Day 1: Arrival in Bangalore

Upon arrival at Bangalore, our representative will greet you and ensure a comfortable transfer to your hotel. Check-in is available from 12 pm onwards. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. You might want to take a gentle stroll around the hotel or indulge in some local Bangalore delicacies.

 

Day 2: Bangalore City Exploration

After a refreshing breakfast at the hotel, begin your city tour by visiting the Lalbagh Botanical Garden. This expansive garden boasts a diverse collection of tropical plants, a serene lake, and the iconic Glass House. Following this, proceed to the Bangalore Palace, an epitome of grandeur and a beautiful blend of Tudor and Scottish Gothic architectural styles. Later, delve into the city's history at the Bangalore Fort and Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace. Return to the hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

 

Day 3: Bangalore to Vellore (220kms)

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Vellore. Upon reaching Vellore, check in at your hotel and freshen up. Later in the day, visit the Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple, an architectural marvel adorned with intricate carvings and spiritual significance. Also, explore the Vellore Fort, known for its historical significance and stunning architecture, and the Jalakandeswarar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Retire for the night in Vellore.

 

Day 4: Vellore to Chennai (145kms)

Post breakfast, embark on a journey to Chennai. Enroute, immerse yourself in the spiritual aura of Kanchipuram, the "City of Thousand Temples". Visit the Kailasanathar Temple, showcasing exemplary Dravidian architecture, and the Ekambareswarar Temple with its vast temple complex. Upon arrival in Chennai, check in at your hotel and relax. Later, explore the cultural and historical landmarks of Chennai, including museums, art galleries, and beaches. Overnight stay in Chennai.

 

Day 5: Chennai to Pondicherry (160kms)

After breakfast, drive to Pondicherry, making a memorable stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mahabalipuram. Explore the magnificent Shore Temple, the ancient rock-cut Arjuna's Penance, and the Five Rathas, showcasing monolithic rock-cut architecture. Upon reaching Pondicherry, check in at your hotel. In the afternoon, embark on a city tour, visiting the spiritual Aurobindo Ashram, the experimental community of Auroville, and the charming French Quarter with its colonial-era architecture. Conclude the day with a leisurely stroll along Promenade Beach. Overnight in Pondicherry.

 

Day 6: Pondicherry to Thanjavur (180kms)

After breakfast, drive to Thanjavur. Enroute, visit the Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram, dedicated to Lord Shiva. If your visit coincides, you may witness the vibrant Chidambaram Natyanjali Dance Festival. Continue your journey to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram, showcasing the architectural brilliance of the Chola dynasty. Upon reaching Thanjavur, check in at your hotel and relax for the night.

 

Day 7: Thanjavur to Chettinad (140kms)

After breakfast, immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Thanjavur. Visit the UNESCO-listed Brihadeshwara Temple, an architectural marvel of the Dravidian era. Explore the Vijayanagar Fort and the Thanjavur Art Gallery & Saraswathi Mahal Library, showcasing an impressive collection of ancient manuscripts and artworks. Later in the day, drive to Chettinad via Trichy. In Trichy, visit the revered Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, the ancient Rock Fort Temple, and the Jambukeswarar Temple. Arrive in Chettinad, check in at your hotel, and soak in the unique ambiance of this culturally rich region.

 

Day 8: Chettinad to Madurai (90kms)

After breakfast, delve deeper into the heritage of Chettinad by exploring its opulent mansions of the Chettiar community. Marvel at the intricate architecture, grandeur, and unique interiors of these mansions. Later, experience the vibrant local life by visiting bustling markets and sampling the delectable Chettinad cuisine. After lunch, drive to Madurai. Upon arrival, check in and spend the evening at leisure, exploring the colorful streets, markets, and the bustling life of Madurai.

 

Day 9: Madurai to Munnar (160kms)

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai. Marvel at its breathtaking architecture, intricate carvings, and vibrant temple rituals. Later, explore the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, an architectural masterpiece showcasing a blend of Dravidian and Islamic styles. Post lunch, embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station nestled in the Western Ghats. Check in at your hotel in Munnar and relax amidst the tranquil landscapes.

