• slidebg1

Temples & Backwater Tour of South India

Package price On Request

Product Code : AGORA45

Explore the spiritual heritage and natural beauty of South India on this 15-day Temples & Backwater Tour. Begin your journey in Chennai, where colonial history and Dravidian temples showcase the region's rich legacy. Discover the revered temples of Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram, and Madurai, each adorned with intricate sculptures and towering gopurams. Experience French-inspired Pondicherry, the UNESCO-listed treasures of Thanjavur and Gangaikonda Cholapuram, and the vibrant markets of Madurai. Relax amid the tea gardens of Munnar, encounter wildlife in Thekkady, and unwind on a houseboat through Alleppey's tranquil backwaters. Conclude with beach days in Kovalam and a glimpse into Kerala’s artistic heritage before departing from Trivandrum.

 

Day 1: Arrival in Chennai
Upon arrival, meet your representative and and transfer to your hotel.Visit Fort St. George, built in 1653, which houses the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and a museum featuring colonial artifacts.Explore Kapaleeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, showcasing Dravidian-style architecture with intricately carved gopurams.Discover the Government Museum, which offers a diverse collection of ancient sculptures and artifacts that highlight South India’s rich heritage.Relax at Marina Beach, strolling along this famous 13-kilometer stretch known for its golden sands and lively atmosphere.Overnight stay in Chennai.

Day 2: Chennai to Kanchipuram (70 km) & Mahabalipuram (60 km)
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before checking out from the hotel.Check out and drive to Kanchipuram, approximately 70 km. Visit Kailasanatha Temple, renowned for its detailed sculptures, and explore Ekambareswarar Temple, featuring a massive temple tank.Continue to Varadaraja Perumal Temple, known for its grand architecture and intricate carvings.Drive to Mahabalipuram, covering around 60 km, and visit the Shore Temple, an ancient complex overlooking the Bay of Bengal.Marvel at Arjuna’s Penance, a colossal bas-relief depicting scenes from the Mahabharata, and explore the Pancha Rathas, five monolithic rock-cut temples.Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.

Day 3: Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry (100 km)
After breakfast, check out and drive to Pondicherry, approximately 100 km.Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and visit the French Quarter, experiencing colonial-era buildings and charming streets.Explore Sri Aurobindo Ashram, founded by Sri Aurobindo, offering a tranquil environment for meditation.In the evening, stroll along the Promenade, a scenic walkway by the Bay of Bengal.Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

Day 4: Pondicherry to Thanjavur (170 km)
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out and driving to Thanjavur.Stop at Chidambaram to visit the famous Nataraja Temple, renowned for its divine dance of Lord Shiva, featuring intricate bronze sculptures.Continue to Gangaikonda Cholapuram,a UNESCO World Heritage Site, then explore Darasuram and Airavatesvara Temple, known for exquisite carvings depicting mythological themes.Overnight stay in Thanjavur.

Day 5: Thanjavur to Trichy (60 km)
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before continuing your exploration of Thanjavur.Marvel at Brihadeeswarar Temple once more, appreciating its grandeur, massive gopurams, and intricate sculptures.Visit Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery again to delve deeper into its impressive collection of art and historical artifacts.Drive to Trichy, approximately 60 km, and visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in India, known for its towering gopurams and vast courtyards.Explore the Rock Fort Temple, located atop a rocky outcrop with panoramic views of the city, featuring ancient shrines and a historic fortress.Visit Jambukeshwara Temple, part of the Pancha Bhoota Stalas, dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its unique representation of the water element.Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 6: Trichy to Madurai (130 km)
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before driving to Madurai, approximately 130 km.Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and visit Meenakshi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its grand gopurams and vibrant religious festivals.Explore Thirumalai Nayak Palace, known for its majestic courtyards, ornate pillars, and a blend of Dravidian and Rajput architecture.Visit Gandhi Memorial Museum, displaying a fascinating collection of photographs, letters, and artifacts related to Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian independence movement.Stroll through Madurai Market, a bustling area offering a wide range of local crafts, textiles, spices, and traditional products.Overnight stay in Madurai.

