The Malabar Coast has long been a crossroads of global cultures, its lush landscapes enriched by the spice trade that drew merchants from across the world. This evocative tour traces the botanically rich regions of Malabar, inspired by Hortus Malabaricus, the monumental 17th‑century compendium that documented the flora of the Western Ghats. Created over nearly three decades and published in Amsterdam between 1678 and 1693, Hortus Malabaricus introduced indigenous plant knowledge to an international audience. Its significance was revived through the dedicated translations of botanist K. S. Manilal, who rendered the Latin text into English and Malayalam. Each day of the tour reflects a botanical theme, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the region’s plant heritage.

The journey begins in Bangalore, the traditional Garden City, where travellers explore the healing principles of Ayurveda in a specialist garden. The tour then moves to Mysore, renowned for its palaces as well as its silk, sandalwood and spice industries. Here, you'll tour a palace, observe sandalwood production, enjoy high tea in a heritage venue and witness traditional Ayurvedic hand‑rolling techniques in a family-run enterprise.

From Mysore, the route climbs into the Blue Mountains to the hill station of Ooty, where tea plantations, a historic cinchona factory and celebrated botanical gardens reveal the area’s colonial and agricultural past. You'll then cross the Cardamom Hills to reach Madurai, famous for its vibrant temple and the indigenous plants of the surrounding highlands.

The experience continues through the highlands of Periyar, where sweeping views of tea, coffee, rubber, pineapple and spice plantations accompany the journey. A visit to the spice smallholding of Mr and Mrs Abraham provides an intimate glimpse into local agricultural life. Returning to the coast, guests board a converted rice barge to meander along Kerala’s tranquil backwaters before concluding in historic Kochi, birthplace of Hortus Malabaricus.

There is also an option to extend the stay with a relaxing three‑night visit to Kumarakom in the backwaters.

HIGHLIGHTS

• A botanical‑themed journey inspired by the historic Hortus Malabaricus and its revival by K. S. Manilal.
• Visits to culturally rich destinations, Bangalore, Mysore, Ooty, Madurai, Periyar and Kochi, each showcasing unique plant‑based traditions.
• Immersive experiences with local producers, including spice smallholders, tea and sandalwood industries, and Ayurvedic artisans.

ITINERARY

The full itinerary can be found on the Jon Baines website.

Malabar Coast tour