We recommend that you depart from London Heathrow at 12:40 with British Airways on flight BA0035 to Chennai. NB International flights are not included.

Namaste! Welcome to India! Once you arrive in the morning (British Airways flight lands at 03.30) you will be welcomed by a representative of Travel XS before departing along the scenic East Coast Road to the Mamallapuram (approx 1.5 hours). Check into the hotel and in the afternoon you’ll explore Mamallapuram’s stunning UNESCO listed heritage sites with an expert guide. Key highlights include the Shore Temple, dramatically positioned along the Bay of Bengal, and Arjuna’s Penance, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and carved from a single granite outcrop representing early Dravidian temple architecture.  In the evening you will be welcomed by the founder of Travel XS for a briefing about the company, to talk through the logistics of the tour and a welcome dinner. Overnight: Grande Bay Resort (or similar)Included meals:  Lunch and dinner

Following breakfast, set out on an authentic village discovery experience by auto-rickshaw, led by local hero Mr. Shakthi. This will be a fascinating insight into the rural heart of Tamil Nadu, revealing the traditions, livelihoods, and cultural heritage that continue to shape village life. Along the way, visit a traditional village temple, witness skilled artisans demonstrating pottery-making techniques, explore agricultural fields, and learn about cattle-rearing practices that support the local economy. Lunch will be traditional Tamil at a local restaurant served in banana leaves. After lunch, explore another premium beach resort in Mamallapuram, followed by a visit to Travel XS office and a chance to meet the Operations and sales teams.In the evening you’ll participate in a cooking demonstration focusing on Tamil cuisine followed by dinner.Overnight: Grande Bay Resort (or similar)Included meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

After an early breakfast depart for Chennai airport (approx. 1.5 hrs drive) for a 1.5 hour flight to Madurai. The city is often referred to as the “Athens of the East”, being one of India’s oldest inhabited cities and a vibrant centre of temple culture and South Indian heritage. Check in to the hotel and after lunch we’ll conduct a hotel site inspection, before exploring the city of Madurai by cycle rickshaw. Followed by a street food walk, exploring local markets, culinary traditions and everyday life led by a local hero. Later that evening we’ll head back to the hotel for dinner. Overnight: Heritage Madurai (or similar)Included meals:  Breakfast lunch and dinner

Begin the day with a guided visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple, one of the most significant architectural and cultural landmarks in Southern India. Following the visit, drive to Thekkady (approx. 4 hours) across the plains of Tamil Nadu into the verdant and beautiful Western Ghats. After check-in to the hotel, lunch and site inspection, you’ll visit a working spice plantation accompanied by a local naturalist, gaining insight into aromatic spices such as cardamom, pepper and cloves. In the evening you’ll attend a Kalaripayattu performance showcasing one of the world’s oldest martial arts, followed by dinner.Overnight: Cardamom County by Xandari (or similar)Included meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

After breakfast we’ll head to Periyar National Park for a guided nature walk led by naturalist where you will learn the importance of the forest ecosystem. Then depart for Mamalakandam, a serene untouched village along the banks of the Periyar River. Far from the usual tourist routes, it remains largely untouched, offering an authentic slice of rural Kerala. Mamalakandam is an off-the-beaten track, mist-covered local village in Kerala's Western Ghats. It is known for its dense forests, cool climate, and pristine, untouched natural beauty - an ideal spot for clients seeking solitude, wilderness and an off-grid experience.Check in at hotel and after lunch head out for an off-road jeep safari led by a local hero, offering an exciting journey through the lush green forests to spot wildlife like elephants, bison and deer.  Visit a local village and gain an insight into the communities traditional homes, culture and customs and cook traditional dishes with a local chef.Overnight: Maram Resort (or similar) in the scenic and remote hills of MamalakandamIncluded meals: Breakfast lunch and dinner

This morning we’ll set off early to enjoy a nature trail to Kalladi waterfalls. After breakfast we’ll drive to the backwater village of Kumarakom (approx 4.5 hours), a picturesque village on the banks of the Vembanad Lake in Kerala and the perfect place to experience Kerala’s iconic houseboats, canals and lagoons. After check-in to our lakeside resort there’ll be time for an inspection of the waterfront villas and wellness facilities.Overnight: Coconut Lagoon (or similar)Included meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

