Southern Excursion

Upon your arrival at the Bengaluru Airport or the Railway Station, our friendly representative will be there to greet you and assist you with a seamless transfer to Mysuru, which is often referred to as the “Cultural Capital of Karnataka” due to its rich heritage and historical significance.

On your journey to Mysuru, you will make a stop at the historic town of Srirangapatna, which is a place that holds immense historical and cultural importance. Your first stop here will be the Dariya Daulat Bagh, that served as Tipu Sultan’s summer palace. This palace was built in 1784 entirely out of teakwood using the Indo-Islamic architecture. Here, you will see the intricately detailed murals that depict Tipu Sultan’s military conquests and life. The palace museum also offers a closer look at his legacy, housing numerous artifacts and paintings that bring Tipu Sultan’s reign to life. As you take a stroll through this palace, you will get a real sense of Tipu Sultan’s ambitions and his deep connection to this region.

Next, you will head to the Gumbaz, which is a mausoleum built by Tipu Sultan in memory of his parents, Sultan Hyder Ali and Fakhr-Un-Nisa. The Gumbaz is surrounded by a peaceful garden and showcases a stunning blend of Indo-Islamic architecture, which is adorned with elegant black granite pillars. This mausoleum is not just a place of rest for Tipu Sultan’s parents but also an important historical landmark that reflects the grandeur of his reign.

After this, you will visit the Tipu Fort, which was once regarded as one of the most formidable forts in India. This impressive structure, fortified with double walls and towering gates, served as a stronghold for Tipu Sultan in his battles against the British. As you explore the fort’s chambers and passages, you will experience the atmosphere of a bygone era and understand the strategic significance this fort held during one of India’s most turbulent periods.

Before departing from Srirangapatna, you’ll visit the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, which is an ancient Dravidian-style temple, that is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple is counted among the five sacred Pancharanga Kshetrams, and is renowned for its spiritual aura & architectural brilliance. The massive gopuram, or tower, standing at the entrance is a stunning example of traditional South Indian temple architecture.

After immersing yourself in the rich history of Srirangapatna, you will continue your journey to Mysuru, where you will check into your hotel and grab some rest.

In the evening, prepare to be enchanted by the beauty of the Brindavan Gardens, which are located near the Krishna Raja Sagara Dam. These exquisite gardens are meticulously designed in the Mughal style, with colourful flowerbeds, symmetric layouts, and well-manicured lawns. The highlight of your visit will be the musical fountain show, where water fountains synchronize with light and music to create a spectacular visual display. The tranquil setting, coupled with the backdrop of the dam, will surely ensure that you have a relaxed and a soothing evening.

Later, in the evening, you will return to your cozy hotel for a sumptuous dinner and a peaceful night’s rest.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast and then prepare to explore the cultural wonders of Mysuru before embarking on a scenic journey to the hill station of Ooty.

The first destination you will be visiting today is the majestic Mysuru Palace, which is one of India’s most renowned royal residences and home to the Wodeyar royal family. This architectural marvel is also known as the Amba Vilas Palace and was originally built in the 14th century. Later, it was reconstructed in the Indo-Saracenic style by using a blend of Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic architecture. The grandeur of the palace’s intricate carvings, vibrant murals, and stained-glass ceilings will transport you to an era of royal opulence. As you explore the palace, make sure that you don’t miss the expansive durbar halls and the iconic golden throne that symbolizes the royalty of the Wodeyar dynasty.

Next, you will visit the St. Philomena’s Church, which is one of India’s largest churches, that is renowned for its Neo-Gothic architecture. Its twin spires, which reach an impressive height of around 175 feet, are modelled after the Cologne Cathedral in Germany. Inside the church, you will notice that the beautiful stained-glass windows narrate key biblical scenes, such as the birth and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

After immersing yourself in Mysuru’s rich heritage, you will set off on a picturesque drive to Ooty, which is often referred to as the “Queen of Hills”. As you leave from Mysuru, your first stop will be at the Chamundi Hill, which is a hill located on the outskirts of the town and offers sweeping panoramic views of the city. Atop the hill, you will visit the Mata Chamundeshwari Temple, which is a 1,000-year-old temple, that is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and is crowned by a towering gopuram (temple tower). On your way up, you will also encounter the monolithic statues of Lord Nandi, Lord Shiva’s sacred bull, which is about 16 feet tall and is counted amongst the largest monolithic statues in the world.

