oat tours india

Southern India with OAT

For the tour “Soul of India,”* March 1-21, 2020, to be followed by a 3-day post-trip to Dubai, I left the US on Feb. 29, flying to Dubai and then Chennai, India.

All 14 of the travelers on this Overseas Adventure Travel , or OAT (Boston, MA; 800/955-1925, www.oattravel.com ) , trip had already visited northern India, the country’s more popular destination, with the Taj Mahal, Jaipur, etc.

Having arrived a day early in Chennai, I spent it exploring the city. There were motorized rickshaws everywhere and lots of motor scooters, some carrying families of two adults and three children!

I took a rickshaw to Fort St. George, which I hadn’t realized was a large government complex. After visiting its museum and St. Mary’s Church, both of which documented British-colonial times in the city, I watched many young government employees enjoying lunch outdoors.

I met the OAT tour group the next day, and we had lunch at the Writer’s Café , where we listened to a speaker talk about the status of women in India, including unfortunate instances of abuse. We then saw a wedding preparation (we saw many wedding celebrations during our time there), saw fishermen bringing in their catches at Marina Beach, and visited a local’s “low-cost housing” apartment.

The next day, a highlight was a trip on a very crowded train to Mylapore. To say this was a unique experience is an understatement.

After returning to Chennai, a friend and I took a rickshaw to a major shopping street, where we were the only non-Indians. Blond Lisa was a hit, and everyone wanted pictures of us, mostly with her, especially the young men. We wondered if they would tell their friends she was their girlfriend.

We spent the next 10 days in Tamil Nadu state, where the temperature was over 95 degrees every day. My general theory is that I can be hot at home in Florida for free, so I try to stay away from hot destinations. Didn’t work this time.

We visited numerous temples. At one in Madurai, we had to go in barefoot; not even socks were allowed. We also visited a “factory” where women made cotton towels.

Every OAT trip includes a visit to a village, and at the village we visited, the school was supported by the OAT-affiliated Grand Circle Foundation. Bouncing through the village in a bullock cart, we also got to see where the locals grow their rice.

Here I should mention that at the start of our trip, the COVID-19 virus was still primarily in China and just starting to appear in northern Italy. We all felt we’d be safe in southern India, but on the TVs in our hotel rooms, we could see what was happening around the world.

We then crossed a mountain to a lovely resort by a forest park in Kerala state. Waking up that first morning to cool weather was amazing! Due to the coronavirus, however, Kerala had closed the park and we couldn’t walk there, but we had a home-hosted lunch — always a treat.

After an Ayurvedic massage (during which I was sure I would slide off the table) and a visit to a spice plantation, we enjoyed a relaxed dinner in a restaurant.

That night at 10, the doorbell rang and our trip leader informed me that the state of Kerala had discovered a COVID case in a foreigner in the northern part of the state, so they had ordered all foreigners out. We would be leaving at 6 in the morning! Missing our visit to Kochi and a houseboat ride in the Kerala backwaters was a disappointment.

We headed back over the mountain to Madurai, spending the night before flying to Mumbai via Bangalore.

In Mumbai, we stayed at the Taj Mahal Tower , a newer section of the historic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel that had been built for tour groups. The hotel was across from the Gateway of India, and, it being a Sunday, many families were there on that lovely evening. We all took pictures, and I think there are pictures of us all over India!

Our trip leader then informed us that the company needed to get us back to the US as quickly as possible. We already knew the Dubai post trip had been canceled.

Mumbai was not allowing tour companies to take groups around the city, as COVID was becoming more alarming, but the Taj arranged for our entire group to tour the city by chauffeur-driven limousines. OAT also arranged for us to tour the original Taj Mahal Palace Hotel.

I was one of four who left for London the night of March 16, and I continued to Ft. Lauderdale the following day.

I will never be able to commend our OAT staff adequately for doing all they could to make our visit memorable. They were amazing, since everything was changed daily.

NORMA JENKINS Pompano Beach, FL

*Overseas Adventure Travel is not offering “Soul of India” in 2021, and, at press time, the tour had not been scheduled for 2022.

The Scoop: What to Know About Overseas Adventure Tours (OAT)

This small-group specialist runs tours to all continents..

The Scoop: What to Know About Trafalgar Tours

• Looking at an Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT) tour, but want to know more about this small-group tour company?
• Here’s everything you need to know about the tour company, all updated for 2024.

Overseas Adventure Travel —more commonly referred to as OAT (saying the letters as opposed to naming the grain)—is a small-group tour specialist with tours on all continents. As its name suggests, tours with Overseas Adventure Travel tend to be fairly active, so participants should be comfortable with six to eight hours of activity each day, including walking distances ranging from three to six miles.

OAT has a great reputation for its solo guest focus (more on that below), and offers a generous number of no-additional-cost single spots on its tours. It also has women-exclusive departures on many itineraries.

BEST OF THE BEST: Best Tour Companies for Guided Tours

On OAT tours, accommodations tend to be less about amenities and more about authenticity. Another thing to note is that airfare is often bundled into the up-front price of the tour (unless you specify that you want to book your own travel). OAT is one of the family of Grand Circle Corp. companies, also including Grand Circle Travel and Grand Circle Cruise Line.

