From October to March is the best time to visit Kerala and Karnataka. The monsoon lasts from June to September, while April and May can be stiflingly hot.
Price depends on the experiences and accommodation included, and your time of travel. It is based on two adults travelling for 14 nights and does not include international flights.
3 nights in Cochin, 3 nights in Coorg, 2 nights in Hyderabad, 3 nights at Hampi, 3 nights in Gokarna
What makes this luxury Southern India & Kerala itinerary special?
- Explore the layered history and exotic spices of Cochin and the Kerala backwaters.
- Experience the life of a gentleman planter in the gorgeous hills of Coorg at one of India’s finest hill station resorts.
- Delve into the incredible cuisine and handicrafts of Hyderabad.
- Float in a hot-air balloon above the dreamy temples of Hampi.
- Relax by the shores of the Arabian Sea at India’s finest beach resort.
Highlights of your private South India luxury holiday
City of spice
Cochin
Begin your journey in Cochin, Kerala’s ancient spice capital, which for centuries has drawn merchants, explorers, pilgrims and preachers. Their footprints are everywhere: ancient mosques and synagogues, Portuguese churches and Dutch-style houses, Hindu temples and fishing nets. You’ll have the palace of a former Raja of Cochin as your private residence throughout your stay here, a peaceful and absolutely gorgeous base for exploring. Wander through the atmospheric streets of Fort Cochin past spice go-downs to the waterfront cantilever fishing nets, marvel at the old Jewish synagogue, and enjoy a private culinary masterclass in a stunning private villa. A leisurely cruise on the Kerala backwaters on a traditional kettuvallam houseboat will slowly reveal the quieter side of this bustling port on the Arabian Sea.
Into plantation country
Coorg
Flying to northern Kerala, leave the heat of the coast behind as you climb up into the cool Western Ghats of Coorg. Renowned for its aromatic coffee plantations, thick forests and the ancestral traditions of its fiercely proud Kodava clanspeople, it’s a place to slow down and enjoy the fresher temperatures and scented air.
At Evolve Back’s lavishly appointed Chikkana Halli Estate, you’ll be cocooned amongst the comforts of one of India’s most sought-after hill destinations as you step into the lifestyle of the gentlemen planters of yesteryear. Take leisurely strolls through the coffee and spice plantations; wind along off-road tracks to lookouts where you can enjoy a picnic lunch and endless mountain ridges fading into a blue horizon; and tuck into delectable home cooking as an honoured guest in a Kodava home.
Realm of the White Mughals
Hyderabad
Steeped in history, Hyderabad has been shaped down the centuries by a succession of rulers and dynasties—from the Hindu Chalukyas to the Mughals and eventually the British, gaining fame and wealth that earned it the nickname The City of Pearls. Today, it is one of India’s leading tech centres and a rapidly growing megacity.
From iconic landmarks like Golkonda Fort, the Qutb Shahi Tombs, Charminar and Mecca Masjid, Hyderabad is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. With the opulent Taj Falaknuma Palace as your incredibly smart address in town, explore the grandeur of Nizam-era palaces like Chowmahalla and Purani Haveli, and step into the world of William Dalrymple’s White Mughals with visits to the old British Residency and Raymond’s Tomb. Hyderabad’s markets overflow with colourful ikat textiles, intricate bidri metalwork and vivid cherial scroll paintings, and food lovers will delight in exquisite biryanis, succulent kebabs and the bold flavours of Andhra and Telangana cuisine.
The glories of Hampi
Hampi
Scattered across a surreal landscape of giant boulders and banana groves, Hampi rises from Karnataka’s sun-baked plains like the remnants of a forgotten dream. The intricately carved temples, royal enclosures and market streets ruins of this former Vijayanagara capital are one of Asia’s most extraordinary sacred sites, best experienced with a stay at Evolve Back’s Kamalapura Palace, and with a private archaeological guide to bring its history, mythology and architecture to life.
Visit the Virupaksha Temple at dawn as pilgrims gather beside the Tungabhadra River. Trek through the boulders to the famed Courtesan Bazaar and the ruins of the Achyutaraya Temple, said to have inspired the ‘Monkey Temple’ in the Jungle Book. Best of all, experience the grandeur and magnificence of Hampi from the air as you float above it all in a hot-air balloon.
Paradise by the Arabian Sea
Gokarna
Moving on from Hampi by express train, you’ll be met in Hubli and driven to Mundgod, a Tibetan Buddhist enclave within Karnataka, where you can spend time with the monks at prayer in the monasteries, many bedecked with wild bee hives above the entrance. Then continue down through monsoon forests to the temple town of Gokarna on the Arabian Sea. A cosseting stay at the magnificent beach retreat of Kahani Paradise is a fitting end to your South Indian odyssey.