This morning board a private houseboat for a cruise on the beautiful Malabar Backwaters (approx. 3 hours). Enjoy a relaxed journey through Kerala’s intricate network of canals and lagoons, spotting water birds like kingfishers, egrets and cormorants and catch glimpses of village life and local fishermen. In the afternoon we’ll explore Fort Cochi’s historic colonial quarter including St.Francis Church and the iconic Chinese fishing nets. After checking in to the hotel we’ll head out for our last evening together at a traditional Kathakali dance performance with dinner. Overnight: Fragrant Nature (or similar)Included meals:  Breakfast lunch and dinner

After an early breakfast we’ll check out and transfer to Cochin Airport (approx. 1.5 hours) for your flight to Mumbai, departing  at 08.00 and arrives in Mumbai at 10:05Included meals: Breakfast

International flights are not included. We recommend departure from Mumbai on BA0198 at 12:50 arriving LHR 18:15

Day 9. Fri 28 Sep. Departure from Cochin to Delhi - AgraFor those extending their stay to take in the iconic sites of Rajasthan, check out and transfer to Cochin Airport (approx 1.5 hours) for flight to Delhi, which departs at 11.15 and arrives in Delhi at 14.40 (included). Upon arrival a representative will assist and transfer you to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal (4 hour drive).Overnight: The Grand Imperial (or similar)Included meals: Breakfast and dinner  .Day 10. Tue 29 Sep. Agra - JaipurEarly morning visit to the Taj Mahal for sunrise when the monument reveals its most serene beauty. After breakfast drive to Jaipur (approx 5 hours). The journey provides glimpses of rural Rajasthan and along the way we’ll stop at the Keoladeo National Park which is home to thousands of native and migratory birds. Also a visit to the incredible Chand Baori stepwell at Abhaneri, one of India’s oldest and deepest stepwells, known for its geometric precision and dramatic architecture. Overnight: Shahpura House (or similar)Included meals: Breakfast lunch and dinnerDay 11. Wed 30 Sep. JaipurEarly morning departure for a safari at Jhalana Leopard Reserve a unique wildlife experience and opportunity to spot these majestic animals in their natural habitat. After breakfast, we’ll enjoy a full day of sightseeing, visiting the magnificent Amber Fort and City Palace, situated in the heart of Jaipur's ‘Pink City’. This is a massive complex that remains the residence of the Jaipur royal family today. In the evening you’ll enjoy a special dinner with a noble family, a rare opportunity to experience the aristocratic lifestyle traditions and warm hospitality of Rajasthan. Overnight: Shahpura House (or similar)Included meals: Breakfast lunch and dinnerDay 12. Thu 01 Oct. Jaipur - Train to DelhiAfter breakfast check out of your hotel and we will transfer to Jaipur Railway Station to board your train to Delhi (approx. 4  hours). You can relax on board and enjoy the scenery. Light lunches are available.Upon arrival, you will be met by your local representative and guide for a fascinating exploration of Delhi.Step back in time as you discover the charm of Shahjahanabad (Old Delhi), a captivating district filled with historic monuments, bustling bazaars, and vibrant religious landmarks. Begin with visits to the iconic Red Fort and Jama Masjid, one of the largest and most impressive mosques in India.Continue to Khari Baoli, Asia’s largest spice market, where the sights, aromas, and energy of the trading lanes create an unforgettable sensory experience. You will also visit Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, one of Sikhism’s most important places of worship, renowned for its historical and spiritual significance.Later, embark on a delicious culinary journey through the lively streets of Chandni Chowk. Sample some of Old Delhi’s most celebrated street-food specialties, including freshly made parathas from the famous Paranthe Wali Gali, crispy jalebis, and a variety of other local delicacies. This fascinating food walk offers an authentic taste of Delhi’s rich culinary heritage and vibrant street-food culture.Then it’s on to your hotel which is a beautiful Haveli, masterfully restored and awarded UNESCO Heritage status. Enjoy your last evening meal at the Haveli in the grand restaurant, savouring the tastes of Mughlai cuisine.Overnight: Haveli Dharmapura or similarIncluded meals: Breakfast, DinnerDay 13. Fri 02 Oct. Departure from Delhi to LondonAfter breakfast you’ll check out of the hotel and transfer to Delhi International Airport. Included meals: Breakfast  RECOMMENDED RETURN FLIGHT FOR EXTENSION International flights are not included. We recommend that you depart from Delhi International Airport on flight BA256 at 10.05, arriving LHR at 15.20.