South India Tour

Sacred South India Escape

Arrival in Chennai, the capital of South India. You’ll find yourself in a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and as a gateway to the tropical wonders of the region. Chennai, formerly known as Madras, boasts a blend of traditional and modern influences, with beautiful beaches, historical temples, and bustling markets.

After your arrival, you will meet our representative at the airport and transfer to your hotel.
Overnight in Chennai.

After breakfast, we will embark on a city tour of Chennai, starting with a visit to Fort St. George, the first fort built by the British in India, which now houses a museum showcasing the city’s colonial history. We will also explore the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a stunning example of Dravidian architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its intricate sculptures and vibrant gopuram (tower).

Following our time in Chennai, we will drive approximately two hours to Mahabalipuram.

En route, we will stop in Kanchipuram, famous for its ancient temples and exquisite silk sarees. Known as one of the seven Moksha-puris (sacred cities) in Hindu belief, Kanchipuram is home to several significant temples, including the Ekambareswarar Temple and the Kailasanathar Temple.

Upon arrival in Mahabalipuram, known for its rock-cut temples and stunning coastal scenery, you will transfer to your hotel.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts remarkable 7th-century monuments, including the famous Shore Temple and the Arjuna’s Penance bas-relief, attracting visitors for both their historical significance and breathtaking views of the Bay of Bengal.
Overnight in Mahabalipuram.

After breakfast, we will embark on a city tour of Mahabalipuram, where we will visit local temples and sculpting workshops, immersing ourselves in the rich tradition of stone carving that has thrived here for thousands of years. The rhythmic sound of hammers will greet us as we stroll among artisans, admiring the magnificent coastal temples that make this city a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Following our exploration, we will drive approximately two hours to Pondicherry, a charming coastal town once colonized by the French, renowned for its French architecture and the Sri Aurobindo Ashram.

Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel.

After some time to relax, we will set out on a tour of the city, visiting the botanical garden and a paper factory. We will continue to the famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram, known for its peaceful atmosphere and spiritual significance, followed by a visit to the Sacred Heart Church, built in 1902 and considered one of the most beautiful churches in the city.

Afterward, you’ll have some free time to wander around the unique French Quarter of Pondicherry, with its vibrant streets and charming cafes.
Overnight in Pondicherry.

After breakfast, we will embark on a scenic drive of approximately four hours through rural landscapes to Thanjavur, the former capital of the Chola dynasty that ruled from the 9th to 12th centuries.

En route, we will stop in Chidambaram, a Tamil temple town renowned for its vibrant temple culture.

Continuing our journey, we will arrive in Thanjavur and check into our hotel.

After some time to rest and refresh, we will set out for a city tour, beginning with a visit to the impressive Brihadeeswara Temple, which rises to a height of 66 meters and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Following this, we will visit the local bronze sculpture museum, conveniently located near the Maratha Palace.
Overnight in Thanjavur.

After breakfast, we will drive approximately one hour to Tiruchirappalli, famous for the Rock Fort Temple established in the 16th century by the Nayak dynasty.

Upon arrival, we will embark on a city tour that includes a visit to the Rock Fort Temple and the Srirangam complex, which is surrounded by seven walls and houses the Sri Ranganathasvami temple at its center.
We will continue our exploration with visits to additional temples in the city.

After our tour, we will return to our hotel in Thanjavur.
Overnight in Thanjavur.

After breakfast, we will embark on a five-hour drive to Madurai. Known as one of the oldest cities in South India, Madurai is famous for the magnificent Meenakshi Temple. The temple’s towering gateways, reaching heights of 53 meters, are adorned with thousands of colorful sculptures depicting figures from Hindu mythology.

Upon arrival, we will transfer to our hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Madurai.

After breakfast, we will embark on a day tour of the city. Our first stop will be the magnificent Meenakshi Temple, renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate sculptures.

Next, we’ll visit the nearby tailor’s market, where you can experience the vibrant local culture and perhaps shop for unique textiles.

We’ll then proceed to the Thirumalai Nayakar Palace, a historical site showcasing the grandeur of the Nayak dynasty. Following this, a visit to the Gandhi Museum will provide insight into India’s struggle for independence and Mahatma Gandhi’s influence.

