South India Hill Stations & Tea Plantation Tour

Arrive at Cochin International Airport, where our friendly representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Fort Kochi. Spend the afternoon on a heritage walk through Fort Kochi, soaking in the rich colonial history, walking along the waterfront by the iconic Chinese fishing nets, visiting St. Francis Church — India’s oldest European church, and exploring Jew Town with its quaint antique shops and spice markets. In the evening, attend a

mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance at a local cultural center, witnessing the traditional dance-drama with vibrant costumes, intricate face makeup, and expressive gestures. Return to the hotel to relax and enjoy a delicious Kerala-style dinner. Overnight stay in Cochin.

After a hearty breakfast, begin your scenic drive to the hill station of Munnar. The journey takes you through lush landscapes dotted with rubber, cardamom, and pepper plantations. En route, stop at the stunning Cheeyappara and Valara Waterfalls for a refreshing walk and photo breaks amidst the misty hills. Arrive in Munnar by early afternoon and check into your cozy hill resort surrounded by endless stretches of green tea gardens. Spend your evening leisurely strolling through the plantations or visiting the local market, famous for its homemade chocolates and fresh spices. Enjoy a warm dinner at the hotel and rest, soaking in the cool mountain air. Overnight stay in Munnar.

Start your day with a visit to the expansive tea plantations that carpet the hillsides. Tour a local tea factory where you’ll learn about the entire tea-making process, from plucking to packing, and savor some of the freshest tea right at the source. Next, head to the famous Eravikulam National Park, a protected area home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr mountain goat. Enjoy a moderate trek through the park’s rolling grasslands and dense forests, and if lucky, spot the elusive wildlife. Visit Anamudi Peak, South India’s highest mountain, for breathtaking panoramic views of the Western Ghats. In the afternoon, visit Mattupetty Dam, where you can enjoy boating on the serene reservoir surrounded by hills. On the way back, stop at Echo Point to experience the fascinating natural echo phenomenon. Spend your evening at leisure in Munnar town or your resort, enjoying the crisp hill air and lush surroundings. Overnight stay in Munnar.

After breakfast, set out on the journey to the “Queen of Hills,” Ooty, nestled in the Nilgiri hills of Tamil Nadu. The drive takes you through winding roads flanked by dense forests, tea gardens, and small villages, offering splendid views along the way. On arrival, check into your hotel and relax in the cool mountain climate. If time permits, take a gentle walk around the scenic Ooty Lake, where you can rent paddle boats or simply admire the calm waters surrounded by eucalyptus trees. Visit the Ooty Rose Garden, home to thousands of varieties of roses, and enjoy a leisurely evening sipping tea at a local café. Overnight stay in Ooty.

After breakfast, visit the Government Botanical Gardens, an expansive garden designed in the 19th century with a wide variety of exotic plants, colorful flowers, and neatly manicured lawns. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers. Proceed to Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the Nilgiris, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding hills and valleys. A short trek or drive to the summit rewards you with spectacular panoramas, ideal for nature walks and bird watching. Return to town for lunch, followed by a relaxing afternoon boat ride on Ooty Lake or exploring the local handicrafts market, known for its woollens, chocolates, and aromatic oils. Evening at leisure, with an option to try local delicacies at a traditional South Indian restaurant. Overnight stay in Ooty.

Today, take a short scenic drive to Coonoor, a charming hill town known for its tea estates and peaceful ambiance. Begin your day at Sim’s Park, a beautifully landscaped botanical garden featuring rare plants, orchids, and cascading waterfalls. Next, visit the famous Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint, perched on the edge of a cliff with sweeping views of the Nilgiri Hills and the Catherine Falls. Enjoy a light trek down to the viewpoint to soak in the cool air and stunning vistas. Explore the surrounding tea plantations and visit the Highfield Tea Factory, where you’ll witness tea processing and enjoy a tasting session of freshly brewed teas. Return to Ooty in the late afternoon for a relaxed evening and dinner at your hotel. Overnight stay in Ooty.

After breakfast, descend from the hills and drive to the royal city of Mysore in Karnataka. The route takes you from misty hills to plains rich in history and culture. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and freshen up. In the evening, visit the grand Mysore Palace, renowned for its intricate Indo-Saracenic architecture and stunning illumination with thousands of lights. Witness the royal heritage come alive through this majestic monument. Stroll through the Devaraja Market, a colorful bazaar buzzing with local life, flowers, spices, silk fabrics, and handicrafts. Overnight stay in Mysore.

After a sumptuous breakfast, head to Chamundi Hills and visit the ancient Chamundeshwari Temple, perched atop the hill with panoramic views of the city below. Explore the surroundings and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Visit the magnificent St. Philomena’s Cathedral, an impressive Gothic-style church inspired by European cathedrals.
Spend the afternoon at the Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery, home to a priceless collection of traditional Mysore paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay. Optional: Visit Karanji Lake for boating and a stroll through the butterfly park or nature trails.

Enjoy a free day to relax or explore Mysore at your own pace. You might opt for an exciting wildlife excursion to the Kukkarahalli Lake bird sanctuary or a visit to Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, where you can spot migratory birds and enjoy a boat safari. Alternatively, indulge in shopping for authentic Mysore silk sarees, sandalwood products, or spices. Enjoy the local cuisine at traditional restaurants. Overnight stay in Mysore.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to your onward destination or to Bangalore International Airport (approx. 3 hrs drive) for your flight home. Depart with cherished memories of mist-covered hills, serene tea estates, and the royal heritage of South India.