TourScoop Takeaways

• Countries: OAT has tours on every continent 
• Tour Size Average: OAT specializes in small-group trips of no more than 16 people. Its small-ship tours are aboard 50- to 98-passenger ships max out at 25 travelers. 
• Tour Type: Coach, van, small ship, rail, and air

Credibility Check

Overseas Adventure Travel is BBB accredited with a rating of A+. It’s an active member of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA). The OAT website posts verified guest reviews on each tour page (sometimes with hundreds of reviews) so it’s easy to see what past travelers think of each tour. 

Tour Destinations

For 2024, OAT has 80 itineraries that include tours on every continent. Some of the most popular tours are to destinations in Italy, Egypt, and multi-country tours in Africa and around the Adriatic. 

Overseas Adventure Travel gives all its tours an Activity Level Rating that ranks tours from one (easy) to five (strenuous) to help travelers find the right fit. It has both women-only departures and many no-additional-cost single traveler spots on tours. 

There are multi-country and single country tours. On many tours, OAT creates spaces for discussion and learning with its Controversial Topics program that covers topics such as Scottish independence on its Scotland Revealed itinerary and female genital mutilation on its Safari Serengeti: Tanzania Lodge & Tented Safari tour. 

Tour Guides

OAT’s tour guides are called Trip Experience Leaders. All are fluent in English and have a range of skills, certifications, and experience specific to the tour destination and experience. Trip Experience Leaders focus on both the logistical and the experiential, and help connect travelers with destinations by sharing firsthand insight that brings a destination to life. 

Inclusions/Extras

Inclusions are tour-specific (there’s a “What’s Included” section on each tour’s page), but generally include round-trip flights, many (but not all) meals, transportation, accommodations, activities, and gratuities for local guides, porters, etc. As with most tour companies, gratuities for trip experience leaders is separate. 

Typical Travelers

OAT’s guests are mostly American travelers aged 50 and older. In the last few years, Overseas Adventure Travel has seen a major jump in the number of solo travelers—more than half of all OAT guests are now solo travelers, and 80% of these solo travelers are women.

WALK THE WORLD: Best Walking, and Trekking, and Hiking Tours

OAT does right by its strong solo traveler base —in 2024, the company is offering 25,620 single spaces—91% of which are free (the remaining 9% of single spots have what OAT says is the lowest single supplement in the industry). And a number of itineraries also have women-exclusive departures. 

Communication

After booking, travelers have access to all trip details through the “My Planner” section on the website. The section includes details like flight information, destination weather, and itinerary information.

Then, two weeks before departure, travelers receive all their final documents, and are also contacted by their Trip Experience Leader. Any additional questions can be directed to OAT’s customer service email or phone number.

Loyalty Program

OAT’s loyalty program is the Sir Edmund Hillary Club . Membership benefits kick in when travelers reserve their third trip, and increase after traveling with OAT five and ten times. Benefits include credits to use on future trips, travel credits, exclusive gifts, and priority luggage service. 

Private Options

OAT offers Personalized Private Adventures for groups of five to 10 people. These private departures are available using existing itineraries, and include a dedicated Trip Experience Leader. The private group premium amount depends on the number of travelers in a group. Some of the most popular private tours include Ultimate Africa , Sicily’s Ancient Landscapes , and Japan’s Cultural Treasures . 

Sustainability Efforts

OAT is part of Grand Circle, and participates in the Grand Circle Foundation , which supports projects around the world focused on water and sanitation, education, community development, renewable energy, the protection of indigenous cultures, conservation, historic preservation, and disaster relief.

CULINARY ADVENTURES: Best Tour Companies for Culinary Tours

Health and Safety Practices

On OAT tours that include time onboard a ship, additional precautions include crew trained on best health and hygiene practices to prevent onboard spread of illnesses, nightly electrostatic disinfection of public areas, and disinfection of high-efficiency air filtration systems before each sailing. The OAT website is the place to go to read more about the current health and safety practices for land and ship tours.  

Family Companies

The Grand Circle family of companies includes Overseas Adventure Travel , Grand Circle Cruise Line , and Grand Circle Travel .

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Tour Scoop’s team of travel experts brings you in-depth tour company overviews, tour itinerary reviews, the latest tour news, and travel tips and advice written just for guided tour travelers like you.

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Welcome to Greaves Tours

Why greaves tours.

Complex and dazzling, the Indian subcontinent is a place where destination knowledge is paramount. With our help, planning and traveling your luxury tour of India will be effortless and exciting. From our offices in the USA, UK and India, Greaves Tours provides expert advice, tailor made bespoke itineraries and on-the-ground support, Bringing You the Best of India ©

Greaves is excited to announce our new Namaste ® Experience , which is included complimentary on all of our clients journeys.

The following itineraries featured in this site are intended simply as a guide to highlight the endless possibilities of luxury travel in India. Contact us to begin your adventure.

