Kerala & the South
The Indian South is a land of myths, mysteries and magnificent structures. It is a colourful delight of soft sensual pleasures, from the beaches and steamy backwaters of the Keralan coast, to the temples of Tamil Nadu and the sandalwood forests of Karnataka.
But most of all, with its exquisite hotels and delicious cuisine, it is a perfect place for a truly relaxing holiday.
The East India Company established a trading post at Chennai (Madras) in the 17th century and from here began their southern adventure. But they weren't the first to arrive from the West; the Dutch, the French and the Portuguese - Vasco da Gama died in Cochin in 1524 - were already established in the region as the Malabar Coast became a fundamental stepping stone in the race to bring spices to Europe.
And it is perhaps Kerala - the land of the coconut (as the name denotes) - that draws the traveller most. This tropical paradise - so different from the frenetic mayhem of the north - has been certified by the National Geographic as one of the 50 must-see destinations in a lifetime. And for good reason. The serene beaches, lush vegetation, mellow mountains, spice-perfumed air, exquisite hotels and an amiable culture that embraces Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, Jainism and Judaism gives Kerala its unique identity. To drift along the backwaters in an old rice barge is one of life's highlights you will never forget.
Whether you wish to sample the long and varied history of the old Cochin Port or the ancient and intricate temples at Hassan and Madurai; the spice gardens and fish markets of the Malabar Coast or the magnificent palace at Mysore; the tranquil palm fringed canals of the famous backwaters; the history of the Raj, Colonel Wellesley and Tippu Sultan or the fascinating Kathkali dance and Kabalyam martial art; and the breathtaking scenery of the hills and tea plantations of Ooty and Munnar or the wildlife forests at Periyar and Mudumalai, South India encompasses scenic beauty, exquisite architecture, excellent cuisine and a dense and magical culture.
Wild Frontiers runs one wonderfully balanced group itinerary to Southern India three times a year and tailor-made holidays throughout the year.
How to book a trip
What to do in Kerala & the South
Discover Dravidian Temples
Madurai
Primarily associated with South India, Dravidian architecture can trace its beginnings back to the early Pallava and Chola empires of the 6th century. The typical pyramid format of their intricate temples (Koils) are covered in elaborate carvings of deities, kings and warriors. The vast temple complexes at Madurai, Trichy and Tanjore are superb examples of this form of architecture, whilst the World Heritage site at Hampi can attest to the majesty and power of three generations of Hindu kings.
Enjoy a Thali
Cochin
Primarily a traditional western, central and north-west Indian meal, a Thali (known as a Sadya in Kerala) combines all the elements of a typical meal on one platter, with rice, dal, roti, vegetables, yoghurt and sweet dishes all being served in small bowls together. Essentially an Indian Tapas, it is a truly eclectic mix of colours, tastes and regional flavours, with many thalis working on the principle of 'bottomless' refills, meaning that you can replenish the empty dishes as often as you like until satisfied.
Relax on a Backwater Cruise
Backwaters
'God's Own Country', Kerala's beautiful backwaters provide the perfect setting for a relaxing cruise. Travelling through the waterways on a traditional houseboat is the ideal way to make the most of this stunning setting, with a wide choice of vessels and cruises available. Ranging from the comfortable to the luxurious, you can choose from day trips to longer overnight packages, enjoying traditional cuisine and genteel sightseeing as you pass by the village communities that line the banks of the waterways.
See the Cave Art at Eddekal
Wayanad
Stay in a luxury Tree House
Wayanad
Occupying 400 acres of a private coffee and vanilla plantation in northern Kerala, this idyllic Tranquil Resort is set amongst the lush rainforest of Wayanad. What better place then to enjoy the unique experience of a stay in a luxury tree house? Set 35 feet off the ground, the tree house measures over 150 square metres and comes with king sized beds, a private bathroom with a full size bath and a private veranda that affords some spectacular forest views.
Stroll around Pondicherry
Pondicherry
A former French colony, Pondicherry is a stylish blend of colonial architecture and Tamil flair. A stroll along its promenade takes you along Pondicherry's expansive beachfront, passing the French War Memorial and the statue of Gandhi, before turning into the city's elegant French Quarter. Here you can stroll along quiet tree-lined streets of louvered shutters and ornamental balconies, enjoying a relaxing drink before emerging again into the exhilerating melee of an Indian city at its most vibrant and colourful.
