Spice Route Tour of South India: Temples, Tea and Traditions

South India's Spice Route traces the trade that first put the country on the world map. This landscape today draws travellers looking to travel to South India for a slower, greener side of the country: backwaters, tea hills, wildlife and temple towns.

Bangalore is loved for its pleasant weather, serene parks & lakes. Mysore is one of the most colorful destinations of the country and also known as the City of Palaces. The idyllic hill station Munnar is famous for its Tea estates, lush greenery & rugged peaks. Periyar & Cochin flaunts its natural beauties.

This South India Tour Package covers Cochin, Kumarakom, Munnar, Periyar, Madurai, Mysore and Hassan across 10 days, blending Kerala's coastal culture with Karnataka's royal history and Tamil Nadu's temple architecture.

Quick Facts about The Spice Route of South

The Royal Titles: In local spice culture, Black Pepper is always crowned the King of Spices, while Cardamom is the Queen of Spices.

Ayurveda Connection: The Spice Route of south india is closely tied to traditional wellness. Most spice plantations host onsite Ayurvedic centers that use fresh harvests for therapeutic oils and treatments

Best Time to Go: October to March. The weather is cool and dry.

What to Buy: Pure black pepper, raw cardamom, cinnamon bark, and fresh coffee beans

Southern Spice Trail - Tour Highlights

Where spices scented the winds, kingdoms flourished, and timeless traditions continue to thrive. For centuries, traders from around the world travelled to South India in search of valuable spices like pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. These prized spices made the region one of the world's most important trading centres. Today, the Spice Route South India Tour follows this historic trail through Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, taking you from colonial ports and spice plantations to peaceful backwaters, tea-covered hills, magnificent temples, royal cities, and rich wildlife.

Tour Highlights

Best Cities on the Spice Route South India Tour

South India Spice Route Trip Itinerary

Cochin (Kochi)

Arrive in Cochin and transfer to your hotel. Later, enjoy a scenic motorboat cruise through Kerala's famous backwaters and visit the historic Bolgatty Palace.

Kumarakom

Drive to Kottayam and continue by boat to Kumarakom. Spend the afternoon cruising through peaceful backwaters, coconut groves, and traditional villages.

Cochin to Kumarakom distance - 1h 29m (50 to 75 km)

Kumarakom explore

Explore the canals of Kumarakom and witness everyday village life. The afternoon is free to relax or enjoy an optional Ayurvedic wellness treatment.

Highlights

  • Canal cruise
  • Optional Ayurveda
Munnar

Drive through the Western Ghats to Munnar, Kerala's famous hill station known for its tea plantations and cool mountain climate.

Kumarakom to Munnar distance- 4h 10m (149 km)

Periyar Wildlife

Thekkady is one of the best places to visit in South India, known for its fragrant spice plantations and the famous Periyar Tiger Reserve, where you can enjoy wildlife and beautiful natural surroundings.

Munnar to Periyar - 2h 49m (90.7 km)

Madurai

Visit a traditional spice plantation before continuing to Madurai. Explore the magnificent Meenakshi Temple of south India and witness the evening pooja ceremony.

Periyar to Madurai distance - 9m (2.8 km)

Bangalore

Fly to Bangalore via Chennai and continue to Mysore. En route, visit the historic town of Srirangapatna.

Mysore

Visit Mysore Palace, Chamundi Temple, and a local handicraft centre. Later, explore Somnathpur Temple and the illuminated Brindavan Gardens.

Hassan

Drive to Hassan, visiting the renowned Hoysala temples of Belur and Halebid, celebrated for their intricate stone carvings.

Mysore to Hassan distance by road - 2 hr 30 min (111 km)

Bangalore Airport

After breakfast, drive to Bangalore Airport for your onward journey, marking the end of your Spice Route adventure.

Periyar to Madurai distance - 9m (2.8 km)

Inclusions
  • Accommodation on twin / single sharing basis.
  • Daily buffet breakfast at hotels.
  • All transfers and sightseeing by exclusive vehicle as per the itinerary.
  • English speaking local guide for sightseeing.
  • Monuments entrance fees.
  • A boat ride into Periyar national park with naturalist .
  • Kathakali dance show.
  • Spice plantation visit with nautralist.
  • Driver allowances, parking, and toll taxes etc.
Exclusions
  • Airfare is not included.
  • Personal Expenses or Optional Tours / Extra Meals Ordered.
  • Additional costs due to flight cancellation, road blocks etc.
  • GST extra.
  • Camera fee extra.
  • Tips, porterage, laundry, beverages are at additional cost.
  • Any item not specified under cost inclusions.
Choose your journey

Best South India Tour Packages

Seven curated routes- from a 7-day Kerala escape to a two-week grand tour. Each one private, guided and fully customisable to your dates.

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FAQs

What is included in the South India Spice Route tour price?

Accommodation, breakfast, transfers, sightseeing, a guide, monument fees, the Periyar boat ride and the Kathakali show. Airfare and personal expenses are charged separately

How many days does this South India tour take?

The full circuit from Cochin to Bangalore runs 10 days, covering Kerala's backwaters and hills, Periyar wildlife, and the temple cities of Madurai and Mysore

Do I need travel insurance for a south india tour?

Travel insurance is not legally mandatory to buy a ticket, but it is highly recommended. The Kerala Forest Department and tour providers do not automatically provide comprehensive coverage, and standard tickets often exclude medical or emergency evacuation expenses

How much advance payment is required to confirm the booking of a South India tour?

To confirm your booking with Brahmand Tour and Travels, you must pay a 50% advance deposit of the total tour cost. The remaining 50% balance is then due 45 days before your departure date. You can choose from a variety of South India Tour Packages to explore places of your interest.

Which month is best for a South India tour?

The best time for a South India tour is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. During these months, you can comfortably explore tea plantations, backwaters, wildlife sanctuaries, beaches, and historic temples across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. This is also the most popular season for international travellers visiting South India.

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