Day 1: Arrive Chennai

Upon arrival in Chennai, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a half-day city tour.
Visit Fort St. George, built in 1653 by the British East India Company, now housing the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and a museum with colonial artifacts.
Explore Kapaleeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring Dravidian-style architecture, intricately carved gopurams, and colorful sculptures.
Discover the Government Museum, which showcases a diverse collection of ancient sculptures, artifacts, and art from South India’s rich heritage.
Relax with a stroll along Marina Beach, a 13-kilometer stretch known for its golden sands, lively atmosphere, and numerous statues along the promenade.
Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

 

Day 2: Chennai - Kanchipuram - Mahabalipuram (120 km)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before checking out and proceeding to Kanchipuram.
Visit Kailasanatha Temple, one of the earliest Dravidian temples, renowned for its detailed sculptures and early Chola architecture.
Explore Ekambareswarar Temple, a large temple complex with a massive temple tank, celebrated for its lush gardens and spiritual significance.
Visit Varadaraja Perumal Temple, known for its grand architecture, intricate carvings, and religious importance.
Continue to Mahabalipuram and visit the Shore Temple, an ancient temple complex overlooking the Bay of Bengal with exquisite carvings and historic significance.
Marvel at Arjuna’s Penance, a colossal bas-relief depicting scenes from the Mahabharata, carved into a single rock face.
Explore the Pancha Rathas, five monolithic rock-cut temples each dedicated to a different deity, showcasing unique architectural styles.
Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.

 

Day 3: Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry (120 km)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Pondicherry.
Check in at your hotel and begin your exploration with a visit to the French Quarter, featuring colonial-era buildings with vibrant colors and charming streets.
Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, founded by Sri Aurobindo, offering a tranquil environment for meditation and spiritual practice.
Spend the evening at the Promenade, a scenic walkway along the Bay of Bengal with views of statues, a lighthouse, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

 

Day 4: Pondicherry - Chidambaram - Gangaikonda Cholapuram - Darasuram - Thanjavur (180 km)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before heading towards Thanjavur.
Visit Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram, renowned for its divine dance of Lord Shiva, featuring intricate bronze sculptures and vibrant temple rituals.
Proceed to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a grand temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, noted for its monumental architecture and carvings.
Explore Darasuram and the Airavatesvara Temple, another UNESCO site with exquisite carvings depicting mythological themes and architectural finesse.
Arrive in Thanjavur and visit Brihadeeswarar Temple, an architectural marvel with a massive dome and detailed carvings, showcasing Chola dynasty grandeur.
Explore Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery, home to a rich collection of bronze statues, ancient artifacts, and historical paintings reflecting the region’s heritage.
Overnight stay in Thanjavur.

 

Day 5: Thanjavur - Trichy (60 km)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before continuing your exploration of Thanjavur.
Marvel at Brihadeeswarar Temple once more, appreciating its grandeur, massive gopurams, and intricate sculptures.
Visit Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery again to delve deeper into its impressive collection of art and historical artifacts.
Drive to Trichy and visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in India, known for its towering gopurams and vast courtyards.
Explore the Rock Fort Temple, located atop a rocky outcrop with panoramic views of the city, featuring ancient shrines and a historic fortress.
Visit Jambukeshwara Temple, part of the Pancha Bhoota Stalas, dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its unique representation of the water element.
Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

 

Day 6: Trichy - Madurai (135 km)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Madurai.
Check in at your hotel and visit Meenakshi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its grand gopurams, intricate sculptures, and vibrant religious festivals.
Explore Thirumalai Nayak Palace, known for its majestic courtyards, ornate pillars, and a blend of Dravidian and Rajput architecture.
Visit Gandhi Memorial Museum, which displays a fascinating collection of photographs, letters, and artifacts related to Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian independence movement.
Stroll through Madurai Market, a bustling area offering a wide range of local crafts, textiles, spices, and traditional products.
Overnight stay in Madurai.

 

Day 7: Madurai - Munnar (160 km)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Munnar.
Enjoy the scenic drive through winding roads with breathtaking views of lush tea gardens, serene waterfalls, and panoramic vistas.
Check in at your hotel and unwind in the tranquil surroundings of Munnar.
Visit the Attukal Waterfalls, a picturesque cascade set amidst verdant hills, offering a serene spot for nature lovers.
Explore the local markets of Munnar, known for its fresh tea leaves, spices, and handmade crafts.
Spend the evening relaxing amidst the natural beauty of the hill station or enjoy a leisurely walk through the tea estates.
Overnight stay in Munnar.

