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The Best Kept Secret of Kerala & Tamilnadu

Package price On Request

Product Code : AGORA712

Discover the hidden gems of South India on this enchanting journey through Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Begin in Cochin, exploring its historical charm and vibrant Kathakali performances before cruising the serene backwaters of Alleppey. Experience the rich wildlife and cultural heritage of Thekkady, followed by the breathtaking landscapes of Munnar's tea plantations. Marvel at the historical wonders of Madurai and Thanjavur, and delve into the ancient temples of Darasuram, Gangaikondacholapuram, and Chidambaram. Conclude in the charming coastal town of Pondicherry and explore Chennai’s historical sites and vibrant beaches, ending a captivating tour of South India's cultural and natural treasures.

 

Day 1: Arrive Cochin

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before your sightseeing activities. Upon arrival at Cochin airport, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
Cochin, also known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea," is famed for its historical and cultural significance. Relax and unwind at the hotel before your evening activity.
In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance. This traditional dance drama of Kerala is characterized by elaborate costumes, vibrant makeup, and intricate facial expressions. It narrates mythological stories through expressive movements and music, providing a deep dive into Kerala’s cultural heritage.


Day 2: Cochin - Alleppey (60kms)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before your city tour. Begin your exploration with Fort Cochin, a historic area known for its colonial-era architecture. Wander through streets lined with antique shops and colonial buildings, and admire the old churches.
Visit St. Frances Church, the oldest European church in India, featuring simple yet charming architecture. Explore the Jewish Synagogue in the Mattancherry area, renowned for its intricate Chinese tiles and historical significance within Cochin's Jewish community.
Discover the Dutch influence at Mattancherry Dutch Palace, which houses beautiful murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata epics.
Marvel at the Chinese Fishing Nets, iconic to Cochin’s waterfront, which are used in traditional fishing methods.
Drive to Alleppey, often called the "Venice of the East." Board a houseboat for a serene journey through the backwaters. Glide along palm-fringed canals and lush paddy fields, experiencing the tranquil beauty of Kerala’s waterways. Enjoy lunch and dinner on board, savoring traditional Kerala cuisine.


Day 3: Alleppey - Thekkady (160kms)

Start the day with breakfast on the houseboat before disembarking and driving to Thekkady. Thekkady is renowned for its rich biodiversity and wildlife.
Check in to your hotel and then head out for an evening Martial Arts & Kathakali Dance show. This performance highlights Kerala’s traditional martial arts and dance forms, showcasing intricate footwork, dramatic expressions, and elaborate costumes.

 

Day 4: Thekkady

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before your exploration of Thekkady. Begin with a boat ride on Periyar Lake, set within the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. This scenic lake is surrounded by dense forests where you might spot wildlife such as elephants, tigers, deer, and a variety of bird species.
Visit a spice plantation to learn about Kerala’s renowned spices. Discover the cultivation and processing of cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, and coffee. Gain insights into the agricultural practices and historical significance of these spices in the region.


Day 5: Thekkady - Munnar (100kms)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Munnar, a picturesque hill station famous for its tea plantations.
En route, stop at Ramakkalmedu for breathtaking panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the plains of Tamil Nadu. The area offers stunning vistas and is known for its cool breeze and lush greenery.
Arrive in Munnar and check in to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, soaking in the serene surroundings of this hill station.


Day 6: Munnar

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before your exploration of Munnar. Visit Pothamedu, a viewpoint offering spectacular views of the rolling tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations.
Explore Mattupetty Dam, which features a picturesque reservoir and offers opportunities for boat rides. The dam is also surrounded by lush greenery and is a great spot for relaxation.
Visit Rajamala Hill within Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri tahr, a mountain goat species found only in this region.
Explore the Tea Museum to understand the history and process of tea production in Munnar. Learn about the evolution of tea cultivation and its impact on the local economy.
Discover Echo Point, known for its natural echo phenomenon. The serene environment makes it a pleasant spot for enjoying the natural beauty of Munnar.
Visit Mattupedi Dairy Farm, renowned for the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project, and explore the farm’s activities and scenic surroundings.


