Southern India – Spices, Temples & Backwaters

This is a two-week itinerary that deep dives into the best of Tamil culture and Kerala landscape. Explore magnificent ancient temples, some UNESCO World Heritage Sites with architectural grandeur and quirky bougainvillea lined cobbled streets of a former French colony. Meet and spend time with members of the local communities, learning about the very distinct Tamil culture, its music and art, and also about spices which attracted the Romans and the Arabs to trade with India. Experience a slice of the daily life of Kerala's backwaters (a maze of lagoons close to the Arabian Sea) and enjoy its food which is a delightful mix of Dutch, Portuguese, British and Jewish influences. Perfect for first timers to South India.

Recommended time of the year for this adventure: between December and April.

Notes:
November to February is the best time to watch migratory birds at the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary who fly in from the Himalayas.
The International Yoga Festival of Pondicherry is held every year from 4th to the 7th of January.
The month-long Mahabalipuram Dance Festival, which showcases classical and folk dances from all over India, is held every year in Mahabalipuram during January/February.