Extraordinary Kerala and Tamil Nadu
Cochin, Munnar, Madurai, Chettinad, Tanjore & PondicherryLeap headfirst into this epic trip through stunning Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Releasing your inner boho vibes you will be consumed by the splendor and aura of these mesmerising regions, staying in stylish, chic hideaways while taking in natural scenery and wildlife around you.
At a glance
Impressive, tasteful and laidback boutique retreats, where you will be pampered and relaxed throughout
Dive into the energetic bustle of Cochin and scramble through the vibrant markets
Delve deep into the jungle in search of an array of wildlife and plantations that occupy the Western Ghats
Expose the zesty flavors of South India and let your tastebuds tingle as you learn how to produce traditional local dishes through unrivaled culinary experiences
Journey highlights
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Impressive, tasteful and laidback boutique retreats, where you will be pampered and relaxed throughout
-
Dive into the energetic bustle of Cochin and scramble through the vibrant markets
-
Delve deep into the jungle in search of an array of wildlife and plantations that occupy the Western Ghats
-
Expose the zesty flavors of South India and let your tastebuds tingle as you learn how to produce traditional local dishes through unrivaled culinary experiences
- Extraordinary itinerary:Our Extraordinary Journeys offer unforgettable cutting-edge hotels, experiences and restaurants with a focus on design, fashion and innovation
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
The climate in southern India shows only slight seasonal variations. Temperatures and humidity remain relatively high all year round. Rainfall is common at any time of the year and the Monsoon Season has only marginally more precipitation than at any other time.
Itinerary
Cochin
Dive headfirst into the start of your awesome South Indian journey as you arrive in Cochin. Known as ‘the gateway to Kerala’, this eclectic influenced town rests on an intricate estuary and displays an unlikely blend of medieval Portugal, Holland and Chinese with an English village imbedded onto the tropical Malabar Coast.
You’ll have the opportunity to peel back every individual layer of this distinct region. Delve into the ebb and flow of Fort Cochin and discover India’s oldest European Church. Of the many bustling markets on offer here, we recommend visiting Emakulam Market. Hop on a ferry with your expert guide and scramble past the pulsating stalls that endure the buzziest place in Cochin. From delicate trinkets and vibrant clothing to aromatic spices and charismatic antique furniture, if you’re interested in art, textiles and shopping then this is for you. Haggling is a part of the whole market experience so try it with alight heart and you’ll be sure to walk away with a steal.
Time to head out and devour the delicious cuisine that Kerala is famed for. This cooking class is perfect for foodies wanting to get a true taste of Kochi traditions. Spend the morning or afternoon in a local home and observe how a variety of traditional plates are cooked and prepared by the lady of the house, before having a go at it yourself. From sinuous string hoppers and flavoursome fish-fry, to mild chicken curry, fragrant rice and sweet coconut pancakes, your tastebuds will be left tingling and stomach feeling full.
Kerala and Karnataka
Leaving the buzz of Cochin behind you, idyllic blissful prominences await you at the opulent Windemere Estate. Perfectly perched on a hilltop in the Western Ghats, you’ll feel a sense of calm wash over you as you’re met with 360-degree views of jaw-dropping scenery.
Of course, the main draw here is the emerald plush jungle and mesmeric landscapes. Venture deep into the wilderness of Periyar National Park and search for its legendary wildlife. Soak up the verdant vistas while the sun begins to set from the Vantage Viewpoint. Meander through emerald spice plantations with your expert guide and learn about the trade process from plant farming to shop shelves. Round off the day with a hot cup of chai and a delicious fried snack in Windemere’s welcoming ‘tea shack’. Built to reflect the spirit of the state’s community and abundance of teashops you’ll find on every corner in Kerala, this is the perfect place for you to chill after an enthused day of exploring.
Western Ghats, India
It’s time to move onto the luxurious Rajakkad Estate, your cosy haven for the next two nights. Hidden in the hills of Tamil Nadu, this secluded naturistic hideaway provides the perfect opportunity to switch off from the real world and completely lose yourself in nature. Deeply influenced by Keralan architecture, it’s a combination of simplicity and relaxation with a strict philosophy to cultivate an environment for good health. All rooms open onto quaint courtyards and there are plentiful places to kick back and relax dotted around the complex. Release your inner zen on the yoga platform perched upon a rocky escarpment in the garden, enclosed by a plush planting of flowers. Plunge into the swimming pool after a hike in the surrounding hills, or simply lounge in the hammock with an enticing good book.
Accommodation: Rajakkad Estate ( 2 nights )
Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
Feeling revitalised and refreshed from your hillside hideaway, drive eastwards to the charismatic city of Madurai. Staying two nights at The Gateway Hotel, you’ll be peacefully located on the top of Pasumalai Hill, boasting tremendous views of the Kodai Hills yet only a short drive from the flurry of city life. Sitting within acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and bursting with colonial flair, we recommend staying in one of the lavish Superior Rooms which feature large bay windows and offer supreme views of the city.
Jump into the diverse heart of the metropolis with your local guide and unveil a centre dominated by a medieval temple and an economy progressively driven by IT, all overlaid with the jostle, vitality and exhilaration of an immense Indian city. The jewel in Madurai’s crown is the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a dazzling maze-like structure ranking among India's greatest temples. Bursting with vitality, we will arrange for you to experience the unmissable ‘putting to bed’ ceremony which takes place in the evening. Watch in awe as the enthralling devotions and dances take place and be stunned by this striking affair of clamour and colour.
