South India Circuit*
Temples. Plantations. Golden Sands.
Easy-Moderate
Three states, three distinct rhythms. This journey takes you from the stone-carved legacies of Hassan, to the lush coffee hills of Coorg, and ends with the golden stillness of Neeleshwar’s coast. A slow-travel arc across South India where every stop offers a change in landscape, pace, and energy.
One road. Many moments. Here’s how.
Day 1 – Land in Bangalore
Arrive at Kempegowda International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Ease into your South India journey with a restful night at a luxury hotel near the airport. This is your chance to recalibrate and get ready for the road trip ahead.
Days 2–4 – Heritage in Hassan
Drive down to Hassan (4–5 hrs), Karnataka’s hidden gem of temple architecture and dynastic glory. Over the next two days, explore the intricate Hoysala temples of Belur and Halebeedu, the awe-inspiring monolithic Gomateshwara statue at Shravanabelagola, and the quiet, semi-submerged Shettihalli Church. At the village resort, opt for bullock cart rides, yoga sessions, or traditional Ayurvedic massages between explorations.
Days 5–7 – Hills of Coorg
Your next chapter unfolds in Coorg (3.5–4 hrs), a hill district wrapped in mist, plantations, and pepper vines. Stay in a nature resort tucked among the coffee estates. Walk forest trails, breathe in cardamom-scented air, visit the Bylakuppe Buddhist Monastery, and head out to the Dubare Elephant Camp for a half-day of gentle wildlife interaction. Evenings are slow, scenic, and soaked in silence.
Days 8–11 – Barefoot at Neeleshwar
From the hills to the sea (3–4 hrs by road). Arrive at Neeleshwar, Kerala’s best-kept coastal secret. Think clean beaches, sunrise yoga, Ayurvedic massages, and houseboat lunch cruises. Explore backwaters, spot Theyyam performers (seasonal), or just stay horizontal on a sunbed with coconut in hand. It’s four days of simple pleasures done well.
Day 12 – Departure from Mangalore
After breakfast, transfer to Mangalore International Airport (2.5 hrs). Or extend your stay with add-ons to Bekal Fort, Kannur, or further inland into Wayanad’s rainforest region.
Gallery
Temple reliefs. Monks in maroon robes. Elephant trunks. Filter coffee. Houseboat silhouettes. Salt in your hair.
Breaking Down Each Location
Neeleshwar
About the Location
On Kerala’s less touristy Malabar coast, Neeleshwar is where locals go to retreat. With golden beaches, peaceful backwaters, and sleepy coastal villages, it offers slow, sensory travel. Add yoga, ayurveda, and the dramatic dance of Theyyam, and you’ve got a soul-soothing finale.
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