Treasures of South India
Exquisite Temples and Tropical Landscapes
Trip Details at-a-Glance
| Cost From: | $7295 see pricing |
|---|---|
| Length: | 14 days |
| Arrive: | Cochin, India |
| Depart: | Chennai (Madras), India |
| Lodging: | 12 nights first-class hotels, 1 night aboard private houseboat describe |
| Meals: | All meals included |
| Activity: | Walking, Archaeology, Cultural Adventures |
| Trip Level: |
Overland travel with walking tours, cultural explorations
|
Highlights
- Ancient trading port of Cochin on the Arabian Sea
- Private deluxe traditional houseboat with an on-board chef
- Madurai’s colossal temple, French colonial Pondicherry by the sea
- Pilgrim town of Kanchipuram, World Heritage temples at Mamallapuram
- South India’s diverse and savory cuisine from curries to dosas
An extremely well thought out and well executed itinerary and the best Trip Leader I’ve ever had.William N.—Long Beach, CA
Choosing the Right Trip
We work hard to help you choose the right trip for you, paying attention to your individual interests, abilities, and needs. If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please contact us.
Email Area Manager
References
We are proud to have an exceptionally high rate of repeat travelers. For more information, we would be happy to put you in touch with a client who has traveled with us.
Email Area ManagerDeparture Notes
Once you have signed up on the trip, we send a complete packing list, relevant health information, and required travel documents.
Resources
Ancient spice ports, Shaivite priests with painted faces, temple elephants, coconut-infused curries, elaborate dance forms—what a colorful world southern India is! We discover the south’s distinctive flavors in the lanes of Cochin, once the port of entry for spice traders on the Malabar Coast, and aboard private houseboats in enchanting tropical Kerala, watching the pageant of riverside life. In Tamil Nadu, we explore a virtual outdoor museum of sacred architecture in tranquil villages where astounding temples and gigantic gopuras (gateway towers) soar above palm forests and paddy fields. Our visits to the French colony of Pondicherry, pilgrim town of Kanchipuram, and rock-cut seaside temples at Mamallapuram also capture the intoxicating energy and abundance of South India.
Itinerary at a Glance
For a more complete description, Download Full Detailed Itinerary
Days 1-2
Cochin
Intriguing Cochin in tropical Kerala has a stunning location along the Arabian Sea and a long history as a trading city. Our walks around Fort Cochin and Mattancherry reveal the legacies of Cochin’s European past, from fine British mansions and Dutch cottages to a 16th century synagogue.
Days 3-4
Kerala Houseboats / Periyar
Gliding by private houseboat, we travel serene waterways between the sea and the hills of Cochin to encounter Kerala’s picturesque rural life, where locals fish from longboats and work their fields with water buffalo. We may even pass some school boats (no school buses here). The next day we journey through tea, spice, and rubber plantations to Periyar in the Cardamom Hills.
Days 5-6
Madurai
Madurai is a lively metropolis with a 2,000-year-long history. The city is dominated by the fortress-like Shri Meenakshi-Sundareshwarar temple, breathtakingly baroque with its profusion of gods, goddesses, rearing horses, and mythical figures. The temple’s towering gopuras are visible for miles around. We immerse ourselves in the temple scene, with its ongoing weddings and prostrations of devotees at innumerable shrines.
Days 7-9
Karaikudi / Kumbakonam / Thanjavur
We explore village to village across a landscape of paddy fields and coconut palms, discovering Chettinard mansions and ancient wayside temples. We visit bustling Karaikudi, known for its antique shops and hand-painted tilework, Kumbakonam, home of the 17th century Kubareshwara Temple, which towers over the town, and famed Thanjavur, a center for art and music, with its colossal shrine tower of the Brihadishwara Temple, a World Heritage Site.
Day 10
Pondicherry
We enjoy a walking tour in Pondicherry, the former capital of French India, picturesque with its seaside French Quarter promenade and richly ornamented Catholic churches.
Days 11-14
Mamallapuram / Kanchipuram / Chennai
From our beachside accommodation, we marvel at Mamallapuram, a World Heritage Site of extraordinary rock-cut temples by the sea, and visit the fascinating pilgrim town and sari-weaving center of Kanchipuram. After a visit to Chennai (Madras) on Day 13, depart on Day 14.
For a more complete description, Download Full Detailed Itinerary
Optional Extensions
If you would like to continue your adventure, we offer the following extensions:
- Taj Mahal and Jaipur Extension (4 days)
- Varanasi and Khajuraho Extension (4 days)
- Kanha National Park Extension (5 days)
What the Trip is Like
This trip is rated Level 1+, easy. It is a vehicle-based cultural and natural history adventure. Accommodations are in hotels and lodges. Although this is not a difficult trip, please remember that overland travel in India can be an adventure. The essential requirements are flexibility, a sense of humor, curiosity, enthusiasm about new peoples and places, and an openness to the unexpected.
