India Vegan Tour
13 Day Vegan Tour in South India
Join us on a thrilling vegan adventure through the heart of South India, a land of ancient ruins, dazzling temples, towering gopurams, majestic monuments, sacred saints, palatial palaces, emerald paddies, misty peaks, and thriving plantations—wrapped in the charm of lively villages and bustling bazaars!
What's included?
Vegan Meals
35 Vegan meals
(12 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 11 Dinners)
Accommodation
12 Nights Accommodations
(a combination of boutique bed & breakfast, historical heritage inns, old colonial-era villas, palatial mansions, a charming plantation bungalow, and a jungle lodge)
Tour Transport
- Private Air-Conditioned Mini Bus
- Jeeps
- Autor Rickshaws
- Domestic flight from Coimbatore back to Chennai (on last day of tour)
Also Included
- Daily Local Cultural Lessons and Introductions to South India’s different ethnic groups
- Daily Local Language Lessons
- Live Traditional Music and Folk Dances
- Vegan Cooking Class (traditional South Indian banana leaf meal)
- Vegan Cooking Class (South India snacks class)
- Bharatanatyam Classical Dance Workshop
- Joining with Local Grassroots Village Street Theater Program
- Vegan Meals with Local Families
- Fruit Tasting Sessions
- Local Veggie and Spice Market Exploration
- Vegan Meet-up Dinner with Local Vegans (in Chennai)
- All Local Guides Fees
- All Site Entry Fees
- Hike & Learn about life in the Countryside of the Chettinad Heartland
- Hike & Learn About Life in the Tea Plantations of the Hill Country of Coonoor
- Guests of Local Grassroot Educational Programs and Projects
- Guests of Local Village and Communities
- Yoga Lessons
- Heritage Walk in old Pondicherry
- Guests of a Local Animal Rescue
Even More Included
- Participate in Traditional Hindu Ceremonies as Guests of Local Temple
- Explore the Ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site of Brihadeeswarar Temple
- Explore the Ancient Living Nataraja Temple of Chidambaram
- Jungle Jeep Safari into National Park
- Bicycle Through Well Off-the-beaten-path Villages and Paddy Fields of South India
- Explore the Wilds and Forests of the Protected Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve
- Visit Local Temples & Temple-Architecture Lessons
- Introduction to Hinduism in South India
- Introduction to Hindu Ceremonies and Rituals
- Guests of Local Hill Tribe Communities in the Nilgiri Mountains
- National Park Fees
- Donation to Local Community and Woman Welfare Programs
- Donation to Animal Welfare & Rescue Program
- Donation to Youth Education Program
- Complimentary Refill Water Bottle and Unlimited Drinking Water
- Complimentary Juices, Hard Drinks, and Beers on “Dinner & Drinks” nights
- Vegan Welcome Package (filled with lots of local snacks) and Tote Bag
- Community Carbon Offsets to Offset 100% Group’s Carbon Emissions from Flights
- Airport Arrival Pick Up *
- … and all other activities and entertainment as per the itinerary
* Airport pick-up is provided only if you arrive a day or two earlier than the tour date and book the extra night with us. If you will be arriving three days or more early, please arrange for your own airport pickup. Thank you.
What’s NOT included?
International airfare, personal travel insurance, visa fee to India, gratuities/tips, airport departure transfer (if not departing on last day of tour), laundry, and other items of personal nature.
Tour Dates & Pricing
India – 13 Days South India Vegan Tour 2027 (January)
$3,795 (USD)
- 14 Guests
- Starts on January 31, 2027 (Sunday)
- Begins at 8:00 am
- Finishes on February 12, 2027 (Friday)
- Ends at 7:00 pm
- Starts from Chennai
- Finishes in Chennai
All Vegan Travel Asia by VegVoyages Adventures runs on a twin share basis. If you are a single traveler, we will pair you up with another single traveler of the same gender. If you would like to have your own room throughout the trip, upon making a booking, please select “yes” for Single Supplement, and the cost shown below will be added to your total adventure cost.
