Elephants Of South India

Elephants Of South India

18 Days / 17 Nights

Overview

Get ready for a deeply immersive cultural and wildlife experience, tracing the presence of elephants from ancient temple carvings to their majestic lives in the wild jungles of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve through this unique South India itinerary.

Travel through Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala, exploring iconic sites like UNESCO-listed Mahabalipuram, the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Tanjore, and the colonial charm of Pondicherry. Stay in heritage mansions, relax in an eco-retreat near the Western Ghats, and enjoy thrilling safaris in Nagarhole and Bandipur, renowned for wild elephant sightings, and possibly even tigers.

Balancing ethical travel practices, animal welfare awareness, and rich cultural encounters, this 18-day tour is perfect for travelers seeking responsible tourism in South Indiain 2025.

Detailed Itineary

  • Day 1 : Chennai - Mahabalipuram

    Upon your arrival, at Chennai you will be received and introduced to your driver. Depart Chennai immediately and drive about 90 minutes south to your first stop. Overnight in luxury hotel in Mahabalipuram.

  • Day 2 : Mahabalipuram

    On day 2 after your breakfast, get ready to witness the first elephant which is carved into living rock over 1000 years ago. Mahabalipuram, once an ancient seaport and royal capital, attracted the patronage of South Indian dynasties for many centuries. On your excursion you will come across of the town's bas-relief carvings—including Arjuna's Penance, the largest such carving in the world—the UNESCO-listed Shore Temple, and the Five Rathas, you will gain deep insight into the unbroken cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu. The town today is bustling with stone-sculpting workshops and seafood restaurants. Overnight in Mahabalipuram.

  • Day 3 : Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry

    After your breakfast, embark on a short drive down the coast which takes you to Pondicherry, a former French region with a distinct European flair. The beachfront promenade—with its giant Gandhi statue—resembles southern Europe, and the town's designer boutiques, cafés, and patisseries are unique in the region. Explore the charming French Quarter, with its shady boulevards perfect for an afternoon stroll. You can visit the nearby Auroville, a sustainable spiritual township inviting global citizens. In Pondicherry, you will also encounter one of the first temple elephants on your journey. Overnight stay at luxury hotel in Pondicherry.

  • Day 4 : Pondicherry - Chidambaram – Kumbakonam – Tanjore

    After your breakfast, set off on a temple excursion. Begin your temple tour by visiting Chidambaram, home to a sprawling Shiva temple complex, a spiritual magnet for thousands of devotees. After your lunch, head to Tanjore (Thanjavur) to visit the awe-inspiring Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that recently celebrated its 1000th anniversary. The temple illuminates magnificently at sunset, and if you're lucky, you may witness the ceremonial washing of the Nandi statue. This is a highlight of Chola temple architecture. Overnight stay in Tanjore.

  • Day 5 : Tanjore – Chettinad

    Explore the Tanjore Palace and Art Museum in the morning before driving to Kannudakathan, a small town in the Chettinad region, famous for its heritage mansions and spicy cuisine. Stay in one of the restored mansions—some spanning up to 3,500 sq. metres. You can explore the village on foot or by bullock cart, or visit the antique shops of Karaikudi nearby. Overnight stay in Chettinad.

  • Day 6 : Madurai - Chettinad

    After your breakfast get ready for a a full day exploring the Chettinad region, with options to visit hand-painted tile factories, ancient temples and traditional food co-ops. Walk or cycle in the peaceful early morning to truly absorb the slow-living charm of rural Tamil Nadu. Overnight stay in Chettinad.

  • Day 7 : Chettinad - Dindigul

    Drive to Dindigul, and continue toward the Western Ghats to reach Cardamom House, nestled in a serene valley. This eco-stay, run by a retired English physician and local staff, offers tranquility, hospitality, and stunning hill views. Overnight at stay at Cardamom House.

  • Day 8 : Cardamom House

    Day 8 is very special because you can have another relaxing day at Cardamom House. Because whenever guests stay here, they often find that after two days they never want to leave. Overnight stay at Cardamom House.