Take Cooking Lessons in Cochin
Cochin
Kerala is famed for its coconuts, spices and bountiful sea food, making this an ideal spot to try your hand at preparing some local South Indian cuisine. You can join half or full day courses that cater for both beginners and advanced participants alike. Under the watchful eye of a local chef you will prepare and cook a typical dish, utilising fresh, local ingredients and even traditional equipment in some cases. Then you get to enjoy the fruits of your labours!
Visit Trichy's Georgian Church
Trichy
Over 100 years old and a replica of the Basilica of Lourdes, the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes is set within the confines of St Joseph's College. A true masterpiece of Gothic design and Indian artistry, the church boasts a stunning collection of stained glass panels that depict stories from the Bible. The church's 200 foot spire can be seen from over 8 kilometres away and each Sunday its imposing walls reverberate to the sounds of over 6,000 worshippers.
How to book a trip
Where to stay in Kerala & the South
Malabar House
Cochin
The traditional Malabar House is not just a hotel, but also a showcase of contemporary and traditional South Indian...
Neeleshwar Hermitage Hotel
Mangalore
Set on an unspoilt beach on Kerala's northern coast, two hours drive from Mangalore Airport, this lovely retreat is an...
Taj Fishermans Cove
Chennai
Built on the ramparts of an old Dutch fort overlooking the Bay of Bengal the five star Taj Fishermans Cove resort...
The Tranquil Resort
Wayanad
Run by a local family, the lovely and unique, 4 star Tranquil Resort offers a unique chance to stay on a stunning...
Surya Samudra Hotel
Kovalam
Nestling on a gentle slope amidst 22 acres of landscaped tropical gardens, the five star Surya Samudra overlooks the...
Brunton Boatyard Hotel
Cochin
Located in the centre of Fort Cochin, close to the Chinese fishing nets, this exceptional five star property is one of...
Old Harbour Hotel
Cochin
Carefully built inside a restored 300 year-old building in the historic heart of Kerela, this boutique hotel contains...
Vivanta By Taj
Kovalam
59 huts thatched with elephant grass dotted over lush green hills make up the Vivanta Resort, which overlooks the...
Shalimar Spice Garden Resort
Thekkady
Set on lush, jungle covered hills on the border of Periyar Tiger Reserve, Shalimar Spice Garden is a collection of...
Spice Coast Cruises
Alleppey
One of the most memorable experiences of India is to take a rice barge journey on the backwaters of Kerala.The area...
Coconut Lagoon
Alleppey
We think this a lovely place, full of charm and originality. You arrive by boat on a short journey through the...
Soma Theeram
Thiruvananthapuram
Interesting place, geared up much more for Ayurveda medical tourism. In fact it advertises itself as the world's first...
Taj Green Cove
Thiruvananthapuram
This is a nice, atmospheric hotel, with jungle foliage all about, waterways etc. and the best rooms are the ones high...
The Old Courtyard
Cochin
This is a really nice mid-range hotel, in an excellent location down by the fishing nets and the main tourist street....
Le Colonial
Cochin
The Colonial is a lovely old Dutch trading house dating back to the turn of the 16th century situated in the heart of...
Bison Camp
Nagahole
The Bison Camp boasts the most idyllic waterside location, on the edge of Nagarhole National Park. With a backdrop of...
The Dunes Eco Hotel
Pondicherry
The Dune eco village resort & spa, Pondicherry, is a thematic hotel, designed within a 35 acre beach-side plot. The...
How to book a trip
Suggested Itineraries
How to book a trip
Kerala & the South Travel Guide
Trichy
Based around a large rock fort, Trichy is a city which balances old and new. Believed to be named after a three-headed demon of Hindu mythology, it is situated at the edge of the Cauvery Delta. Home to pilgrimage centres, shrines, temples and mosques, it is significant to many religions and also an area of archeological importance.
Bandipur National Park
Departing your hotel early in the morning, you'll enter the park in open topped jeeps and proceed into the reserve in search of the growing populations of Bengal tigers and Indian elephants for which the park is famed. In the company of expert guides you will spend around 3-4 hours searching out some of the rich game that inhabit the park. For those that wish, there is also the option to take an elephant back safari in the park, offering a unique way to view Bandipur's abundant flora and fauna.