$675 for 13 days: South India Vegan Adventure
Nestled between the majestic Western and Eastern Ghats, South India is one of India’s hidden gems. Far less visited than the North or Goa’s beaches, it offers rich culture, ancient architecture, vibrant temple towns, stunning landscapes, and some of the best vegan food in India. From paddy fields and traditional villages to misty mountains, wild jungles, and bustling cities where modern skyscrapers rise beside centuries-old monuments, South India is a living mosaic of civilizations.
This journey is all about discovering the history, heritage, traditions, and cuisine of South India through cultural immersion. Meet local families in their countryside homes, explore intricately carved and colorfully painted temples, and follow in the footsteps of the mighty Chola, Pallava, and Pandya dynasties to uncover the region’s extraordinary treasures.
Food is at the heart of this adventure. South India is famous for vegan cuisine, from the iconic dosa to the traditional banana leaf meal—a generous spread of rice, vegetables, dhal, rasam, papad, and pickles served on a fresh banana leaf.
On our Vegan Travel Asia by VegVoyages South India tour, explore the cultural heart of the South in Tamil Nadu and the charming French enclave of Pondicherry, experiencing local traditions, vibrant villages, and unforgettable vegan food along the way.
Itinerary
Get day to day insight of the tour.
DAY 1: Welcome to Chennai – The Heart of Tamil Nadu
Vanakkam! Welcome to Chennai, the colorful gateway to your South India Vegan Tour. Once just a handful of sleepy fishing villages along the Coromandel Coast, Chennai has grown into a vibrant metropolis where ancient temples, colonial architecture, and modern skyscrapers coexist in a fascinating mix.
The city’s history stretches back over two millennia, with the Portuguese, Dutch, and British leaving their marks along the way. Stroll the streets and you’ll feel the echoes of the past—from the place where St. Thomas, one of Jesus’s disciples, is said to have preached, to the colonial-era buildings that whisper stories of trade and empire.
But Chennai isn’t just about history. It’s a city that celebrates culture and tradition in every corner. Men still wear the flowing lungi, women gracefully drape the sari, and religion continues to shape daily life for Hindus, Muslims, and Christians alike. As Tamil Nadu’s economic and cultural hub, Chennai is also the birthplace of the influential Dravidian movement, giving visitors a glimpse into the politics and passions that shaped the region.
After our orientation meeting, we’ll hit the streets to soak in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the city. From bustling markets to serene temples, Chennai offers a first taste of South India’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and welcoming spirit—an unforgettable start to your vegan journey!
Highlights of the Day:
- Detailed Orientation Meeting where you will get to know your fellow travelers and adventure leaders better as we discuss the adventure ahead and have our Introduction to South India’s History, Cultures, and Diversity Presentation.
- Traditional Tamil Lunch (specially veganized just for us).
- Explore a couple of Chennai’s more off-the-beaten-path landmarks that are pivotal reflections in the region’s history.
- Meet up with local vegans for a delicious vegan dinner of the fusion classics of Chennai – all specially veganized just for us.
Vegan Meals Included Today: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
This most memorable trip filled with delightful discoveries, enhanced (in no small measure) by VegVoyages’ attention to detail and commitment to immersing us in the diverse culture, language, and cuisines that is South India. We may have begun the trip as tourists, but gradually found our way as travelers.
DAY 2: Scenic East Coast, Mahabalipuram & Pondicherry
After the vibrant energy of Chennai, we hit the road along the scenic Coromandel Coast, named after Cholamandalam, the ancient realm of the mighty Chola dynasty. As we leave the city behind, South India unfolds in all its timeless charm—quiet villages, swaying palm trees, sparkling salt pans, and serene backwaters stretching along the coast.
Our first stop is Mahabalipuram, where the coastline is dotted with magnificent stone monuments and intricately carved temples that have stood for over a thousand years. Walking among these ancient sculptures, it’s easy to imagine the skill and devotion that went into creating them—a true feast for the eyes and the imagination.
Next, we continue to the enchanting French enclave of Pondicherry (Puducherry). Locals call it “Pondi,” a town that feels like a step back in time with its colonial-era architecture, charming cafés, quiet canals, and colorful promenades. Wandering the winding streets, you get a sense of the town’s unique blend of South Indian culture and French elegance.
But today isn’t just about sightseeing—we dive into Bharatanatyam, one of India’s oldest classical dance forms, which originated over a millennium ago in Tamil Nadu. Born from the temple-dancing Devadasis, this hypnotic art form shaped classical dance across South and Southeast Asia. In our hands-on workshop, we’ll explore its movements, rhythms, and stories, connecting deeply with South India’s rich cultural heritage.