A Land of Diversity

India is a land of huge diversity and extremes, from the lush tropics in the south to the epic plateaus of the North. Let our experienced Greaves Tours consultants help you decide which point of the compass suits you best. The subcontinent is really a country made up of many 'countries', which is what makes India so fascinating and why so many people return year on year.

There is no other land which can boast such verdant, tropical jungle and glorious stretches of golden beaches; barren deserts and huge, arid plateaus; rolling foothills and one of the most mighty mountain ranges in the world; wildlife sanctuaries and innumerable ancient monuments. Above all, few nations are home to such an incredible wealth of history and culture.

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Originating over 5,000 years ago in India, Ayurveda is a holistic approach to health and well-being that seeks to balance body and mind. Ayurvedic practitioners…

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Cultural Travel Packages Solo Adventures India

The tour below is a past example of OAT’s tour of the Golden Triangle. Please click the link for upcoming tour information, dates and prices, and be sure to say Solo Trekker 4 U sent you!

Cultural Travel Packages Solo Adventures India: A 2 week+ tour of iconic Rajasthan led by OAT Travel based in Boston. (Calling from abroad dial: 617-350-7500.)

Follow the link for changes in sample itinerary below.

With 30 years’ experience, small groups of no more than 16 and no single supplement, we are pleased to add OAT Travel to our family of pre-approved tour providers. Join these great trips to see what may be missed by large tours!

BE SURE TO SAY THAT SOLO TREKKER 4 U SENT YOU!

Cultural Travel Packages Solo Adventures India: Heart of India Tour:

Going off the beaten path in this small tour (maximum of 16) you will get a flavor of ancient and modern India.

• This magical sojourn is led by expert local guides.
• It will take you to the heart of India’s Golden Triangle.
• You will start in Delhi and move on to Agra and the Taj Mahal.
• Next comes the colorful town of  Jaipur.
• You will visit the 17th century walled city of Old Delhi. See New Delhi’s answer to Paris’s Arc de Triomphe.
• As the tour moves on, you will see the remarkable Palace of the Winds.
• Next in Rajasthan comes the Amber Fort.
• Seeking more adventure? Fly high over the Indian countryside in a hot air balloon!
• Contact us today to be part of this unique journey through northern India.

Cultural Travel Packages Solo Adventures India: Schedules:

Departures monthly from Jan-April and Aug-Dec.

Cultural Travel Packages Solo Adventures India: Tour Itinerary:

DELHI TO VARANSI:

Fly to Delhi

Arrive in India

No need to worry! You will be met at the airport by a skilled OAT Travel representative who will escort you to your hotel.

After breakfast, the day will begin with an overview by your Trip Leader.

• Your first stop is Old Delhi, a 17th century walled city, formerly the Mughal capital and the 500 year capital of the empire. As the site of 8 different cities, Delhi is an intriguing mix of its Hindi, Mughal and British past.

• Next you will visit the Mahatma Gandhi memorial, the Raj Ghat.

• You will then tour the 17th century Jama Masjid Mosque, the largest in India, built by a Mughal emperor.

• Ready for a little adventure? You can try out your first? ride in a rickshaw through Chandni Chowk Bazaar followed by a welcome dinner.

Cultural Travel Packages Solo Adventures India: New Delhi:

After breakfast, you will see New Delhi’s top sites. In contrast to the narrow side streets old city, this British-designed sector has broad boulevards, tree-lined like much of the UK!

• The initial stop is at the 234-foot high Qutab Minar, second tallest minaret in India, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This enduring, “modern skyscraper” was begun un in the 12th century and combines Indo-Islamic architecture.

• Following lunch at a local restaurant, next the tour moves on to the seat of government for this largest democracy on the globe, including the Parliament and the President’s residence (exterior only), the palatial Rashtrapati Bhavan.  From there, you will go to the India Gate and surrounding parklands, commemorating both the soldiers who served in the 19th-century Afghanistan war and the 1st World War. It is noted as an architectural “twin”, or at least in a style reminiscent, of Paris’s Arc de Triomphe.

Cultural Travel Packages Solo Adventures India: Jaipur:

• Time to travel to the heart of the Golden Triangle: Jaipur, Rajasthan. It is commonly called the “Pink City” because of its sandstone buildings which cast a rosy hue. You will have a brief rest at lunch at a local restaurant before going through the formalities of checking in at your local hotel. You will also have a guided stroll through Jaipur’s enchanting  walled Old City. The group will have dinner together at a local restaurant.

• Ready for an adventure? If you are up for it, you have the option of a hot-air balloon high above Jaipur. From your bird’s eye view, you will see the Jai Mahal Lake or countryside depending upon the weather!

