Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry – Chidambaram – Tanjore – Trichy – Madurai – Periyar – Kumarakom – Alleppey – Cochin
Discover the cultural treasures, spiritual traditions, and natural beauty of South India on this carefully curated private journey through Tamil Nadu and Kerala. From magnificent temple cities and colonial towns to lush spice plantations and tranquil backwaters, this tour showcases the region's remarkable diversity.
Begin in Chennai, the cultural gateway to South India, before exploring the UNESCO-listed monuments of Mahabalipuram, famous for its ancient rock-cut temples and stunning Shore Temple. Continue to the charming French colonial town of Pondicherry, where elegant boulevards and seaside promenades create a unique atmosphere.
Visit the sacred temple town of Chidambaram and admire the architectural masterpieces of Tanjore and Trichy, home to some of South India's most impressive temples and living traditions. In Madurai, experience the grandeur of the magnificent Meenakshi Temple, one of India's most revered pilgrimage sites.
Cross into Kerala and journey through the spice-growing hills of Periyar, renowned for its plantations, wildlife, and scenic beauty. Relax amidst the serene waterways of Kumarakom and Alleppey, where palm-fringed canals, traditional villages, and peaceful backwaters reveal Kerala's timeless charm.
Conclude your journey in historic Cochin, a fascinating port city shaped by centuries of trade and cultural exchange between India, Europe, Arabia, and China. Accompanied by your own private driver throughout, you can travel at a comfortable pace while enjoying personalized experiences and authentic local encounters. Combining heritage, spirituality, nature, and relaxation, this tour offers an unforgettable introduction to the very best of South India.
On arrival at Chennai airport our representative having a placard displaying your name will meet you to pick you up and transfer to your hotel. Today only an airport transfer is included and no sightseeing or any other visit is planned or included. If you arrive at Chennai early morning and wish to do sightseeing then kindly let us know and we shall do the needful and include a visit to Chennai attractions. Overnight at hotel in Chennai hotel.
80km
After breakfast, half day city tour of Chennai. First of all visit the Museum to see the art and bronze gallery. Drive through the Flower & Fruit Market, High Court, Fort Museum, Marina Beach, Saint Thomas Cathedral.
Afternoon, drive towards Mahabalipuram. Arrive and check in to the hotel. Overnight at hotel.
100km
After breakfast visit Mahabalipuram. Visit the 7th-century Shore Temple which is surrounded by lush gardens. Later visit the 7th-century Five Rathas. After the visit drive to Pondicherry. Arrive and check in to the hotel. Evening walk in the busy market of Pondicherry.
180km
Morning after breakfast visit Pondicherry. Visit the city and Sri Aurobindo Ashram the serene world of distinct spiritual vibration and thus renowned as Sacred Land. Later drive to Swamimalai. En route visit The Nataraja Temple at Chidambaram. The roof of the sanctum sanctorum is covered with gold plates. The presiding deity of the temple is represented by air, one of the five elements of the universe and is known as Akasa Lingam. After the visit continue drive towards Tanjore. Arrive and check in to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel in Tanjore.
200km
After breakfast visit Brihadeeswarar Shiva Temple at Tanjore, built by King Raja Rajan from the year 985 AD - 1010 AD. This is one of the superb temple architects of the Chola dynasty. Later visit Raja Rajan art gallery to see bronze statures of 9th-16th century. After the visit drive to Trichy. Arrive and visit Srirangam Vishnu Temple. It has 21 gopurmas (towers); one of the gopurma is 73 meters, highest in India. Continue drive towards Madurai. Arrive and check in to the hotel. Later in the late evening attend Puja (worship) ceremony at Meenakshi Temple. Overnight at the hotel in Madurai.
145km
Breakfast at the hotel visit Madurai city. Visit Meenakshi Temple, which is 1000 pillared hall carrying some beautiful sculptures of the seventeenth century. Also visit Thirumalai Nayak Palace. This Palace was built in 1636 by King Thirumalai Nayak with the help of an Italian architect. The building we see today was the main palace where the king lived. The original palace complex was four times bigger than the present structure. This palace consisted mainly of two parts, namely Swargavilasa and Rangavilasa. In the afternoon drive to Periyar. Arrive and check in to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
In the morning take boat ride in the Lake Periyar to watch animals in their natural habitat on the water's edge. While cruising on Lake Periyar, you are likely to see animals like wild boars, sambars, wild dogs, Langur monkeys and wild elephants. Later you will be taken to visit a plantation garden. In the afternoon elephant ride of 30 minutes in the plantations. Rest of the day is free at leisure. Overnight at the hotel in Pariyar.
130km
After breakfast drive to Kumarakom. Arrive and check in to the hotel. Rest of the day free at leisure. Overnight at the hotel in Kumarakom.
Backwaters cruise till Alleppey
After breakfast visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is the most visited tourist venue in Kumarakom. This marshy stretch of land is the natural habitat of various species of birds. Migratory birds make this sanctuary their home during the winter season.
In the afternoon check in to traditional Kerala house boat for a cruise, which is totally a delightful experience. Cruise through the palm fringed canals, watch the paddy fields and village folk, while relaxing on board hearing the lullaby of the wind & waves. This mysterious strip of emerald green land is stuffed with endless miles of placid backwaters that appends to its charm. Freshly cooked local food is served onboard. Dinner and overnight stay at the houseboat.
60km
Breakfast at the houseboat. Check out and drive to Cochin. Arrive and check in to the hotel. Rest of the day is free at leisure. In the evening attend Kathakali dance show. Overnight at the hotel in Cochin.
After breakfast visit of Cochin including The Dutch Palace at Mattancherry, renowned for its wall murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana. The Jewish Synagogue at the heart of what is locally called the Jew Town. The St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. Enjoy a tuktuk ride in Spice market of Mattancherry area. In the late evening transfer to the airport to board the flight for your onward destination.
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