Simple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Comfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
Upscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.
Duration
4 days28 days
Guide Types
Activities
Get a customized trip to Chennai in August 2026
Plan a multi-country or regional adventure across Chennai in August 2026, with help from a local expert.
Journey through the soul of South India on this 10 day tour. Cruising Kerala’s backwaters by houseboat, spotting wildlife in Periyar, and walking through misty tea plantations in Munnar. Crossing into Tamil Nadu, we stand in awe at Madurai’s Meenakshi Temple, explore Chola-era marvels in Tanjore, soak up Pondicherry’s coastal charm, and wander Mahabalipuram’s ancient stonework before ending in vibrant Chennai. A colourful blend of nature, culture, and sacred heritage.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Chennai, Kerala & Tamil Nadu, Ko
Chennai, Kerala & Tamil Nadu, Kochi, Alleppey, Periyar, Munnar, Madurai, Tanjore, Pondicherry
Start your adventure in vibrant Chennai with a warm welcome and briefing. An optional city tour introduces you to its highlights. Afterward, embark on a scenic coastal drive south, stopping at the UNESCO-listed Mahabalipuram to marvel at the Shore Temple and other ancient rock carvings. Arrive in charming Pondicherry for free time to explore.
Experience Pondicherry's unique blend of French and Tamil influences. Stroll the French Quarter, find tranquility at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, and admire the vibrant Manakula Vinayagar Temple. Conclude your day with a relaxing walk along Promenade Beach. Next, immerse yourself in Tamil Nadu's rural culture at the Mohanam Cultural Center. Witness traditional arts, create Kolam artwork, and enjoy a Tamil-style lunch while supporting the community's heritage preservation. Continue to the historical city of Tanjore.
In Tanjore, admire the architectural marvel of the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a testament to the Chola dynasty's power. Journey south to the ancient city of Madurai. Feel the vibrant spiritual energy, explore bustling bazaars, and revel in the grandeur of the Meenakshi Amman Temple. Reflect on your Indian adventure during a scenic train ride back to Chennai before your departure flight the following day.
Next we head to Kerala! Travel to the picturesque hill station of Munnar, passing plantations of many varieties along the way.
Let Munnar's tea-covered hills, crisp air, and swirling mists enchant you. Explore a spice-scented market, tour a tea plantation, observe tea pickers, and savor a tea tasting. Venture onward to Thekkady for wildlife viewing. Take a scenic boat ride through Periyar National Park, with the chance to spot elephants, water birds, and maybe even a tiger.
Our next stop is Kumarakom, a tranquil backwater paradise. Glide through palm-fringed waterways aboard a traditional Shikara boat, and immerse yourself in the heart of a local village, witnessing the age-old craft of coir making. Your backwater adventure reaches its peak with a luxurious overnight stay on a traditional houseboat, complete with modern comforts. Surrender to the gentle rhythms of the water, savor local delicacies, and witness a breathtaking sunset. Say farewell to Kerala in vibrant Kochi, exploring its rich history and culture. Perhaps even catch a captivating Kathakali dance performance, leaving you with cherished memories before your journey home.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
8-95 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Chennai, Kumarakom, Kerala Backw
Chennai, Kumarakom, Kerala Backwaters, Kochi, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Madurai, Munnar, Thekkady
Explore Tamil Nadu's rich heritage! Visit Chennai, coastal Pondicherry, ancient Mahabalipuram, marvel at temples in Tanjore & Madurai, and experience a journey on the iconic Indian railway.
Your adventure begins in vibrant Chennai, where you'll be warmly welcomed and briefed on the exciting itinerary ahead. An optional city tour introduces you to Chennai's highlights. Afterward, you'll embark on a scenic coastal journey southward, stopping at Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the artistry of the Shore Temple and other ancient rock-carved structures before arriving in charming Pondicherry, where you'll have free time to explore.
Pondicherry's unique blend of French and Tamil heritage takes centre stage. Stroll through the French Quarter, experience the tranquility of the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, and admire the vibrant Manakula Vinayagar Temple. A stroll along Promenade Beach ends a fulfilling day. Next, you'll delve into the heart of Tamil Nadu's rural culture at the Mohanam Cultural Center. Witness traditional dance and music, create your own Kolam artwork, and enjoy a Tamil-style lunch, knowing your visit supports the community's preservation of heritage arts. Your journey then continues to the historical city of Tanjore.
Tanjore unveils its architectural gem - the awe-inspiring Brihadeeswarar Temple, a testament to the Chola dynasty's grandeur. Afterward, you'll head south to the ancient city of Madurai. Experience the vibrant spirit of this spiritual hub, explore the old town's bustling bazaars, and immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Meenakshi Amman Temple. A scenic train ride back to Chennai allows you to reflect on your Indian adventure before catching your flight home the following day.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Anu SethTravel Expert in India & Sri Lanka