We end the day with a home-cooked vegan dinner, savoring the flavors of authentic South Indian cuisine, and reflecting on the history, artistry, and vibrant culture we’ve experienced along the way.
Highlights of the Day:
- Vegan breakfast feast of traditional Chennai dishes.
- Visit the magnificent monuments of Mahabalipuram, or Mamallapuram, with its history dating back almost two thousand years. Many of the well-preserved ruins and relics today date back to the 7th to 9th centuries AD, when this coastal city was a wealthy trading post for the Pallava Dynasty.
- Heritage walk of old Pondy along the shores of the Bay of Bengal. We’ll step back to a bygone era, making our way through the colonial-era side streets and back alleys of old Pondy, learning about its history and rich cultural heritage.
- Join an expert who will teach us about South India’s extraordinary classical dance art, which gave birth to many of South Asia and South East Asia’s classical dance forms. Bharatanatyam, as this classical dance form is now called, originated in Tamil Nadu well over a millennium ago.
- Enjoy a delicious traditional home-cooked vegan dinner.
Vegan Meals Included Today: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
VegVoyages is the absolute best. I am overwhelmed by the amazing memories and stories shared. While it’s a “tour” – it’s not a typical “tour” in any other way. Truly the most unique and amazing experience that is a credit to the amazing hosts, and you feel more like a much-loved and much-welcomed guest than you do a tourist.
DAY 3: Pondicherry Markets, South Indian Cooking & Village Street Theater
Pondicherry’s charm isn’t just French—it’s a melting pot of cultures, shaped over centuries by locals, Indian settlers, and communities from across the globe. Today, we dive into the heart of this unique town, starting our morning with yoga and a wholesome breakfast to energize for the day ahead.
Next, we head to the vibrant local markets, where colors, aromas, and bustling energy surround us. Here, we begin our cultural culinary adventure, learning to cook a full-course authentic South Indian vegan meal. From picking fresh ingredients to mastering traditional cooking techniques, this hands-on experience is both fun and delicious.
After lunch, we return to our villas for some relaxation and free time, recharging for an unforgettable evening. As the sun sets, we venture off-the-beaten-track into the countryside to witness the fascinating yet endangered art of South Indian village street theater. Guided by our friend Srini and his troupe, we experience this centuries-old tradition—part storytelling, part community ritual—that’s rarely seen by outsiders.
As the moon rises over the countryside, we join Srini, his family, and the troupe for a traditional home-cooked vegan dinner, celebrating the flavors, stories, and cultural heritage of rural South India.
Highlights of the Day:
- Traditional Yoga Lesson – learning and practicing yoga in its birthplace, India
- Explore the local fruit, veggies, and spices market and learn about the different ingredients commonly used in South Indian dishes.
- South Indian dishes cooking class where we’ll learn to make a delicious vegan banana leaf meal.
- Join a grassroots street theater troupe and witness firsthand the great work they do in getting the word out on important social and health issues to rural villages in South India through the, unfortunately, fading art of village street theater.
- Guests of our friends at their home for a traditional South Indian vegan dinner.
Vegan Meals Included Today: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
DAY 4: Yoga, Vegan Community Visit & Pondicherry Exploration
We begin the day with a refreshing yoga session, preparing body and mind for another day of cultural immersion. Today, we’ll be guests of a nearby vegan community, located just outside the city, that has established a remarkable environmental rehabilitation and eco-solutions project. Here, we’ll learn about their sustainable initiatives, lend a hand in their work, and enjoy a delicious vegan lunch in the forest, surrounded by nature and the soothing sounds of the South Indian countryside.
Returning to Pondicherry in the afternoon, the rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Wander through the quaint streets, browse local shops for souvenirs, or unwind in one of the town’s charming cafés, soaking in the peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere.
Savor every moment of Pondicherry today—tomorrow, we leave the town behind to explore the picturesque countryside villages of South India, diving deeper into rural life, culture, and culinary traditions over the next four days.
Highlights of the Day:
- Traditional Yoga Lesson – learning and practicing yoga in its birthplace, India.
