South India

Birdwatchers come to Kabini forest reserve in droves, some armed with powerful cameras, as they try to identify and record the various bird species that call this place home. Over 350 species of birds have been identified around this pristine riverine landscape. Some of the birds that can be viewed around the lake include grey-headed fish eagles and ospreys.

Flocked by people from all around the world looking for spirituality and "Union with the One", Auroville is the heart and soul of the city of Pondicherry.

This 3 and a half hour activity where you will get to explore Auroville is one of the most unique and exciting experiences here.

Residing in a houseboat (Backwater cruise) and sailing through the quaint and charming backwaters is one of the best things to do in Kumarakom. The jaw-dropping backdrop, lush green plantations along the banks, and gorgeous Vembanad Lake (formed by convergence of 10 Malabar Rivers) pulls plenty of tourists to rent a houseboat and voyage in it.

Perfect for wildlife-viewing, bamboo rafting through the forests of Periyar Tiger Reserve is a thrilling experience. A trek starting at 8 am till the boat landing point, followed by a 3-hour rafting trip is bound to leave you on a high!

Crowded markets, narrow lanes, chaotic traffic, and noisy hawkers!Majestic buildings, fascinating history, vivid colours and mesmerizing images.

What do buildings tell you about a city? Quite a lot, if you only lent an ear to their stories. The British left behind a rich legacy – their language, their bureaucracy, their education system and their buildings. And these monuments are a window into Chennai’s past.

No place can give you a glimpse of Hyderabadi life like the Charminar area can. It is a brilliant mosaic of history, culture, modernity, crafts, business and old world charm -­‐ a perfect slice of this city's life. Walk through Laad Bazar and get dazzled by the shiny lac bangles that Hyderabad is known for, take the by-­‐lanes and meet the craftsmen who create ‘bling’, one at a time.

In this tour we will be tracing Bangalore’s colonial connections and getting to know how the events that have taken place in our backyard has had far reaching consequences, on shaping Bangalore today.

Can you get high on green grass? Care to get sloshed in a paddy field? Is birdsong your idea of great music? Do chicks of the feathered variety turn you on? Then how does the idea of a day spent discovering the charms of Chennai’s countryside sound to you?

Alleppey is gifted with a unique crisscrossing network of canals that runs throughout the town which allows you to access and explore the entire area while you're relaxing on your houseboat.

Saddle up, as we head out on an early morning tour when the city is waking up to life and the streets are still devoid of traffic. Get a peek into the different communities and have some chai with the locals. Take in the city at your own pace as we ride past some lovely colonial structures and get to know the stories behind them.

Dance – the most expressive way of telling a story. And dance, in every region, tells the story of its people.

If you are a foodie at heart, Kumarakom will not disappoint you. Tempting Kerala cuisine will certainly entice the soul and would spoil your taste buds for good.

The region is home to some exquisite arts and crafts, including the famous Tanjore paintings that usually depict Hindu gods, goddesses and saints and are embellished with gold foil and inlay of semi-precious stones. Watch artists create these iconic paintings on shops on South Street, or visit one of the dealers who works from home.

Mysore Pak, Mysore Masala Dosa, Mysore Churumuri the list goes on with gastronomical delights from the city. If you are a foodie then Mysore spoils you with its wide variety options. Now who doesn’t enjoy some good food especially when there is so much out there to choose from. And mind you, we take all matters related to food quite seriously!

Alleppey is not just the place popular for beaches, temples, shops, churches or other tourist spots. Rather it is one of the tourist destinations that can offer some delicious food items. Many tourists have liked and appreciated the quality of food served in the fine dining as well as the street food of Alleppey.

Madurai is seriously ancient. Its recorded history goes back as far as the 3rd century BC. And from then to now, it seems to have been populated by gourmands. There are written recipes dating back to the time when Jesus walked on earth, and which are followed till date.

Pav bhaji, pal kova, thattu idli and murukku sandwich – words that can make any foodie drool. How would you like these served with a fistful of spicy stories? Stories of people and their passion for food, of food fetishes that are as laughable as thought provoking, and of recipes that are jealously guarded secrets.

