The Tropical South

India's tropical south is a land full of fertile forests, sweeping grasslands and tea plantations. We visit the two southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, both with distinctive cultures and contrasting scenery. Kerala is a true tropical paradise with an idyllic coastline and lush tropical mountains, which is evident as we travel between the old spice town of Cochin and the beautiful hill station of Munnar. A trip to the wildlife sanctuary at Periyar boasts an array of wildlife and an abundance of colourful birdlife, and dinner with a local family provides a unique insight into Keralan life. In Tamil Nadu, we explore the state's most vibrant and colourful city, Madurai, and marvel at the intricately carved Sri Meenakshi Temple. The climax comes as the lagoons of Kerala are cruised on a traditional houseboat before relaxing on the sweeping beaches of Kovalam and the chance to try some delicious fresh seafood.

We spend our nights in a mixture of hotels, a homestay and on a traditional Keralan houseboat. Our hotels are all in the heart of the towns we stop in. Your first hotel in Kochi is conveniently situated in the commercial hub, close to the main textile and jewellery shops plus plenty of restaurants for your first introduction to Kerala.



Below are some of the standout properties we stay in.



Peppervine Hotel, Thekkady







The four-star Peppervine is conventiently located for our adventures, close to Periyar Tiger Reserve and a short walk from Kumily town (the local town name of Thekkady) where you'll find plenty of shopping options, including locally grown spices and an eclectic assortment of souvenirs. Surrounded by woodland, the hotel offers comfort and tranquillity, with spacious bedrooms, an outdoor swimming pool and open-air restaurant. So close to wildlife, you won't find it hard to spot the monkeys swinging in the neighbouring trees as you relax.



Planters Homestay, Erattupetta







Enjoy true Keralan hospitality in this cosy mansion from the 1930s. We will be greeted with a warm welcome by Mrs Grace, the family matriarch, who opens her home and kitchen to you. The rooms are simple but homely, all have a wet room-style private bathroom and come equipped with a fan (some have air conditioning). You won’t find any porter service here, so you may wish to pack a smaller overnight bag for this stay.



Keralan houseboat, Alleppey







No trip to Kerala is complete without a houseboat stay. Typically, the boats are converted barges (known locally as kettuvallam), once used to transport rice from farm to market. They are comfortable and unique. All cabins have private bathrooms and the staff will keep you well fed. The houseboats have a deck and dining area, although the style/layout varies between boats. There is a cook, driver and assistants for each boat and the food is traditional Keralan fare using local produce. Houseboats have two to five twin-bedded rooms. Larger groups may be split over several boats; however, the group reunites at riverside stops and the overnight anchor point where your leader will be available.



Worth knowing



Indian hotels usually do not have heating. However, you can request more blankets or the hotel may be able to provide a standing heater for your room (subject to availability). Please talk to your tour leader if you need help in this matter.

The electrical sockets at the homestay are the older-style Indian sockets so European/US plugs do not fit here. Be sure to charge devices/powerpacks fully before you arrive.

Please note, single rooms are very limited at the homestay and houseboat so cannot be guaranteed and you may be required to twin share on these two nights.