• Moving on along terra firma, you will head to the Jantar Mantar. This 18th-century observatory has remarkable modern-day capabilities!  Its enormous sundials remain accurate to two-tenths of a second.
• For a real change of pace, you will visit the City Palace Museum, known for its array of  textiles, arms, carpets, paintings, and manuscripts. You will have an optional tour to learn more about producing fabrics at a textile fabric block-printing center.
• The day begins with one of  Jaipur’s most famous sites, the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds).  What remains of this 18th century pink/red sandstone Palace of the Winds is the fascinating sandstone facade with a honeycomb of 956 intricate windows. That is where the women of the palace could have a glimpse of the outside world without being seen by passersby.
• You will then visit one of the top sights in Rajasthan, the Amber Fort/Palace (pronounced Am-er.). Known for its Hindu carvings, this massive 16th-century sandstone palace/fort overlooks Maota Lake. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site with four levels to explore. Not to be missed among its treasures: The Sheesh Mahal. Although small, it is memorable with a dazzling ceiling, covered with tiny mirrors, giving the sense you are viewing a star-lit night! It has an equally fascinating history since during Rajput times, it was here a girl holding candles would perform a dance of love for the Maharaja.
• After an afternoon free, next you can enjoy an evening with a local family for dinner.

Cultural Travel Packages Solo Adventures India: Vindhya and Ranthambore:

• After Jaipur’s more urban enchantments, you will head out to the countryside to the lower parts of the Vindhya mountains and the Ranthambore National Park, a prior hunting preserve for the Maharajas. The latter is one of 11 participants in India’s conservation effort known as Project Tiger, the world’s largest such initiative.

• After lunch, you have the option of touring the 1,000 year old Ranthambore Fort. With its lofty location, it has magnificent views and is the perfect spot for capturing some of your best photos of rural India.  It will be part adventure where you can experience a ride in a canter, an open 4-wheel drive vehicle. From there you will hike to  the fort.
• During dinner at the hotel, you will enjoy a wildlife presentation as to what you will see the next day.

• Now you will look for wildlife in Ranthambore National Park.  You will start early enough to seek out  nocturnal animals that are still awake. The top local wildlife species are exotic, including leering Langur monkeys, the more reserved chinkara and chital, sambar and nilgai.

After lunch, you will have a second safari with hopes of the rare opportunity of seeing one of the preserves 26 Bengal Tigers. Nocturnal by nature, they may be sleeping in the tall grass during the day! Don’t dismay if you can’t capture them among your photos. There will also be grinning? crocodiles, perhaps as excited to see you as you are to see them but for different reasons! A more pastoral sight awaits you: a myriad of water birds. Among the 450 diverse species are the crested serpent eagles and painted storks.

Dinner is included at your hotel.

Cultural Travel Packages Solo Adventures India: OAT Camp:

As the day begins you will get to visit a primary school and meet its students if school is in session.

• You will also meet village residents and see their homes and way of life. You will move on to a  a cooperative where women learn to make handcrafts with an overview presented by one of the participants.
• After lunch, it is time to move on to the OAT Camp and retreat nestled in rich agricultural land.  At times, farmers or villagers have stopped in. If in season, the mustard blooms will resemble fields of buttercups.
• In the camp, you will have a true Indian dinner with local organic ingredients. Afterwards, you will be entertained by Indian folkloric dancers.

Cultural Travel Packages Solo Adventures India:  Agra:

• Abhaneri, known for its medieval architecture and waterways, is next on the agenda before heading overland to Agra and its most famous monument, the Taj Mahal.
• Built by 20,000 workers in the 17th-century over 22 years by Shah Jahan from 1631 to 1653, it houses the remains of his Queen Mumtaz Mahal. The outside has a large and somewhat unexpected gateway not often included in the multiple famous photos of the Taj. The fabled interior has many spots to watch the light reflecting on this “Monument to Love”. The white marble is decorated with scores of semi-precious stones. With its four identical facades, it can be photographed from many vantage points!  Concern over its preservation has resulted in a conservation campaign recently.
• Next is the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but overshadowed by the famous Taj Mahal. On the Yamuna River nak, this gargantuan fort/palace for 4 generations was the seat of India’s Mughal emperors who ruled the north beginning in the 16th century and lasting through the 1800’s.

Cultural Travel Packages Solo Adventures India: Jhansi:

Next you will travel via train to the walled city of Jhansi, the sight of the Bundela civilization and then Overland to Khajuraho. The latter was the 10th-century center of the Chandelas civilization.

Cultural Travel Packages Solo Adventures India: Chandelas and Varanasi:

The day will begin at Chandelas known for its erotic carvings. In contrast, it will end at the Ganges with pilgrims performing religious rituals and cleansing in the Ganges. A boat ride will follow.

• Varanasi was known as Benares during the British rule. For Hindus, it is the holiest city. It is 4,000+ years old..
• You will see the sun rise over the Ganges as you cruise the river. A walking tour will follow.
• The tour heads out after breakfast to Sarnath, a Buddhist learning center. This is renowned as the place where Gautama Buddha preached his first sermon. There is a  museum of fabulous Indian Buddhist art treasures. You will see there the National Emblem of India, known as the Ashoka’s Lion Capital and the Teaching Buddha. Before concluding the day’s tour, you will visit 19th century archeological sites and perhaps stroll through a silk-weaving workshop.
• The tour comes to a close with a Farewell Dinner.