Begin your days slow with yoga in the open-air pavilion as the sun rises over the jungle canopy. Linger over a breakfast of tropical fruits and South Indian staples on the terrace, then take the estate’s vintage Defender down to Paradise Beach, a hidden crescent of sand reached by foot or boat. Afternoons are for exploring Gokarna’s temples, visiting local markets or simply unwinding by the pool with a book. As golden hour settles in, sip a cocktail by the banyan tree, then dine under the stars, nourished by delicious, locally sourced cuisine.
Where you'll stay on your luxury South India vacation
Great journeys need great places to lay your head. These are our tried and tested suggestions.
Chittoor Kottaram
Housed within the restored 19th-century palace of a former raja of Cochin on the shores of Vembanad Lake, Chittoor Kottaram is a stylish and intimate retreat that makes the perfect base for experiencing both the Kerala backwaters and spice-laden Fort Cochin. Offered to just one set of guests at a time, the atmosphere is understated and soothing—think hand-carved wooden furniture, traditional Kerala architecture and rooms overlooking lush gardens and tranquil waters. Ayurvedic spa treatments are available, and the talented chef serves up sensational Keralan cuisine in a range of romantic private settings.
Chikkana Halli Estate
Away from the heat of the coast, among the misty monsoon forests of the Western Ghats, Evolve Back’s Chikkana Halli Estate offers an evocative window into the natural beauty and tribal traditions of Coorg. The estate is set among a coffee and spice plantation, its sumptuous villas coming with private plunge pools and panoramic views. Fill your days with private off-road experiences, welcomes into the homes of Kodava villagers, learning about the region’s coffee history, and walks or trail rides to breathtaking vistas. Then return for spa treatments, delicious regional curries and the freshest coffee you’ve ever tasted.
Taj Falaknuma Palace
With sweeping views over the city of Hyderabad, the Taj Falaknuma Palace instantly transports you to the grandeur of the Nizam era. Its opulent rooms, magnificent marble staircases, chandeliers and silk-lined walls set the stage for days of lavish, White Mogul-style pampering filled with private vintage car tours, spa treatments and royal Hyderabadi biryanis served beneath the gold-embossed ceiling of the Grand Dining Hall. With its impeccable service and air of timeless elegance, the Taj Falaknuma Palace isn’t just a hotel; it’s a living, breathing piece of history.
Kamalapura Palace
Tucked amidst the surreal boulders and ancient temples of Hampi, Evolve Back’s Kamalapura Palace is a lavishly pampering retreat inspired by the architecture of the Vijayanagar empire. Each villa is adorned with intricate carvings and regal touches, and opens onto sweeping views. Spend your time exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s ancient ruins, taking a dip in the infinity pool or unwinding with Ayurvedic treatments in the spa. Dining celebrates local flavours, from Karnataka specialties to fusion cuisine, all served under the stars.
Kahani Paradise
Set back from the Arabian Sea near Karnataka’s little-discovered temple town of Gokarna, Kahani Paradise is, few would argue, India’s most stylish and in-the-know beach hideaway. Surrounded by a lush jungle estate, its eight villas are all lavish antique-filled sanctuaries with spacious open-air bathrooms, private plunge pools and views over the Arabian Sea. Time seems to stretch here—whether it’s lounging by the pool, exploring the coastline by boat or enjoying lingering seafood lunches at the beachside restaurant. The resort’s intimate atmosphere and discreet, polished service make you feel like you’ve landed in your own personal paradise.
Customise your luxury South India and Kerala journey
All of our journeys are fully bespoke, and can be customised to meet your needs, interests and preferences. Here are a few ideas to inspire you.
Go an a tiger safari in Kipling Country with a stay at Pench National Park, an easy side trip from Hyderabad.
Include some time in India’s Maximum City Mumbai to meet a Bollywood star or explore the city’s diverse culinary and creative scenes.
Give your trip a wellness focus by exploring Ayurvedic healing or a yoga course at Shreyas Retreat outside Bangalore.
Add a few days at Evolve Back’s Kuruba Safari Lodge in Coorg’s Kabini National Park and search for wild elephant and leopard.
Hop across the Western Ghats to explore the extraordinary temple towns and cultures of Tamil Nadu.
Looking for more inspiration?
We have a huge range of inspiring private experiences and accommodation options available. Get in touch with our India specialists.
ENQUIRELearn more about our luxury holidays, or call our expert Asia team on +44 1367 850566 / 1-855-216-5040 (toll free) to discuss how we can turn your dreams into something truly magical.