- Guests of a forest rehabilitation center and vegan community eco-solutions project.
- Join members of the conservation program for a picnic vegan lunch in the restored forest.
Vegan Meals Included Today: Breakfast, and Lunch.
DAY 5: Rural Villages, Dravidian Temples & Traditional South Indian Life
Today, we leave the historic charm of Pondicherry behind and journey deep into the rural heart of South India, where paddy fields, farms, and ancient temples paint a picture of timeless Tamil Nadu. Traveling off-the-beaten-track along the Coromandel Coast, our first stop is an ancient Dravidian temple, where we’ll explore its stunning architectural features—the soaring gopurams, intricately carved pillars, majestic mandapams, and serene temple tanks.
Continuing further south and then inland, we arrive at our home for the next two days: a beautifully renovated landlord’s bungalow surrounded by the rhythm of village life. Here, we’ll immerse ourselves in local customs, culture, and cuisine, gaining an intimate understanding of everyday life in rural South India.
Our afternoon highlights include a traditional banana leaf lunch, where we’ll learn about the rituals and techniques behind this classic South Indian meal. As the sun dips below the horizon, we’ll unwind with refreshing drinks and enjoy a delicious dinner under the stars, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the countryside.
Highlights of the Day:
- Traditional Yoga Lesson – learning and practicing yoga in its birthplace, India.
- Introduction program to the Hindu temples in South India. Learn about their unique design which is quite distinct from the Hindu temples of the North. Heavily set in symbolism, elaborate carvings, massive walls, temple tanks, and often colorful highlights seen in their stunning and epic gopurams (pyramid-like structures over temple main gates), and interior designs. South Indian temples are truly remarkable in both their history and their conception.
- Cultural Culinary Experience – Introduction to Eating Etiquette of South India where we’ll learn how to properly eat a banana leaf meal following local eating customs and etiquette.
- Dhotis & Dosas – learn about the unique dhoti attire and culture of Tamil Nadu including how to properly wear and tie it; and part 1 of the 2 part dosa-making lesson.
- Join our friend as we explore the local village streets and are introduced to the different communities that have called this area their home for generations. Different architectural styles and home designs, different shrines and places of worship – the village is not only home to one or two faiths, but three religions, Hindu, Muslim, and Christian.
- Guests of a local community temple for their closing evening aarti (Hindu) ceremony.
Vegan Meals Included Today: Breakfast, Lunch, and “Dinner &Drinks”.
DAY 6: Cycling Through the Countryside & Culinary Adventures in Rural Tamil Nadu
Kaalai Vanakkam! (Good morning in Tamil) After a traditional South Indian breakfast overlooking the village and lush farms, we set out on “traditional” bicycles to explore the serene countryside of rural Tamil Nadu. Pedaling past emerald rice paddies, quaint potter’s villages, local farms, and Ayyanar deity temples unique to Tamil culture, we immerse ourselves in the daily rhythms and traditions of village life.
By early afternoon, we pause our ride to enjoy a homemade lunch with a local family, savoring fresh, seasonal delicacies and learning the stories behind their cuisine. Returning to our bungalow, the culinary adventure continues with a hands-on cooking session, where we master South India’s staple rice-based dishes—from crispy dosa to fluffy idly and savory uttapam.
As the sun dips over the paddies, we visit one of the region’s most sacred temples to witness an auspicious aarti, experiencing the devotion and ritual firsthand. The day concludes back in the village with a colorful evening of Tamil folk music and dance, accompanied by refreshing drinks and a delicious dinner under the stars, celebrating the flavors, culture, and traditions of rural South India.
Highlights of the Day:
- Biking into the surrounding countryside villages, paddy fields, and farms. (If not comfortable with bikes, we have an open vehicle).
- Guests of a local family for a home-cooked lunch at their home.
- Cultural Culinary Experience – part 2 of our Idly, Dosa & Uttapam Cooking Class.
- Visit Chidambaram’s sacred centuries-old Nataraja Temple.
Vegan Meals Included Today: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner & Drinks.
DAY 7: Journey to Chettinad – Palaces, Temples & Culinary Heritage
We start the day early, leaving the plains and farmlands behind as we travel inland through Tamil Nadu to the legendary region of Chettinad, home of the prosperous Chettiar merchant community. Renowned for their wealth, business acumen, and influence across South and Southeast Asia, the Chettiars played a vital role in trade, finance, and cultural exchange from the Chola Empire to British colonial times.
