Extraordinary Kerala and Tamil Nadu

Cochin, Munnar, Madurai, Chettinad, Tanjore & Pondicherry
14 nights private tour from GBP £5,500 per person

Leap headfirst into our luxury escorted tour of India that takes you through Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Releasing your inner boho vibes, you'll be consumed by the splendour and aura of these mesmerising regions, staying in stylish hideaways while taking in natural scenery and wildlife around you. Unrivalled culinary experiences and pampering await.

Extraordinary Kerala and Tamil Nadu
Journey highlights
  • 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

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Best time to visit
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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

Day 1-3

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. 

Accommodation: Old Harbour Hotel ( 2 nights )
Day 3-5

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 )
Day 5-7

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.

Accommodation: The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai, Madurai ( 2 nights )
Day 7-9

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.  

Accommodation: Visalam ( 2 nights )
Day 9-11

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 )
Day 11-13

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. 

Accommodation: Palais de Mahe ( 2 nights )
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itinerary is a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you.
Call us on 020 3468 1971 to start planning your holiday.

Price Guide: (per person based on double occupancy and includes international flights)

Departing 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.
Deposit from * Enquire
March 2024 GBP £6,400 GBP £1,000 plan your trip
April 2024 GBP £5,500 GBP £800 plan your trip
May 2024 GBP £5,500 GBP £800 plan your trip
June 2024 GBP £5,500 GBP £800 plan your trip
July 2024 GBP £5,500 GBP £800 plan your trip
August 2024 GBP £5,500 GBP £800 plan your trip
September 2024 GBP £5,500 GBP £800 plan your trip
October 2024 GBP £6,400 GBP £1,000 plan your trip
November 2024 GBP £6,400 GBP £1,000 plan your trip
December 2024 GBP £6,400 GBP £1,000 plan your trip
January 2025 GBP £6,400 GBP £1,000 plan your trip
February 2025 GBP £6,400 GBP £1,000 plan your trip
  • 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 £6,400
    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 £5,500
    Deposit from*
    GBP £800
  • 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 £5,500
    Deposit from*
    GBP £800
  • 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 £5,500
    Deposit from*
    GBP £800
  • 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 £5,500
    Deposit from*
    GBP £800
  • 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 £5,500
    Deposit from*
    GBP £800
  • September 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 £5,500
    Deposit from*
    GBP £800
  • October 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 £6,400
    Deposit from*
    GBP £1,000
  • November 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 £6,400
    Deposit from*
    GBP £1,000
  • December 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 £6,400
    Deposit from*
    GBP £1,000
  • January 2025
    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 £6,400
    Deposit from*
    GBP £1,000
  • February 2025
    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 £6,400
    Deposit from*
    GBP £1,000
  • plan your trip

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