast, embark on a half-day tour of Cochin. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, and the Dutch Palace. Explore the vibrant Jew Town and the Paradesi Synagogue, steeped in history. In the evening, enjoy a mesmerizing Kathakali performance, showcasing Kerala’s classical dance-drama tradition. Overnight in Cochin.

Departure from Cochin

After breakfast, transfer to Cochin International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your memorable Karnataka–Kerala journey filled with royal heritage, hills, spice trails, and serene waters.

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