Chettinad’s rich heritage is reflected in its ornate temples and palatial mansions, featuring grand halls, pillared courtyards, sweeping verandahs, and intricate tile work. As we approach our village home for the next two days, these stunning mansions appear like jewels among the countryside, offering a glimpse into the region’s opulent past.
Along the way, we’ll visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Brihadeeswarar Temple in Tanjore, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture, marveling at its towering gopurams, intricate carvings, and sacred atmosphere.
In the evening, we’ll settle in and dive into Chettinad’s legendary cuisine—rich, flavorful, and slightly spicy—enjoying a traditional vegan introduction to the region’s culinary delights while reflecting on the day’s cultural and historical discoveries!
Highlights of the Day:
- Traditional Tamil breakfast feast specially veganized for us.
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Brihadeeswarar Temple and learn about the rich history of this larger-than-life temple and the kingdom that built it.
- 2 days staying in luxury rooms at delightfully restored over the century-old Chettinad Mansion that rings of a bygone era.
- Explore the grand halls, courtyards, and secret passages of this lovely historical mansion, learning about the rich culture, history, and home planning of the Chettiars.
- Cultural Culinary Experience – a traditional Chettinad Dinner made especially vegan for us.
Vegan Meals Included Today: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner & Drinks.
I went on Vegan Travel Asia - VegVoyages’ South India tour and have been recommending the trip to friends – vegan, vegetarian, and omnivore alike – since my return. Expertly curated and led by company co-founder Zac Lovas, the trip felt like a colorful two-week-long immersive documentary, with a cast of characters and experiences woven together into a compelling and tasty story of life in the region. Zac’s local knowledge and relationships make the experience much richer than it already appears in the online description, and his quiet passion, unfailing positivity, humility, and attention to detail make him an ideal travel companion and host. The highlights of the trip were, without doubt, the opportunities to meet real people – a friend of Zac’s who runs a traditional dance school for village girls as well as a street theatre troupe that we were able to join for a performance, a hotel manager who led our group on a bicycle ride through rice fields to lunch at his parents’ home in a nearby village, a tour guide at one of the most important temples who was the expert one might seek to interview if producing a documentary about the site, and many others. This is a trip for those who want to learn about life, culture, food, politics, and more — and one I believe would be a rewarding experience for anyone with an open mind and open heart, regardless of age, background, or previous travel experience. Those who, like me, feel a strong aversion to bus-tour-style organized group travel and would rather chart their own course will likely find that this trip combines the best of both worlds – the kinds of places and experiences you would miss out on with a “normal” group tour, but organized with a rhythm and efficiency that would be quite difficult on one’s own – not to mention the opportunity to sample a much wider assortment of delicious local cuisine than if traveling solo!
DAY 8: Chettinad Culinary Delights & Off-the-Beaten-Track Exploration
We begin the day with the aroma of freshly made South Indian breakfast treats—appam, idiyappam, and paniyaram. During our morning cooking demonstration, we’ll learn the techniques behind these beloved dishes—and, of course, taste them fresh from the pan!
After breakfast, we set out into the Chettinad countryside for a day of off-the-beaten-track exploration. Hiking through picturesque villages, ancient ruins, lush forest, and farm fields, we discover a fascinating Jain cave, a formidable fort, and centuries-old temples, immersing ourselves in the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Midday brings a picnic lunch just outside a small village, surrounded by historic ruins and timeless landscapes, a perfect moment to soak in the atmosphere of rural South India.
Returning in the late afternoon, there’s time to relax and refresh—perhaps with a swim in the pool—before gathering for a delicious dinner of Chettinad specialties, rich in flavor and a touch of spice, completing another unforgettable day in this culturally and historically vibrant region!
Highlights of the Day:
- Learn to make South India breakfast treats (appam, idiyappam, and paniyaram).
- Visit Thirumayam Fort whose history dates back to the late 1600s.
- Hike to Vijayalaya Choleswaram Temple, and enjoy great views of the surrounding countryside.
- Delicious Chettinad style picnic lunch at the ancient ruins of the Kadambanayanar Temple.
