Best of Southern India

(13 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Chennai, Kochi, Backwaters of Kerala, Hyderabad, Mumbai

This private tour focuses on the best of southern India. It includes private touring of the most interesting cultural destinations, such as rock-cut temples, Indo-Persian architecture and centuries-old trade districts. Other highlights include visits to the best local bazaars, a traditional Kathakali dance performance and a private cruise through the atmospheric Backwaters of Kerala.

Begin in Chennai (Madras), the seaside capital of Tamil Nadu. During private cultural touring, learn about the history of Chennai, and see beautiful colonial architecture. One day, take a private excursion to visit two of the most important and impressive temple complexes in southern India: Kanchipuram, a major Hindu pilgrimage site with more than 100 active temples, and Mamallapuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of amazing rock-cut sculptures and temples created in the seventh and eighth centuries. Upon request, this tour can be extended to also include a full-day excursion (or overnight) by air to Madurai to see additional temples and palaces of note (supplement applies).

Next, fly to Kochi (Cochin), an evocative harbor town in the state of Kerala that stretches across islands and peninsulas on the edge of the Arabian Sea. During private touring, experience the city’s rich history as a major port for Portuguese, British, Dutch, Chinese and Jewish traders. Walk through historic Fort Kochi, and see highlights such as St. Francis Church, Paradesi Synagogue, Mattancherry Palace and the Chinese fishing nets. Perhaps browse for antiques at local boutiques, or peruse fragrant spice shops. One evening, enjoy a performance of Kathakali dance, a local art form involving colorful makeup, elaborate costumes and stylized movements.

Then, transfer to a waterfront resort in Kumarakom, the perfect base for exploring the Backwaters of Kerala, a vast network of lagoons, canals and lakes. One day, take a leisurely private cruise through the picturesque backwaters past palm trees and rice paddies, and see villagers going about their daily lives. Also enjoy ample time to relax at your resort, and perhaps indulge in Ayurvedic treatments, a specialty of southern India.

Continue to bustling Hyderabad, and stay at the Taj Falaknuma Palace, an opulent palace-style hotel built in the19th century as a residence for the ruling family. During private touring, see the impressive Indo-Persian landmarks of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, such as the Charminar monument, Mecca Masjid mosque, Golconda Fort and royal tombs. Also visit the fascinating old city, walk through Laad Bazaar, and see other highlights such as the Chowmahalla Palace and Salar Jung Museum.

Conclude in exciting Mumbai (Bombay), the economic capital of India and the home of the Bollywood film industry. During private touring, explore the lively food and art scene, walk along the waterfront, visit the most interesting neighborhoods to browse boutiques or stop in cafes, visit Crawford Market, tour top cultural attractions such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS) (formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum) and UNESCO-listed Victorian architecture, walk through bazaars dedicated to flowers and jewelry, tour contemporary art galleries or see Dhobi Ghat, a famous open-air laundry. Upon request, we can also arrange Jewish touring or in-depth culinary touring in Mumbai. One day, take a private boat ride to Elephanta Island and the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO-listed site of rock-cut Hindu cave temples. Artisans of Leisure can also make reservations at Mumbai’s top restaurants or arrange tickets for Bollywood shows.

Itinerary Overview

Day 1 Arrive Chennai Private arrival transfer to hotel for 2 nights. Afternoon private city tour Day 2 Chennai, Kanchipuram & Mahabalipuram Full day private excursion Day 3 Chennai – Kochi Private transfer to airport for flight to Kochi. Private arrival transfer to hotel for 2 nights. Evening private Kathakali dance performance Day 4 Kochi Full-day private tour Day 5 Kochi – Backwaters of Kerala Private transfer to resort for 2 nights Day 6 Backwaters of Kerala Half-day private cruise through the backwaters Day 7 Backwaters of Kerala – Hyderabad Private transfer to airport for flight to Hyderabad. Private arrival transfer to hotel for 3 nights Day 8 Hyderabad Full-day private tour Day 9 Hyderabad Full-day private tour Day 10 Hyderabad – Mumbai Private transfer to airport for flight to Mumbai. Private arrival transfer to hotel for 3 nights Day 11 Mumbai Full-day private city tour. Optional evening Bollywood movie Day 12 Mumbai Full-day private tour, including boat ride to Elephanta Island Day 13 Depart Mumbai Private airport transfer. VIP departure assistance

Hotels

Chennai: The Leela Palace Chennai Kochi: Taj Malabar Backwaters of Kerala: Kumarakom Lake Resort Hyderabad: Taj Falaknuma Palace Mumbai: Taj Mahal Palace or The Oberoi Mumbai

Cost

From $21,985 Per person (double occupancy)