The main range of Nagarhole National Park is just a km away from Kabini reserve. Kabini is part of a larger protected wilderness area which includes Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. The Nagarhole River is the lifeline of the region and meets the Kabini River to form an extensive riverine area.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a small piece of heaven for nature lovers and bird watchers. Located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, this preservation ground is a habitat to plenty of common as well as endangered species of residential and migratory birds. These include Siberian Cranes, Parrots, Herons, Owls, Egrets, Darters, and Waterfowls.

This is for those who prefer to experience the Fort with a difference; away from the hustle bustle of tourists. Built in the latter half of the 17th century, the Naya Qila is the extension of the already existing structures of the Golkonda Fort and provided an added resistance to the attacks by Aurangazeb’s army in 1687.

The peaceful glory of Kumarakom is enjoyed best by soothening of senses and relaxation of mind, body, and soul. With a plethora of Ayurvedic massages, Kumarakom is conceivably the idyllic rejuvenation destination.

Jew Town, a narrow street between Mattancherry Palace and the Synagogue, is a favourite haunt of antique hunters. Some of the most pristine and historically relevant artefacts of our times have been unearthed by our visitors here. While a huge bronze vessel catches your eye first, each of the shops here contains beautiful items with quirky and interesting stories.

A piece of jewellery is an indication of your personal taste, but could it also be a vehicle to advertise your caste, religion, region, economic status and marital status?

This is an ancient traditional fighting system that originated in Kerala. The word “kalari” means battlefield and “payattu” refers to “become trained” or “to practice”. Thus traditionally people practising this art form were those who were trained for the battlefield.  It is considered by some to be the oldest martial art still in existence.

One of the major highlights of Kochi has to be the most iconic of all the dance forms in Kerala, a Kathakali performance. When going for Kathakali dance performance, visit 2 hours before the performance and see how they apply the elaborate makeup.

Trivandrum. The Endless City; Home to the royalty of Travancore; The Fabled City of Gold

Powerful queens and pious saints, haunted forts and blessed ponds, ghosts and ghastly nobles, great victory and despicable betrayal – it’s all a part of the glorious history of Trivandrum.

An early morning cycle ride in Fort Kochi where you get to see the city wake up. Join the locals for a hot brimming cup of tea as they start the day. Catch all the action with the hustle bustle in the fish market. Get a peek to the varied and diverse communities from faraway lands who have made Fort Kochi their home.

17 km from Thiruvananthapuram City, is a world famous beach, noted being one of the finest. There are 2 large beaches and highly safe for swimming. A visit to Kovalam is must for Trivandrum.

Mysore is famous for silk sarees (Mysore Silk), sandalwood carvings and the many varieties of perfumed incense sticks. Mysore's market places can be a good place to start, like Ashoka Road, Sayyaji Rao Road and for a mix of Western and Indian traditional shopping head to Devaraj Urs Road.

What lies beneath a temple tower? So you think you are in control of your destiny? What transforms a piece of ordinary rock into a venerable deity?

Nature walking and leisurely strolls along the lakeside while enjoying the mesmerizing backwater landscape is a perfect treat for the mind and soul; and one of the best things to do in Kumarakom. The lush green plantations, blue lake water, picture-perfect rural landscape and chirping of birds intoxicates the mind completely.

Guided day tours are the best way to explore Thekkady’s abundant nature. You can even enjoy a picnic in the picturesque land of Pandikuzhi or by the waterfalls at Chellarkovil.

Nature walks are a fun activity in Kabini reserve where guests are accompanied by experts of the terrain. There are bicycle trails for some fun on two wheels. An interaction with some of the locals in nearby tribal villages adds a cultural flavour to this experience. Evening campfires set the stage for unforgettable memories of an unforgettable trip.

The boat rides on the calm waters of the lake provide a different and unique perspective of the forest. Visitors can marvel at the different avian species that nest around the waterways. Freshwater crocodiles can be seen sliding in and out of the water on the banks, basking in sun.

Madurai is a flourishing market town since at least the 2nd century BC, the centre of power for many dynasties and a seat of divinity from time immemorial.

Ever wondered why there are so many Gods in India? Or what the stars have to do with your future?