- Visit the 2nd-century Jain monastery and temple cave os Sittanavasal (“abode of the great saints”, or sittannavayil).
- Special vegan Chettinad dinner and drinks in one of the grand halls of the mansion.
Vegan Meals Included Today: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, and Dinner &Drinks.
Thank you for coordinating the most amazing journey for us! You’ve made this such a memorable trip. Thank you for puTng as much heart, soul and thoughts into this adventure. It definitely created a love and curiosity of Indian culture for us.
DAY 9: Journey to the Nilgiri Hills & Coonoor Exploration
Today, our adventure takes us up into the breathtaking Nilgiri Hills, part of the Western Ghats, where the terrain changes dramatically and the cool mountain air greets us. Known as the “Blue Mountains”—from the Tamil words Neelam (blue) and Giri (mountain)—the Nilgiri earned its name either from the delicate blue flowers dotting its slopes or the mystical blue mist that hovers over its peaks and valleys.
As we ascend, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife—from playful monkeys to grazing deer and elusive bison. The Nilgiri’s forested hills, tea plantations, and indigenous tribal villages offer a glimpse into a rich and diverse ecosystem, home to hundreds of bird, mammal, amphibian, reptile, and fish species.
Arriving in Coonoor, we check into a charming 19th-century bungalow, complete with high ceilings, wood floors, and a cozy fireplace, perfect for the cool mountain climate. After settling in, we gather around the fireplace with a local friend for fresh hot tea and toddies, getting an introduction to Coonoor’s history and the indigenous tribes that have called the Nilgiri home for centuries.
Highlights of the Day:
- Scenic road trip as we journey up into the Nilgiri, one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world!
- Stay at a charming 19th-century Scottish-style bungalow.
- Introduction to the Nilgiri, and the different ethnic communities that have called the Blue MOuntains their home for centuries.
- Put together supplies for a special education program in the community.
- Special candlelight dinner, in the theme of Connoor’s history, we’ll enjoy a fusion of South Indian and European-influenced dishes.
Vegan Meals Included Today: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner & Drinks.
DAY 10: Hiking the Nilgiri Hills & Cultural Immersion in Coonoor
With the cool mountain breezes sweeping past our tree-lined bungalow, we start the day with a hearty breakfast before meeting a longtime local resident who will introduce us to the people, culture, traditions, and way of life of the Nilgiri Hills.
Afterward, we set out on foot into the hills, valleys, and ravines of Coonoor’s stunning countryside. Our hike offers a deep dive into the lives of the tea plantation workers and local farmers, with opportunities to observe their daily routines amidst the lush, rolling hills. Keep an eye out for the Nilgiri’s famous wild bison, who roam freely among the tea-covered slopes, adding an adventurous twist to our trek.
Along the way, we’ll visit a local community education program, delivering supplies we’ve gathered and participating in fun, meaningful activities with the students and teachers—a true connection to the heart of Nilgiri life.
As the sun sets over the misty mountain peaks, we return to our bungalow to gather around the fire for a flavorful dinner of local fusion dishes, celebrating the day’s adventure, community encounters, and the serene beauty of the Nilgiris!
Highlights of the Day:
- Hike into the hillside plantations, forests, and village with our friend who will introduce us to life in the Nilgiri from a local’s point of view.
- Guests of a local community education program where we’ll participate in their activities.
- Join a local family at their home in the tea plantation housing projects for a special vegan lunch specially prepared for us.
- Guests of a local tribal village and join them in a tree-planting project.
- Special candlelight dinner. Enjoy local drinks, snacks, and a delicious dinner of traditional delicacies, including a vegan BBQ – Coonoor style.
Vegan Meals Included Today: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner & Drinks.
DAY 11: Exploring the Nilgiri Tribes & Journey to Mudumalai National Park
After a fusion breakfast of local vegan favorites, we set out by van and on foot into the Blue Mountains, immersing ourselves in the lives of the indigenous people who settled the Nilgiri long before the British arrived. The tribes here, including the Toda, have called these mountains home for thousands of years, with traditions and stories passed down through countless generations. Around 28% of the Nilgiri population belongs to Scheduled Castes or Scheduled Tribes, offering a unique glimpse into the rich cultural fabric of the region.
