This 9-day journey takes you deep into the heart of Southern India, blending its rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and spiritual essence. Explore magnificent temples, lush hill stations, serene backwaters, and pristine beaches while immersing in the vibrant traditions and flavors of the south. This tailor-made itinerary offers a perfect mix of cultural insights, adventure, and relaxation.
Highlights
Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mahabalipuram and Tanjore.
Experience the rich temple architecture and rituals in Madurai.
Enjoy wildlife sightings in Thekkady and a tranquil backwater cruise in Kumarakom.
Immerse in the colonial charm of Pondicherry and historical Cochin.
Witness Kerala’s classical Kathakali dance performance.
Tour Plan
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Arrival in Chennai
Highlights : Airport pickup and Chennai city tour.
Activities : Visit Fort St. George, Marina Beach, and Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
Evening free for local exploration and shopping.
Overnight: Chennai
Chennai to Mahabalipuram (1.5-hour drive)
Highlights : UNESCO World Heritage Site exploration.
Activities : Visit Shore Temple, Arjuna's Penance, and the Pancha Rathas.
Relax by the beach in Mahabalipuram.
Overnight: Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry (2-hour drive)
Highlights : Colonial heritage of Pondicherry.
Activities : Explore Aurobindo Ashram, French Quarter, and Promenade Beach.
Visit Auroville for a spiritual experience.
Overnight: Pondicherry
Pondicherry to Tanjore (4-hour drive)
Highlights : Temples and art of Tanjore.
Activities Tanjore to Madurai (3-hour drive): Visit Brihadeeswara Temple (UNESCO site) and Tanjore Palace.
Learn about Tanjore paintings and bronze sculptures.
Overnight: Tanjore
Tanjore to Madurai (3-hour drive)
Highlights : Spiritual experience in Madurai.
Activities : Visit the iconic Meenakshi Temple and Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace.
Evening temple ceremony (optional).
Overnight: Madurai
Madurai to Thekkady (3.5-hour drive)
Highlights : Nature and wildlife at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Activities : Boat ride on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife.
Spice plantation tour and optional elephant ride.
Overnight: Thekkady
Thekkady to Kumarakom (4-hour drive)
Highlights : Backwater experience.
Activities : Stay at a backwater resort or enjoy a traditional houseboat cruise.
Relax amidst the natural beauty of Kerala’s backwaters.
Overnight: Kumarakom
Kumarakom to Cochin (1.5-hour drive)
Highlights : Historical charm of Cochin.
Activities : Visit Fort Kochi, Jewish Synagogue, and Chinese Fishing Nets.
Explore Mattancherry Palace and enjoy a Kathakali dance performance.
Overnight: Cochin
Departure from Cochin
Highlights : Transfer to airport for onward journey.
Activities : After breakfast, check-out and transfer to Cochin International Airport.
Inclusion
Accommodation in 4-star or boutique hotels/resorts.
Daily breakfast.
Transfers and transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle.
Sightseeing as per the itinerary with an English-speaking guide.
Entry fees to monuments and national parks.
Houseboat cruise in Kumarakom.
Spice plantation visit in Thekkady.
Kathakali dance show in Cochin.
Airport transfers (Arrival and Departure).
All applicable taxes.
Exclusion
International or domestic airfare.
Meals (other than those specified).
Travel insurance.
Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, tips, etc.).
Optional tours and activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
Visa charges (if applicable).
Any cost arising due to unforeseen events (natural calamities, flight delays, etc.).