Sandalwood, Backwater & Spice Route

Day 1: Arrival in Bangalore

Upon arrival at Bangalore International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take some time to relax and freshen up after your journey. Later, begin your city tour visiting Lalbagh Botanical Garden, known for its exotic flora and glasshouse inspired by London’s Crystal Palace. Continue to Cubbon Park, a lush green retreat in the city center, followed by a visit to the grand Vidhana Soudha, an architectural landmark of Karnataka. Drive past Bangalore Palace and explore local surroundings. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Bangalore – Mysore (150 km / approx. 3–4 hrs drive)

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and drive to Mysore, a city renowned for its royal heritage and cultural richness. En route, visit Srirangapatna, the historic capital of Tipu Sultan, where you will explore the Dariya Daulat Palace adorned with intricate frescoes. Continue your scenic drive through countryside landscapes and reach Mysore. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel and relax. In the evening, you may explore local markets famous for silk sarees and sandalwood products. Overnight at hotel.

Day 3: Mysore Sightseeing

After breakfast, begin a comprehensive city tour of Mysore. Visit the magnificent Mysore Palace, an opulent royal residence showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture and intricate interiors. Proceed to Chamundi Hill to visit Chamundeshwari Temple and enjoy panoramic views of the city below. Later, visit the beautifully carved Chennakesava Temple at Somanathapura, famous for its Hoysala architecture. Explore local markets or handicraft centers in the evening. Return to the hotel after a culturally enriching day. Overnight at hotel.

Day 4: Mysore – Kabini/Nagarhole (90 km / approx. 2–3 hrs drive)

After breakfast, drive to Kabini/Nagarhole, one of South India’s finest wildlife destinations. Upon arrival, check-in at your jungle lodge surrounded by forest landscapes. After lunch, proceed for an exciting boat safari on the Kabini River, offering chances to spot elephants, deer, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. The tranquil backwaters and forest surroundings provide a unique wildlife experience. Return to the lodge and enjoy dinner amidst nature. Overnight at wildlife lodge.

Day 5: Kabini/Nagarhole Safaris

Begin your day early with a jeep safari into the forest accompanied by an experienced naturalist, exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Return to the lodge for breakfast and leisure time amidst serene surroundings. In the afternoon, embark on another thrilling safari increasing your chances of spotting tigers, leopards, and other wildlife species. Spend the evening relaxing at the lodge enjoying the peaceful jungle ambiance. Overnight at lodge.

Day 6: Kabini – Wayanad (80 km / approx. 2–3 hrs drive)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Wayanad, a picturesque hill district in Kerala known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and lush greenery. Upon arrival, check-in at your resort and relax. The rest of the day is free to enjoy the natural surroundings, take short walks, or simply unwind in the peaceful environment. Wayanad offers a refreshing escape into nature. Overnight at hotel.

Day 7: Wayanad – Ooty (135 km / approx. 4 hrs drive)

After breakfast, drive to Ooty, the “Queen of Hill Stations,” known for its scenic beauty and tea gardens. The journey offers breathtaking views of hills, forests, and winding roads. Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel. Later, enjoy a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (subject to availability) or explore local markets. Spend the evening soaking in the pleasant weather. Overnight at hotel.

Day 8: Ooty Sightseeing

After breakfast, begin a full-day sightseeing tour of Ooty. Visit the Botanical Gardens featuring rare plant species and landscaped lawns. Continue to a tea plantation to learn about tea processing and enjoy fresh tea tasting. Later, visit Ooty Lake for a relaxing boat ride and proceed to Dodabetta Peak for panoramic views of the Nilgiri Hills. The day offers scenic landscapes and refreshing experiences. Overnight at hotel.

Day 9: Ooty – Cochin (300 km / approx. 7–8 hrs drive)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Cochin, passing through scenic Western Ghats and plantations. Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax or explore nearby areas. Cochin’s coastal charm and colonial influence make it a unique destination. Overnight at hotel.

Day 10: Cochin Sightseeing

After breakfast, begin a city tour of Cochin. Visit the famous Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, and the Dutch Palace showcasing Kerala murals. Explore the Jewish Synagogue and walk through Jew Town known for antique shops and spice markets. In the evening, you may enjoy a Kathakali dance performance (optional). Return to the hotel after a culturally rich day. Overnight at hotel.

