Essentially a peninsula, the shores of Southern India
are met by the Arabian Sea to the west coast, the Indian Ocean to the south
and the Bay of Bengal to the East.
The states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka form the southernmost tip of
India. The western state of Maharashtra with its capital city of Mumbai is
the undisputed seat of commercial and financial power in the country, while
the neighbouring state of Goa has always been fashionable with international
tourists.
Kerala, also known as 'God's Own Country' is blessed in the true sense of
the term. Verdant paddy fields, intricate networks of backwaters, coconut plantations,
endless stretches of beaches and idyllic lagoons form the landscape.
The capital city of the state is Thiruvananthapuram (formerly known as Trivandrum),
however, Kochi is the important commercial city and also an important entry
point to Southern India. With either of these two cities as a starting point,
visitors can access
Kovalam, one of the most beautiful beach resorts in the world, as well as Varkala
and Marari – previously unknown destinations that are fast becoming popular
with visitors.
Also in Kerala is Kumarakom, an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangroves,
emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with backwater canals
and waterways. Situated on the banks of Lake Vembanad is an assortment of international
resorts that provide a tranquil getaway. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in
Thekkady gives you the opportunity to live in harmony with nature and respect
wildlife.
If rejuvenation and relaxation is on the agenda, then Kerala is the place
to head for, as it is best known for the Ayurveda system of medicine, which
includes massage and herbs in its holistic approach.
Culturally distinct, is the southern state of Tamil Nadu, which is home to
glorious monuments, a rich tapestry of history and culture and natural beauty.
Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam, the most expressive of Indian classical dance
forms originate in
this state. Chennai, formerly Madras is the usual entry point and is home to
a rich architectural legacy and a dynamic arts scene.
Karnataka is a state abounding in natural scenic beauty as well as a rich
cultural heritage with everything from pristine beaches to cool hill stations,
ancient ruins, resplendent palaces in Mysore, to modern cities such as the
capital, Bangalore, with its vibrant nightlife.
Each state offers distinct cuisine, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian along
with a host of international options, especially in the main cities.
Shopping options are endless, ranging from vibrant yards of silk, sandalwood
carvings, leather goods, handicrafts distinct to each state and of course all
the trappings of modern shopping plazas.
In Southern India, a kaleidoscope of experiences awaits you.
Infants are not provided with a seat. If your baby is more than 6 months old, you may book a seat for him/her listing him/her as a “child”. More information is available at carriage of infants.
