Day 1: Arrival in Mumbai
Upon arrival at Mumbai, you will be warmly welcomed at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Check-in is available from 2 PM, with early check-in subject to room availability. Take some time to relax and refresh after your journey. The rest of the day is at leisure to acclimatize and prepare for the exciting adventures ahead. Evening can be spent enjoying the city at your own pace or resting at the hotel.

Day 2: Mumbai Sightseeing
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, followed by a full-day exploration of Mumbai’s cultural and historical landmarks. Begin with a visit to the iconic Gateway of India, Mumbai’s most famous waterfront monument. Board a ferry to the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring intricate sculptures and carvings. Return to Mumbai for a visit to the Banganga, an ancient water tank with mythological significance. Conclude the day exploring Colaba, with highlights including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and St. Thomas Cathedral, showcasing stunning Victorian Gothic architecture.

Day 3: Mumbai - Aurangabad (Flight) - Ellora Caves
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Aurangabad. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and prepare for an excursion to the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkable rock-cut temples and monasteries. Next, visit the sacred Jyotirlinga Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, admired for its grand architecture and spiritual ambiance. The day concludes with a visit to Daulatabad Fort, a 14th-century fortress showcasing impressive defensive architecture. Return to the hotel for a restful overnight stay.

Day 4: Aurangabad - Ajanta - Aurangabad (280kms round)
Today’s adventure takes you to the Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient rock-cut Buddhist temples and monasteries adorned with exquisite paintings and sculptures. These caves depict stories from the life of Buddha and previous incarnations, offering a deep insight into ancient Indian art and culture. Spend the day exploring the intricate carvings and frescoes, absorbing the historical ambiance of this remarkable site. Return to Aurangabad by evening, where the rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 5: Aurangabad - Hyderabad (Flight)
Begin the day with breakfast at your hotel, followed by a city tour of Aurangabad. Visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, a magnificent mausoleum inspired by the Taj Mahal, dedicated to Aurangzeb’s wife. Next, explore the Panchakki, a 17th-century water mill complex celebrated for its engineering brilliance. After sightseeing, transfer to the airport for your flight to Hyderabad. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening in the vibrant city known for its rich heritage.

Day 6: Hyderabad
Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Hyderabad after breakfast. Start with the iconic Charminar, a 16th-century monument and mosque symbolizing the city, followed by a visit to the bustling Laad Bazaar, renowned for colorful bangles and local crafts. Continue to the Salar Jung Museum, housing an extensive collection of art, artifacts, and antiquities from around the world. Spend the day immersed in Hyderabad’s culture and history before returning to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 7: Hyderabad - Chennai (Flight)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Chennai. On arrival, check in at your hotel and unwind. In the evening, visit Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shoreline, watch the sunset over the Bay of Bengal, and soak in the serene coastal ambiance. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 8: Chennai - Kanchipuram - Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry (235kms)
Post-breakfast, drive to Kanchipuram, the "City of Thousand Temples," known for its historic temples and exquisite silk sarees. Visit landmarks like Kamakshi Amman Temple and Kailasanathar Temple, marveling at the intricate carvings. Proceed to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its rock-cut temples and sculptures. Conclude the day with a drive to Pondicherry, a charming coastal town with French colonial heritage. Check in at the hotel and spend the evening at leisure.

Day 9: Pondicherry
After breakfast, explore the spiritual and cultural attractions of Pondicherry. Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, offering a peaceful environment for reflection. Then, marvel at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus with its Neo-Gothic architecture. Discover the Pondicherry Museum to delve into local history and culture. Enjoy a relaxed stroll along Promenade Beach and experience the unique blend of French and Indian culinary flavors. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 10: Pondicherry - Thanjavur (185km)
Drive from Pondicherry to Thanjavur after breakfast, stopping en route at Chidambaram to visit the Nataraja Temple, celebrated for its exquisite sculptures and spiritual significance. In Thanjavur, explore the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and architectural marvel of the Chola dynasty. Also visit Gangai Konda Cholapuram Temple and Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram, each highlighting South India’s rich temple architecture and history. Overnight stay at Thanjavur hotel.

Day 11: Thanjavur - Trichy (60km)
After breakfast, drive to Trichy and check in at your hotel. Visit the Rock Fort Temple, perched atop a 273-foot rock, offering panoramic city views and spiritual experiences. Explore Srirangam Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in India, known for its intricate carvings and religious importance. Spend the evening at leisure before returning to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 12: Trichy - Madurai (135km)
Drive to Madurai after breakfast and check in at the hotel. Visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a magnificent temple complex dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar. Admire the towering gopurams and detailed sculptures that reflect the city’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Spend time exploring the vibrant surroundings and soak in the historic atmosphere of one of India’s oldest cities. Overnight stay at Madurai hotel.

Day 13: Madurai - Thekkady (160km)
After breakfast, drive to Thekkady, located in the scenic Western Ghats. Check in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day exploring nature-based activities. Thekkady is home to Periyar National Park, a biodiversity hotspot rich with wildlife such as elephants, tigers, and exotic birds. Relax amidst the serene landscapes or enjoy optional guided nature walks and bamboo rafting experiences. Overnight stay at Thekkady hotel.

Day 14: Thekkady
Today, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Thekkady. Enjoy a boat ride along the Periyar River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and forests. Alternatively, participate in guided nature walks to discover the region’s flora and fauna. Bamboo rafting provides a unique adventure amidst tranquil waters. Visit spice plantations to learn about the cultivation of local spices and their role in regional cuisine. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 15: Thekkady - Alleppey (135km)
After breakfast, drive to Alleppey, famous for its picturesque backwaters. Board a traditional Kerala houseboat and glide along the tranquil canals, witnessing the daily life of locals. Enjoy scenic views of lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and serene landscapes. Relish the unique experience of floating through the peaceful backwaters, creating lasting memories of Kerala’s natural beauty. Overnight stay on the houseboat.

Day 16: Alleppey - Cochin (60km) - Departure
After breakfast, drive to Cochin for your onward journey. Explore cultural gems like the Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church, and the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. These sites showcase Cochin’s rich heritage and multicultural influences. Alternatively, enjoy some last-minute shopping in bustling local markets. Conclude your journey with a transfer to the airport, taking with you unforgettable memories of India’s historic, spiritual, and natural treasures.

- Assistance on arrival at airport.

- 15 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 

Mumbai x 2 nights
3* - Hotel Suba Palace/ BW Hotel Sahil
4* - Sun-N-Sand Hotel/ Fariyas Hotel
5* - Trident Hotel/ ITC Grand Central

Aurangabad x 2 nights
3* - 7 Apple Hotel Aurangabad / Ginger Aurangabad
4* - Ambassador Ajanta / VITS Hotel
5* - WelcomHotel Rama International / Lemon Tree Hotel

Hyderabad x 2 nights
3* - Aditya Park/ Lemon Tree Hotel
4* - Lemon Tree Hotel/ Fortune Park Vallabha
5* - ITC Kakatiya, a Luxury Collection/ Trident Hotel

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

Pondicherry x 2 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

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

Alleppey x 1 night
3* - ATDC Houseboat/ Dream Boats
4* - ATDC Houseboat/ Dream Boats
5* - Xandari Riverscapes/ Lakes & Lagoons/ Spice Route Premium
 

- Mumbai - Aurangabad - Hyderabad - Chennai flight fare approx INR 15, 500 per person in economy class.

- 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.