  • Day 9 : Dindigul- Madurai- Bangalore

    Drive to Madurai for your flight to Bangalore. On arrival, meet your next driver and proceed to Mysore. Overnight stay in Mysore.

  • Day 10 : Bangalore - Mysore

    Mysore, one of South India's most historic cities, boasts vibrant markets and palatial architecture. If your trip coincides with the Dasara Festival (September/October), you may witness a spectacular elephant parade through the city. Overnight in Mysore.

  • Day 11 : Mysore- Kabini

    Drive into the hills to reach Kabini, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the largest protected forest region in South India, spanning Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. Embark on your first wildlife safari this afternoon. Overnight in Kabini/Nagarhole.

  • Day 12 : Kabini

    Enjoy morning and afternoon safaris in Nagarhole National Park, known for high chances of elephant sightings, as well as leopards, sloth bears, and elusive tigers. Overnight in Kabini/Nagarhole.

  • Day 13 : Kabini- Bandipur

    After a dawn safari, drive to Bandipur National Park, another key reserve within the Nilgiri Biosphere. Unlike the dense forests of Nagarhole, Bandipur features open grasslands, ideal for spotting wildlife. Enjoy a late afternoon safari. Overnight in Bandipur.

  • Day 14 : Bandipur

    Start your day with an early jeep safari through Bandipur's varied landscapes. The park is home to Indian bison (gaur), leopards, deer, sloth bears, and large herds of elephants. Spend your free time relaxing at your forest lodge or tented camp. Enjoy a second safari in the evening. Overnight in Bandipur.

  • Day 15 : Bandipur- Kannur Coast

    On day 15 after a final safari at dawn, drive 4 hours to the Sapphire Coast near Kannur - lesser-known yet breathtaking stretch of coastline along the northern Malabar region of Kerala beaches near Kannur popular for being pristine, azure waters and unspoiled. Relax on the beach as your South Indian journey begins to wrap up. Overnight near Kannur.

  • Day 16 : Kannur Coast

    On day 16 after your breakfast, you can either decide to full day to relax or explore. Visit historic Kannur, or witness the dramatic Theyyam ritual dance, unique to this region of Kerala's Malabar Coast. Overnight stay near Kannur.

  • Day 17 : Kannur Coast

    On day 17, spend excess time unwinding or exploring the coastal life. You can have enjoy a laid-back beach time or indulge in cultural adventures, it's all based on your interest. Overnight stay near Kannur.

  • Day 18 : Kannur Coast- Kannur- Depart

    On this last day, head to Kannur international airport for your onward journey with a heart full of wonderful memories winding up your immersive cultural and wildlife tour.

FAQ

A South India wildlife tour typically includes visits to renowned national parks like Kabini, Bandipur, and Periyar, where you can experience diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and leopards. The tour also explores protected habitats, nature reserves, and safaris for close encounters with the region’s flora and fauna.

Elephant safaris in India are popular in places like Kabini, Bandipur, Bandhavgarh National Park, Kaziranga National Park, Jim Corbett National Park, Mudumalai National Park, and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can enjoy a thrilling ride through the forest and spot wild elephants along with other wildlife species.

In Tamil Nadu, sacred elephants are part of many temples, including those in Madurai, Chidambaram, and Varadharaja Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram. These temples often feature elephants in religious ceremonies and rituals, offering a spiritual connection to the local culture.

Elephants in South India are considered sacred due to their association with various Hindu deities, most notably Lord Ganesha. Many temples house elephants that participate in religious ceremonies, festivals, and processions. Their cultural significance is deeply embedded in local traditions, leading to their revered status.

Kabini and Bandipur are prime safari destinations within the Nilgiri Biosphere. These parks are known for their high elephant sightings and are home to tigers, leopards, and other wildlife. Safaris here offer incredible chances for wildlife photography and immersion in natural habitats.

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