Alleppey
Aleppey or "the Venice of the East" is renowned for its network of inland waterways and canals. These backwaters take you into the heart of the region allowing visitors to witness the daily life and beauty of the area. Situated at the centre of this labyrinth of water, Aleppey is the main place for visitors to hire house boats. The town itself has always been one of the main commercial centres of the region with coir being its biggest industry. The Mullackal Rajarajeswari and Chettikulangara Bharan temples in the town are famous throughout Kerela. Aleppey is also a good base from which to visit the churches of Kottayam and Aranmula famous with its Snake Boat Race.
Bangalore
Nicknamed "the garden city" due to its ancient reputation for being green, liberal and forward looking, Bangalore is India's third largest city and is at the forefront of the high tech industry boom. It was the British who moved the administrative capital from Mysore to Bangalore and made it the capital of Karnataka state. Although not known for its tourist attractions, Bangalore still has a handful of interesting things to do. There are palaces, temples and lakes not to mention the wide green spaces and some of India's best shopping and nightlife. The Ulsoor lake and Lal Bagh gardens are great places to relax, whilst the Vidhana Soudha built out of Bangalore granite is a tribute to temple architecture.
Cochin
The port city of Kochi is located on a cluster of islands and narrow peninsulas. The older parts of the city are an unlikely blend of medieval Portugal, Holland and an English country village grafted onto the tropical Malabar Coast. Most of the historical sights are in Fort Cochin or Mattancherry. Down near the waterfront you can see St Francis Church, India's oldest; a 450-year-old Portuguese palace; Chinese fishing nets strung out past Fort Cochin; and a synagogue dating back to the mid 16th century. Ferries scuttle back and forth around Kochi and dolphins can often be seen in the harbour.
Kochi
The port city of Kochi is located on a cluster of islands and narrow peninsulas. The older parts of the city are an unlikely blend of medieval Portugal, Holland and an English country village grafted onto the tropical Malabar Coast. Most of the historical sights are in Fort Cochin or Mattancherry. Down near the waterfront you can see St Francis Church, India's oldest; a 450-year-old Portuguese palace; Chinese fishing nets strung out past Fort Cochin; and a synagogue dating back to the mid 16th century. Ferries scuttle back and forth around Kochi and dolphins can often be seen in the harbour.
Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram, less than two hours from the bustle of Chennai, is the place to find sun, sand, seafood and relaxation on the Tamil Nadu Coastline. This truly Indian seaside village is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. Modern day stone carvers, tourists and local fishermen mingle amongst the ancient ruins and stone carvings, some of which date back as far as the 7th century. The town was affected by the 2004 Tsunami but was rebuilt quickly and now offers a variety of cheap accommodation, fish restaurants and handicraft shops. It is also host to Tamil Nadu's most highly regarded dance festival.
Mangalore
The clean beaches of Mangalore on are its first obvious attraction, but the forts and jungles on the city’s outskirts are also well worth visiting. This busy tropical south Indian city sits on the edge of Karnataka state, and its name is said to come from the famous Mangaladevi Temple which still stands today.
Madurai
Madurai is documented in the 4th century in Greek texts when it was popular for trade, particularly in spices. From the 10th to the 16th centuries the city was ruled by the Cholas, Pandyas, Malik Kafur, and the Vijayanagar kings of Hampi. They were followed by the Nayaks and during Tirumalai Nayak’s reign most of the extraordinary Meenakshi Temple was built. The cultural centre of the Tamil people, the city revenues were taken over in 1781 after the Carnatic Wars by the British East India Company. Today it is a thriving bustling city and ancient centre of learning and pilgrimage, full of bazaars, colour and life.
Kovalam
One of Kerela’s most famous beach towns, Kovalam is made up of swathes of yellow sandy beaches, swaying palm trees and year-round warm, calm sea. The name means ‘a grove of coconut trees’, and it’s easy to see why. The shoreline is dotted with seafood restaurants, serving everything from fresh lobster to grilled calamari caught in the waters which the tables overlook. Now somewhat more crowded than it’s days as a fishing village, Kovalam is no longer a peaceful idyll, but a bustling beach scene which has managed to retain its original charm.
Chennai
The capital city of Tamil Nadu, Chennai, was built by the British in 1639 as an important military centre and was previously known as Fort George. Under British rule the city also grew into a major urban hub. The city is also known for being a melting pot of music, art, culture and as the main location for the Tamil film industry. So saying the city is lively and colourful and attracts people from all over Southern India. Situated on a flat coastal plain on the South East Coast of India and on the thermal equator the weather is hot and humid for the majority of the year. Intricately carved temples, serene beaches and colonial monuments mean that Chennai is also a great tourist destination. Attractions include Fort George; thought to be the first fort built by the British in India, the Government Museum; one of the oldest Museums in India and Marina beach, Tamil Nadu's largest beach.
