Day 1: Arrive Chennai

Upon arrival in Chennai, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After breakfast and some rest, embark on a half-day city tour of Chennai. Explore the historic Fort St. George, an iconic landmark dating back to the 17th century. Visit the Kapaleeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant sculptures. Dive into the rich heritage at the Government Museum, housing an impressive collection of ancient artifacts and art. End the day with a relaxing stroll along the scenic Marina Beach, the second longest urban beach in the world. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

 

Day 2: Chennai - Kanchipuram - Mahabalipuram (120kms)

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and proceed to Mahabalipuram. En route, immerse yourself in the spiritual aura of Kanchipuram, known as the "City of Thousand Temples". Visit the majestic Kailasanatha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and showcasing early Dravidian architecture. Explore the sacred Ekambareswarar Temple and the grand Varadaraja Perumal Temple. Continue to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rock-cut temples and intricate carvings. Visit the iconic Shore Temple, marvel at the colossal Arjuna's Penance, and admire the unique monolithic structures of the Pancha Rathas. Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.

 

Day 3: Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry (120kms)

After breakfast, drive to Pondicherry, a charming town that reflects its French colonial heritage and spiritual ambiance. Check in at the hotel and begin your exploration with a visit to the French Quarter. Wander through the vibrant streets lined with colonial buildings, quaint cafes, and boutiques. Dive into the spiritual world at Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a tranquil haven dedicated to spiritual practice and integral yoga. Enjoy a leisurely evening at the promenade, overlooking the serene Bay of Bengal, adorned with statues and a lighthouse. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

 

Day 4: Pondicherry - Chidambaram - Gangaikonda Cholapuram - Darasuram - Thanjavur (180kms)

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and proceed towards Thanjavur. Begin your day with a visit to Chidambaram, renowned for the Nataraja Temple. Experience the divine energy and intricate architecture of this significant spiritual site. Continue your journey with a visit to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore Darasuram and admire the Airavatesvara Temple, another UNESCO gem with exquisite carvings and sculptures. Arrive in Thanjavur, where you'll marvel at the towering Brihadeeswarar Temple, explore the Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery filled with bronze statues, musical instruments, and paintings. Overnight in Thanjavur.

 

Day 5: Thanjavur - Trichy (60kms)

After breakfast, delve deeper into Thanjavur's cultural treasures. Marvel at the towering Brihadeeswarar Temple, an architectural marvel showcasing the grandeur of Chola architecture. Explore the intricate carvings and spiritual aura of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery. Admire the impressive collection of bronze statues, musical instruments, and paintings that offer insights into the region's rich heritage. After a day filled with cultural exploration, drive to Trichy. Explore the sprawling Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in India, and the awe-inspiring Rock Fort Temple, perched atop a rock. Visit the Jambukeshwara Temple, one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalas, and Srirangam Island, a bustling island with historical significance. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

 

Day 6: Trichy - Madurai (135kms)

After breakfast, drive to Madurai, the "City of Temples". Check in at the hotel and later, visit the iconic Meenakshi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its magnificent gopurams and intricate sculptures. Explore the majestic Thirumalai Nayak Palace, showcasing a blend of Dravidian and Rajput architectural styles. Dive into history at the Gandhi Memorial Museum, housing a fascinating collection related to Mahatma Gandhi. End your day with a visit to the bustling Madurai Market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and unique local products. Overnight stay in Madurai.

 

Day 7: Madurai - Munnar (160kms)

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and proceed towards Munnar, a picturesque hill station in Kerala. As you ascend the winding roads, witness the lush tea gardens, serene waterfalls, and panoramic vistas. On arrival, check in at the hotel and unwind amidst the tranquil surroundings. Spend the evening exploring the local markets or simply relaxing amidst nature's beauty. Overnight stay in Munnar.

 

Day 8: Munnar

After breakfast, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Munnar. Begin with a visit to the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and vibrant flora. Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes at Mattupetty Dam, offering boating and stunning views. Dive into the history and culture of tea at the Tea Museum, showcasing the tea processing methods and rich heritage. End your day with a visit to Top Station, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the valley below. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

 

Day 9: Munnar - Thekkady (110kms)

After breakfast at the hotel, check-out and drive to Thekkady. On arrival, check-in at your hotel and immerse yourself in the aromatic world of spices with a visit to a local spice plantation. Explore the lush greenery, learn about various spices, and experience the essence of Kerala's natural bounty. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance showcasing the traditional art forms of Kerala. Overnight stay in Thekkady.

 

Day 10: Thekkady

After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Traverse through the dense forests, bamboo groves, and grasslands, keeping an eye out for wildlife such as elephants, tigers, wild boars, and more. Opt for a boat ride on the Periyar Lake, offering a unique opportunity to spot wildlife and enjoy the serene surroundings. Later, visit a local spice market to purchase authentic spices and learn about their uses. Overnight stay in Thekkady.