Day 7: Munnar - Madurai (160kms)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Madurai, a city known for its vibrant culture and historical significance.
Check in at your hotel and visit the Meenakshi Temple, an architectural masterpiece dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi. The temple is famous for its intricately carved sculptures and vibrant rituals.
Explore Thirumalai Nayakar Palace, an imposing structure with grand arches and domes, showcasing the architectural brilliance of the Nayak dynasty.
Visit other notable temples such as Alagar Koil and Tiruparankundram Murugan Temple, each with its unique historical and religious significance.


Day 8: Madurai - Trichy - Thanjavur (190kms)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Trichy. In Trichy, visit the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest functioning Hindu temples in the world, known for its expansive gopurams (gateway towers) and intricate carvings.
Explore the Rock Fort Temple, situated on a rock outcrop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. The temple complex includes ancient shrines and a fort.
Visit Jambukeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its unique architectural features and spiritual ambiance.
Continue to Thanjavur and visit the Brihadeshwara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a marvel of Chola architecture. The temple is notable for its massive monolithic lingam and grand central dome.
Explore the Thanjavur Palace and Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of the Chola dynasty.


Day 9: Thanjavur - Darasuram - Gangaikondacholapuram - Chidambaram - Pondicherry (180kms)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before heading to Darasuram. Visit the Great Living Chola Temple of Darasuram, known for its detailed sculptures and historical significance.
Continue to Gangaikondacholapuram, an ancient temple town once the capital of the Chola dynasty. Explore the Brihadeshwara Temple and appreciate its architectural grandeur.
Visit Chidambaram to see the Nataraja Temple, famous for its grand architecture and the depiction of Lord Shiva in his cosmic dance form.
Arrive in Pondicherry and check in to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day relaxing and exploring the local area.


Day 10: Pondicherry

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before exploring Pondicherry’s unique charm. Visit the French Quarter, known for its colonial architecture, tree-lined streets, and quaint cafes.
Stroll along Promenade Beach, enjoying the serene coastline and the beautiful views of the Arabian Sea.
Discover the Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and the Mother. Visit the samadhi and meditation hall, experiencing the peaceful atmosphere of the ashram.
Enjoy some leisure time on the pristine beaches of Pondicherry, relaxing and immersing yourself in the tranquil environment.


Day 11: Pondicherry - Mahabalipuram - Kanchipuram - Chennai (240kms)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Chennai. En route, visit Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rock-cut temples and sculptures. Explore the Shore Temple, the Five Rathas, and Arjuna's Penance.
Continue to Kanchipuram, the "City of a Thousand Temples." Visit ancient temples such as Kailasanathar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and Ekambareswarar Temple, representing the Earth element among the Pancha Bhoota Stalas.
Arrive in Chennai and check in at your hotel. Relax and unwind after the day’s explorations.


Day 12: Chennai - Departure (Flight)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before your Chennai city tour. Visit Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India, which houses St. Mary's Church and the Fort Museum. Explore the historical artifacts and colonial-era exhibits.
Discover the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, known for its Dravidian architecture, intricately carved gopurams, and vibrant rituals.
Visit the Vadapalani Murugan Temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan, experiencing its spiritual ambiance and rituals.
Explore the Government Museum, renowned for its collections in art, archaeology, and anthropology, offering insights into Tamil Nadu’s cultural heritage.
Visit Santhome Cathedral, an important pilgrimage site dedicated to St. Thomas, one of Jesus’ apostles.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world, known for its lively atmosphere and stunning views.
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey, marking the end of your memorable tour.

- Assistance on arrival at airport.

- 11 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 11 nights' accommodation


Cochin x 1 night
3* - The Dune Hotel/ Abad Plaza
4* - Casino Hotel/ The Avenue Regent
5* - Xandari Harbour/ Le Meridien

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)

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

Munnar x 2 nights
3* - Fort Munnar/ Abad Copper Castle
4* - Nature Zone Jungle Resort/ Fragrant Nature Munnar
5* - Chandys Windy Woods/ Tea County

Madurai x 1 night
3* - Astoria by Sparsa/ Madurai’s Residency
4* - GRT Regency/ Fortune Pandiyan Hotel
5* - Heritage Madurai/ The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai

Thanjavur x 1 night
3* - Grand Gardenia/ Oriental Towers 
4* - Le Pondy/ The Windflower Resort & Spa
5* - Svatma

Pondicherry x 2 night
3* - Shenbaga Hotel/ Annamalai International
4* - Le Pondy/ The Windflower Resort & Spa
5* - Palais De Mahe/ La Villa

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

- Any flight ticket.

- 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.