Return to Delhi for End of Tours;

After an adventure-packed tour, the last day will be a relaxing one with a tranquil yoga & meditation class. To prepare for the long international flight home, you will fly to Delhi. You will spend the night unless you have added on a trip to Nepal.

Not to worry! An OAT Travel representative will escort you to the airport for your departure.

(Solo Trekker 4 U says, see our Founder Elizabeth Avery’s adventure solo travel in her post on a Monsoon Journey .)

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South India Tours & Vacations

Join us on a spice, temple and dosa-filled journey into the soul of South India. 

From the palm-lined beaches of Goa to the sleepy backwaters of Kerala and the temple-strewn Hampi, South India is packed with cultural and culinary adventures. While iconic landmarks like Maharaja's Palace and Sri Meenakshi Temple are bound to wow you, the real magic for us lies in sharing a biriyani with a local family, learning about Ayurveda as you sniff your way around a herb garden or tracking tiger footprints with a village guide. If you want to discover India beyond the Golden Triangle 's big-ticket attractions, a South India trip could be on the cards.

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South India travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to India?

Yes, all foreigners entering India will need a visa. Whether you can apply for an e-visa is dependent on your nationality, the duration of your India tour and how you plan on entering the country.

This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 22/06/2023

Can I drink the tap water in India?

India is notorious among travelers for sickness – we’ve all heard horror stories about Delhi belly. We do not recommend ever drinking tap water in India, and travelers should avoid drinks with ice and foods that haven’t been cooked or peeled. Salad is off the menu for now ­– let your inner child rejoice!

What are the toilets like in India?

Squat toilets are the most common toilets in India. Always carry your own toilet paper and soap or hand sanitizer, as they are usually not provided. Flushable, Western-style toilets can be found in up-market restaurants, some higher-end hotels and in some tourist areas.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

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South India Revealed

• In-depth Cultural
• Fully Guided
• Christmas & New Year

Places You’ll See

• Explore Varkala and its white-sand beaches
• Take a local train along the Keralan Coast
• Feel the buzz in the bazaars of Madurai
• Visit the ancient temple town of Hampi
• Introduction
• Day 1 Trivandrum
• Day 2 Varkala
• Day 3 Varkala
• Day 4 Kerala Backwaters
• Day 5 Kochi
• Day 6 Kochi
• Day 7 Periyar
• Day 8 Periyar
• Day 9 Madurai
• Day 10 Madurai – Overnight Train
• Day 11 Mysore
• Day 12 Mysore – Overnight Train
• Day 13 Hampi
• Day 14 Hampi - Overnight train

Want to read it later?

Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Operated by intrepid travel.

Back in 1989, two guys from Melbourne, Australia by the names of Darrell and Manch set off on an adventure to the other side of the world. They travelled to Africa and without air conditioning on their modified truck, they filled it with supplies, some beer, a bunch of aviator sunglasses, and some friends. On that trip, they came up with the idea that perhaps others may be interested in this style of travel too. Just like that, Intrepid was born. Intrepid has come a long way since then, now giving over 100,000 travelers a year the opportunity to experience small group travel across all 7 continents. They use local transport, sleep in local accommodation from Cambodian stilt houses to Moroccan riads, and employ 100% local leaders. With three different travel styles including basix, original and comfort, themes ranging from cycling trips to family holidays, and itineraries crafted with the perfect balance of must-see sights and free time, Intrepid caters to every type of traveller no matter their age, budget or travel style. The company has grown but their mission remains the same: to change the way people see the world through sustainable, experience-rich travel

Sustainability Initiatives

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.6
• Itinerary Good 4.0
• Guide Excellent 5.0
• Transport Excellent 4.1
• Accommodation Good 3.8
• Food Excellent 4.2
• Tour Operator Intrepid Travel 4.6
• Most Recent
• Most Popular
• Highest First
• Lowest First

• A Allison A · 18th September 2019 Well organised Small group Real experience Trip date: December 2018 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Catherine R · 18th September 2019 The group I was travelling with was excellent...we researched and planned our activities as a group Trip date: December 2018 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Joesphine M · 18th September 2019 Note: Scores have been submitted in accordance with standard marking. e.g. 1 = extremely poor, 3 = met required standards, 5 exceeded standard / expectation of tour. Overall I enjoyed the Southern Leg of the tour. Southern India is a beautiful part of... Show more Trip date: December 2018 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Sarah C · 18th September 2019 Excellent group leader, good value for money. interesting places Trip date: December 2018 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Kate W · 18th September 2019 The trip was so well planned and organised by the group leader. I was always informed well in advance for departure and arrival times and given a heads up about the area we were next travelling to and any optional activities that would be beneficial to do. Trip date: December 2018 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Jonathan D · 18th September 2019 Intrepid made India seem easy, the seamless use of the trains, local busesand tuktuks made me like I was seeing the real India. Trip date: December 2018 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Gwenda T · 18th September 2019 Trip ran very smoothly, thanks to our wonderful guide Akhilesh. Trip date: December 2018 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Vishen M · 18th September 2019 I found that the tour was amazing and that the sites and locations gave me a deep insight into what it is like to be in India. Walking the streets, talking to the people listening to the stories of real people. I loved the historical aspect of the trip... Show more Trip date: December 2018 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Prisha M · 18th September 2019 The trip was unbelievable however not for the faint hearted. A good way to experience the real India Trip date: December 2018 Review collected by Intrepid Travel

