Heritage Palaces and Colonial Homes

Step into history in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Pondicherry

Stay in palaces, grand Chettinad mansions, or colonial-era residences that combine historical elegance with contemporary comfort. Explore courtyards, period features, and local stories while being based in the heart of South India’s rich cultural heritage.

Hill Station Retreats and Plantation Homestays

Cool escapes in Coorg, Ooty, Munnar, and Wayanad

Nestled among tea, coffee, and spice plantations, these homestays and boutique resorts offer misty mornings, sweeping views, and a chance to connect with local life. Enjoy walks through fragrant estates, learn about local crops, and unwind in cosy, characterful rooms.

Coastal Resorts and Beach Villas

Relax by the sea in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, or Pondicherry

From quiet golden sands to bustling coastal towns, South India’s seaside accommodations provide luxury, comfort, and stunning ocean views. Enjoy fresh seafood, spa treatments, or yoga sessions while taking in sunsets over the Arabian Sea or Bay of Bengal.

Riverside Lodges and Houseboats

Tranquil stays on Kerala’s backwaters and Tamil Nadu rivers

Glide along peaceful canals or rivers aboard traditional houseboats, or stay in lodges perched on riverbanks. Observe daily village life, savour freshly prepared regional cuisine, and soak in the calm pace of water-bound living.

Eco-Lodges and Wildlife Retreats

Immersed in forests, national parks, and wildlife reserves

For nature enthusiasts, South India’s eco-lodges in Bandipur, Nagarhole, Periyar, or Wayanad offer a front-row seat to wildlife. Guided walks, boat safaris, and birdwatching bring you close to elephants, tigers, and exotic birds, all while staying in environmentally conscious lodges.

Chennai

As the cultural gateway to South India, Chennai offers a captivating mix of ancient tradition and modern energy. Towering Dravidian temples such as Kapaleeshwarar stand alongside colonial landmarks, while the city’s thriving Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam dance scenes keep age-old art forms alive. Add to this the expanse of Marina Beach, lively markets, and excellent South Indian cuisine, and Chennai makes a fitting introduction to the region.

Hampi

The ruins of Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, transport visitors to the glory of the Vijayanagara Empire. Gigantic stone temples, boulder-strewn landscapes, and ancient bazaars create a surreal setting where history and legend intertwine. Hampi’s extraordinary architecture, iconic monuments, and riverside scenery make it an unforgettable cultural and visual experience.

Mahabalipuram

Perched on the Bay of Bengal, Mahabalipuram is renowned for its UNESCO-listed monuments, including the iconic Shore Temple and intricately carved rock sanctuaries. The artistry of the Pallava dynasty is etched into every boulder, telling tales of gods, kings, and mythic battles. Its windswept beaches, thriving artisan workshops, and relaxed coastal atmosphere make it a fascinating place to linger.

Mysore

Mysore, often called the “City of Palaces,” embodies regal grandeur. The spectacular Mysore Palace dazzles with stained glass domes and gilded halls, while bustling Devaraja Market overflows with flowers, spices, and silks. Renowned for sandalwood carving, yoga traditions, and rich cultural festivals, the city reaches its peak splendour during Dussehra, when processions, lights, and music fill the streets.

Coorg

Tucked into the misty Western Ghats, Coorg (or Kodagu) is a landscape of rolling coffee estates, dense forests, and sparkling streams. It is beloved for its cool climate, tumbling waterfalls, and wildlife encounters in nearby sanctuaries. Beyond the scenery, Coorg is also home to the proud Kodava people, whose unique traditions, warm hospitality, and flavourful cuisine add depth to any visit.

Kerala backwaters

The Kerala backwaters form a serene network of lakes, rivers, and canals, where life moves to a slower rhythm. Cruising in a traditional houseboat reveals palm-fringed banks, emerald paddy fields, and fishing villages where daily routines unfold by the water’s edge. Whether gliding through Kumarakom’s bird-rich wetlands or Alleppey’s bustling waterways, the backwaters offer one of South India’s most unforgettable experiences.

Madurai

One of Tamil Nadu’s most historic cities, Madurai has been a centre of learning and pilgrimage for over 2,000 years. At its heart is the awe-inspiring Meenakshi Amman Temple, with brightly painted gopurams that tower over the city. Bustling bazaars, lively street food, and centuries of tradition make Madurai a true cultural crossroads. Evening temple ceremonies, filled with chanting and ritual, leave a lasting impression.

Cochin

Cochin is a vibrant city where history and modernity meet. Wander the cobbled streets of Fort Kochi, lined with colonial-era buildings, quaint cafés, and art galleries. Watch the iconic Chinese fishing nets at sunset, and explore the centuries-old Jewish synagogue and Dutch Palace. From Kathakali performances to lively spice markets, Cochin offers a captivating mix of culture, heritage, and coastal charm.

Munnar

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Munnar is a lush hill station famed for its rolling tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, and cascading waterfalls. Stroll through the emerald-green estates, visit tea factories to learn about production, and breathe in the crisp mountain air while wandering through hidden trails, misty valleys, and serene tea gardens. Munnar’s rich biodiversity, from rare plants and wildlife to endemic birds, makes it a paradise for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and photographers.

Mararikulam

Mararikulam (also known as Marari Beach) is a picture-perfect beach destination where palm-fringed shores meet the Arabian Sea. Relax on sandy shores, enjoy fresh seafood, and explore nearby fishing villages. The area is ideal for unwinding after exploring Kerala’s hills and backwaters, and for those seeking wellness, it offers Ayurvedic centres and yoga retreats.

Pondicherry (Puducherry)

A coastal jewel where French heritage meets Tamil culture, Pondicherry invites you to wander cobbled streets, explore art-filled cafés, and take a rickshaw ride through the elegant French quarters and bustling Tamil town, discovering the city’s vibrant contrasts. Visit the spiritual township of Auroville and feel the gentle sea breeze along the promenade, where every corner tells a story.

Kabini (Nagarhole National Park)

Kabini, in the heart of Nagarhole National Park, is a wildlife haven where dense tropical forests and tranquil rivers provide the perfect backdrop for thrilling safaris. Spot elusive tigers, leopards, elephants, and an astonishing variety of birds while gliding through this serene wilderness, experiencing nature at its most pristine and captivating.

Goa

Goa is a sun-soaked haven where sun-kissed beaches meet a rich Portuguese legacy. From the lively, vibrant energy of North Goa to the tranquil, palm-fringed shores of the South, explore its colonial-era churches and charming streets, marvel at Portuguese-influenced architecture, and savour the region’s distinctive seafood and fusion cuisine.

Hyderabad

Hyderabad, the city of the Nizams, enchants with its regal architecture, grand palaces, and historic Golconda Fort. Wander bustling markets brimming with pearls and local crafts, explore exquisite museums, and savour the city’s legendary cuisine, from rich biryanis to aromatic kebabs, reflecting centuries of royal influence.