India: Hidden Gems of the South

Arrive in Kochi and transfer to the Forte Kochi for a 2-night stay. In the afternoon enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance. The performances are based on the three major Hindu epics, acted out with elaborate hand gestures, facial expressions and choreographed movements. (B)

Explore Fort Kochi and the Mattancherry Palace. A stroll through the port city will allow you to immediately observe the influence that Portuguese, Dutch and British colonisation has had on the architecture of the buildings. Mattancherry Palace features some of Kerala's finest paintings. (B)

Travel into the Cardamom Hills for a 2-night stay at Windermere Estate. (B)

Guided walk of the Windermere Estate. A guided walk through the estate allows you to experience the impressive mountains and the extraordinary flora and fauna it has to offer. The walk is 4 km long and the normal duration is around two hours. (B)

Transfer to Coco Lagoon for a 2-night stay. (B)

Excursions in the local area include following the Cotton Trail, visiting the Temple of Consciousness - centre of yoga practice inspired by the Yogic Vethathiri Maharishi, or the rolling scenic hills of Valparai. (B)

Explore the rubber and teak plantations at Nilambur and learn about the importance of both for the region's economic stability. Nilambur is home to the oldest teak plantation in the world. Overnight stay at Maranat Mana - a traditional Brahmin household. (B, L, D)

Travel to Kerala's green paradise for 2 nights at Tranquil - A Plantation Hideaway. The property is set amongst 400 acres of picturesque coffee and vanilla plantation and complete with numerous walking. (B)

Day at leisure to enjoy the Hideaway's facilities. (B)

Delve deeper into the Western Ghats with 2 nights at Evolve Back, Coorg. Kodagu is located in a beautiful hill region most of which is between 3,000 and 4,000 feet high. (B)

Visit Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement, which is the largest Tibetan settlement in south India, and the second largest outside Tibet. Enjoy a coracle ride on River Cauvery or take part in a variety of nature and village walks. (B)

Travel to Kasargod for 3 nights at the Neeleshwar Hermitage. (B)

Days at leisure. (B)