Through Emerald Valleys to Kerala

Today, you’ll leave Bangalore and set off for Mysore, passing beautiful tropical landscape and typical mayhem on the way. You’ll sleep on the estate of an elegant little palace with lush green gardens, built for the princess of Mysore. The rich Maharajas invested heavily in Mysore, commissioning brilliantly ornate palaces and temples. You’ll visit the huge palace to gaze at its giant silver doors and lavish rooms of marble and gold. You’ll also visit the Chamumdi Hill Temple, perched on a hilltop with spectacular views over the city.

You’ll be staying here two days and after a good nights sleep it’s time to head to the enchanting tea fields of Pozhuthana, some of the oldest plantations in Wayanad. Surrounded by misty clad mountains, emerald green slopes and a winding river, this area of Southern India is truly spectacular.

Your day will start with a hike into the forests, heading towards a mountain stream. In the afternoon you’ll jump onto a bike and pedal down one of the many trails in this area (difficulty will be based on your fitness and preference).

Today, you’ll drive down to Coimbatore and hop on the train bound for Cochin. Cochin is a quaint, colourful coastal town with heavy Portuguese and Dutch influences. The largest city in Kerala, this is an important seaport for trade in gold, textiles and fish. Down by the water, you can see the legendary Chinese fishing nets in action. Cochin also used to have a lively trade in spices, and the spice market here is still one of the best in Kerala. This is where your trip will end.