After seeking the blessings at Chamundi Hill, you will continue your journey towards Ooty. Along the way, you will stop at the Bandipur National Park, which is a pristine wildlife sanctuary, located at the foothills of the Nilgiri Mountains. This sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, leopards, Indian bison, and over 200 species of birds. If you are seeking an adventurous experience, you can opt for a Tiger Safari (but at an additional expense), where you might catch a glimpse of the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger in its natural habitat, along with other wildlife found in the region.

After this enchanting safari, you will travel through the beautiful Mudumalai National Park, which is also renowned for its diverse ecosystem and scenic landscapes. Soon, you will arrive in Ooty, where you will check into your hotel to relax and refresh.

In the late afternoon, you will visit the Ooty Lake, which is a beautiful artificial lake that was constructed in 1824 by John Sullivan, the founder of Ooty. The lake is surrounded by eucalyptus trees and lush greenery, making it the ideal spot to have a relaxed evening. Here, you can opt to rent paddleboats or rowboats (at your own expense) to enjoy a peaceful ride on the calm waters, while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding hills.

As the evening sets in, you will return to your hotel for a delightful dinner, followed by a peaceful overnight stay.

Today, wake up, freshen up, and start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Ooty before setting off to explore the natural beauty of Coonoor.

Your first stop will be the breathtaking Doddabetta Peak, which is located at an elevation of about 2,637 meters, making it the highest point in the Nilgiri Hills. From here, you will enjoy panoramic views of the lush green valleys and distant plains, with the majestic forests of Bandipur National Park, which is only visible on clear days. The peak also has an observation tower, that is equipped with telescopes, offering visitors a closer look at the stunning scenery, making this a favourite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Next, you will visit the Government Botanical Garden, which is a sprawling, well-maintained garden that was established in 1847 and spans over 55 acres. The garden is home to a wide array of rare and exotic plant species, and it’s divided into various sections, including an Italian garden, a fern house, and a vibrant flower garden. One of the key highlights of this garden is the fossilized tree trunk, that is believed to be over 20 million years old. The serene pathways and diverse flora make it a perfect spot to relax and admire nature’s beauty. Moreover, the vibrant flowers and the meticulously curated plants provide a refreshing environment for visitors, making it a must-visit for botany enthusiasts and nature lovers.

After exploring the Botanical Garden, you will start your journey towards Coonoor, which is a small hill station known for its tea plantations and colonial charm. On the way, you will stop at the Tea Factory and Museum, where you can learn about the history and process of tea production. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing cup of freshly brewed Nilgiri tea, and you can even purchase some to take back home for your friends, relatives, or as a souvenir.

Soon, you will arrive in Coonoor, where you will first visit the Sim’s Park, which is a 12-hectare botanical garden that is filled with a wide variety of trees, flowers, and plants, including rare species from different parts of the world. Here, you can enjoy a relaxing walk amidst the peaceful environment and the picturesque setting.

Following this, you will visit the Lamb’s Rock, which is a popular viewpoint that offers stunning views of the tea estates below, the sprawling Coimbatore plains and the scenic beauty of the Nilgiris.

The last attraction you will be visiting today will be the Dolphin’s Nose, which is another iconic viewpoint that provides spectacular views of the rugged cliffs, deep valleys, and the cascading Catherine Falls.

After this, you will embark on a short journey to Coimbatore for an overnight stay. On arrival, you will check-in to your hotel to enjoy a delightful dinner and to retire for a restful night.

Today, you will start your day with a delightful breakfast, and then you will embark on a journey to Kodaikanal.

But before you begin you depart from Coimbatore, you will visit the Gedee Car Museum, which is a wonderful attraction, especially for automobile enthusiasts. This museum houses a vast collection of vintage cars and automobiles from across the world, including cars that range from iconic brands to rare models. The Gedee Car Museum provides a fascinating insight into the evolution of cars, making it an enjoyable and informative stop for both adults and children alike.

After exploring the museum, you will embark on a scenic journey to Kodaikanal, which is a picturesque hill station that is known for its misty landscapes, lush greenery, and tranquil lake.

Upon your arrival in Kodaikanal, you will first head towards the Kodaikanal Lake, which is a beautiful man-made lake that is situated in the heart of the town. The lake is surrounded by hills and offers a peaceful retreat where you can opt for a relaxing boat ride across its calm waters (at your own expense). Other than the boat ride, you can also take a leisurely walk or rent bicycles (at your own expense) to cycle around the lake’s perimeter. The serene ambiance, with mist drifting over the lake and the reflection of the surrounding hills, makes it a perfect spot to capture some stunning photographs.