In the evening, we will return to Meenakshi Temple to witness the age-old ritual of the gods’ nightly procession, where Lord Shiva is brought to the abode of Goddess Meenakshi for the night—a tradition that has been followed for thousands of years.
Overnight in Madurai.

After breakfast, we will embark on a journey of approximately 5 hours to Munnar. Nestled at an altitude of over 1,500 meters, Munnar served as a hill station during British colonial rule, known for its pleasant weather and stunning landscapes. The area is renowned for its sprawling tea plantations that cover the surrounding hills, many of which were established by the British. Today, over 80% of these estates are owned by the Tata family, famous worldwide for their automotive industry.

Upon arrival, we will visit the tea plantations and enjoy a circular walking trail through the lush greenery, local villages, and breathtaking views. This immersive experience will allow us to appreciate the beauty of Munnar and its rich tea heritage.
Overnight in Munnar.

After breakfast, we will head to Eravikulam National Park, which spans approximately 100 square kilometers and encompasses the peak of Anamudi, the highest mountain in South India. This stunning park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and offers breathtaking views of the lush Western Ghats.

Following our exploration of the park, we will visit the historic area of Munnar. Here, we’ll check out the local Catholic church, the Tea Museum, which showcases the history and significance of tea production in the region, and the bustling central market, where you can find local goods and souvenirs.

After our city exploration, we will return to the hotel for the night.
Overnight in Munnar.

After breakfast, we will embark on a approximately four-hour drive to Periyar, renowned for its spice plantations, including coffee and pepper, as well as tea and rubber estates, cardamom, cocoa, ginger, and vanilla.

Upon arrival, we will check into our hotel.

In the afternoon, we will enjoy a shared boat ride in Periyar National Park, which spans an area of 777 square kilometers and borders Tamil Nadu. The park is crisscrossed by the Periyar and Pamba rivers, providing a beautiful setting for wildlife viewing. During the boat ride, we may spot various wildlife inhabiting the sanctuary and admire the rare flora that thrives in the area.

In the evening, we will be treated to a Kalaripayattu show, showcasing this traditional martial art form that originates from Kerala.
Overnight in Periyar.

After breakfast, we will embark on a tour of the spice plantations, where we can find a variety of spices including pepper, tea, ginger, garlic, vanilla, cinnamon, and more.

Following our spice adventure, we will travel approximately five hours to Kumarakom. Located on the shores of the beautiful Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a hidden paradise surrounded by coconut trees, just 75 km from Kochi.

Upon arrival, we will check into our hotel, and the remainder of the day will be free for you to relax and explore the serene surroundings.
Overnight in Kumarakom.

After breakfast, we will embark on a serene boat ride through the backwaters of Kumarakom. During our journey, we will visit a local village, where we can meet the residents and learn about their traditional way of life.

The remainder of the day will be free for you to relax and explore the natural beauty surrounding you.
Overnight in Kumarakom.

After breakfast, we will board a Kettuvalam, a traditional houseboat that has been modernized for comfort. These boats feature spacious bedrooms, bathrooms, a kitchen, and a dining area, making for a cozy experience on the water.

As we cruise along the picturesque backwaters, we will observe the daily lives of the locals and the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area. The experience includes overnight accommodation on the boat, with lunch and dinner served on deck, allowing you to savor the beauty of Kumarakom while enjoying local cuisine.
Overnight on the houseboat.

Early risers can enjoy the stunning sunrise as breakfast is served on board.

We will conclude our houseboat experience by early afternoon and then take a one-hour drive to Kochi.

Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel for some relaxation.
After freshening up, we will embark on a tour of Kochi, one of the most fascinating cities in South India, known for its unique cultural tapestry and location. The city features narrow, winding streets lined with Portuguese-style houses, vibrant bars, and neon-lit avenues, alongside a historic Jewish community, a synagogue, and the church where Vasco da Gama was buried.

We will visit the synagogue and the small Jewish community that still resides in the area. Next, we will explore the Dutch Palace and marvel at the picturesque Chinese fishing nets.

In the evening, we will enjoy a traditional Kathakali performance, a captivating dance form characterized by its elaborate makeup and expressive storytelling. After the performance, we will return to the hotel.
Overnight in Kochi.

After breakfast, we will transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule for your return journey home.