Discover Bangalore to Chennai - Ultimate tour of South India

After a warm welcome in Bangalore (Bengaluru), travel to Mysore (Mysuru), once the seat of a powerful kingdom at the foot of the Chamundi Hills. Explore its royal heritage at the grand Mysore Palace, with stained-glass domes and marble-pillared halls, and visit the sacred Chamundeshwari Temple and the towering Nandi Bull that looks out over the city.

Wander through the vibrant Devaraja Market, alive with fragrant flowers, colourful spices and bustling stalls. Discover the historic island of Srirangapattanam, where Tipu Sultan’s fort and elegant summer palace recall stories of defiance and dynasty. Glide through the tranquil waters of Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, watching for herons, spoonbills and river terns among the trees.

Accommodation: The Metropole Hotel, a heritage hotel exuding old-world charm, once a royal residence and now a boutique stay.

Journey into the wild as you travel to Kabini, one of South India’s most renowned wildlife destinations. Nestled along the banks of the Kabini River, your luxurious jungle lodge provides an ideal base for wildlife encounters.

Over two days, set out on early morning and afternoon safaris in Nagarhole National Park, where you may spot herds of elephants, elusive leopards, crocodiles basking by the riverbanks, and a dazzling array of birdlife. The lush forests, serene backwaters, and sun-dappled clearings offer a captivating experience for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Accommodation: Evolve Back Kabini, an eco-luxury retreat set amid unspoilt wilderness, offering immersive wildlife experiences and riverside tranquillity.

After a final morning safari in Kabini, drive up into the Nilgiri Hills to reach Ooty, once the favoured summer retreat of the British Raj. Stay in a colonial-era bungalow full of history and character.

Spend the next day exploring Ooty’s botanical gardens, scenic lakes and tea estates. Take a short, scenic ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway to Coonoor, passing through forested hills and tea plantations. In the afternoon, visit tea factories or wander through Coonoor’s quiet, flower-lined streets.

Accommodation: Marli Hill Bungalow, a charming colonial style bungalow blending old-world charm.

Leave the Nilgiris behind and drive through gentle farmland to reach Dindigul, set in Tamil Nadu’s fertile heartland. Check into a peaceful plantation retreat surrounded by spice gardens, shaded trees and views of rolling hills.

Spend the afternoon on nature walks, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in the calm of your surroundings. Your homestay is an ideal place to unwind among cardamom, pepper and guava groves. Enjoy a freshly cooked South Indian dinner and the warm welcome of your hosts.

Accommodation: Cardamom House Dindigul, a charming countryside retreat nestled at the foothills of the Western Ghats.

Drive to Madurai, one of South India’s great temple cities and a lively blend of mythology, architecture and daily devotion. Start with the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, famous for its towering, vividly painted gopurams and thousand-pillared halls that bustle with worshippers and rituals.

Visit the Thiru Malai Nayak Palace, known for its mix of Dravidian and Italian influences and striking stucco work, then explore the nearby Puthu Mandapam and Pillared Hall, which echo stories of the city’s regal past.

In the afternoon, take a rickshaw ride through Madurai’s busy old quarter, winding past stalls of brassware, fabrics, flowers and fruit, all vibrant with colour and local life.

Accommodation: Gateway Hotel Passumalai, a charming first-class hotel set in colonial elegance atop Pasumalai Hill, offering panoramic views of Madurai.

Over two days, stroll through streets lined with impressive Chettiar houses, known for their wide courtyards, Burma teak pillars, and Athangudi tiled floors. Visit antique shops and local shrines, join hands-on cooking sessions to discover the region’s bold spices and cooking styles, and enjoy meals at the renowned Bangla restaurant, where tradition meets flavour.

Accommodation: Visalam, a lovingly restored heritage chettiar mansion turned boutique hotel.

Travel east to Tanjore (Thanjavur), known for its classical music, ancient art, and the UNESCO-listed

Temple, a stunning Chola-era granite monument. Visit the Bronze Museum to watch skilled artisans crafting bronze idols using the traditional lost-wax method.

