South India Wildlife Safaris
Delve into the untamed beauty of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Embark on thrilling jeep and boat safaris across Nagarhole, Bandipur, and Periyar to witness herds of wild elephants and elusive big cats.
Vihaanga Journeys was founded with a clear vision—to present India in its most authentic, comfortable, and meaningful way for global travelers.
Experience the extraordinary wildlife and natural beauty of South India on this carefully crafted journey through Karnataka and Kerala. Explore some of India's finest national parks in search of elephants, gaur, leopards, sloth bears and, with luck, the elusive tiger. Continue through the misty Nilgiri Hills, rolling tea plantations and fragrant spice gardens before concluding with an unforgettable overnight houseboat cruise through Kerala's enchanting backwaters.
Combining exceptional wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, scenic hill stations and authentic local experiences, this itinerary is perfect for nature lovers, photographers and adventure enthusiasts.
Duration: 14 Nights / 15 Days
Routing: Bengaluru → Mysore → Nagarhole → B.R. Hills → Bandipur → Ooty → Munnar → Periyar → Alleppey → Cochin
October to March offers ideal weather conditions for wildlife safaris in the national parks, exploring the misty hill stations, and relaxing on houseboat cruises.
Top Feature Highlights
Delve into the untamed beauty of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Embark on thrilling jeep and boat safaris across Nagarhole, Bandipur, and Periyar to witness herds of wild elephants and elusive big cats.
Transition from the misty, tea-carpeted slopes of Ooty and Munnar to the tropical serenity of Alleppey. Drift along calm backwater canals aboard a traditional houseboat enjoying authentic regional cuisine.
Day 01 | Arrive Bengaluru by flight
Arrive at Kempegowda International Airport, where you will be warmly welcomed by our representative. Later, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Bengaluru, including Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Cubbon Park, Bull Temple, and drive past the magnificent Vidhana Soudha. Overnight Stay at Hotel – Bengaluru
Day 02 | Bengaluru – Mysore (Approx. 145 km | 3.5 Hours)
After breakfast, drive to the royal city of Mysore. En route, visit Srirangapatna, the historic capital of Tipu Sultan. Later, explore Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill, and the colourful Devaraja Market. Overnight Stay at Hotel – Mysore
Day 03 | Mysore – Nagarhole National Park (Approx. 90 km | 2 Hours)
Drive to Nagarhole National Park, one of India's premier wildlife reserves. Enjoy an afternoon Jeep Safari in search of elephants, gaur, deer, leopards and other wildlife. Overnight Stay at Wildlife Resort – Nagarhole
Day 04 | Nagarhole National Park
Enjoy morning and afternoon wildlife safaris exploring one of India's finest tiger reserves, renowned for its rich biodiversity and scenic forest landscapes. Overnight Stay at Wildlife Resort – Nagarhole
Day 05 | Nagarhole – B.R. Hills (Approx. 160 km | 4 Hours)
Drive to Biligiri Ranganatha Hills (B.R. Hills), a unique wildlife sanctuary where the Eastern and Western Ghats meet. Enjoy an evening safari or guided nature walk. Overnight Stay at Wildlife Resort – B.R. Hills
Day 06 | B.R. Hills – Bandipur National Park (Approx. 110 km | 3 Hours)
After breakfast, drive to Bandipur National Park, part of the renowned Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Enjoy an afternoon Jeep Safari. Overnight Stay at Wildlife Resort – Bandipur
Day 07 | Bandipur National Park
Enjoy morning and afternoon wildlife safaris in Bandipur National Park, home to elephants, gaur, deer, wild dogs, leopards and an impressive variety of birdlife. Overnight Stay at Wildlife Resort – Bandipur
Day 08 | Bandipur – Ooty (Approx. 50 km | 2 Hours)
Drive through the forests of Mudumalai National Park to the picturesque hill station of Ooty. Visit the Government Botanical Gardens and Ooty Lake. Overnight Stay at Hotel – Ooty
Day 09 | Ooty
After breakfast, enjoy a memorable ride on the UNESCO-listed Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Toy Train) (subject to availability). Later, visit Doddabetta Peak, a local Tea Factory & Museum, and spend the evening at leisure. Overnight Stay at Hotel – Ooty
Day 10 | Ooty – Munnar (Approx. 240 km | 6–7 Hours)
Drive through the scenic Western Ghats to Munnar, Kerala's beautiful hill station renowned for its rolling tea plantations and breathtaking mountain scenery. Overnight Stay at Hotel – Munnar
Day 11 | Munnar
Explore Eravikulam National Park (subject to seasonal opening), the Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, and Echo Point, while enjoying panoramic views across Munnar's lush tea estates. Overnight Stay at Hotel – Munnar
Day 12 | Munnar – Periyar (Approx. 95 km | 3 Hours)
Drive to Periyar Tiger Reserve. Visit a fragrant spice plantation before enjoying a relaxing boat safari on Periyar Lake, offering opportunities to spot elephants, deer and a variety of birdlife. Overnight Stay at Hotel – Thekkady
Day 13 | Periyar
Enjoy another day exploring Periyar Tiger Reserve. Choose from optional activities such as a guided nature walk, bamboo rafting, jungle trekking, or an additional wildlife boat safari. Overnight Stay at Hotel – Thekkady
Day 14 | Periyar – Alleppey (Approx. 140 km | 4 Hours)
After breakfast, drive to Alleppey, known as the "Venice of the East." Board a traditional Deluxe Houseboat and begin a leisurely cruise through Kerala's enchanting backwaters. Drift past coconut groves, paddy fields and charming villages while enjoying authentic Kerala cuisine prepared on board. Overnight Stay on Deluxe Houseboat – Alleppey
Day 15 | Alleppey – Cochin Airport (Approx. 85 km | 2 Hours)
After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and transfer to Cochin International Airport for your onward flight. End of Service
