A taste of South India

Ornate arches of Mysore Palace.

Unfolding in layers of green, gold and spice, this richly textured region reveals itself through lush landscapes, gilded palaces and deeply rooted culinary traditions. Our journey begins in the vibrant city of Bangalore, where we wander through the historic Lalbagh Botanical Gardens. Established in 1760, the gardens are home to an extraordinary collection of tropical plants, flowering trees and a striking glasshouse inspired by London’s own Crystal Palace. In Mysore, a city known for its gentle climate and regal charm, we explore the magnificent Palace and its manicured gardens. Nearby, the flower

markets burst with colour and energy, where nimble hands weave intricate garlands – especially vibrant during wedding season. Just beyond the city lies the exquisite 18th-century teak palace of Daria Daulat Bagh, once home to Tipu Sultan, the ‘Tiger of Mysore’. 

3 MUST DOS

 

1. Float away on a rice boat, cruising the many waterways of Kumakarom and observe the rhythm of village life as we glide by. A delicious lunch will likely be served on a banana leaf.

2. Spend an evening at a performance of Kathkali dance in Kochi. Best to arrive early to experience the fascinating preparations of the dancers, as they transform their faces with traditional makeup. Later we’ll watch their enchanting performance.

3. Ascend to the misty Nilgiri Hills and stay at Ooty’s Taj Savoy, the charming old schoolhouse. Relax in the cool serenity of this town, once a British outpost. Visit the Botanical Gardens, laid out in 1848, then ride the historic toy train down to Coonoor.

Drifting through tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom.

Vibrant spices at the Munnar markets.

Ceremonial elephants in vibrant adornment.

Rolling green vistas of Munnar tea hills.

 

From here, the landscape shifts as we venture into Nagarhole National Park. Early morning boat safaris and evening jeep drives offer the chance to spot elephants, tigers, leopards and an array of birdlife, before retreating to the calm of our forest lodge. Kochi reveals a different side of Southern India – an atmospheric port shaped by centuries of global influence. Portuguese, Dutch, Chinese and British legacies are woven into its streets, spice. warehouses and markets. Along the waterfront, the iconic Chinese fishing nets stretch out into the Arabian Sea, while in Fort Kochi, ancient rain trees cast cooling shade over quiet lanes.

"From wild safaris to tranquil backwaters, South India unfolds in rich and unforgettable ways at every turn"

Kerala’s cuisine is as memorable as its scenery. Here, coconut-rich dishes and fragrant spices take centre stage, and we experience it firsthand during an intimate cooking demonstration with a local family. In the cool hills of Munnar, rolling tea plantations stretch across the landscape, offering a slower rhyth of life. We also visit the Srishti Trust, where young artisans are taught traditional batik and block printing – an opportunity to connect with the region’s creative heritage. Our journey continues at Philipkutty’s sustainable farm, where we gain insight into local agriculture before unwinding at a serene backwater resort in Kumarakom – an ideal place for you to pause, reflect and simply take in the beauty of Southern India.

 

In Nagarhole National Park, tigers roam the forested wilderness.

 

Traditional Chinese fishing nets line the shores of Kochi.

 

Sunset settles over the rolling tea hills of Munnar. 

Come with us!

From vibrant Bangalore and regal Mysore to Kabini, the misty hills of Ooty and Munnar and the backwaters of Kumarakom and Kochi – experience the rich tapestry of South India. Join us 8–24 February 2027.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

or to book, call 1300 233 200 or visit rosstours.com