Enjoy the highlights of Southern India with this short stopover which fits easily into longer travels around India. We take in the city sights of Chennai and Bangalore, marvel at the ancient wonder of Mysore and soak up the peaceful contrast of the beautiful hill station of Ooty and its sprawling Indian tea gardens.

ITINERARY

DAY 01  CHENNAI - BANGALORE 
You are met on arrival in Chennai (formerly Madras) and depart by car to Bangalore, where we check into the hotel.  Th erest of the day is at leisure to explore this multifaceted city, now the thriving capital of Karnataka.

DAY 02  BANGALORE - MYSORE 
We set off after breakfast for Mysore  by car, 140 kms away.  We check into the hotel and embark on an afternoon city tour.  Mysore is the second biggest city of Karnataka, and is undoubtedly its cultural heart and soul. The Wodeyar Maharajas of Mysore ruled from this royal seat for centuries, and their patronage ensured a rich mix of artists, writers and craftsmen flourished here. Much of the city's architectural heritage remains unspoiled by the pressures of the modern day, and we visit the pride of this kingdom, the magnificent Mysore Palace. One of the largest and most spectacular palaces in all of India, it is made up of a colourful mix of architectural styles that make it one of the most dramatic national monuments. It is now a museum, show-casing treasures from all over the world that reflect the rich and adventurous history of this princely state. The silhouette of the Mysore Palace illuminated by ninety seven thousand bulbs and shimmering against the black night is one of the most enduring images of India.

DAY 03  MYSORE 
Full day at leisure to explore the wonders of this ancient and artistic city, and to shop for wonderful keepsakes in the busy and colourful markets.

DAY 04  MYSORE - OOTY
This morning we drive to Ooty, the south’s premier hill station.  Nestled in the Nilgiris, or Blue Mountains, Ooty used to be a popular destination among the British during colonial days. Ooty is known for its salubrious climate and wonderful gardens, where we relax in comfort. The many tea estates made Ooty famous, and you can take the mountain train journey on a ratchet and pinion track which commences from Kallar, near Mettupalayam. It winds its way through many hair-raising curves and fearful tunnels, chugs along beside deep ravines full of verdant vegetation, and bustles past gurgling streams and tea gardens. Lofty mountains, dense forest and sprawling plains all accompany the miles of tea gardens in this feast for the eye.  Overnight is spent here at Ooty.  

DAY 05  OOTY - MYSORE - BANGALORE  Drive to Bangalore via Mysore, where we stop overnight.

DAY 06  BANGALORE - CHENNAI 
We arrive back in Chennai by car and transfer to the airport or station for your onward journey.  Tour ends.

TOUR INCLUSIONS
Accommodation on a room-only a basis.
All transfers by car including pick-ups and drop-offs at airport or station.
All sightseeing tours as specified.

Tour Cost
Per Person on Twin Sharing :  -  USD $ 688