Then continue to Kumbakonam, a temple town rich in spirituality and famous for its silk weaving, with a stop at the intricately carved Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram.

Accommodation: Mantra Koodam, a serene boutique retreat blending heritage and modern comfort.

Journey to Pondicherry (Puducherry), the former French coastal town along the Bay of Bengal, stopping to explore the majestic Chola-era temple at Gangaikondacholapuram. In Pondicherry, stroll through the cobbled streets of the French Quarter on a guided heritage walk, passing mustard-yellow villas and colonial churches.

Take a rickshaw ride through colourful Tamil neighbourhoods, and visit the Aurobindo Ashram and the peaceful seafront promenade. Discover art galleries and boutique shops, and sample French-inspired Tamil cuisine at local cafés.

Accommodation: Palais de Mahe, a boutique heritage hotel blending French colonial elegance nestled in the heart of the French Quarter.

Continue along the coast to Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram), a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its 7th-century rock-cut temples and sculptures. Visit the Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, and the Five Rathas, each carved from single granite stones.

Between sightseeing, enjoy time at your seaside resort, ideal for beach walks, spa treatments or watching the sunset from your private veranda.

Accommodation: Taj Fisherman’s Cove, Mahabalipuram – An exquisite seaside resort blending colonial charm with modern luxury, set amidst palm-fringed shores.

Transfer to Chennai, Tamil Nadu’s vibrant capital. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the city’s cultural landmarks, including the ancient Kapaleeshwarar Temple, the colonial-era Fort St. George and the lively Marina Beach. Explore Chennai’s rich history in its bustling bazaars and historic monuments. End your journey with a farewell dinner at one of the city’s renowned restaurants.

Accommodation: Taj Connemara, Chennai – An iconic heritage hotel offering refined elegance and a gateway to Tamil Nadu’s vibrant capital.

Transfer to Chennai Airport for your onward flight. As you depart, carry with you the vivid memories of this tour of South India and its vibrant traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality.

Price Guide:
From £4,790 per person (October to April)
From £4,190 per person (May to September)

Prices are based on two guests sharing and exclude international flights. These are guideline rates and may vary depending on travel dates, room category, exchange rate fluctuations, and peak holiday periods such as Christmas, New Year, or regional festivals.

Please get in touch with your dates and we will be pleased to provide you with your personal itinerary and accurate quote.

What’s Included in Your Tailor-Made Journey with Authentic India Tours

• A dedicated Travel Consultant to plan and manage every detail of your holiday
• Private car and driver at the destination for all your transfers and tours.
• Your own English-speaking local guides for insightful, personal experiences
• A selection of unique and meaningful experiences, handpicked by our expert team
• Entrance to museums, monuments, national parks and key cultural and historical sites included in your itinerary.
• Accommodation is on a half board basis at Evolve Back Kabini and on a bed and breakfast basis at all other locations, with stays in carefully selected hotels as outlined in the itinerary.
• 24/7 in-country support, so you’re always in safe hands.

Price does not include:

• International flight tickets
• Travel insurance and visa
• Expenses of personal nature like laundry, tips, beverages etc
• Meals other than mentioned in the above meal plan
• Camera & video fees at national parks, museums & monuments

Prices mentioned above are per person based on two people sharing a twin room. The prices which were valid at the time of publication may be subject to change, based on your date of travel and local market fluctuations. You will be informed of any price differences prior to booking.

For a quote based on your dates of travel, any alternative accommodation or changes to this itinerary, please call us on 01792 315499 or email us at info@aitholidays.com

Please remember all our private tours are designed to meet your exact requirements, and this tour of South India is just an example to help inspire you.

For more information please email info@aitholidays.com or call our India specialists on 01792 315499.

ABTA and ATOL Protected Tour Package

Authentic India Tours is a member of ABTA and ATOL. All the holidays on this website are ABTA protected. If you would like us to arrange your holiday including flights we will be happy to provide a quote and your holiday will also be ATOL protected.