There are many stories hidden away in the mundane rituals of daily life. And as you walk through Mylapore, you’ll discover that every sight you behold has a story to tell.

Home to tea, coffee and pepper plantations, Vandiperiyar is one of the most popular places to visit. If you have time, head to Abraham’s Spice Garden (15 kilometres from Thekkady) and learn about spice cultivation and Ayurveda.

At first glance, it is the archetypal Indian village – sun burned and sleepy. But walk in, and you can’t help but spot the dolls, of all sizes and in various stages of making.

Ayurveda is not just a time-honoured medical science in Kerala. It’s a tradition, it’s a lifestyle and it’s a pivotal component that adds to the character of Kerala. The ancient philosophies of Ayurveda have travelled through thousands of years, introducing people to its remedial effect along the way.

The quietude that one experience during a dive is unlike any other. The minute you break the surface of the water and descend further down, the silence envelops you. Gear up for an at least once in your lifetime experience. Once started you will spend the best time of your life exploring the stunning underwater world.

To a casual onlooker there are two Indias – the North and the South. But look deeper and each region and each community in the South comes with a very distinct set of customs, quirks and ways of life.

Cardamom, coriander, turmeric, ginger, tamarind, asafoetida… the stars of Indian cuisine are many, and each has a unique personality that it lends unabashedly to every preparation.

The spice trail is an exploratory journey through Indian cuisine.

Cardamom, coriander, turmeric, ginger, tamarind, asafoetida… the stars of Indian cuisine are many, and each has a unique personality that it lends unabashedly to every preparation.

The spice trail is an exploratory journey through Indian cuisine.

Sunset is a time when the sky is painted in vibrant colors, lending an ethereal touch to nature. Backwaters in Kochi have been specially constructed for the leisure of the people. This promenade is the haunt of many people, who sit on the various benches provided and enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Taste food meant for the Gods – The true essence of south Indian food, eaten the way old school Bangaloreans still do! Of course, staying true to ‘luru style/Bangalore style, there has to be options with some interesting twists on old classics as well. A great way to spend your Saturday evening, like a true South Bangalorean!

The cuisine of India is famous for the variety that it offers. Influences of the various dynasties that ruled this country and use of the local ingredients and spices have created a spectacular cuisine in each part of the country. The same is true even of Hyderabad which borrowed heavily from the Persians and Mughals, added the local flavours and evolved a distinctive cuisine.

There is a hidden heritage of every city and this is very true in the case of Hyderabad where modern buildings and structures have super‐imposed themselves on the architectural past of the city. But a walk in some of the bye-­‐lanes of the Old City will reveal a slice of the magnificent past that was Hyderabad.

Pondicherry, being a former French Colony, has a number of great monuments and brilliant pieces of architecture spread across the town. This walking tour of the region is a great way to explore the heritage and architectural beauty of the region.

Every city has the North-South divide- South Bombay, South Delhi, South Boston and South London. This here is a deep dive to find out the story behind South Bangalore - The SoBa Walk. Join us as we explore one of the old neighbourhoods of Bangalore, the age old intellectual centre of the city and spend time where the city’s rich and the famous used to hang out.

A walk across Fort Kochi where you will discover the real beauty of this place and get to know why for millennia this place has attracted travelers from around the world. Get to know about the explorers and their fascinating journeys that they undertook to reach this coastline. Understand how trade has influenced not just the culture of this place but also the local cuisine.

This detour traces the late 18th century tragic love story of James Kirkpatrick, the British Resident and Khair-un‐Nissa, a Muslim noblewoman.

Thekkady is known to be a trekker’s paradise. Gear up for a day of adventure in the hills or trekking trails near Thekkady such as Kurisamala to Kumily and Kumily to Pandikuzhi.

In case you want to go local and do something totally offbeat, which most tourists don’t do then go to Fish market near Chinese Fishing nets.

The fisherman catches the fishes all day in the Arabian sea near Kochi. They return to shore with a fresh catch around evening.

Tanjore is a great place to pick up the traditional Tanjore dolls, with their bobbing heads—the area around the Punainallur Mariamman Temple has many small shops. Stock up on authentic Tanjore paintings embellished with semi-precious stones and gold foil. Another thing to pick up is bronze statues of gods and goddesses.

