Discovering South India
Discovering South India
Duration
11 nights / 12 days
Picup & Drop
Kochi / Chennai
Overview
The Discovering South India tour is a 12-day journey through the cultural and scenic landscapes of South India. From the historic port city of Kochi to the serene backwaters of Alleppey, the wildlife of Periyar, and the architectural wonders of Tamil Nadu, this itinerary captures the essence of Southern heritage. Travelers will experience temple towns like Madurai and Tanjore, French colonial vibes in Pondicherry, and the rock-cut marvels of Mahabalipuram. This trip offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, history, and spirituality, making it an unforgettable South Indian experience.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kochi
Arrive in Kochi, a historic port city known for its colonial past. Relax at the hotel after a warm welcome.
Day 2: Exploring Kochi
Visit Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, Fort Kochi, St. Francis Church, and Chinese fishing nets. Optional Kathakali dance performance available.
Day 3: Kochi to Alleppey (Houseboat)
Drive to Alleppey, board a traditional Kerala houseboat, and cruise through lush backwaters, enjoying local cuisine and scenic views.
Day 4: Alleppey to Periyar
Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, home to exotic migratory birds. Drive to Periyar, known for wildlife and spice plantations.
Day 5: Periyar Sightseeing
Take a spice plantation tour and visit a local market. Optional boat cruise on Lake Periyar or a nature walk available.
Day 6: Periyar to Madurai
Drive to Madurai, Tamil Nadu’s temple city. Visit Gandhi Museum, Tirumalai Nayak Palace, and witness the Meenakshi Temple Aarti ceremony.
Day 7: Madurai to Tanjore (via Trichy)
Stop at Trichy, famous for its temples and architecture. Visit Brihadeshwara Temple and Thanjavur Palace in Tanjore.
rience rural village life.
Day 8: Tanjore to Pondicherry
Travel to Pondicherry, a former French colony. Enjoy an evening exploring the charming streets and beachfront promenade.
Day 9: Pondicherry to Mahabalipuram
En route, visit Auroville, an experimental spiritual community. Arrive in Mahabalipuram, known for its ancient rock-cut temples.
Day 10: Exploring Mahabalipuram
Visit Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, and Five Rathas. Take an excursion to Kanchipuram, famous for its temples and silk weaving.
Day 11: Mahabalipuram to Chennai
Drive to Chennai, the cultural capital of South India. Visit Fort St. George, Marina Beach, and the National Museum.
Day 12: Chennai (Departure)
Explore more of Chennai before transferring to the airport for your flight home.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Accommodation on twin sharing basis
- Daily breakfast included
- Meeting and assistance on arrival and departures
- Rickshaw ride in Delhi
- Elephant ride at Amber fort, Jaipur, subject to availability. Else, Jeep ride will be provided
- Chauffeured air-conditioned vehicles for all transfers, excursions and sightseeing tours
- English speaking guide will be provided for sightseeing and excursion tours
- All currently applicable taxes
- Expenses of personal nature like laundry, telephone, fax, internet, beverages, camera / video camera fee at monuments, medical expenses, airport departure tax etc.
- Local payments in domestic currency, such as entry fees to monuments, tips and gratuities
- Monument entrance fee – quoted as a supplement
- Domestic / International air fare
- Indian Visa Fees
- Optional excursion tours, as mentioned in itinerary
- Any other services not mentioned in Price Inclusions above
Speical Notes
- Backwaters experience includes an overnight stay on a Kerala houseboat.
- Domestic flights in India allow a baggage limit of 15 kg for check-in and 7 kg for cabin baggage.
- Hotel check-in is at 2:00 PM, and check-out is at 12:00 PM.
- Optional activities like Kathakali dance, boat cruises, and nature walks are available at extra charges.
- Prices are quoted per person in USD on a twin-sharing basis and may vary with exchange rate fluctuations.
- In case of weather, traffic, or political disruptions, alternate arrangements will be made, but refunds may not be applicable.
Must carry
Authentic Government ID Card and Passport
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