 

Day 8: Munnar

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a full-day sightseeing tour of Munnar.
Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, with lush landscapes and rich biodiversity, and enjoy panoramic views from the Rajamalai peak.
Marvel at Mattupetty Dam, known for its picturesque lake and opportunities for boating amidst stunning scenery.
Explore the Tea Museum, which provides insights into the history and processes of tea cultivation in Munnar, including the various types of tea and machinery used.
Discover the Anamudi Peak, the highest point in South India, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and an opportunity for nature walks.
End the day at Top Station, providing breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and the valley below, ideal for photography and relaxation.
Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

 

Day 9: Munnar - Thekkady (110 km)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Thekkady.
Check in at your hotel and visit a local spice plantation to learn about the cultivation and uses of various spices in Kerala.
Explore the lush greenery of the plantation and experience the aromatic world of Kerala’s spices, including pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon.
Visit the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre to witness a demonstration of Kalaripayattu, a traditional martial art form of Kerala, and learn about its history and techniques.
In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance showcasing traditional Kerala art forms such as Kathakali or Mohiniyattam, offering a glimpse into the region's rich performing arts heritage.
Overnight stay in Thekkady.

 

Day 10: Thekkady

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a guided tour of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Traverse through dense forests, bamboo groves, and grasslands while searching for wildlife such as elephants, tigers, wild boars, and various bird species.
Opt for a boat ride on Periyar Lake, providing a unique opportunity to spot wildlife along the lake's edge and enjoy serene surroundings.
Visit a local spice market in Thekkady to purchase authentic spices and learn about their uses in Kerala cuisine.
Explore the nearby village to experience traditional Kerala lifestyle and customs.
Overnight stay in Thekkady.

 

Day 11: Thekkady - Alleppey (135 km)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Alleppey.
Board a private houseboat and embark on a scenic cruise through the backwaters of Kerala, navigating the intricate network of canals, lakes, and lagoons.
Witness the tranquil beauty of the backwaters, traditional village life, and lush greenery while enjoying freshly prepared Kerala cuisine onboard.
Stop at a local village along the way to interact with residents and learn about their traditional lifestyles.
Overnight stay on the houseboat.

 

Day 12: Alleppey - Cochin (60 km)

Start the day with breakfast on the houseboat before disembarking and driving to Cochin.
Check in at your hotel and visit the Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi Beach, an iconic sight of the region with traditional fishing techniques and a scenic coastal view.
Explore the Jewish Synagogue, known for its Belgian glass chandeliers and hand-painted tiles, reflecting a rich Jewish heritage.
Visit the Dutch Palace, showcasing Kerala murals and exhibits related to the Rajas of Kochi, including royal artifacts and historical items.
Tour St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, with a historical significance linked to Vasco da Gama’s arrival in India.
Stroll through the bustling Mattancherry Spice Market, vibrant with the aroma of spices, and shop for a variety of local products and souvenirs.
Overnight stay in Cochin.

 

Day 13: Cochin - Kovalam (200 km)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Kovalam.
Check in at your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Relax on Lighthouse Beach, famous for its golden sands, clear waters, and opportunities for water sports.
Visit the nearby Samudra Beach, known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful sunset views.
Explore local markets for souvenirs and enjoy the serene beach ambiance.
Overnight stay in Kovalam.

 

Day 14: Kovalam

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a full-day sightseeing tour of Kovalam.
Visit the Padmanabhapuram Palace, a grand wooden structure that exemplifies traditional Kerala architecture, with intricate woodwork and royal artifacts.
Discover the Sree Chitra Art Gallery, which showcases an impressive collection of traditional Indian paintings, including works by Raja Ravi Varma.
Wander through the local markets, where you can purchase authentic Kerala handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs.
Explore the Napier Museum, known for its eclectic collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures, bronze statues, and traditional Kerala art.
Visit the Kanakakunnu Palace, a former royal residence now used as a cultural center and exhibition venue, offering insights into Kerala's royal history and contemporary art.
Visit to Lighthouse Beach, known for its golden sands and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Enjoy sunbathing and engage in water sports like surfing and jet-skiing.
Next, head to Hawah Beach, famed for its serene and less crowded environment, making it perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Explore the Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple, which dates back to the 8th century and features ancient carvings and inscriptions that reveal the region's historical and religious significance.

 

Day 15: Kovalam - Departure

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before checking out and proceeding to Trivandrum airport for your departure flight.
Depart with cherished memories of South India’s temples, landscapes, and backwaters.
 

- 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 nights accommodation

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

Mahabalipuram x 1 night
3* - INDeco Hotels/ Mamalla Beach Resort
4* - Ideal Beach Resort/ Confluence The Banquet & Resort
5* - Radisson BLU Resort Temple Bay/ Fisherman's Cove

Pondicherry x 1 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

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

Day cruise in 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

Kovalam x 2 nights
3* - Harmonia Beach Resort/ Sagara Beach Resort
4* - Estuary Island Resort/Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel
5* - Vivanta by Taj - Green Cove/ The Leela Kovalam Beach

- 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.