Holiday Brief
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Embark on a captivating 14-day journey through South India, beginning in Bangalore, where modernity meets colonial charm. Explore the grand Bangalore Palace before heading to Mysore, with its royal palaces, historic fort at Srirangapatnam, and the bird-rich Ranganathittu Sanctuary. After discovering the opulence of Mysore Palace and the spiritual Chamundeshwari Temple, continue to Nagarhole National Park—home to tigers, elephants, and lush forest landscapes—where you’ll enjoy a jungle safari and serene natural surroundings. The adventure moves on to the misty hills of Wayanad, offering treks, nature walks, and a taste of Kerala cuisine, before reaching the cool climes of Ooty and the biodiverse Mudumalai Tiger Reserve for an immersive wildlife experience.
From the jungles of Mudumalai, travel to the majestic Athirapilly Falls and then to the vibrant city of Cochin, rich in Dutch, Portuguese, and British heritage. Wander through spice markets, colonial streets, and iconic landmarks like the Chinese Fishing Nets and St. Francis Church. The journey winds down at the tranquil shores of Marari Beach, perfect for relaxation and reflection. Along the way, enjoy cultural experiences like a Kathakali dance performance and a Kerala cooking demo, leaving you with unforgettable memories of South India's diverse landscapes, heritage, and wildlife.
Itinerary Details
1 - ARRIVAL BANGALORE
Your journey of a lifetime begins in Bangalore. Upon arrival at the international airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Once a quiet town, Bangalore has transformed into India’s thriving IT hub and one of the nation’s most progressive cities. Aptly called “A Tale of Two Cities,” Bangalore beautifully merges contrasting worlds—the historic central district, echoing the charm of the British Raj, and the modern, tech-driven outskirts reminiscent of Silicon Valley.
As part of this enchanting journey, you will explore the city’s rich heritage, including a visit to the Bangalore Palace, one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Admire its elegant splendor and royal charm as you take a walking tour through this architectural marvel—a perfect blend of Tudor and Scottish Gothic styles, adorned with intricate wooden interiors. Note: Guests arriving on afternoon flights will visit Bangalore Palace on Day 2 at 09:45 hrs.
2 - BANGALORE - MYSORE
After breakfast, drive to Mysore with a stop at Srirangapatnam, a historic fort town on an island in the Cauvery River. It was the seat of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan and the de facto capital of southern India in the 18th century. The British defeated Tipu Sultan here in 1799. You can still see the fort’s ramparts, battlements, and remaining gates.
Next, visit Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, 14 km before Mysore. Spread over 40 acres along the Cauvery River, it is home to local and migratory birds including shags, white ibis, darters, peafowl, pond herons, wild ducks, painted storks, kingfishers, cattle egrets, and river terns.
In Mysore, visit the Lalith Mahal Palace, the second largest palace in the city. Built in the 20th century for the Viceroy of India, it features white walls, Renaissance architecture, and landscaped gardens.
3 - MYSORE SIGHTSEEING
After breakfast, visit the Mysore Palace, one of India’s grandest royal buildings and a prime example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Explore the palace halls, Doll’s Pavilion, and Elephant Gate, and admire features like stained-glass ceilings and the golden elephant howdah, reflecting the opulent lifestyle of the Maharajas of Mysore.
In the afternoon, visit the Chamundeshwari Temple on Chamundi Hill, dedicated to the deity worshiped by Mysore Maharajas. Climb the steps to see the temple tower and granite statues, including the 16-foot statue of Nandi, gifted by Maharaja Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar in 1659.
Also included is a drive to St. Philomena’s Church, built in 1936 and inspired by the Cologne Cathedral in Germany. It is one of the oldest churches in India.
.4 - MYSORE TO NAGARHOLE
After breakfast, check out from Mysore and drive to Nagarhole National Park (also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park), one of South India’s finest wildlife destinations. The park is bordered by the Kabini River to the north and Bandipur National Park to the south, and is home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, gaur, leopards, tigers, and bears.
Nagarhole is surrounded by lush tropical and deciduous forests, with streams, gentle slopes, and valleys adding to its natural charm. It is a perfect destination for nature lovers seeking a peaceful and immersive wildlife experience.
5 - NAGARHOLE NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast at the resort, enjoy a day at your leisure. Explore the resort grounds, take a peaceful walk, or simply relax amidst the lush greenery and sounds of the forest.
