Kerala & the Tropical South

Discover the laid-back charm of South India on a small-group adventure through Kerala and Tamil Nadu, featuring historic landmarks, tea plantations, wildlife sanctuaries, and a traditional houseboat cruise.

We spend our nights in a mixture of hotels and on a traditional Keralan houseboat. Our hotels are all in the heart of the towns we stop in. Your first hotel in Kochi is conveniently situated in the commercial hub, close to the main textile and jewellery shops plus plenty of restaurants.



The accommodations typically used are on the day-to-day itinerary. However, below are a few of the notable accommodations on this trip.



Upgrade to a sea-view room on Day 11, 12 and 13 of the itinerary – speak to your sales representative for more details



Peppervine Hotel, Thekkady







The four-star Peppervine is conventiently located for our adventures, close to Periyar Tiger Reserve and a short walk from Kumily town (the local town name of Thekkady) where you'll find plenty of shopping options, including locally grown spices and an eclectic assortment of souvenirs. Surrounded by woodland, the hotel offers comfort and tranquillity, with spacious bedrooms, an outdoor swimming pool and open-air restaurant. So close to wildlife, you won't find it hard to spot the monkeys swinging in the neighbouring trees as you relax.



Keralan houseboat, Alleppey







No trip to Kerala is complete without a houseboat stay. Typically, the boats are converted barges (known locally as kettuvallam), once used to transport rice from farm to market. All cabins have private bathrooms and the staff will keep you well fed. The houseboats have a deck and dining area, although the style/layout varies between boats. There is a cook, driver and assistants for each boat and the food is traditional Keralan fare using local produce. Houseboats have two to five twin-bedded rooms. Larger groups may be split over several boats; however, the group reunites at riverside stops and the overnight anchor point where your leader will be available.



Worth knowing



Indian hotels usually do not have heating. However, you can request more blankets or the hotel may be able to provide a standing heater for your room (subject to availability). Please talk to your tour leader if you need help in this matter.

Please note, single rooms are very limited on the houseboat so cannot be guaranteed and you may be required to twin share for this night.