 

Day 10: Explore Munnar

Dedicate this day to explore the mesmerizing beauty of Munnar. Begin with a visit to Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Admire the panoramic views of the rolling hills and lush greenery. Next, discover the Mattupetty Dam and Lake, surrounded by verdant tea gardens. Take a boat ride to soak in the serene ambiance. Later, delve into the history and art of tea production at the Tea Museum. Conclude the day by enjoying a tea tasting session, savoring the rich flavors of Munnar. Return to your hotel and relax amidst the serene ambiance.

 

Day 11: Munnar to Thekkady (110kms)

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Thekkady, a nature lover's paradise famous for its wildlife and spice plantations. Enroute, make a memorable stop at Ramakkalmedu, a scenic hill station offering panoramic views of valleys, green meadows, and windmills. Upon arrival in Thekkady, check in at your hotel. Later in the day, visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Embark on a boat ride on Periyar Lake, a reservoir surrounded by dense forests. Spot a variety of wildlife including elephants, deer, and a plethora of bird species. Afterward, take a guided spice plantation tour. Learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and processing of a variety of spices. Overnight in Thekkady.

 

Day 12: Thekkady to Kumarakom (140kms)

After breakfast, drive to Kumarakom, a tranquil backwater destination renowned for its serene beauty and rich biodiversity. Visit the Periyar Tiger Reserve, a protected area home to various species of flora and fauna. Enjoy a scenic boat cruise through the backwaters of Kumarakom. Witness the picturesque landscapes, traditional village life, and the serene beauty of the backwaters. Later, check in at your hotel and spend the evening at leisure, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.

 

Day 13: Kumarakom to Alleppey

After breakfast, proceed to the Alleppey boat jetty to embark on a memorable houseboat cruise through the enchanting backwaters of Kerala. Glide through the tranquil waterways, surrounded by lush green paddy fields, coconut groves, and traditional villages. Marvel at the scenic beauty, indulge in bird watching, and savor the delicious Kerala cuisine prepared by the onboard chef. Spend a peaceful night onboard the houseboat, drifting along the serene backwaters.

 

Day 14: Alleppey to Cochin (60kms)

Wake up to the gentle sounds of nature and enjoy breakfast onboard the houseboat. Disembark at the Alleppey boat jetty and drive to Cochin (Kochi). Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Later in the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene of Kerala by enjoying a Kathakali dance performance. Witness the intricate makeup, colorful costumes, and expressive performances that narrate tales from Indian epics. Overnight stay in Cochin.

 

Day 15: Cochin City Tour & Departure

After breakfast, embark on a guided city tour of Cochin. Explore the historic Fort Kochi area, featuring the St. Francis Church (the oldest European church in India) and the iconic Chinese fishing nets along the coast. Discover the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, featuring exquisite murals depicting Hindu mythology. Visit the Jewish Synagogue with its ornate interiors and nearby Jew Town with its bustling markets filled with antiques, spices, and handicrafts. Later in the day, based on your flight schedule, our representative will transfer you to Cochin airport for your onward journey, marking the end of your memorable South India tour.

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

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

Pondicherry x 1 nights
3* - Shenbaga Hotel/ Annamalai International
4* - Le Pondy/ The Windflower Resort & Spa
5* - Palais De Mahe/ La Villa

Thnjore x 1 nights
3* - Grand Gardenia/ Oriental Towers 
4* - Sangam Hotels/ Ideal River View Resort
5* - Svatma

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

Maduraix 1 nights
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

Thekkady (Thekkady) x 1 nights
3* - Abad Green Forest/ Hotel Treetop
4* - The Elephant Court/ Cardamom County
5* - Spice village/ Cardamom County

Kumarakom x 1 nights
3* - Abad Whispering Palm/ Cocobay Resort
4* - Eastend Lake Song/ Goldfield Lake Resort
5* - Coconut Lagoon/ The Zuri

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 nights
3* - The Dune Hotel/ Abad Plaza
4* - Casino Hotel/ The Avenue Regent
5* - Xandari Harbour/ Le Meridien

- 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.