SOUTH IndiaSOUTHERN INDIA
KERALA10.1632° N, 76.6413° E[ OVERVIEW ]South India is a rich tapestry of ancient temple architecture, lush landscapes, and deeply rooted traditions. Across Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, travellers encounter mist-covered hills, tranquil backwaters, palm-fringed coastlines, and a vibrant cultural heritage expressed through classical dance, music, and cuisine.
The region is equally celebrated for its wildlife, with dense forests that shelter tigers, elephants, leopards, and extraordinary birdlife—creating journeys that seamlessly blend culture, nature, and adventure.
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Kerala
Journey through tropical Kerala at a relaxed pace, discovering rolling tea and spice plantations, emerald-green rice fields, verdant hills, and palm-fringed beaches. The historic port city of Kochi and the region’s serene backwaters—a captivating network of canals, lagoons, and waterways—create a timeless atmosphere that is both tranquil and evocative.
Accommodation is provided in carefully selected boutique properties, chosen for their distinctive character, warm hospitality, and personalised service. From heritage residences to intimate homestays, including Malabar House and selected retreats from CGH Earth, each stay has been chosen to enhance the journey with a strong sense of place, authenticity, and local charm. Together, these unique accommodations offer an immersive experience that reflects the culture, history, and natural beauty of Kerala.
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Lying at the southern tip of the Indian peninsula, South India is home to one of the world’s oldest living classical civilisations, celebrated for its natural beauty, cultural richness, and architectural splendour. The region is renowned for its magnificent Hindu temples built in the Dravidian style, tranquil hill stations, palm-fringed coastlines, and vibrant pilgrimage traditions that reflect the diverse spiritual heritage of India.
South India is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Great Living Chola Temples in Thanjavur, the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, and the historic Nilgiri Mountain Railway, each offering a remarkable insight into the region’s artistic, architectural, and engineering achievements.
Ibex Expeditions curates thoughtfully designed journeys through this extraordinary region, combining cultural discovery, wildlife encounters, and scenic landscapes. Carefully selected characterful and environmentally responsible retreats enhance the experience, allowing travellers to connect more deeply with the destinations they visit while enjoying comfort, authenticity, and a strong sense of place.
Tamil Nadu
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Karnataka
Karnataka offers a captivating blend of ancient heritage, scenic hill landscapes, and pristine wilderness. Renowned for its magnificent architecture, vibrant cultural traditions, and distinctive cuisine, the state is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Its lush forests support an impressive diversity of species, including tigers, elephants, leopards, and a rich variety of birdlife, creating a destination where history, nature, and adventure coexist harmoniously.
Nagarhole National Park, located approximately 94 km from Mysuru, was once the exclusive hunting reserve of the rulers of the former Kingdom of Mysore. Covering around 575 square kilometres, the park encompasses dense forests, rolling valleys, winding streams, and picturesque waterfalls, and forms an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
The park is renowned for its thriving populations of tigers, Asian elephants, and Indian gaur (bison), along with numerous other mammals, reptiles, and bird species. Visitors can also enjoy distinctive experiences such as coracle rides on the Kabini River. These traditional, saucer-shaped boats offer a unique and tranquil way to explore the waterways while observing wildlife along the riverbanks, making for an unforgettable safari experience.
