Secrets of South India - Tamil Nadu and Colourful Kerala 2027

Secrets of South India - 09th -24th January 2027

This Art Safari takes us through the authentic heartland of southern India, some of it well off the beaten tourist trail.

This small-group, 16 day tour explores two very different regions: Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Whether honing your drawing skills, learning from scratch or simply content to drink it all in with or without a camera, you’ll see inspiring and memorable scenes on every side with artist and experienced India traveller Maxine Relton.

Beginners and non-sketchers are equally welcome.  Learn the exciting art of vivid, rapid sketching! Maxine will encourage you to see with an artist’s eye, to respond to the wonder of ever-changing surroundings, offering plenty of support and guidance, sharing her skills and techniques.

Both regions offer warm hospitality, lush-green landscape set against the Western Ghats, the best of South Indian cookery, fine temples with unique, undocumented treasures and above all, memorable experiences which will stir your heart and give you a fresh perspective on your own life.

Tamil Nadu is one of the planet’s last classical civilisations, with sacred rituals, ancient literature, songs and dance, traditional customs and crafts that owe nothing to the modern world and a language that is believed to pre-date Sanskrit. Here in the rural villages, we visit local communities whose way of life has changed little over the centuries.

You will have the opportunity to spend time in rarely visited traditional Tamil villages and temples, sketching and engaging with local people.

Wander through scented spice plantations, visit one of India’s greatest temple complexes in Madurai, relax with an Ayurvedic massage and explore tranquil Kerala backwaters by rice barge (private houseboat) on a 2-day river cruise.

There are fascinating cycle rides (all downhill or on the flat!) to experience, as well as a private cooking lesson, visits to a lively fish auction and street markets, plus a visit to a pomegranate farm and much more besides.

Your tour will contribute towards the vital work of SCAD (Social Change and Development), a local charity that hosts part of our stay.  Maxine has a longstanding relationship with SCAD and the precious time that you have there is both eye-opening and heart-warming.

This tour is ideal for artists and photographers, non-sketchers are very welcome.  All our well-chosen and varied locations are brimming with life, colour and activity which the whole group can enjoy. The emphasis will be on the art of quick sketching to capture the rich variety around us but if any non-sketchers would like to spend time on their own, Maxine will be happy to discuss alternative activities!

Our English-speaking guides will work closely with tutor Maxine to expand our knowledge of the regions, uncovering some of the fascinating history, culture and wildlife of India.

Please note that this itinerary is a guideline; your tour leader may vary the activities to suit weather conditions, or to include any tempting opportunities that we come across in our travels!