Trace South India from Bangalore’s gardens to Cochin’s Chinese fishing nets on a 15‑day route of Pallava shore temples, Chola capitals, misty tea hills and the famous Alleppey backwaters. Expect long drives, easy walks at monuments, and stunning contrasts between mountain air and coastal humidity.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the houseboat as a gull circles and the narrow canal exhales — palm-fringed channels pushing you through rice paddies and hamlets where laundry hangs like pennants. The tour unfolds like an old map: starting in Bangalore’s civic bustle, ribboning east to the Pallava shore temples at Mahabalipuram, through the Chola heartland of Thanjavur and Madurai’s ritual-lit courtyards, then climbing into Munnar’s tea‑clad ridgelines before descending to Alleppey’s lacquered backwaters and final salt-scented hours in Cochin.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
15 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in average fitness—expect walking on uneven temple steps and short nature trails; largely not strenuous.
Wildlife
History
The route threads Pallava and Chola dynasties’ temple architecture, plus coastal colonial layers—Portuguese, Dutch and British shaped Kochi’s trading past.
Conservation
Tourism here intersects fragile wetland and hill ecosystems; choose licensed houseboats, avoid single-use plastics, and follow sanctuary rules (no feeding wildlife, stay on trails).
Reserve your spot on the Bangalore To Cochin South India Temple & Backwater today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress for temples
Carry a lightweight sarong or long skirt/shirt to cover shoulders and knees for temple visits; many shrines require modest attire.
Hydration and heat
Bring a refillable water bottle and drink frequently—midday in the plains can be hot and humid, especially between March and June.
Plan for long drives
Daily transfers commonly range 2–5 hours; keep snacks, motion-sickness remedies, and a charged phone for navigation and breaks.
Cash for small purchases
Smaller vendors, local temple fees, and village markets often accept only cash—carry small denominations of rupees.
Light daypack
Holds water, sun protection, and valuables during city tours and short walks.
Comfortable walking shoes
Closed-toe shoes for temple courtyards, market streets and uneven trails in hill stations.
Light rain jacket or poncho
Monsoon and pre-monsoon showers are common June–September; a compact rain layer keeps you dry.
summer
Insect repellent
Useful in backwaters and forested areas (Periyar/Thekkady) to reduce bites during dawn and dusk.
fall