In the evening, embark on an hour-long Jungle Safari in Nagarhole National Park, home to diverse wildlife. Return to your resort afterward for an overnight stay.
6 - NAGARHOLE TO VYTHIRI IN WAYANAD (3 HOURS DRIVE)
Check out from the resort at 10:00 AM and drive to Vythiri in Wayanad. En route, visit the Needle Rock Viewpoint in Gudalur and explore the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Check in at the Wildlife Resort at 2:00 PM.
Wayanad, nestled in the Western Ghats, is a green paradise known for its pristine landscapes, tea and coffee plantations, dense forests, and rich wildlife. Located about 80 km from the Kozhikode coast, this hill station features rugged terrain, deep valleys, and scenic mountain ridges, making it a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture.
7 - WAYANAD
Spend the day at leisure after breakfast. You may unwind at the resort, explore the surroundings, or join activities like a guided nature walk or a short trek to nearby hillocks. In the evening, experience a cooking demonstration to learn about traditional Kerala cuisine and local flavors.
8 - WAYANAD TO OOTY (4 HOURS DRIVE)
After breakfast, check out and drive to Ooty, famously known as the “Queen of Hill Stations”. Situated at an altitude of 2,240 meters in the Western Ghats, Ooty was discovered in 1817 by John Sullivan, the collector of Coimbatore, and served as the summer headquarters of the East India Company.
This scenic hill station is renowned for its colonial architecture, Nilgiri hills, tea gardens, heritage toy train, and waterfalls, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and old-world charm.
9 - OOTY – MUDUMALAI NATIONAL PARK & TIGER RESERVE
Check out at 10:00 AM and drive to Wild Planet Jungle Resort in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, located in the Nilgiri Hills. Mudumalai was one of the first forest ranges to be declared a National Park and forms an important wildlife corridor in the Nilgiri Biosphere.
The park is covered with lush grasslands, shrubs, and swamps, nourished by the Moyar River and its tributaries. It is home to over 100 tigers, as well as Asian elephants, leopards, sloth bears, striped hyenas, dholes, golden jackals, and many other species, offering a rich and immersive wildlife experience.
10 - WILD PLANET JUNGLE RESORT, MUDUMALAI
Enjoy a full day at leisure at Wild Planet Jungle Resort in Devala, located within the Mudumalai National Park & Tiger Reserve.
You may take part in activities such as a nature walk or trekking within the sanctuary. Overnight stay will be at the Jungle Lodge in Mudumalai National Park.
11 - WILD PLANET JUNGLE RESORT – ATHIRAPPILLY WATERFALLS (5-HOUR DRIVE)
Check out at 10:00 AM and drive to Athirapilly, a stunning waterfall on the border of the Sholayar forest ranges. Athirapilly Falls cascades 80 feet into the Chalakkudy River, while nearby Vazhachal Falls is also part of the river system. Both waterfalls, set against lush green forests and rocky terrain, offer a refreshing and scenic experience for visitors.
12 - ATHIRAPPILLY – MARARI BEACH (2 HOURS 45 MINUTES DRIVE)
Check out from your hotel and drive to Cochin, a city that beautifully blends European, Chinese, and Indian influences. Begin your visit by exploring the historic streets, lined with colonial-era buildings, charming cafes, ancient churches, and mosques. Wander through Jew Town and the vibrant spice markets, where the aroma of cinnamon, cardamom, and black pepper fills the air.
You may also enjoy a quick bite at a local street stall or a cup of traditional Darjeeling tea at one of the quaint cafés while soaking in the city’s lively atmosphere. If you prefer a relaxed pace, take some time to unwind at your hotel and enjoy its exceptional facilities before heading to Marari Beach, where golden sands and tranquil waters await. This evening offers the perfect opportunity to relax and watch the sunset, letting the calm of Kerala’s backwaters prepare you for the next leg of your journey.
13 - COCHIN SIGHTSEEING
Today, explore the enchanting city of Cochin, also known as the “Gateway to Kerala.” The city reflects a rich blend of Dutch, British, Portuguese, and Chinese influences, visible in its architecture and traditions.
Begin your tour with the Dutch Palace, followed by St. Francis Church, India’s oldest European-built church. Visit the Jewish Paradesi Synagogue to admire rare antiques and vibrant heritage. At the harbor, witness the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, introduced by Chinese traders in the 14th century, creating a truly breathtaking sight.
The rest of the day is at leisure to explore Fort Kochi or relax. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, where dancers in elaborate masks and makeup narrate stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, offering a mesmerizing glimpse into Kerala’s cultural heritage.