Day 11: Cochin – Alleppey (60 km / approx. 1.5 hrs drive)

After breakfast, drive to Alleppey and board a traditional houseboat. Cruise through Kerala’s serene backwaters, passing through villages, coconut groves, and paddy fields. Enjoy freshly prepared meals onboard while experiencing the tranquil beauty of the waterways. The slow-paced cruise offers a glimpse into rural Kerala life. Overnight on houseboat.

Day 12: Alleppey – Mararikulam (20 km / approx. 45 mins drive)

After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and drive to Mararikulam, a peaceful coastal village. Upon arrival, check-in at your beach resort and spend the rest of the day at leisure enjoying the beach. Relax by the Arabian Sea or explore the village surroundings. Overnight at beach resort.

Day 13: Mararikulam (Leisure)

After breakfast, enjoy a full day at leisure to relax and unwind at the beach. You may opt for Ayurvedic treatments, yoga sessions, or simply enjoy beach walks and sunset views. The calm and serene environment makes it ideal for relaxation. Overnight at resort.

Day 14: Mararikulam (Leisure)

After breakfast, another day to relax at the beach or indulge in optional wellness therapies. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and coastal charm of Mararikulam. This day allows you to fully rejuvenate before the end of your journey. Overnight at resort.

Day 15: Mararikulam – Cochin (75 km / approx. 2 hrs drive)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Cochin airport for your onward journey. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy some leisure time before departure. Tour concludes with wonderful memories of South India.

• Assistance on arrival and departure at airports
• 14 Nights accommodation in selected category hotels/resorts/houseboat
• Daily buffet breakfast at all hotels
• All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during houseboat stay in Alleppey
• Private air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing
• Professional English-speaking local guides for city tours
• Wildlife safaris in Kabini/Nagarhole with naturalist (shared basis)
• Monument entrance fees and activities as mentioned in itinerary
• Nilgiri Mountain train ride (subject to availability)
• Bottled drinking water during travel
• All applicable government taxes

Hotels used or similar for 14 nights accommodation

Bangalore x 1 nights
3* - Ramada/ The Rialto
4* - Fortune Select JP Cosmos/ Lemon Tree Premier Ulsoor Lake
5* - ITC Gardenia, a Luxury Collection/ ITC Windsor a Luxury Collection

Mysore x 2 nights
3* - Southern Star/Sandesh The Prince
4* - Fortune Park JP Palace/ Grand Mercure
5* - Royal Orchid Brindavan Garden/The Windflower Resort & Spa

Kabini / Nagarhole x 2 nights
3* - Kabini Lake View Resort / Kabini Springs Resort
4* - Red Earth / The Peepal Tree
5* - The Serai Kabini/ Waterwoods Lodges & Resorts

Vythiri x 1 nights
3* - Thejas Resorts / Grassroot 
4* - Abad Brookside Lakkidi / The Woods Resorts
5* - Vythiri Village Resort/ The Windflower Resort & Spa

Ooty x 2 nights
3* - Monarch Hotel/ Hotel Darshan
4* - Fortune Resort Sullivan Court/ Sinclairs Retreat
5* - Savoy - IHCL SeleQtions

Kochi/Cochin x 2 nights
3* - The Dune Hotel/ Abad Plaza
4* - Casino Hotel/ The Avenue Regent
5* - Xandari Harbour/ Le Meridien

Alleppey x 1 night
3* - Deluxe Houseboat (ATDC Houseboat/ Dream Boats)
4* - Premium Houseboat (Abad Premium Houseboats/ Rainbow Premium Houseboats)
5* - Luxury Houseboat (Xandari Riverscapes/ Lakes & Lagoons)

Mararikulam x 3 nights
3* - EL Oceano Beach Villas/ La Plage Marari
4* - Abad Turtle Beach Resort/ Marari Sands Beach Resort
5* - Xandari Pearl/ Marari Beach Resort

• Any international or domestic flights
• Camera/video charges at monuments and parks
• Meals not mentioned in inclusions
• Personal expenses such as laundry, beverages, tips, telephone, spa, etc.
• Travel insurance and medical expenses
• Optional activities such as cultural shows or Ayurveda treatments
• Any increase in taxes, fuel surcharge, or park fees
• Anything not mentioned under inclusions