Tanjore
In Tanjore, on the eastern coast of Tamil Nadu, stone temples jut out of green rice fields which stretch as far as the eye can see. As the ancient capital of the Chola kingdom, excellent examples of Chola architecture can be seen here, such as the magnificent Brihadishwara Chola temple which is now a UNESCO world heritage site.
Coonoor
Surrounded by tea plantations, Coonoor is a scenic hill station which remains pleasantly cool throughout the year due to its altitude of 1839 metres. Lush, green and peaceful, it is an ideal trekking destination, and popular with the locals of the surrounding Nilgiris district. The Sims botanical garden is its primary attraction, containing over 1000 species of plant including magnolia, pines, tree ferns, and camellia, and the nearby Droog fort takes visitors back in time: perfect for a touch of local history.
Coorg
Known by some as the ‘Scotland of India’, Coorg is a lush town of misty hills, panoramic mountain views, orange groves, teak wood forests and tea and coffee plantations, as its slopes are too steep for growing rice. One of the most beautiful areas in the Western Ghats of southwestern Karnataka, Coorg, or Kodagu, is known for its cuisine, which is mostly non-vegetarian. A prime hiking area, here ethnic communities live beside each other in the forest: a fascinating cultural and geographical destination.
Mysore
This charming, easy-going city has long been a favourite with travellers since it's a convenient size, enjoys a good climate and has chosen to retain and promote its heritage rather than replace it. The city of palaces – 17 in all although no longer a princely state - retains its old charm and many buildings are adorned with domes, turrets and impressive archways. The city is famous for its silk processing as it is a major centre for nurturing silk worms, which is a major industry here. It is also a thriving sandalwood and incense centre. Until independence, Mysore was the seat of the maharajas of Mysore, a princely state covering about a third of present-day Karnataka. The Maharaja's Indo-Saracenic Palace is the town's major attraction with its kaleidoscope of stained glass, ornate furnishings and carved mahogany ceilings.
Ooty
Once a favourite with the Colonial Brits, Ooty is a picturesque hill station town in the Niligiris mountain range at 2286 metres above sea level, making it cool all year round. Dense jungle, gurgling streams, towering mountains and mile after mile of tea plantations- the area is an ideal starting point for trekking and picnicking, even if the town itself has become somewhat overrun by tourists.
Pondicherry
A sophisticated city with strong French influences, in Pondicherry you can find good steak and French wine: a contrast to some of its surrounding cities. Located on India’s South Eastern coast, it overlooks the Bay of Bengal and is known as the French Riviera of the east for its architecture and European ways.
Thiruvananthapuram
Once called "The evergreen city of India" by Ghandi, Trivandrum is Kerala’s largest city, characterised by its rolling hills and clean streets. With an average annual temperature of 34 degrees celcius, it’s a popular beach destination by a beautiful city, complete with fascinating palaces, museums and galleries.
The Nilgiris Hills
Blue skies and mountains, coffee and tea gardens, blossoming flowers in forests of sandalwoods, occasional footprints of elephants, the silence broken only by the leaves rustling in the fragrant winds blowing. The natural beauty of forests and falls can be enchanting and the cool weather a welcome relief or just a change from the heat of the coast. At their heart is Ooty the former hill station of the Raj standing at 2286m and at their foot is the delightful Mudumalai wildlife sanctuary.
Wayanad
Nestled amongst the Western Ghats this green hill station is filled with forests and wildlife. Wayanad is steeped in history and traditions which historians claim date as far back as 10 centuries before Christ. They refer to the Edakal Caves in Wayanad as evidence where ancient carvings have been traced to a highly civilised people from the pre-historic Stone Age. The area is home to a number of indigenous tribes. Some of these tribes include the Paniyas, Adiyas, Kattunayakan and Kurichiyans and many of them still practice age-old customs.
Backwaters
One of the most memorable experiences of India is to take a boat journey on the backwaters of Kerala. The area known as Kuttanad stretches for 75km from Kollam in the south to Kochi in the north, sandwiched between the sea and the hills. This bewildering labyrinth of shimmering waterways, made up of lakes, canals, rivers and rivulets, is lined with dense tropical greenery that hides rural Kerala life.