14 - COCHIN DEPARTURE
As your South India Wildlife and Heritage Tour draws to a close, take a final moment to soak in the memories of this remarkable journey. After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Cochin Airport for your onward flight, carrying with you the unforgettable sights, sounds, and experiences of South India.
Accommodation Details
| Destination | No of Nights | Name of the hotel | Room Category | Board Basis | Star Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bangalore | 1 | Renaissance race course road | Superior | Half Board | 5 |
| Mysore | 2 | Fortune JP Palace | Superior | Deluxe | 4 |
Price
- Economy
- Business
- 2026
- 2027
- 2026
- 2027
Hotels
Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel
Accommodation: Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel caters to a variety of travelers with its richly appointed rooms and suites. Guests can enjoy a comfortable stay in one of the 276 elegantly appointed guestrooms. Each room at the Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel is a haven of luxury, ranging from deluxe rooms to opulent suites. Guests can indulge in amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and exclusive toiletries. The rooms feature premium bedding and marble bathrooms. Select rooms boast balconies with breathtaking city or garden views.
Amenities: The hotel offers a plethora of luxurious amenities including concierge services, valet parking, private cabana rentals at the poolside, a fully equipped business center for corporate needs, and VIP services such as butler or limousine rentals to elevate the guest experience.
Dining Options: The Renaissance Bengaluru boasts multiple dining venues including Lush, known for its global cuisine and signature dishes. R Bar serves artisanal cocktails with rooftop views. The hotel offers comprehensive breakfast options, room service round the clock, and exclusive culinary experiences like chef-hosted dinners.
Policies & Check-In Instructions:
1) Check-in begins at 3 PM; valid government-issued ID required
2) Pets are not allowed
3) Non-smoking policy enforced throughout the premises
Service & Amenities
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Non-smoking rooms
- Free parking
- Spa and wellness centre
- Family rooms
- 3 restaurants
- Room service
- Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms
- Bar
Fortune JP Palace
Accommodation: Fortune JP Palace caters to a variety of travelers with its richly appointed rooms and suites. Guests can enjoy a comfortable stay in one of the 108 elegantly appointed guestrooms. Each of the 108 guestrooms at Fortune JP Palace is a haven of opulence and comfort, featuring plush down comforters, premium bedding, and marble bathrooms. Rooms range from deluxe suites to executive rooms, each equipped with state-of-the-art amenities including Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and exclusive toiletries. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline or serene garden vistas from their private balconies.
Amenities: Fortune JP Palace offers an array of luxurious amenities designed to cater to both business and leisure travelers. Highlights include personalized concierge services, valet parking, private cabana rentals by the poolside, a fully equipped business center for corporate needs, and VIP services such as butler and limousine rentals that underscore a commitment to excellence in service.
Dining Options: Guests at Fortune JP Palace can choose from three exquisite dining venues including Orchid Restaurant which offers a gourmet buffet spread featuring international cuisines. The Sky Lounge provides an exceptional rooftop dining experience with panoramic views of Mysore. For those seeking intimate dining moments or wine pairings alongside authentic regional dishes, Saffron is the place to be.
Policies & Check-In Instructions:
1) Guests must present government-issued photo identification at check-in
2) Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in
3) Property accepts credit cards; cash not accepted
Service & Amenities
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Non-smoking rooms
- Free parking
- Spa and wellness centre
- Family rooms
- 3 restaurants
- Room service
- Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms
- Bar
Pepper Trail Bungalow
Accommodation: Pepper Trail offers unique heritage and treehouse accommodations in a 200-acre plantation in Wayanad, Kerala. Guests can stay in elegant colonial-style suites or elevated luxury treehouses with forest views. All rooms feature modern comforts like air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and private balconies, providing a peaceful and immersive nature retreat.
Amenities: Pepper Trail offers an infinity pool, Ayurvedic spa, treehouse dining, guided nature activities, free Wi-Fi, bike rentals, and private parking—all set within a peaceful plantation estate.
Dining Options: Pepper Trail features a unique treehouse restaurant serving authentic Kerala and international dishes made with fresh, estate-grown ingredients. Guests enjoy delicious meals with stunning views of the surrounding forest and plantations.
Service & Amenities
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Free WiFi
- Free parking
- Restaurant
- Family rooms
- Room service
- Spa and wellness centre
- Non-smoking rooms
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms