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• August 2025
• September 2025
• October 2025
• November 2025
• December 2025
• January 2026
• February 2026
• August 2026
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• October 2026
• November 2026
• December 2026
• Friday 24 May, 2024 Saturday 8 Jun, 2024 English Sold Out €960 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• -20% Get Instant Confirmation Friday 5 Jul, 2024 Saturday 20 Jul, 2024 English €960 €768 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Friday 9 Aug, 2024 Saturday 24 Aug, 2024 English Almost Sold Out €960 Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
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• Get Instant Confirmation Wednesday 30 Oct, 2024 Thursday 14 Nov, 2024 English Filling Fast €1,035 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h

Frequently Asked Questions

The age limits are already pre-set by the tour operator and this is something we do not have discretion on. We can assist you in finding a similar better-suited tour.

The most convenient and cheapest way to obtain local currency is via an Automated Teller Machine (ATM), which are readily available in most towns. Look for Bank of India or ICICI ATM's. Our experience has shown they are the most reliable ATM.

The tour price includes 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 2 dinners.

Unfortunately, TourRadar is unable to give vaccine advice due to the vast number of destinations which our customers visit, and the fact that things are always changing. We recommend checking your local embassy or consulate's website for the latest up to date information.

A trip note - which contains essential information about your trip will be given to you. Information such as the daily itinerary, where to meet on the first day, what time the trip starts, how to get to the joining point hotel, included activities, visa information, etc will be mentioned in there. Please contact us for this.

Got a question about this tour?

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Good to Know

• Currency ₹ Indian Rupee India

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, D, M. As a traveller from South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for India. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for India. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Cholera - Recommended for India. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Tuberculosis - Recommended for India. Ideally 3 months before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for India. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission for India. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Japanese B encephalitis - Recommended for India. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 19th July 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 19th July 2024, a minimum payment of €400 is required to confirm your booking with Intrepid Travel. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Intrepid Travel will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Intrepid Travel" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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• 1 (888) 414-6804 (USA & Canada)
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India is now open for International Travelers

Guidelines for international travelers (updated feb., 2023).

• Effective February 2023, mandatory self-declaration form on Air Suvidha for international arriving passengers has been discontinued. So, no self-declaration needs to be completed by international tourists from any country arriving in India.
• RT-PCR Covid Test NOT required for traveling in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bhutan
• To Travel to India Covid Vaccination also NOT required.
• The use of masks on flights is mandatory. Masks are not required anywhere else in India

South India Tours

Individual South India Tours ✓Historical Sites ✓Restful Backwaters ✓Houseboat Tour ✓Tea and Spice Plantations ✓Exotic Beaches ✓Smiling People ✓Living Temples

Home / South India Tours

The diverse cultures and environments merge into an unforgettable experience when you book South India tours for your next adventure holiday. The focus of tours in this area includes unique art and architecture of historical temples , monuments to various cultures throughout India’s rich history, and beautiful natural areas that truly appear as tropical paradises here on Earth.

Explore Goa to discover every possible type of beach culture imaginable from luxury tropical resorts to nature-lovers enjoying the solitude. Old Goa features many Portuguese influences such as the stately museums , Catholic church , and the UNESCO heritage zone Fontainhas community. For pure south Indian experience, get out into nature at a spice plantation or wildlife sanctuary.

In Karnataka , enjoy the scenic countryside studded with coffee plantations and lush green trees. Shop for arts and crafts at a Bangalore marketplace or explore this popular destination’s many entrancing locations for architecture, history, and wonder. Read More +

Some historical sites of interest include Brihadeshwara temple Tanjore , and the Meenakshi Temple at Madurai and the ancient Ruins of Hampi .

Take a trip around Tamil Nadu and Kerala to relax by the seaside, learn about the large tea and coconut plantations in the region, and wonder at the intricate temple caves in Mahabalipuram . In Kerala, explore the scenic backwaters from inside a unique houseboat or stop a while to soak up the sun on a sandy beach . Read Less –

South India Tours 2024-2025

Best of North and South India in 28 Days

Old and New Delhi ➜ Udaipur ➜ Ranakpur ➜ Jodhpur ➜ Deogarh Palace Heritage Hotel ➜ Jaipur ➜ Ranthambore Tiger Reserve ➜ Agra ➜ Fatehpur Sikri ➜ Orchha ➜ Khajuraho ➜ Varanasi (Ganges) ➜ Chennai ➜ Kanchipuram ➜ Mamallapuram ➜ Tanjore (Thanjavur) ➜ Trichy ➜ Chettinad Region ➜ Madurai ➜ Munnar ➜ Thekkady (Periyar Tiger Reserve) ➜ Alleppey (Houseboat Kerala Backwaters) ➜ Kumarakom ➜ Mararikulam Beach ➜ Kochi ➜ Chennai/Mumbai