Departures & Leaders
Jan 8-21, 2014 Hashmat Singh
Jan 26-Feb 8, 2014
Jan 8-21, 2015
Jan 26-Feb 8, 2015
Trip Cost
Prices valid through Spring 2014
$7295 (13-16 members)
$7595 (10-12 members)
$7995 (7-9 members)
Single supplement: $2175
Forced single supplement: $2175
more on pricing
Extension Costs
Taj Mahal and Jaipur Extension
from: $2495
Varanasi and Khajuraho Extension
from: $1295
Kanha National Park Extension
from: $2195
Trip Cost Includes:
- Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
- Accommodations
- All meals included
- Sightseeing as noted in the Full Trip Brochure
- Land and boat transportation
- Airport transfers for passengers arriving Day 1 and departing Day 14
- Baggage handling
Trip Cost Does Not Include:
International airfare to and from India or flights within India, individual airport transfers, airport departure taxes, any meals not specified after each itinerary day in the Full Trip Brochure, optional gratuities to leaders and staff, additional hotel nights made necessary by airline schedule changes or other factors, expenses such as immunizations (if any), travel insurance, and other items of a personal nature (alcoholic beverages, laundry, bottled water, etc.).Brunton Boatyard
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights), Cochin, India
Set by the water's edge in Fort Cochin, the Brunton Boatyard is a 19th century shipyard that was converted into a charming 22-room hotel that ...
Click here for full description and more photos
Traditional Houseboat
Day 3 (1 night), Alleppey, India
The beautiful houseboats of Kerala, called kettuvallams, were once used to transport rice, spices, and other goods to the port of Cochin. ...
Click here for full description and more photos
Elephant Court
Day 4 (1 night), Periyar, India
Set in a lush, hilly landscape near Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Elephant Court is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, with its grounds full of ...
Click here for full description and more photos
Gateway Hotel Pasumalai
Days 5 to 6 (2 nights), Madurai, India
This restored colonial home, with its unique hilltop location overlooking the temple city of Madurai, is full of character and charm. Built atop ...
Click here for full description and more photos
Bangala Hotel
Day 7 (1 night), Karaikudi, India
The Bangala is a family-run heritage hotel in Karaikudi, the main town in Chettinard country. It has been in the same family for 100 years and was ...
Click here for full description and more photos
Mantra Veppathur
Days 8 to 9 (2 nights), Kumbakonam, India
This eco-friendly hotel is spread over landscaped acres along the banks of the Veera Chozha River. It has comfortable air-conditioned guest ...
Click here for full description and more photos
Hotel de L'Orient
Day 10 (1 night), Pondicherry, India
The Hotel de L’Orient is a heritage building in the heart of Pondicherry's French district. A restored mansion, it has the feel of ...
Click here for full description and more photos
Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay
Days 11 to 12 (2 nights), Mamallapuram, India
Spread across 46 acres along a stretch of private beach, this resort complex has spacious, well-kept rooms, either beachside or poolside, as ...
Click here for full description and more photos
Taj Coromandel
Day 13 (1 night), Chennai, India
The Taj Coromandel, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, is located in the heart of Chennai’s business district. Guest rooms are large ...
Click here for full description and more photos
Extension Accommodations
If you would like to view the accommodations offered with our extensions options:
- Taj Mahal and Jaipur Extension (4 days)
- Varanasi and Khajuraho Extension (4 days)
- Kanha National Park Extension (5 days)
Note: Listed above are our signature accommodations for this trip. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.
Hashmat Singh
Hashmat Singh has led over 100 journeys on three continents for us since 1990. He holds a BA in History from Delhi University and is a noted photographer. His book, Trekking in the Himalaya (Roli Books), features photographic essays from Ladakh to Bhutan. Born an army brat, Hashmat traveled extensively as his father was posted in various remote regions of India. His first big Himalayan trek was at age 12, with his school group, and during college, he headed into the Himalaya to take mountaineering courses. “Big mountains of the world, whether they are in the Himalaya, Alps, or the Andes, hold a special fascination for me, as do the people living amongst them, holding on to their ancient cultures in a world where everything is rapidly changing.” A passionate traveler, Hashmat has been instrumental in designing new adventures for us throughout Asia. The profession of Trip Leader combines several of his interests—hiking, exploring the mountains, photography, and meeting new people. Hashmat lives in Delhi with his wife and two children.
