Highlights
Southern India awaits! On our 13 day tour you'll explore ancient temples, French-Tamil Pondicherry, and serene Kerala backwaters. Hike Munnar's tea hills, spot wildlife in Thekkady, and soak up history in Madurai and Kochi.
Itinerary
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.
day 1Welcome to Chennai. Transfer to your hotel.
Welcome to Tamil Nadu and the city of Chennai. You'll be met by a member of our local team, who will transfer you to your hotel. Once you're settled in, we'll run through the tour itinerary for the next few days, brief you on the local area and arrange a time to collect you and your fellow group members tomorrow.If you have a morning arrival, why not join our optional half day Chennai City Tour which starts at around 12 midday.Single room supplement (INSGTS)
day 2Travel to Pondicherry via the UNESCO listed Mahabalipuram Temples
day 3Exploring picturesque Pondicherry
day 4Learn about local culture and arts at the Mohanam Cultural Centre. Drive to Tanjore
day 5Visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Tanjore. Afternoon drive to Madurai
day 6Visiting the Old City of Madurai, Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace and spiritual aarti ceremony
day 7Head in to Kerala state and the tea growing region of Munnar
day 8Exploring the markets and tea plantations of Munnar
day 9Continue to Thekkady and take a boat ride in Periyar NP
day 10Craft and backwaters of Kumarakom
day 11Board a houseboat and explore the Keralan Backwaters.
day 12Disembark and enjoy the Keralan beaches
day 13Bon Voyage! Transfer to Kochi Airport for departure.
What's Included
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