Day 7: Madurai to Munnar (170 km)
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Munnar, approximately 170 km.Enjoy the scenic drive through winding roads with breathtaking views of lush tea gardens, serene waterfalls, and panoramic vistas.Check in at your hotel and unwind in the tranquil surroundings of Munnar.Visit Attukal Waterfalls, a picturesque cascade set amidst verdant hills, offering a serene spot for nature lovers.Explore the local markets of Munnar, known for its fresh tea leaves, spices, and handmade crafts.Spend the evening relaxing amidst the natural beauty of the hill station or enjoy a leisurely walk through the tea estates.Overnight stay in Munnar.

Day 8: Munnar
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a full-day sightseeing tour of Munnar.Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, with lush landscapes and rich biodiversity, and enjoy panoramic views from the Rajamalai peak.Marvel at Mattupetty Dam, known for its picturesque lake and opportunities for boating amidst stunning scenery.Explore the Tea Museum, which provides insights into the history and processes of tea cultivation in Munnar.Discover Anamudi Peak, the highest point in South India, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and an opportunity for nature walks.End the day at Top Station, providing breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and the valley below, ideal for photography and relaxation.Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 9: Munnar to Thekkady (90 km)
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Thekkady, approximately 90 km.Check in at your hotel and visit a local spice plantation to learn about the cultivation and uses of various spices in Kerala.Explore the lush greenery of the plantation and experience the aromatic world of Kerala’s spices, including pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon.Visit the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre to witness a demonstration of Kalaripayattu, a traditional martial art form of Kerala, and learn about its history and techniques.In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance showcasing traditional Kerala art forms such as Kathakali or Mohiniyattam, offering a glimpse into the region's rich performing arts heritage.Overnight stay in Thekkady.

Day 10: Thekkady
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a guided tour of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.Traverse through dense forests, bamboo groves, and grasslands while searching for wildlife such as elephants, tigers, wild boars, and various bird species.Opt for a boat ride on Periyar Lake, providing a unique opportunity to spot wildlife along the lake's edge and enjoy serene surroundings.Visit a local spice market in Thekkady to purchase authentic spices and learn about their uses in Kerala cuisine.Explore the nearby village to experience traditional Kerala lifestyle and customs.Overnight stay in Thekkady.

Day 11: Thekkady to Alleppey (140 km)
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before driving to Alleppey, approximately 140 km.Board a private houseboat and embark on a scenic cruise through the backwaters of Kerala, navigating the intricate network of canals, lakes, and lagoons.Witness the tranquil beauty of the backwaters and traditional village life while enjoying freshly prepared Kerala cuisine onboard.Stop at a local village along the way to interact with residents and learn about their traditional lifestyles.Overnight stay on the houseboat.

Day 12: Alleppey to Cochin (60 km)
Start the day with breakfast on the houseboat before disembarking and driving to Cochin, approximately 60 km.Check in at your hotel and visit the Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi Beach, an iconic sight with traditional fishing techniques and a scenic coastal view.Explore the Jewish Synagogue, known for its Belgian glass chandeliers and hand-painted tiles, reflecting a rich Jewish heritage.Visit the Dutch Palace, showcasing Kerala murals and exhibits related to the Rajas of Kochi.Tour St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, linked to Vasco da Gama’s arrival in India.Stroll through the bustling Mattancherry Spice Market, vibrant with the aroma of spices, and shop for a variety of local products and souvenirs.Overnight stay in Cochin.

Day 13: Cochin to Kovalam (200 km)
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Kovalam, approximately 200 km.Check in at your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.Relax on Lighthouse Beach, famous for its golden sands and clear waters, with opportunities for water sports.Visit nearby Samudra Beach, known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful sunset views.Explore local markets for souvenirs and enjoy the serene beach ambiance.Overnight stay in Kovalam.

Day 14: Kovalam
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a full-day sightseeing tour of Kovalam.Explore the Napier Museum, showcasing a collection of artifacts and artworks from Kerala's history.Visit Kuthira Malika, a palace built in the traditional style that reflects the cultural heritage of Kerala.Discover the Sree Chitra Art Gallery, showcasing an impressive collection of traditional and modern art, including works by renowned artists.Visit Padmanabhapuram Palace, a grand wooden structure exemplifying traditional Kerala architecture, with intricate woodwork and royal artifacts.Relax on the beaches of Kovalam, indulging in sunbathing, swimming, or trying local seafood delicacies at beachside restaurants.Overnight stay in Kovalam.

Day 15: Kovalam to Trivandrum (16 km) (Departure)
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out.Transfer to Trivandrum airport for your departure.

- 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.