15-Day South India Wildlife & Culture Tour

Upon arrival at Bengaluru International Airport, meet our representative and transfer to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a short city tour visiting Cubbon Park, Vidhana Soudha, and the ISKCON Temple. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight: Bengaluru

After breakfast, drive to the royal city of Mysuru via historic Srirangapatna, the former capital of Tipu Sultan. Visit the magnificent Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, St. Philomena's Church, and explore the bustling Devaraja Market, famous for spices, flowers, and local handicrafts.

Overnight: Mysuru

After breakfast, drive to Kabini, one of South India's premier wildlife destinations, located on the edge of Nagarhole National Park. Check into your wildlife lodge and enjoy lunch. In the evening, embark on an exciting jeep or boat safari in search of elephants, deer, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife while enjoying the beautiful forest scenery.

Overnight: Kabini

Start the day with an early morning safari, the best time to spot wildlife including elephants, gaur, sambar deer, wild dogs, and, with some luck, leopards or tigers. Return to the lodge for breakfast and relaxation. In the afternoon, enjoy another safari through the forests and grasslands of Nagarhole National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity.

Overnight: Kabini

Drive through scenic forests into Kerala's picturesque Wayanad district. Surrounded by misty hills, coffee plantations, and spice gardens, Wayanad is known for its natural beauty and tribal heritage. Visit a spice plantation and enjoy a guided walk to learn about the cultivation of pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and other spices.

Overnight: Wayanad

Explore the highlights of Wayanad including the fascinating Edakkal Caves, known for their prehistoric rock carvings. Continue to scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, tea plantations, and traditional tribal villages. The remainder of the day is free to relax amidst the peaceful surroundings.

Overnight: Wayanad

After breakfast, drive through the scenic Nilgiri Hills to the charming hill station of Ooty. On arrival, visit the Government Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding tea-covered hills. Spend the evening exploring the local market or relaxing at your hotel.

Overnight: Ooty

Enjoy an excursion to nearby Coonoor. Optional ride on the famous UNESCO-listed Nilgiri Mountain Railway (subject to availability). Visit Sim's Park, Dolphin's Nose Viewpoint, Lamb's Rock, and a tea factory where you can learn about tea production and sample freshly brewed Nilgiri tea before returning to Ooty.

Overnight: Ooty

Drive to the unique Chettinad region, renowned for its grand merchant mansions, rich culinary traditions, and impressive architecture. Explore beautifully restored heritage homes, ancient temples, and vibrant local villages that offer a glimpse into the prosperous Chettiar community.

Overnight: Chettinad

This morning, enjoy a heritage walk through Chettinad before continuing to Madurai, one of India's oldest living cities. In the evening, visit the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple and witness the colourful nightly temple ceremony, an unforgettable spiritual experience.

Overnight: Madurai

After breakfast, visit the lively flower market and the historic Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace before driving through the Western Ghats to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kalaripayattu martial arts performance or an optional Kathakali dance show.

Overnight: Periyar

Early morning boat cruise or Bamboo Raft ride on Periyar Lake, offering opportunities to spot elephants, bison, deer, wild boar, and numerous bird species along the lake's edge. Later, visit a spice plantation to learn about the cultivation of cardamom, pepper, cloves, vanilla, and cinnamon. The afternoon is free for optional activities such as nature walks or bamboo rafting.

Overnight: Periyar

Drive through scenic countryside to Kumarakom, located on the shores of Vembanad Lake. Relax amidst Kerala's famous backwaters, coconut groves, and peaceful villages. Enjoy an optional sunset cruise or canoe ride through the narrow canals to experience traditional village life.
Optional - Take a backwaters Houseboat / cruise around Kumarakom.

Overnight: Kumarakom

Drive to Kochi, one of India's oldest port cities. Explore the historic Fort Kochi area, including the Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), and the historic Jewish Synagogue. In the evening, enjoy a colourful Kathakali dance performance showcasing Kerala's classical performing arts.

Overnight: Kochi

After breakfast, transfer to Kochi International Airport for your onward flight, taking home unforgettable memories of South India's remarkable wildlife, heritage, culture, hill stations, and backwaters.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best time for this tour?

October to March offers the most pleasant weather and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

2. Is this tour suitable for families?

Yes. The itinerary is ideal for families, couples, photographers, and nature lovers.

3. What wildlife can I expect to see?

Elephants, gaur, deer, crocodiles, numerous bird species, and with some luck, leopards and tigers in Kabini and Periyar.

4. Is this a private tour?

Yes. The itinerary is designed as a private tour with a dedicated vehicle and English-speaking driver.

5. Can the itinerary be customised?

Absolutely. Additional destinations such as Coorg, Hampi, Bandipur National Park, Kumarakom houseboats, or Kovalam Beach can be included.

6. How many wildlife safaris are included?

Two safaris are included in Kabini, along with a boat cruise in Periyar Tiger Reserve.

7. Is the Nilgiri Mountain Railway included?

The train ride is optional and subject to availability.

8. What type of accommodation is offered?

The tour can be arranged with comfortable 4-star, deluxe, heritage, or luxury 5-star hotels and wildlife lodges according to your preference.

9. Can this itinerary be extended?

Yes. It can easily be extended to include Coorg, Hampi, Chikmagalur, Kumarakom houseboat, Alleppey, Kovalam, or Kanyakumari.

10. Who is this tour best suited for?

This itinerary is ideal for travellers seeking a balanced holiday featuring wildlife, culture, history, nature, local cuisine, and authentic South Indian experiences.

11. Why Book with Discovery Full Circle Tours?

With over 20 years of experience in designing tailor-made holidays across the Indian subcontinent, Discovery Full Circle Tours is committed to delivering authentic, comfortable, and memorable travel experiences. Our South India tours are thoughtfully crafted to combine wildlife, heritage, culture, nature, and local experiences while maintaining a relaxed pace. We provide carefully selected accommodation, private air-conditioned transportation, knowledgeable English-speaking drivers and local guides, personalized service, and 24/7 on-tour assistance. Whether you are travelling as a couple, family, or small group, we ensure every journey is professionally planned, seamless, and tailored to your interests, allowing you to experience the very best of South India with confidence.