After spending some quality time at the lake, you will proceed towards the Bryant Park, which is a well-maintained botanical garden that is located near the Kodaikanal Lake. This park is home to a wide variety of vibrant flowers, including a special section dedicated to roses, and an exotic greenhouse filled with orchids. The park also features species of cacti and old trees that were planted decades ago. The ideal time to visit see the park in full bloom is during the summers.

Next, you will head to the Coaker’s Walk, which is a paved walkway along the edge of a mountain. This path offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and the plains. On clear days, you might even be able to catch a glimpse of the distant villages and the shimmering Pambar River below. The peaceful walk along Coaker’s Walk is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

Your next stop will be at the iconic Pillar Rocks, which is a set of three towering granite pillars that rise to a height of about 400 feet amidst the misty forests. The area between the pillars is often referred to as the “Devil’s Kitchen”, and this adds an air of mystery to the visit.

After an adventurous and scenic day of sightseeing, you will return to your cozy hotel to relax, enjoy a scrumptious dinner, and settle in for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Today, wake up, start your day with a refreshing breakfast, and then you will begin your journey to Madurai, the cultural and spiritual heart of Tamil Nadu.

As you descend from the misty hills towards the bustling city of Madurai, you will enjoy the scenic journey through lush forests, rolling hills, and winding roads.

Upon reaching Madurai, you will start your sightseeing tour of the day with a visit to the the Arulmigu Kallalagar Kovil, which is a sacred temple that is also dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is depicted here as Lord Kallalagar. This temple features breathtaking sculptures and a brightly coloured gopuram that stands out against the natural beauty of the surroundings.

After this, you will visit the Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, which is a large temple tank that is known for its tranquil surroundings and historical significance. The tank is famous for its annual float festival, where beautifully decorated floats carrying the idols of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwarar glide over the water. The serene environment, combined with the central mandapam (pavilion) in the middle of the tank, makes it an ideal spot for a moment of a peaceful reflection.

This will be followed by a visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple, which is one of the most renowned temples in South India. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and her consort, Lord Sundareshwarar. It is known for its stunning Dravidian architecture and it’s intricately carved gopurams (gateway towers) that soar into the sky, adorned with thousands of vibrant, colourful statues. As you walk through the temple complex, you will be captivated by the beautifully painted ceilings, sacred halls, and the Golden Lotus Tank.

If you want, then you can choose to visit the St. Mary’s Cathedral, which is a Roman Catholic Church that boasts of a unique blend of Romanesque and traditional Indian architectural styles. The church’s peaceful atmosphere and its striking blue towers make it an ideal place to learn more about the rich history and culture of Madurai.

Next, you will visit the Arulmigu Koodal Azhagar Temple, which is a significant Vaishnavite shrine that is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, where he is worshipped as Lord Koodal Azhagar. The temple boasts exquisite stone carvings and detailed sculptures that reflect the craftsmanship of the bygone era. As you explore the temple, its ancient inscriptions and artistic details offer a glimpse into the religious heritage and cultural richness of Madurai.

After this, you are free to explore the vibrant streets of Madurai, which are known for their bustling markets and delectable South Indian cuisine. Here, you can shop for traditional South Indian souvenirs, handicrafts, and local specialties.

As the night falls, you must return to your cozy hotel to grab a little rest, enjoy a hearty dinner and prepare for a peaceful night’s rest.

Today, wake up to a fresh new day in the spiritual town of Madurai, freshen up, relish an appetizing breakfast and then you will head to Shri Arulmigu Subramaniya Swami Temple. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan (who is also known as Lord Kartikeya), the Tamil God of war, victory, and wisdom. The temple’s architecture is a magnificent representation of the Dravidian style, which is characterized by towering gopurams (gateway towers), intricately detailed sculptures, and ornate carvings that narrate stories from Hindu mythology. As you step inside the temple, you will be captivated by its elaborate interior, where the ancient rituals and prayers create an atmosphere of profound serenity.

After seeking the blessings of the divine at the temple, we will drop you with your comfortable transfer to the Madurai Airport or the Railway Station to assist you with your onward journey.

This marks the end of your memorable trip, which will leave you with cherished memories, enriched with the cultural, historical, and spiritual essence of Southern India.