Pride of Karnataka – The Golden Chariot Train Journey through Karnataka

Bengaluru ➜ Bandipur National park ➜ Mysore (Srirangapatna) ➜ Halebidu ➜ Chikmagalur ➜ Hampi ➜ Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal ➜ Goa ➜ Bengaluru

Mumbai To Chennai

Mumbai ➜ Goa ➜ Hampi ➜ Belur ➜ Halebidu ➜ Mysore ➜ Wayanad ➜ Kochi ➜ Alleppey ➜ Varkala ➜ Kanyakumari ➜ Madurai ➜ Chettinad ➜ Pondicherry ➜ Tanjore ➜ Mahabalipuram ➜ Chennai

South India Tour – Best of Tamil Nadu and Kerala (15 days)

Chennai ➜ Kanchipuram ➜ Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) ➜ Pondicherry (Puducherry) ➜ Tanjore (Thanjavur) ➜ Trichy (Tiruchirapalli) ➜ Chettinad Region ➜ Madurai ➜ Munnar ➜ Thekkady (Periyar Tiger Reserve) ➜ Alleppey (Houseboat Kerala Backwaters) ➜ Kumarakom ➜ Mararikulam Beach ➜ Kochi ➜ Chennai

Golden Chariot Train Journey – Jewels of South

Bengaluru ➜ Mysore ➜ Hampi ➜ Mahabalipuram ➜ Thanjavur and Chettinad ➜ Kumarakom (Houseboat & Backwaters) ➜ Cochin ➜ Bengaluru

Grand South India Tour (31 Days)

Chennai (Madras) ➜ Kanchipuram ➜ Mahapalipuram (Mamallapuram) ➜ Pondicherry ➜ Darasuram & Gangaikondacholpuram ➜ Tanjore ➜ Trichy ➜ Chettinad ➜ Madurai ➜ Rameswaram ➜ Kanyakumari ➜ Kovalam ➜ Alleppey (Houseboat Tour) ➜ Kumarakom ➜ Periyar Tiger Reserve ➜ Munnar (Tea Plantations) ➜ Cochin (Kochi) ➜ Ooty ➜ Kabini and Nagarhole NationalpPark or Bandipur National Park ➜ Mysore (Srirangapatnam & Somnathpur) ➜ Hassan (Belur und Halebidu) ➜ Hampi ➜ Aihole & Pattadakal ➜ Badami ➜ Goa ➜ Chennai / Mumbai

Treasures of South India – Best of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka (19 days)

Chennai ➜ Mahabalipuram ➜ Kanchipuram ➜ Puducherry ➜ Thanjavur ➜ Chettinad ➜ Madurai ➜ Thekkady (Periyar Tiger Reserve) ➜ Alleppey Backwaters ➜ Kochi (Cochin) ➜ Ooty ➜ Bandipur National Park ➜Mysore (Mysuru)➜ Shravanabelagola ➜ Belur and Halebidu ➜ Ancient City of Hampi ➜ Aihole and Pattadakal ➜ Badami ➜ Goa Beaches

Tropical Kerala with Madurai detour (15 days)

Kochi (Cochin) ➜ Houseboat through Backwaters ➜ Kumarakom ➜ Kovalam Beach ➜ Thekkady (Periyar Tiger Reserve) ➜ Madurai (Meenakshi Temple) ➜ Munnar (Tea Plantations) ➜ Mararikulam Beach

South India Wildlife and Trekking Tour

Madikeri (Coorg) ➜ Nishani Motte Trek ➜ Namdroling Monastery ➜ Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary ➜ Nagarhole National Park ➜ Ooty ➜ Pollachi ➜ Anamalai Tiger Reserve or Parambikulam Tiger Reserve ➜ Munnar ➜ Eravikulam National Park Madurai ➜ Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary (Thoovanam Waterfalls) ➜ Madurai (Meenakshi Temple) ➜ Chennai

Our Favorite articles on South India Tours

Kotagiri – Blue Mountain

Kotagari’s colonial influence in the Nilgiri hills is like a photograph fading with beautiful memories. Horseback riding over the foggy hills, touring…

The First Tale From Tamil Nadu – Chidambaram – February 2016

The Second Tale from Tamil Nadu – Trichy and Tanjore

The Third Tale from Tamil Nadu – Madurai

The Fourth Tale from Tamil Nadu – Kodaikanal

The Fifth Tale from Tamil Nadu – Kodaikanal II

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The Grand Rajasthan Tour: Walk in the Footsteps of Maharajas

New Delhi ➜ Jaipur ➜ Agra ➜ Jaipur ➜ Nawalgarh (Shekhawati region including Mandawa & Fatehpur) ➜ Bikaner ➜ Deshnoke (Rat Temple) ➜ Jaisalmer (Sam Dunes) ➜ Osian ➜ Luni (Jodhpur and Bishnoi village) ➜ Mount Abu ➜ Kumbalgarh ➜ Ranakpur Jain Temple ➜ Udaipur ➜ Chittorgarh ➜ Bundi ➜ Pushkar ➜ Alwar ➜ New Delhi ➜ Goa ➜ New Delhi