Traditional Kettu vallams poled along by boatmen glide or sail past carrying heavyweight cargoes, and fishermen work from rowing boats or operate massive Chinese nets on the shore. Here and there are basic rope-bridges can be raised on ropes but most people rely on boatmen to ferry them across the water to connect with roads and bus services. Poles sticking out of the water indicate dangerous shallows.
Nagahole
Nagarhole National Park is an enchanting 247 square-mile reserve in Karnataka which is home to an astonishing abundance of wildlife including large mammals such as tiger, leopard, wild elephant, dhole (Indian wild dog), and gaur (Indian bison). Other species present are chital spotted deer, muntjac (barking deer), mouse deer, four-horned antelope, wild boar, sloth bear, hyena, mongoose, civet, otter, and more. The landscape is one of gentle slopes and shallow valleys. Dry deciduous forest trees are leafless in the summer rather than in the winter. There are grassy swamps where the soil is clayey, perennially moist, and which support a luxuriant growth of green grass all year. The change in terrain throughout the park in refreshing and the river system provides a unique wildlife viewing experience. Nagarhole National Park is counted among India's best wildlife parks.
Periyar
Famous for its national park and tiger reserve, Periyar is made up of wildlife-filled woodland, densely inhabited by elephants. Sitting in the middle of the Cardamom Hills, the area is also home to foxes, wild dogs, deer, leopards and 320 kinds of birds including kingfishers and hornbills. A man-made lake is generally considered the centre of the National Park, where the animals wash and drink.
How to book a trip
Kerala & the South Travel Information
Visa Information
UK Passport holders require a visa to visit India.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the end of your trip, and it must have at least one blank page for each visa required. Please ensure the passport details we hold for you are correct.
Please note it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct visa documentation when starting your trip. Country entry regulations can alter daily and it is always best to check with the relevant embassies for any changes.
The Indian visa can be obtained online either through VF Services (UK) LTD at http://in.vfsglobal.co.uk or through a visa service company such as:
Travcour (UK)
Tempo House
15 Falcon Road
Battersea
London SW11 2PJ
Tel: 020 7223 5295
Fax: 020 7738 2617
Email: info@travcour.com
Website: www.travcour.com
The visa application process is outsourced by the Embassy to VF Services, and it is strongly recommended that you complete the visa application online where you will have the option of sending your passport by post, or arranging an appointment. Please read the instructions on the homepage carefully before following the quick links on the right-hand side to the online visa application form.
Please record the reference number you are given. After completing your application you will be given the option to print the application form (if using Travcour) or pay online and print after.
You will also need:
• Your passport
• One printed application form
• Correct fee (or receipt)
• Two 50mm x 50mm sized photographs on white background
If you are travelling on a non-UK passport, please contact your nearest consulate/embassy for up to date visa information.
Insurance:
Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours.
You should be aware that many standard insurance policies may not cover you adequately for all aspects of a Wild Frontiers trip and so we strongly recommend that you purchase a suitably designed insurance policy.
One such policy is the "Wild Frontiers" policy underwritten by Ace European Group Limited (ACE " firm reference 202803), which is available to EU residents (which excludes Norway & Switzerland) through our website or via the insurance company direct on 0845 345 3456. Under this policy there are two different levels of cover available.
Standard policy: a comprehensive travel insurance policy that provides cover for all Wild Frontiers activities, including trekking up to 6,000m. This policy does not provide cover for travel to areas where the FCO is advising against all or all but essential travel.
Elite policy: provides the same comprehensive level of cover as the standard policy. In addition the Elite policy also provides cover for travel to areas where the FCO is advising against all or all but essential travel. The policy will not provide cover for any claims arising from or relating to the reasons why the FCO is advising against travel.
If purchasing the Elite policy you also have the option to extend the cover provided by the policy to include cover for claims arising from a terrorist act in an area where the FCO is advising against travel. You can add this cover to your policy when purchasing online or over the telephone.
These policies are only available to those travelling on a Wild Frontiers holiday.
For more information and to purchase your policy online please visit the Insurance section of our website.
The cover is unde
Health and Vaccinations:
There are no mandatory immunisations for travellers to India though you should be up-to-date with Typhoid, Tetanus, Polio and HepatitisA. Malaria is prevalent in parts of India and we recommend you seek advice from your local GP or travel centre as to the correct immunisations and preventative treatments.
We also recommend you look at www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk
