Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

A Mesmerizing Journey Through South India

  1. Day 1: Arrival in Bangalore

    Begin your journey in the bustling city of Bangalore, known as the Silicon Valley of India. Explore the city's modern charm and traditional richness. Don't miss the majestic Bangalore Palace, a fusion of Tudor and Scottish Gothic architecture.

    In the afternoon, head to the serene Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, home to numerous trees and plants from around the world. Then, visit the busy streets of Commercial Street for a shopping spree. This is the perfect place to shop for traditional Indian clothes, jewelry, and handicrafts.

    As evening falls, dine out at VV Puram Food Street, famous for its wide variety of Indian street food. End the day by taking a serene walk in the Cubbon Park, a green haven in the heart of the city.

  2. Day 2: Mysore (3 hours, 149 km from Bangalore)
    3 hours and 149 km from Bangalore

    Start your day with a visit to the grand Mysore Palace, a historical palace in the city of Mysore. The palace is one of the most famous tourist attractions in India, after the Taj Mahal. Later, explore the Devaraja Market, an active and vibrant place with a bustle that has not changed over the centuries.

    In the afternoon, visit the Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery and Auditorium, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts and paintings. Next, head to the beautiful Brindavan Gardens and enjoy a leisure boat ride.

    Come evening, enjoy the sound and light show at the Mysore Palace, which is a visual treat. Dine at one of the city's traditional restaurants, trying the local cuisine of Mysore.

  3. Day 3: Coorg (3 hours, 117 km from Mysore)
    3 hours and 117 km from Mysore

    Known as the "Scotland of India", Coorg is a tranquil, little town in Southern Karnataka, cradled in the Western Ghats. Visit the Abbey Falls, a scenic waterfall situated in the middle of coffee and spice estates. Then, head to the Raja's Seat, a garden with beautiful flowering plants and skillfully designed artificial fountains.

    In the afternoon, visit the Dubare Elephant Camp where you can spend time with the elephants and even participate in their grooming. Later, visit the Namdroling Monastery, a beautiful Tibetan Buddhist Monastery.

    End your day with a relaxing walk around the coffee and spice plantations.

  4. Day 4: Ooty (6 hours, 225 km from Coorg)
    6 hours and 225 km from Coorg

    Start your day by exploring the Ooty Botanical Gardens, a massive garden spread over 55 acres filled with lush green lawns and rare tree species. Next, visit the Ooty Lake, a great place for family picnics and boat rides.

    Visit the Dodabetta Peak in the afternoon, the highest peak in the Nilgiris. The view from the peak is absolutely stunning, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes. Next, explore the popular Rose Garden, home to more than 3600 varieties of roses.

    In the evening, take the famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The train ride offers breathtaking views of the hills, valleys, and forests.

  5. Day 5: Kodaikanal (5 hours, 252 km from Ooty)
    5 hours and 252 km from Ooty

    Begin your day in Kodaikanal, also known as "Princess of Hill Stations", by visiting the Kodaikanal Lake. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride or simply take a stroll around the lake. Next, visit the Coaker's Walk for a mesmerizing view of the plains and steep valleys.

    In the afternoon, explore the Bryant Park, a beautifully maintained botanical garden. Later, head to the Pillar Rocks, a set of three giant rock pillars which stand 122 meters high.

    In the evening, visit the Silver Cascade Falls, a beautiful waterfall from the main road. End your day by shopping for homemade chocolates and cheese in local shops.

  6. Day 6: Madurai (3 hours, 115 km from Kodaikanal)
    3 hours and 115 km from Kodaikanal

    Start your day in Madurai, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a historic Hindu temple on the southern bank of the Vaigai River. Then, explore the Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, a 17th-century palace erected by King Thirumalai Nayakkar.

    In the afternoon, visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum, showcasing the life and principles of Mahatma Gandhi. Later in the evening, witness the night ceremony at the Meenakshi Temple, a not-to-miss experience when in Madurai.

    End your day by trying out the famous Jigarthanda, a refreshing cool drink native to Madurai.

  7. Day 7: Departure from Madurai

    On your last day, explore the local markets of Madurai for some last-minute souvenir shopping. Try some local dishes and sweets before you prepare to depart.

    Take back beautiful memories of a week spent in the enchanting landscapes of South India, exploring its rich cultural heritage, architecture, and culinary delights.

Recommendations

If you have some extra time, consider a day trip to Pondicherry, a former French colony with beautiful French architecture and serene beaches. Another good option would be to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hampi, known for its magnificent ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire. To maximize your fun, participate in local festivals, try local cuisine, and interact with the locals to understand their culture and traditions better.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Bangalore Palace (2 hours, ₹250)
  • Lalbagh Botanical Gardens (2 hours, ₹20)
  • Mysore Palace (3 hours, ₹70)
  • Devaraja Market (1 hour, Free)
  • Abbey Falls (1 hour, Free)
  • Dubare Elephant Camp (2 hours, ₹800)
  • Ooty Botanical Gardens (2 hours, ₹30)
  • Dodabetta Peak (2 hours, ₹10)
  • Kodaikanal Lake (2 hours, ₹20)
  • Bryant Park (1 hour, ₹30)
  • Meenakshi Amman Temple (2 hours, Free)
  • Gandhi Memorial Museum (1 hour, Free)
  • Total Estimated Costs (₹1230)

For more detailed information on hotel and flight prices, visit the following link: Hotel and Flight Prices

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version