Later, we bid farewell to the misty Nilgiri peaks and meet our jeeps to descend into the plains and wilds of Mudumalai, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. This protected area, encompassing over 321 square kilometers, is home to dense forests, rolling grasslands, and an incredible diversity of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and countless bird species.
In the late afternoon, we arrive at our forest bungalow, our home for the next two days, located on the edge of Mudumalai National Park. Surrounded by jungle sounds and the vibrant wilderness, this marks the start of an unforgettable eco-adventure deep in South India’s tropical forests!
Highlights of the Day:
- Scenic drives into the rolling hills and mountain peaks of the Nilgiri.
- Guests of a small Toda village and learn about their unique way of life, traditions, and customs.
- Traditional local lunch at the Toda village, all veganized especially for us.
- Traditional Toda folk dances.
- Jeep Safari into the plains and the wilds of Mudumalai National Park.
- Catch the sunset over the forest from the “hide” (viewpoint) and hear the chores of creatures that come to life at night.
- Campfire discussion and introduction to the national park complete with drinks and local snacks, followed by a vegan feast for dinner.
Vegan Meals Included Today: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner & Drinks.
DAY 12: Safari Adventure & Wildlife Conservation in Mudumalai
Today, we explore the lush and diverse wilderness of Mudumalai National Park, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, where tropical deciduous forests, semi-evergreen forests, grasslands, and dry thorn forests create a haven for wildlife. This protected reserve, spanning three states, is home to over 55 species of mammals, including elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, bears, wild dogs, and blackbucks, as well as 227–320 bird species, amphibians, reptiles, and countless smaller creatures.
We set out on a safari through the national park and surrounding forests, spotting wildlife in their natural habitats while learning about the ecology and biodiversity of South India. Later, we visit an animal rescue sanctuary, gaining insight into their crucial work protecting wildlife and promoting animal welfare in the region.
As the day winds down, we reflect on 12 unforgettable days of adventure, from the Coromandel Coast and Pondicherry to rural villages, Chettinad, Chola temples, tribal settlements, and the Blue Mountains. As night falls, we gather around a campfire for our final evening together, enjoying refreshing drinks, snacks, and a delicious vegan feast, celebrating the culture, cuisine, and wildlife of South India one last time.
Highlights of the Day:
- Morning jeep safari on the back roads of Mudumalai National Park.
- Guests of important animal rescue, sanctuary, and animal welfare organization that is on the frontline of preventing cruelty towards animals – both domestic and wildlife, and are the main voice for animals in the area.
- Join a local naturalist and head out on jeeps into the wilds of Mudumalai and Bandipur National Park on safari – be on the lookout for elephants!
- Festive farewell dinner around the campfire under the shadow of the Blue Mountains on our last evening in South India together.
Vegan Meals Included Today: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner & Drinks.
DAY 13: Farewell to the Nilgiris & Scenic Journey back to Chennai
For early risers, start the day with a peaceful walk to the lookout near our bungalows, taking in the breathtaking Nilgiri mountain views one last time. After a hearty breakfast, we say goodbye to Masinagudi and embark on a scenic journey across the Nilgiri Hills, passing through protected forests, rolling tea plantations, and charming villages.
Along the way, we’ll stop for lunch at a local family’s home, enjoying a final taste of authentic South Indian vegan cuisine before heading to Coimbatore to catch our flight back to Chennai on the Bay of Bengal coast.
Our adventure concludes with arrival in Chennai around 7:00 pm, leaving you with memories of ancient temples, vibrant villages, lush plantations, tribal cultures, wildlife encounters, and unforgettable vegan culinary experiences. Mikka nandri! Thank you for traveling with Vegan Travel Asia by VegVoyages, and for joining us on this immersive journey through South India!
Highlights of the Day:
- Catch the sunrise over the forest for a few glimpses of the jungle’s wildlife.
- Guests of a local family at their home for a delicious home-cooked vegan lunch.
- Flight back to Chennai.
Vegan Meals Included Today: Breakfast and Lunch.
Thank you very much for the amazing holiday! The adventure was a wonderful experience and I am sure it will take me weeks and weeks to all sink in. I am so glad I have hundreds and hundreds of photos to edit and remind me of every second.