Day 1: Arrival in Bangalore

Upon your arrival at Bangalore Airport, our representative will greet you with a warm welcome and assist with your transfer to your selected hotel. After checking in and refreshing, you'll have the afternoon at leisure to relax or explore the nearby surroundings.

 

Day 2: Bangalore Exploration

Begin your exploration of Bangalore, the "Garden City," with a morning visit to the Lalbagh Botanical Garden. This 240-acre garden is home to a vast collection of tropical plants, trees, and colorful flowerbeds. Proceed to Bangalore Palace, a grand edifice reflecting a blend of Tudor and Indian architectural styles. The palace's intricate carvings, stained glass windows, and expansive gardens make it a photographer's paradise. Later, delve into history at Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, known for its ornate wooden interiors and historical artifacts. Conclude your day with a visit to Bull Temple, where you'll find a massive statue of Nandi, Lord Shiva's sacred bull, carved from a single granite block. In the evening, enjoy a delightful meal at a local restaurant followed by shopping at the vibrant markets of Bangalore.

 

Day 3: Bangalore to Vellore (220kms)

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Vellore. Upon arrival, your first stop is the Vellore Fort, a 16th-century granite fort with a unique architectural design. The fort houses the Jalakandeswarar Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva. Later, visit the Government Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of sculptures, paintings, and artifacts that offer insights into the region's rich heritage and culture.

 

Day 4: Vellore to Chennai (145kms)

Depart from Vellore and drive to Chennai, Tamil Nadu's vibrant capital. En route, make a fascinating stop in Kanchipuram, the "City of Thousand Temples." This ancient city is renowned for its magnificent temples like Kamakshi Amman Temple and its thriving silk saree industry. Upon reaching Chennai, check into your hotel and proceed for a guided city tour. Visit the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple, known for its towering gopuram (gateway tower) and intricate Dravidian architecture. Explore Fort St. George, a historic fortress built by the British East India Company, and take a leisurely stroll along Marina Beach, one of the world's longest urban beaches. End your day with a visit to the Government Museum to marvel at its extensive collection of art, archaeology, and anthropology.

 

Day 5: Chennai to Pondicherry (160kms)

After breakfast, travel to Pondicherry, a quaint town with a unique blend of Indian and French cultures. En route, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, renowned for its ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures, including the iconic Shore Temple and Arjuna's Penance. Upon reaching Pondicherry, check into your hotel and embark on a city tour. Visit Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, promoting spiritual and cultural harmony. Explore the charming French Quarter with its well-preserved colonial architecture, wander through the serene grounds of Auroville, a universal town dedicated to human unity, and relax on the picturesque Promenade Beach.

 

Day 6: Pondicherry to Thanjavur (180kms)

After breakfast, set out for Thanjavur, a city steeped in history and culture. Along the way, stop in Chidambaram to visit the awe-inspiring Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer. Continue your journey, reaching the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram. Explore Gangaikonda Cholapuram, the "City of the Conquering Ganga," known for its magnificent temples and architectural splendor. In Darasuram, admire the Airavateswara Temple, celebrated for its intricate carvings, detailed sculptures, and impressive architecture. Conclude your day in Thanjavur with a hotel check-in.

 

Day 7: Thanjavur to Chettinad (140kms)

Begin your day with a visit to the Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a marvel of Chola architecture. The temple's grand vimana (tower), the monolithic Nandi statue, and the expansive courtyard are sure to leave you spellbound. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Vijayanagar Fort, a testament to the region's rich history. The fort, built by Nayak king Vijayaraghava Nayak, showcases a blend of Nayak and Maratha architectural styles. Explore the fort's various structures, including the Tanjore Palace and Durbar Hall. Before leaving Thanjavur, visit the Thanjavur Art Gallery & Saraswathi Mahal Library to view its impressive collection of sculptures, paintings, and ancient manuscripts. Afterward, drive to Chettinad, renowned for its unique mansions, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine.

