1 independent reviews for India small group vacation, South India
Reviews for India small group vacation, South India
Hilary Glegg review 21 Feb 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Our evening visit to the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai. We were not allowed to take phones inside, so no photos; all the senses were concentrated on waiting for the return of Shiva to his night dwelling inside the temple. It began with the temple drummers, then a magnificantley decorated elephant and then Shiva being carried in on his palaquin,sparkling and noble. The crowd rose up with hands above their heads in Namaste, silence except for the drumming. Fantastic!! Thanks to our amazing guide Lakshmi.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Go with the flow! Enjoy the food, the temples, the sometimes long journeys, the culture and colour and noise! Pack lightly, but sensibly,clothes that cover your legs and arms to the elbow.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I think so; we used local companies, ate locally, refilled our water bottles in the mini bus, visited arts and crafts schools and venues, and the amazing Hortus Malabaricus gardens and the wild life reserve in Karnataka run by the government.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
I had a great time. Thoroughly enjoyed it all. There was very little physical exercise, or walking, which made some days difficult, but you need stamina, as the temple days are long. The hotels were good, organisation excellent with a top notch driver and an excellent guide. So much to see, so much to learn, so much to enjoy.Holiday Reviews
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