Coffee Plantations on Ananthagiri Hills are a must visit. Miles and miles of coffee plantations await you in the mesmerizing hills of Ananthagiri, which begin as soon as you enter the Araku Valley. The smell of coffee leaves is spread through the entire valley rejuvenating your senses.  The plantations are deeply rooted in the history of the tribes of the Araku Valley.

Located 65 Km from Araku Valley, Kunduli is home to the Paraj, Rana and Maja tribes. Kunduli organizing a very interesting market where trading can be seen in a large scale. The tribes are seen selling bangles, drums, homemade alcohol, cattle, goats and tribal jewelry here. The market commences on each Friday here and is visited by several tribes from neighbouring villages also.

This bazaar is facing the Virupaksha temple and hence is also known as the Virupaksha Bazaar.

Various artifacts are available here including antique coins, shawls, bags etc. Most tourists purchase souvenirs here.

Mattancherry, the western part of Kochi, was once a bustling centre of trade. Invasions from across the sea were frequent and the invaders left unforgettable marks on the landscape, culture, art and social history of the place. Mattancherry has welcomed every migrant community that came to her shore with warmth and provided them with abundant opportunities to thrive.

Kerala is a land of colorful culture and vibrant traditions. Kathakali – the traditional dance form – is an integral part of the Kerala culture and is practiced across the state. The bold dance form, its dynamic mudras, diverse facial expressions, and the charismatic accompanying rhythm make the ambiance magical and mythical.

There is no better way to immerse oneself in the wilderness than a wildlife safari. Safaris are conducted twice a day in Kabini, as you enter the forests on designated routes. Early morning safaris are the best time to witness most of the animals of the reserve, who step out for water and food before the temperatures rise. Evening safaris are considered a good time to spot the spots, i.e.

Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race is a famous sport, which is attended by thousands of people, both tourists, and locals every year. The people of Kerala eagerly await this competition and preparations begin well in advance for the same. During this time, the otherwise calm and serene lake transforms into a battleground with boatmen from different villages competing for the prestigious trophy.

Situated 9.8 kilometers from Athirapally waterfalls, Illithode is every nature lover’s ecstasy. This is the best eco-tourist spot for travellers who love adventure, bird watching, nature walking and photography. This exquisite place is bordered with giant lush green trees artistically interwoven with each other.

The safari takes you on a 90 km tour across the Sholayar range through the rainforests of Kerala. The prominent attractions covered are Kauthuka Park, Thumboormuzhy Dam, Butterfly garden, Vazhachal falls, Athirapally falls, hills, valleys, rainforest full of resident wildlife, birds and tea gardens.

The handicraft products, sea-shell items, decorative pieces and dress materials make for a vibrant experience and some great souvenirs to take back home. Kanyakumari beaches offers various seashell items including trinkets and souvenirs and there are small shops that sell decorative pieces made from bamboo, cane and wood.

One of several working local tea factories open to the public, Lockhart dates from 1879 and sits 10km southeast of Munnar. Guided factory tours explain modern tea processing from picking to export. There's also a small museum, plus gardens and tastings.

The enchanting rain shadow village of Marayoor is home to naturally fragrant sandalwood forests. It is about 40 Km run from Munnar and lies on the eastern side of Western Ghats. It is unexplored, untouched and incredibly pristine. On either way to the Marayoor Sandalwood Forests, you will see numerous waterfalls.

Sholayar Dam is located 53.3 kilometers from Athirapally waterfalls. The Sholayar Dam is stretched at a distance of 20 kilometers, making it the second-largest and biggest rock dam in Asia. The gigantic structure with its alluring scenic beauty is counted among the few famous places to visit near Athirapally waterfalls.

Located inside the Eravikulam National Park is the Anamudi Peak. This is the highest peak in South India; standing at a height of over 2700 m. Treks to the peak are allowed with permission from the Forest and Wildlife authorities at Eravikulam.

The precarious yet thrilling pathways up to the falls are a treat for mountaineers who are looking for a quick adventure. The trek routes are very well maintained and you get to savour a spectacular view of the falls thoughout.