Chettinad
Luxury awaits. Moving onto the next leg of your journey, you’ll stay at the stunning Visalam, an amorously restored mansion situated in the heart of the Chettinad community. Known for its exceptional service and delicious cuisine, you will be utterly pampered during your stay.
Head into Chettinad, and with your private guide explore the local temples, bazaars and artesian workshops that pepper the villages here. Amble around the quirky mix of tile makers and cotton weavers, or whizz around the region on bike. Chettinad cuisine is one of the spiciest and the most fragrant in India, so we will arrange a private culinary experience with the Achai of the village for you to unearth the distinctive flavours and dishes that give Chettinad its edge.
Tanjore, India
For the next two nights you’ll have the indulging Svatma, which was designed to re-define luxury in Tanjore and raises the bar for hotels in the area. The bespoke nature of the hotel compels each room to be unique, effortlessly blending Tamil history, art, spirituality and traditional culture with uncompromised contemporary comforts. Take a moment to unwind and surrender yourself to the serene oasis of Svatma, through their ever-binding philosophy that good health is best achieved in harmony with nature. With a huge emphasis on wellness, the spa will feature heavily for most guests staying here. Incorporating traditional knowledge and ancient healing techniques, yoga and sound spa, we believe this to be one of the best spas in Southern India.
Accommodation: Svatma ( 2 nights )
Pondicherry
For the final part of your journey, you will head further south to Pondicherry, a French influenced town, home to bougainvillea-draped colonial-style townhouses, French-inspired shops and the renowned Sri Aurobindo Ashram.
Palais De Mah brings ultimate extravagance to this charming seafront, offering an elegant yet cosy stay, elite service and all in walking distance of the promenade seeking out the buzzing bars and eateries in town. Soak up the amorous tone of the French Quarter on a walking tour with your own private guide. Roam the quaint, warm streets ruled with yellow colonial buildings and learn about its unspoiled French legacy. Throw yourself into the entrancing mass prayer that takes place in the imperative Notre Dame des Anges and enjoy tasteful shopping as you roam the many chic boutiques.
Call us on 020 3993 8476 to start planning your holiday.
Price Guide: (per person based on double occupancy and includes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 2023 | GBP £5,800 | GBP £900 | plan your trip |
| October 2023 | GBP £6,900 | GBP £1,000 | plan your trip |
| November 2023 | GBP £6,900 | GBP £1,000 | plan your trip |
| December 2023 | GBP £6,900 | GBP £1,000 | plan your trip |
| January 2024 | GBP £6,900 | GBP £1,000 | plan your trip |
| February 2024 | GBP £6,900 | GBP £1,000 | plan your trip |
| March 2024 | GBP £6,900 | GBP £1,000 | plan your trip |
| April 2024 | GBP £5,800 | GBP £900 | plan your trip |
| May 2024 | GBP £5,800 | GBP £900 | plan your trip |
| June 2024 | GBP £5,800 | GBP £900 | plan your trip |
| July 2024 | GBP £5,800 | GBP £900 | plan your trip |
| August 2024 | GBP £5,800 | GBP £900 | plan your trip |
-
September 2023
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £5,800
Deposit from*GBP £900
-
October 2023
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £6,900
Deposit from*GBP £1,000
-
November 2023
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £6,900
Deposit from*GBP £1,000
-
December 2023
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £6,900
Deposit from*GBP £1,000
-
January 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £6,900
Deposit from*GBP £1,000
-
February 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £6,900
Deposit from*GBP £1,000
-
March 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £6,900
Deposit from*GBP £1,000
-
April 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £5,800
Deposit from*GBP £900
-
May 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £5,800
Deposit from*GBP £900
-
June 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £5,800
Deposit from*GBP £900
-
July 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £5,800
Deposit from*GBP £900
-
August 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £5,800
Deposit from*GBP £900
- plan your trip
Experiences included in this itinerary
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![Madurai]()
Read moreCity Tour Of Madurai
After an early breakfast head out to enjoy a tour of Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India and the second largest city in Tamil Nadu.
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![French Quarter]()
Read moreGuided tour of the French Quarter
Walk around the French Quarter with your guide and learn about this unique part of Pondicherry and how the French legacy is still preserved.
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![]()
Read moreWindermere Plantation Walk
Perfect after an afternoon of tea tasting you will enjoy an afternoon walk with the Windermere’s staff and learn about the importance of this spice in Indian cuisine as well as its health benefits.
Your Hotels
When to visit
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
The climate in southern India shows only slight seasonal variations. Temperatures and humidity remain relatively high all year round. Rainfall is common at any time of the year and the Monsoon Season has only marginally more precipitation than at any other time.
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itineraryis a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you. Call us on 020 3993 8476 to start planning your holiday.
Why Scott Dunn?
Unique to You
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- Global offices in the UK, US, and Singapore for 24/7 seamless service.
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Carefully Curated Collection
- We’ve curated an elevated collection of accommodation, experiences, and guides.
- Committed to fostering close global relationships to continue bringing you unique experiences.
Luxury in Every Sense
- We deliver a sense of luxury that matters most to you.
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