Day 1: Arrive Kolkata

Upon arrival at Kolkata airport, you will be greeted by our representative who will assist you with the transfer to your hotel. Take some time to relax and settle in.

 

Day 2: Kolkata City Tour

Embark on a full-day city tour of Kolkata, also known as the "City of Joy." Visit iconic landmarks such as the Victoria Memorial, Indian Museum, Howrah Bridge, Marble Palace, and Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity. Explore the bustling streets and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this historical city.

 

Day 3: Kolkata to Bhubaneswar (Flight)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bhubaneswar. Upon arrival, visit notable temples in Bhubaneswar, including the Lingaraj Temple, Mukteshwar Temple, and Rajarani Temple. Also, explore the Dhauli Stupa, a Buddhist pilgrimage site known for its historical significance.

 

Day 4: Bhubaneswar to Puri (60kms)

Today, embark on a scenic drive to Puri, stopping en route to visit the magnificent Konark Sun Temple, known for its intricate stone carvings. Explore Pipili, famous for its vibrant applique work, and Raghurajpur, an artisan village known for Pattachitra paintings. Continue to Puri and visit the revered Jagannath Temple, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site.

 

Day 5: Excursion to Chilika Lake

Enjoy an excursion to Chilika Lake, the largest coastal lagoon in India and a haven for migratory birds. Hop on a boat and cruise through the scenic lake, observing the rich biodiversity and serene surroundings. Afterward, return to Puri and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

 

Day 6: Puri to Chennai (Flight)

Transfer to Bhubaneswar airport for your flight to Chennai (formerly known as Madras). Upon arrival, embark on a city tour of Chennai, visiting attractions such as Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Fort St. George, and the Government Museum. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and architectural beauty of the city.

 

Day 7: Chennai to Pondicherry (160kms)

Embark on a scenic drive to Pondicherry, a former French colony known for its unique blend of Indian and French influences. En route, visit the famous temples of Kanchipuram and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, known for its intricately carved temples and rock-cut sculptures.

 

Day 8: Pondicherry Sightseeing

Explore the charming town of Pondicherry, known for its serene beaches, colonial architecture, and spiritual centers. Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Auroville, Promenade Beach, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and the French Quarter. Experience the tranquil ambiance and cultural heritage of this coastal town.

 

Day 9: Pondicherry to Thanjavur (220kms)

Embark on a scenic drive to Thanjavur (formerly known as Tanjore), known for its rich cultural heritage and architectural marvels. En route, visit the famous Chidambaram Nataraja Temple and the Great Living Chola Temples at Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram. Upon arrival in Thanjavur, check-in at your hotel.

 

Day 10: Thanjavur - Trichy - Madurai (190kms)

After breakfast, explore the city of Thanjavur and visit its famous attractions, including the Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur Palace, and Saraswathi Mahal Library. Then drive to Madurai, making a stop in Trichy to visit the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple and the Rock Fort. Continue your journey to Madurai and check in at your hotel.

 

Day 11: Madurai - Munnar (160kms)

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Meenakshi Temple, known for its impressive architecture. Explore the Thirumalai Nayakar Palace and the sacred sites of Alagar Koil, Tiruparankundram Murugan Temple, and Palamuthirsolai Murugan Temple. Afterward, drive to Munnar and check in at your hotel.

 

Day 12: Munnar

Spend the day exploring the picturesque hill town of Munnar. Visit Pothamedu, a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the tea plantations and rolling hills. Explore the Mattupetty dam, Rajamala hill (home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr), Eravikulam National Park, Mattupedi Dairy Farm, Echo Point, and the Tea Museum. Enjoy the serene beauty of nature and immerse yourself in the tea culture of Munnar.

 

Day 13: Munnar - Thekkady (100kms)

Embark on a scenic drive to Thekkady, enjoying the breathtaking landscapes along the way. Enroute, visit Ramakkalmedu, known for its panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Upon arrival in Thekkady, check in at your hotel and relax.

 

Day 14: Thekkady

Start your day with an exciting boat safari in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, deer, and exotic bird species. Afterward, visit a spice plantation and learn about the aromatic spices grown in the region. Immerse yourself in the flavors and fragrances of the spices during a guided tour.

 

Day 15: Thekkady - Alleppey (160kms)

Leave Thekkady behind and embark on a scenic drive to Alleppey, also known as the "Venice of the East." Upon reaching Alleppey, head to the boat jetty and board a traditional houseboat. Sail through the enchanting backwaters of Kerala, surrounded by lush greenery and serene landscapes. Experience the tranquility and unique charm of the backwaters during your houseboat stay.

 

Day 16: Alleppey - Cochin (60kms)

Disembark from the houseboat in Alleppey and drive to Cochin (Kochi). Check in at your hotel and later embark on a city tour of Cochin. Explore the historical landmarks such as Fort Kochi, the Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, and the Jewish Synagogue. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

 

Day 17: Cochin - Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Cochin International Airport as per your flight schedule for your onward journey.

- Assistance on arrival at airport.

- 16 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 16 nights accommodation

Kolkata x 2 nights
3* - Regenta Orko's/ The Fern Residency
4* - The Peerless Inn/ The Fern Residency
5* - ITC Sonar, a Luxury Collection/ The Lalit Great Eastern

Bhubaneswar x 1 nights
3* - Kalinga Ashok/ The HHI
4* - Fortune Park Sishmo/ Mayfair Convention
5* - Mayfair Lagoon/ Trident Hotel

Puri x 2 nights
3* - Toshali Sands/ Blue Lily Beach Resort
4* - The Hans Coco Palms/ The Chariot Resort & spa
5* - Mayfair Waves

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

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 night
3* - Abad Green Forest/ Hotel Treetop
4* - The Elephant Court/ Cardamom County
5* - Spice village/ Cardamom County

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

- Kolkata - Bhubaneswar - Chennai flight fare approx ?15500 per person in economy class.

- Camera charges at monuments if any.

- Meals other than mentioned in inclusions.

- Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc. 

- Gratuities and optional activities.

- Anything not mentioned in inclusions.