 

Day 8: Chettinad to Madurai (90kms)

Explore Chettinad's architectural marvels, visiting some of its iconic mansions adorned with intricate woodwork, colorful tiles, and ornate interiors. Gain insights into the region's artistic legacy and the culinary traditions of the Chettiar community. Afterward, drive to Madurai, often referred to as the "Athens of the East." Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind. The rest of the day is yours to explore the bustling streets of Madurai or relax at your hotel.

 

Day 9: Madurai to Rameshwaram (170kms)

After breakfast, visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple, an architectural masterpiece adorned with vibrant sculptures and intricate carvings. Pay your respects at this magnificent temple before driving to Rameshwaram, a sacred pilgrimage destination for Hindus. Check into your hotel and then visit the Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. You can also spend time exploring the pristine beaches of Rameshwaram and soaking in the serene atmosphere.

 

Day 10: Rameshwaram to Kanyakumari (320kms)

Embark on a full-day exploration of Rameshwaram, starting with a visit to the iconic Pamban Bridge. This engineering marvel connects Rameshwaram Island to the mainland and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding ocean. Continue your journey with a visit to the Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman and featuring a unique image of the deity with five faces. Explore Ram Setu, also known as Adam's Bridge, a natural limestone formation that holds both geological and mythological significance. Afterward, drive to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of mainland India. Check into your hotel and in the evening, head to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial to witness a breathtaking sunset over the confluence of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean.

 

Day 11: Kanyakumari to Kovalam (80kms)

Wake up early to witness the mesmerizing sunrise from Kanyakumari, a unique experience as you can see the sunrise and sunset from the same spot. Visit the Kumari Amman Temple, dedicated to the virgin goddess Kanyakumari, and explore the Vivekananda Memorial and Thiruvalluvar Statue situated on adjacent rocks in the sea. Both these sites offer panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding landscapes. After your explorations, drive to Kovalam, a renowned beach destination in Kerala. Upon arrival, check into your beachside resort and relax by the tranquil shores.

 

Day 12: Kovalam Sightseeing

Embark on a city tour of Trivandrum, Kerala's capital city. Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a Dravidian architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Explore the Napier Museum, an architectural masterpiece that houses a rich collection of historical artifacts, bronze idols, and stunning artwork. Wander through the beautiful Kuthiramalika Palace, known for its unique horse-shaped brackets, exquisite carvings, and impressive architecture. In the evening, enjoy leisure time to explore Kovalam Beach, indulge in water activities, or simply relax by the serene coastline.

 

Days 13-14: Leisure in Kovalam

The next two days are yours to enjoy leisurely in Kovalam. Take this opportunity to bask in the sun on the pristine beaches, explore local markets, savor traditional Kerala cuisine, or indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatments to rejuvenate your senses.

 

Day 15: Kovalam - Departure

After breakfast on your final day in Kovalam, it's time to bid farewell to the enchanting beaches and vibrant culture of South India. We'll arrange your transfer to Trivandrum International Airport for your onward journey, allowing you to depart with cherished memories of your remarkable South India odyssey.

- 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

Bangalore x 2 nights
3* - Ramada/ The Rialto
4* - Fortune Select JP Cosmos/ Lemon Tree Premier Ulsoor Lake
5* - ITC Gardenia, a Luxury Collection/ ITC Windsor a Luxury Collection

Vellore x 1 night
3* - Hotel Khanna Fiesta/ POPPYS Anukula Residency
4* & 5* - Regency Sameera Vellore by GRT Hotels/ Fortune Park

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

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* - Sangam Hotels/ Ideal River View Resort
5* - Svatma

Chettinad x 1 night 
3* & 4*- Chidambara Vilas/ Chettinadu Mansion
5* - Visalam Cgh Earth

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

Rameshwaram x 1 night 
3* & 4*- Daiwik Hotel
5* - Hyatt Place Rameswaram

Kanyakumari x 1 night
3* - Sea Shore/ Hotel Seaface
4* & 5* - Anantya Resorts/ Annai Resorts and Spa

Kovalam x 4 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.