Monks – Mantras – Coastal Calm

A Soulful Passage through Southern India

Join Sue Barlow for an unforgettable journey through the soulful landscapes of Southern India—a place where ancient traditions, sacred rituals and natural beauty unite.

We fly into Bengaluru and commence our journey to the regal city of Mysore, known for silkworms and sandalwood, vibrant flower markets and the rich cultural heritage of its majestic palace. Here, we visit local markets and shop for fresh produce, immerse in an interactive culinary cooking demonstration and share in a joyful evening dining and dancing with a local family.

Our journey continues to the tranquil hills of Coorg, where we retreat to luxurious Pool Villas nestled among lush, coffee-scented forests. Here, we unwind with soul-soothing nature walks and forest bathing, gently reconnecting with the rhythms of the natural world.

For a rare opportunity for mindful presence, cultural connection and quiet transformation in the heart of Southern India’s sacred hills, next we visit Bylakuppe, home to one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India. Here, we experience an intimate visit immersed in the spiritual life of the monastic community—mingling with the monks, witnessing sacred rituals and experiencing the dynamic energy of a traditional Buddhist debate, where philosophy comes alive in spirited dialogue.

From the hills of Coorg, we journey west to Mangalore, a coastal city rich in spiritual heritage and renowned for its intricate bronze artistry. Explore ornate temples and local sights before boarding our train for a trip along India’s scenic coastline, witnessing the tapestry of local life as it unfolds outside your window, to the peaceful shores of Gokarna.

Our next 5-nights are spent at a serene eco-resort set amongst 26-acres on Om Beach with an immersive yoga, meditation and mindfulness retreat, curated and led by Sue; offering space for reflection, movement and inner stillness in the tranquil shala and held within the healing rhythm of coastal life. The rest of the day invites you to explore the resorts complimentary yoga sessions. This is a sacred space for connection, laughter, self-care and spiritual nourishment.

We conclude our soulful journey with a relaxing stay in South Goa, where beaches meet Portuguese-inspired charm. We discover Old Goa’s colonial charm on a guided heritage walk and wander the colourful, art-filled lanes of Latin Quarter of Fontainhas offering a final taste of the region’s rich cultural tapestry.

Woven throughout this tour is a unique blend of yoga, meditation and mindfulness, personally curated and facilitated by Sue Barlow.

Bengaluru — Mysore — Coorg — Mangalore — Gokarna — Goa

12 Nights / 13 Days

Soul of the South

Wednesday, 11th February – Monday, 23rd February 2026

YOUR PACKAGE INCLUDES:
  • 12 Nights Premium, Boutique Accommodation or similar.
  • 12 Daily Breakfasts.
  • 01 Lunch.
  • 09 Dinners including Welcome & Farewell Dinners.
  • 12 Night Tour, including a 5 Night Immersive Yoga, Meditation and Mindfulness Retreat Program, personally facilitated by Sue Barlow.
  • All sightseeing as per program with Private Driver & Air-Conditioned Coach or vehicles.
  • Airconditioned Train Mangalore to Karwar.
  • English Speaking Escort Guide Mysore, Bylakuppe, Mangalore and Local Guide in Goa.
  • Entrance fees to the monuments (one visit) as per the program & applicable taxes.
  • Group Airport transfers within the included package dates.

From: $ 6,795*
*AUD per person twin share

Mixed Twin / Single Room Supplement or Single Room Supplement available

  • Staying at Premium, Boutique Properties and a Luxury Pool Villa in Coorg.
  • Immerse and deepen your practice on a 12 Night Tour, including a 5 Night Yoga, Meditation and Mindfulness Retreat Program, personally facilitated by Sue Barlow.
  • Visit the Ramanagara Cocoon Market – where thousands of silkworm cocoons are traded daily, each holding the beginnings of pure, shimmering silk.
  • Enjoy a warm welcome dinner in the cultural heart of Karnataka, Mysore.
  • Marvel at the grandeur of the majestic Mysore Palace. Wander through the vibrant Mysore flower and vegetable markets, the sandalwood and silk factory, rich in colour and local life.
  • Share in a hands-on culinary experience, dinner and dancing with a local Mysorean family.
  • Unwind in a luxurious nature resort amidst lush coffee plantations and tranquil forest surrounds, Coorg.
  • Reconnect with nature through a soul-soothing forest bathing walk amongst evergreen forest, Coorg.
  • Spend an intimate visit guided by monks at one of India’s largest Tibetan settlements and witness sacred rituals and the opportunity to witness the lively tradition of Buddhist monastic debate in Bylakuppe.
  • Discover ornate temples and local landmarks of Mangalore, steeped in spiritual heritage.
  • Travel in style aboard an express train, watching India’s vibrant coastline unfold enroute to Gokarna.
  • Spend 5 rejuvenating nights at a serene eco-resort set amongst 26-acres on Om Beach.
  • Enjoy SwaSwara holistic daily wellness program, including yoga, pranayama, meditation and nourishing vegetarian cuisine. Optional Resort Activities: Hands-on cooking or art classes – at own expense.
  • Discover Old Goa’s colonial charm and the colourful, art-filled lanes Latin Quarter of Fontainhas on a half-day heritage tour.
  • Conclude our journey in style, with a stay a 5-star Retreat Hotel in South Goa, including farewell dinner.
  • Woven throughout this tour is a unique blend of yoga, meditation and mindfulness, personally curated and facilitated by Sue Barlow.

From: $ 6,795*

*AUD per person twin share

Prices are subject to change and availability.

For Tour Enquiries:

Contact Sue Barlow – [email protected]

Payment and travel Bookings:

Contact Paula at Essence of India Tours
[email protected]

Payment plans are available for this package.
Prices are subject to availability and change without notice.
Booking terms and conditions apply
For international bookings made outside of Australia a US $15 bank service fee applies.

“It is necessary that we know with absolute certainty
that in essence we are spirit.”

~ Rabindranath Tagore