Duration: 11 Nights / 12 Days
Destinations: Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry – Chidambaram – Tanjore – Madurai – Thekkady – Munnar – Alleppey – Cochin
Upon arrival at Chennai International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and assisted with your transfer to the hotel. Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, culture and beautiful temples. Later, begin your sightseeing with a visit to the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, followed by the impressive San Thome Basilica, built over the traditional tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle. Continue to Fort St. George, one of the earliest British forts in India, and later enjoy a leisurely visit to Marina Beach, one of India's most famous beaches. After your sightseeing, return to the hotel and relax after your journey. Overnight stay in Chennai.
After breakfast, drive along the scenic East Coast Road towards Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its magnificent rock-cut monuments and temples dating back to the Pallava dynasty. Upon arrival, explore the famous Shore Temple overlooking the Bay of Bengal, followed by the Five Rathas, Arjuna's Penance and the fascinating Krishna's Butter Ball. These remarkable monuments showcase the exceptional craftsmanship and architectural traditions of ancient South India. Later, enjoy some leisure time to relax at your hotel or take a pleasant walk along the coast. Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.
After breakfast, drive to Pondicherry, a charming coastal town known for its French colonial heritage, peaceful atmosphere and distinctive cultural character.Upon arrival, visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, followed by a visit to Auroville, an international township dedicated to the idea of human unity. You will also have an opportunity to view the unique Matrimandir from the designated viewpoint. Later, explore the picturesque French Quarter with its elegant colonial buildings, quiet streets and colourful atmosphere before enjoying a leisurely walk along the seaside promenade. After sightseeing, return to your hotel to relax and enjoy the evening. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.
After breakfast, continue your journey towards Tanjore, with a visit to Chidambaram en route. Here, visit the magnificent Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his cosmic dancing form and renowned for its impressive Dravidian architecture and intricate sculptures. Continue to Tanjore, the historic heart of the Chola dynasty. Upon arrival, visit the spectacular Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of Chola architecture. Later, explore the Tanjore Royal Palace complex and Saraswati Mahal Library, which houses a valuable collection of ancient manuscripts and historical texts. After your sightseeing, check in to your hotel and relax. Overnight stay in Tanjore.
After breakfast, drive to Madurai, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in India and an important centre of Tamil culture and heritage.Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and later proceed to visit the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, one of South India's most celebrated temples. Admire its spectacular colourful gopurams, intricate sculptures and vibrant religious atmosphere.In the evening, you may have the opportunity to witness the traditional night ceremony at the temple, during which Lord Shiva is ceremonially taken to the shrine of Goddess Meenakshi. After this memorable experience, return to your hotel for a relaxing evening. Overnight stay in Madurai.
After breakfast, enjoy a full day exploring the cultural and historical treasures of Madurai. Begin with the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple complex, followed by a visit to the impressive Thirumalai Nayak Palace, a 17th-century palace renowned for its grand arches, massive pillars and beautiful architecture. Continue to the Gandhi Memorial Museum, which offers an insight into India's freedom movement and the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. Later, explore the lively local markets of Madurai, where you can experience the city's colourful atmosphere and discover traditional handicrafts, textiles and local products. After a rewarding day of sightseeing, return to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening. Overnight stay in Madurai.
After breakfast, drive towards Thekkady, crossing into the beautiful landscapes of Kerala and the Western Ghats. The journey offers scenic views of lush green hills, plantations and winding mountain roads. Upon arrival in Thekkady, check in to your hotel and later enjoy a scenic boat ride on Periyar Lake, surrounded by the forests of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the forested shores while enjoying the peaceful natural surroundings. Overnight stay in Thekkady.
After breakfast, drive to Munnar, one of Kerala's most beautiful hill stations, located amidst the rolling hills of the Western Ghats.The scenic journey takes you through lush green landscapes, waterfalls, spice plantations and winding mountain roads. Upon arrival in Munnar, check in to your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. You may relax at the hotel, enjoy the surrounding views or take a gentle walk through the charming hill-station area. Overnight stay in Munnar.
After breakfast, proceed for a full-day sightseeing tour of Munnar and its beautiful surroundings. Begin with a visit to Eravikulam National Park, famous for its spectacular mountain scenery and home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Continue to the Tea Museum to learn about the history and traditional methods of tea cultivation and production in the region. Later, visit Mattupetty Dam, set amidst beautiful green hills, followed by Echo Point, a scenic location surrounded by mountains and lush vegetation.After sightseeing, enjoy some free time to explore the local markets or simply relax and take in the peaceful atmosphere of Munnar. Return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay in Munnar.
After breakfast, drive to Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha and famous as the gateway to Kerala's enchanting backwaters.Upon arrival, board your traditional Kerala houseboat and begin a relaxing cruise through the tranquil waterways. As the houseboat gently moves through the backwaters, enjoy views of palm-lined canals, paddy fields, traditional villages and local life along the waterways. Freshly prepared Kerala-style meals will be served on board, allowing you to enjoy the scenery while experiencing one of Kerala's most memorable travel experiences. Spend the night on board your private houseboat amidst the peaceful backwaters of Alleppey.
After breakfast, drive to Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha and famous as the gateway to Kerala's enchanting backwaters.Upon arrival, board your traditional Kerala houseboat and begin a relaxing cruise through the tranquil waterways. As the houseboat gently moves through the backwaters, enjoy views of palm-lined canals, paddy fields, traditional villages and local life along the waterways. Freshly prepared Kerala-style meals will be served on board, allowing you to enjoy the scenery while experiencing one of Kerala's most memorable travel experiences. Spend the night on board your private houseboat amidst the peaceful backwaters of Alleppey.
After breakfast, drive to Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha and famous as the gateway to Kerala's enchanting backwaters.Upon arrival, board your traditional Kerala houseboat and begin a relaxing cruise through the tranquil waterways. As the houseboat gently moves through the backwaters, enjoy views of palm-lined canals, paddy fields, traditional villages and local life along the waterways. Freshly prepared Kerala-style meals will be served on board, allowing you to enjoy the scenery while experiencing one of Kerala's most memorable travel experiences. Spend the night on board your private houseboat amidst the peaceful backwaters of Alleppey.