Best of Kashmir and Leh Ladakh

Fly from New Delhi to Srinagar (Kashmir) ➜ Gulmarg ➜ Pahalgam ➜ Sonamarg ➜ Kargil ➜ Mulbekh ➜ Lamayuru Monastery ➜ Likir ➜ Sangam Viewpoint (Confluence of Zanskar and Indus Rivers) ➜ Spituk ➜ Magnetic Hill ➜ Leh ➜ Khardung La ➜ Nubra Valley ➜ Diskit ➜ Hunder ➜ Turtuk ➜ Lake Pangong Tso ➜ Chang La ➜ Hemis ➜ Thiksey ➜ Leh ➜ Fly from Leh to New Delhi

Top Destinations in Rajasthan Including Heritage Palace Hotels, the Taj Mahal and a Goa Beach Holiday

Old and New Delhi ➜ Jaipur ➜ Jodhpur ➜ Ranakpur ➜ Udaipur ➜ Sardargarh Heritage Palace Hotel ➜ Bundi ➜ Ranthambhore National Park ➜ Agra (Taj Mahal and Red Fort) ➜ New Delhi ➜ Fly to Goa ➜ New Delhi/ Mumbai

Golden Triangle India + Varanasi (Ganges)

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Best of Rajasthan

New Delhi ➜ Samode Village ➜ Jaipur ➜ Mandawa ➜ Khimsar ➜ Jodhpur ➜ Ranakpur ➜ Udaipur ➜ Bundi ➜ Ranthambhore National Park ➜ New Delhi

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Tour of Sikkim, Darjeeling and Bhutan

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Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T. Tours)

18 Trips match your criteria (1 - 18 shown)

Real Affordable Peru

Cusco, Lima, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Urubamba

• Visit Lima’s historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit Lima’s National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History at Bolivar Square
• Enjoyable way to experience the enchanting Andean landscape.
• Enjiy Rafting excursion
• Visit this mysterious sanctuary

Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays

Japan's Cultural Treasures

Hakone, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Tokyo

• Visit the seventh-century Asakusa Kannon Temple
• The trip to Hakone, located about 50 miles west of Tokyo.
• Hakone is beloved by the Japanese for its hot-spring resorts, mountains, lakes, and historical sites
• Visit Hamamatsuya, a workshop specializing in wooden handcrafts.
• Visit one of the many houses of Kanazawa where the samurai—Japan's famed class of noble warriors—once lived

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Mongolia & the Gobi Desert

Gobi Desert, Ulaanbaatar

• Explore the Mongolia city
• Visit to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
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• Explore the western shore of Lake Khovsgol
• Experience camel riding in Gobi Desert

Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays, Transformative

Untamed Iceland

Blue Lagoon, Lake Myvatn, Reykjavík, Snaefellsnes Peninsula

• Visit a local horse farm to meet affable Icelandic horses first brought to the country by Viking settlers
• Discover some of Iceland's Saga-like history at the Settlement Center in Borgarnes.
• Enjoy views of colorful mountain cliffs, pristine fjords, and fertile valleys where horses graze.
• Visit a museum dedicated to this once-thriving industry before returning to Akureyri.
• Visit the stunning Gullfoss waterfall

Cultural, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

Heart of India

Agra, Agra Fort, Amber Fort, Delhi, Jaipur, Jama Masjid, Khajuraho, Qutab Minar, Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, Red Fort, Taj Mahal

• Visit Raj Ghat, a beautifully serene monument.
• Visiting the Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India
• Enjoy short ride by rickshaw through the crowded lanes of the Chandni Chowk bazaar.
• Visiting Qutab Minar, a spectacular example of Indo-Islamic architecture topped by a 234-foot-high tower.
• Enjoy a bird's-eye view of Jaipur and its surroundings

Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Photography, Festivals & Special Events, Religious

Northern Greece, Albania & Macedonia: Ancient Lands of Alexander the Great

Gjirokaster, Meteora , Skopje, Thessaloniki

• Explore the picturesque hillside city set along the shores of Lake Ohrid in the Republic of Macedonia
• Visit the National History Museum
• Visit the small village of Dhoksat
• Visit a traditional Albanian village
• Explore the stunning ruins of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

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From Siam to Saigon: Thailand & Vietnam Revealed

Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Ha Long Bay, Ho Chi Minh, Hoi An

• See the floral market at Pakklong Talad
• Visit the Royal Barge Museum
• Enjoy a tour of Bangkok
• Visit to Bangkok's oldest temple, Wat Pho
• See the colossal statue of the reclining Buddha.

Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Religious

Southern Africa: South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Botswana

Chobe National Park, Hwange National Park, Kruger National Park, Victoria Falls

• Travel to South Africa with experienced Trip Leaders and driver-guides
• Visit Kruger National Park for wildlife viewing
• Explore the beautiful Victoria Falls
• Stay in cozy lodges and tents, enjoying campfire by night

Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Safari

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