Kick start your adventure in India by visiting the pristine beaches of Cochin. Spend a day lounging on Cherai Beach, indulge in local seafood delicacies or soak in the sun at Fort Kochi Beach before retiring to your accommodation.
Embark on a thrilling wildlife safari at the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary where you can spot wild elephants, tigers, leopards and other animals. Take a boat ride in the picturesque Periyar Lake, explore the various hiking trails or visit native tribal villages to learn more about the local culture.
Immerse yourself in nature at the lush tea plantations of Munnar. Witness the tea-making process, visit the Eravikulam National Park to witness exotic flora and fauna, go trekking in the hills or just sit back and sip on some of the region's finest tea as you soak up the serene surroundings.
Take a day trip to the charming hill station of Ooty to explore the picturesque Botanical Gardens, home to exotic species of flora and fauna. Stroll through the rose garden or catch a glimpse of the monkey tribes at Doddabetta Peak before returning to your accommodation.
Experience the thrill of a jungle safari at Bandipur National Park, which is home to tigers, elephants, leopards, and many different species of plants and animals. Go on a jeep safari or trek to the lush forests and waterfalls, and enjoy local cuisine at the nearby villages.
Spend a couple of days relaxing by the sea at the beaches of Goa. Soak up the sun at Baga Beach, indulge in watersports at Calangute Beach or catch the sunset at Anjuna Beach. Goa is also known for its stunning Portuguese architecture and delicious seafood that you can enjoy at one of the many beachside shacks.
Conclude your nature trip by exploring the tranquil hill station of Mahabaleshwar. Spend a day discovering the panoramic views from Wilson Point or hike to Lingamala Waterfall. Head to the famous Pratapgad Fort, a must-visit tourist spot that depicts the Maratha heritage before returning to your accommodation for your final night.
India has several modes of transportation including buses, taxis, auto-rickshaws, ferries, and trains that connect major cities. For this itinerary, it is recommended to hire a car with a driver for the entire trip to avoid any hassle and travel comfortably. The estimated cost would be approximately $650-$700 for the entire trip with a travel time of 5-6 hours between destinations.
If you have more time, consider visiting the backwaters of Kerala or the Himalayan region for some amazing trekking trails. If you have less time, you can skip a destination or two, or reduce the number of days spent at each location.
Cochin International Airport (COK) is the main airport that serves the southern region of India, including Kerala. It is located 30 km north of Kochi and is the busiest airport in Kerala.