Upcoming Trips:
Journey to Ladakh, June 3-16, 2013
Journey to Ladakh, July 9-22, 2013
Ladakh: The Tso Moriri Trek, August 4-22, 2013
Royal Rajasthan - Pushkar Fair, November 6-18, 2013
Treasures of South India, January 8-21, 2014
Tribal India, February 2014
Client Testimonials:
This is my fifth trip with Hashmat. He is affable and unflappable.Lisa C., Seattle WA
Hashmat was terrific. He is so knowledgeable and proud of his country. He made India come alive for all of us. We loved his enthusiasm and encouragement.Barbara C., Toronto, Canada
This is our second trip with Hashmat–he’s a great leader.Betty R., Lexington MA
Royal Rajasthan
This is my fourth WT trip and second with Hashmat. He is the best!Matthew H., Ukiah CA
Treasures of South India
Again, Wilderness Travel exceeded my expectations! Hashmat and Ang Tsering took extra care to locate beautiful, quiet, set-apart campsites off the main trail.Amy S., Denver CO
Ultimate Evereset
We couldn’t have asked for a better trip leader than Hashmat Singh. This trip raised our standards to a new high!Ann and Fred S., Wyoming OH
Royal Rajasthan
Hashmat is simply the best!Mary C. Farnsworth, Fort Mills SC
Royal Rajasthan
I can’t tell you how comfortable I feel traveling with Hashmat. The experiences he provided for us were unforgettable.Melinda M., Berkeley CA
Treasures of South India
As always Hashmat organized a rich and full trip experience. Not only was he, as usual, an incredibly well organized and knowledgeable leader, but added to our experience by keeping away from the usual tourist crowds and arranging special events to entertain, relax, and teach us. He remains an ideal leader who deserves his superb reputation.Michel and Deborah W.
Hidden Rajasthan
Hashmat Singh is without question the best leader, hiker, and friend any WT client could hope to have. His enthusiasm and curiosity is contagious.Stephanie B., Cambridge, MA
Hashmat Singh’s knowledge, experience, and professionalism are of the highest order.Philip and Sally M., Wersham, Wrexham
Hashmat Singh is a remarkably effective leader. I think I have joined the Hashmat Fan Club.John N., Monarch Beach, CA
Hashmat is always on task, behind the scenes as well as during events.Nancy W., Prescott AZ
Himalayan Mountain Kingdoms Photo Expedition
What can I say? He’s the best!Fulton W., Prescott AZ
Himalayan Mountain Kingdoms Photo Expedition
I understand why Hashmat has a committed group of fans who will follow him anywhere, who choose trips according to his leadership. He is knowledgeable, passionate, wonderful.Andrea L., Brooklyn NY
Annapurna Adventure
Hashmat is simply the best. Knowledge, communication, attention to detail, adding special experiences, and he’s a really fun person to be with.William N., Long Beach CA
Treasures of South India
I cannot imagine a better guide...always helpful and knowledgeable about the history and culture of the trip!Craig K., Sewickley, PA
Royal Rajasthan - Pushkar Fair
Hashmat is an inspiring trip leader, extremely knowledgeable, both in terms of cultural and historical aspects and the area traveled, and very supportive of staff and trekkers. It was a real privilege to trek with him and I hope I have the opportunity to do so again.Henry P., Boston, MA
Around Manaslu
Hashmat is truly one of your 'stars!'Jeff P., Paradise Valley, AZ
Hidden Kingdom of Mustang
Hash is a terrific guide in every way, the consummate professional, concerned with individual's needs. His passion for India is palpable and contagious, and his leadership is an integral part of what makes this trip so special.Kristin E., Morristown, NJ
Royal Rajasthan - Nagaur Fair
Wow—best trip leader I've ever encountered! Always personable, informative, organized yet spontaneous, thorough, pro-active. A real treasure.Elizabeth L., Santa Barbara, CA
Royal Rajasthan - Nagaur Fair
Eleven trips with Hashmat so far. What more is there to say?Jack H., Cockeysville, MD
Hiking the Haute Route
Once again Hashmat knocked one out of the park! So many wonderful sights and new experiences all brought to life with his brilliant leadership. Can hardly wait to travel with him again.Peter F., Cambria, CA
Sikkim, Darjeeling and Bhutan
This man is an amazing treasure! He made the trip so memorable, and made us crave more.Abbe L., Melbourne Beach, FL
Royal Rajasthan - Nagaur Fair
Hashmat was simply the very best. He has great knowledge, knows how to share it to the group, interacts with us on a personal basis, is considerate of our needs, and has personality second to none.Mark L., Melbourne Beach, FL
Royal Rajasthan - Nagaur Fair
Hashmat always brings all his heart to his trips, teaching history, culture, the sense of India.Debra B., Jackson, WY
Expedition to Hampi and Ajanta
Optional Extensions
If you would like to continue your adventure, we offer the following extensions:
India
Kanha National Park Extension
Gameviewing in one of India’s Great Wildlife Reserves
Wildlife & Natural History
5 days
-
Level 2
Taj Mahal and Jaipur Extension
Romantic Rajasthan, Land of Princes
Cultural Adventures
4 days
-
Level 1
Varanasi and Khajuraho Extension
Holy City Along the Ganges, Magnificent World-Famous Temples
Cultural Adventures
4 days
-
Level 1
Client Comments
An extremely well thought out and well executed itinerary and the best Trip Leader I’ve ever had.William N., Long Beach, CA
Hashmat's enthusiasm for his country is infectious, his enjoyment of people unending, and his work and efficiency unbelievable. I'm looking forward to another trip with him.Roberta R., Woodstock, VT
One of the best trips we’ve ever been on.Joe K., Mission Hills, CA
One of the best trips my husband and I have taken—a feast for the senses and the intellect. Fabulous temples, beautiful countryside. I especially appreciated our many glimpses into village life, religious practices, and traditions.Joanne C., Pittsboro, NC