 

Day 11: Thekkady - Alleppey (135kms)

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and drive to Alleppey, the "Venice of the East". On arrival, board your private houseboat and embark on a mesmerizing cruise through the scenic backwaters of Kerala. Witness the serene landscapes, traditional villages, and lush greenery as you glide through the tranquil waters. Enjoy delicious Kerala cuisine prepared by the onboard chef using fresh local ingredients. Overnight stay on the houseboat.

 

Day 12: Alleppey - Cochin (60kms)

After breakfast on the houseboat, disembark and drive to Cochin, also known as Kochi. Check in at the hotel and begin your exploration with a visit to the iconic Chinese fishing nets at the Fort Kochi beach. Dive into history at the Jewish Synagogue, adorned with beautiful Belgian glass chandeliers and exquisite hand-painted tiles. Explore the Dutch Palace, showcasing Kerala murals depicting Hindu temple art, portraits, and exhibits of the Rajas of Kochi. Visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through the bustling Mattancherry Spice Market. Overnight stay in Cochin.

 

Day 13: Cochin - Kovalam (200kms)

After breakfast at the hotel, check-out and drive to Kovalam, a tranquil coastal town renowned for its pristine beaches and serene ambiance. On arrival, check-in at your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Explore the golden sands of Lighthouse Beach, indulge in water sports, or simply relax and soak in the sun's warmth. Overnight stay in Kovalam.

 

Day 14: Kovalam

After breakfast, enjoy the day at leisure to explore the beautiful beaches of Kovalam. Visit the Hawah Beach, known for its calm waters and scenic beauty, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Explore the local markets for souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Kerala spices. Opt for an Ayurvedic massage or spa treatment to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. Overnight stay in Kovalam.

 

Day 15: Kovalam - Departure

After breakfast at the hotel, you will check-out and proceed to the airport in Trivandrum for your departure flight. Depart with cherished memories of the enchanting temples, lush landscapes, and serene backwaters of South India.

- Assistance on arrival at airport.

- 14 Nights' accommodation in selected price category hotels.

- Daily breakfast at hotels.

- Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.

- English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.

- Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.

- Bottled drinking water in car.

- Government taxes.

 

Hotels used or similar for 14 nights accommodation

Chennai x 1 night
3* - Raj Park/ MGM East Woods
4* - The  Raintree/ Accord Metropolitan
5* - ITC Grand Chola/ The Leela Palace

Mahabalipuram x 1 night
3* - INDeco Hotels/ Mamalla Beach Resort
4* - Ideal Beach Resort/ Confluence The Banquet & Resort
5* - Radisson BLU Resort Temple Bay/ Fisherman's Cove

Pondicherry x 1 night
3* - Shenbaga Hotel/ Annamalai International
4* - Le Pondy/ The Windflower Resort & Spa
5* - Palais De Mahe/ La Villa

Thanjore x 1 night
3* - Grand Gardenia/ Oriental Towers 
4* - Le Pondy/ The Windflower Resort & Spa
5* - Svatma

Trichy x 1 night
3* - Red Fox Hotel/ Grand Gardenia
4* & 5* - Sangam Hotels/ Ideal River View Resort

Madurai x 1 night
3* - Astoria by Sparsa/ Madurai’s Residency
4* - GRT Regency/ Fortune Pandiyan Hotel
5* - Heritage Madurai/ The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai

Munnar x 2 nights
3* - Fort Munnar/ Abad Copper Castle
4* - Nature Zone Jungle Resort/ Fragrant Nature Munnar
5* - Chandys Windy Woods/ Tea County

Pariyar (Thekkady) x 2 nights
3* - Abad Green Forest/ Hotel Treetop
4* - The Elephant Court/ Cardamom County
5* - Spice village/ Cardamom County

Day cruise in Alleppey x 1 night
3* - Deluxe Houseboat (ATDC Houseboat/ Dream Boats)
4* - Premium Houseboat (Abad Premium Houseboats/ Rainbow Premium Houseboats)
5* - Luxury Houseboat (Xandari Riverscapes/ Lakes & Lagoons)

Cochin x 1 night
3* - The Dune Hotel/ Abad Plaza
4* - Casino Hotel/ The Avenue Regent
5* - Xandari Harbour/ Le Meridien

Kovalam x 2 nights
3* - Harmonia Beach Resort/ Sagara Beach Resort
4* - Estuary Island Resort/Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel
5* - Vivanta by Taj - Green Cove/ The Leela Kovalam Beach

- Any flight tickets.

- Camera charges at monuments if any.

- Meals other than mentioned in the inclusions.

- Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc. 

- Gratuities and optional activities.

- Anything not mentioned in inclusions.