Bangalore to Kovalam South India Temple & Beach

Day 1: Arrival in Bangalore

Upon arrival at Bangalore Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and assisted with a smooth transfer to your hotel. After check-in, take some time to refresh and relax after your journey. The rest of the day is free for leisure, allowing you to enjoy the calm of the city at your own pace. You may choose to take a short evening walk around nearby areas or simply unwind at the hotel. Bangalore offers a pleasant introduction to your South India journey with its blend of urban energy and pleasant climate. Overnight at hotel in Bangalore.

Day 2: Bangalore Sightseeing

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your city tour of Bangalore, known for its gardens, palaces, and heritage landmarks. Start with Lalbagh Botanical Garden, a sprawling green space that houses a wide variety of tropical plants and beautifully maintained landscapes. Continue to Bangalore Palace, an impressive structure inspired by Tudor-style architecture, featuring elegant interiors, carved woodwork, and royal charm. Visit Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, a historic wooden palace that reflects the grandeur of the Mysore ruler’s era. Later, explore the Bull Temple, home to the giant monolithic Nandi statue carved from a single granite rock. In the evening, enjoy free time for local shopping or a relaxed dinner before returning to the hotel. Overnight at hotel in Bangalore.

Day 3: Bangalore to Vellore (Approx. 220 km / 4.5–5 hrs drive)

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive from Bangalore to Vellore, covering approximately 220 km in about 4.5 to 5 hours. The journey takes you through the highways and countryside of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, offering a comfortable inter-state travel experience. Upon arrival in Vellore, begin sightseeing with the historic Vellore Fort, a strong granite fortress built during the 16th century. Inside the fort complex, visit the Jalakandeswarar Temple, a beautiful Dravidian temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its carved pillars and peaceful atmosphere. Continue to the Government Museum, where collections of sculptures, inscriptions, and art objects provide a glimpse into the region’s history. After sightseeing, check in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel in Vellore.

Day 4: Vellore to Chennai (Approx. 145 km / 3–4 hrs drive)

After breakfast at the hotel, depart from Vellore and drive to Chennai, covering approximately 145 km in around 3 to 4 hours. En route, make a short stop at Kanchipuram, the famous temple town known as the “City of Thousand Temples.” Visit the sacred Kamakshi Amman Temple, a revered shrine deeply rooted in devotion and classical architecture. Continue your drive to Chennai, where you will check in at the hotel and begin a city tour. Visit the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple, admired for its colorful gopuram and lively spiritual atmosphere, followed by Fort St. George, a historic colonial landmark that reflects Chennai’s British past. Later, enjoy a relaxed walk along Marina Beach and conclude with a visit to the Government Museum, home to significant collections of art and archaeology. Return to the hotel after sightseeing. Overnight at hotel in Chennai.

Day 5: Chennai to Pondicherry via Mahabalipuram (Approx. 160 km / 4–5 hrs drive)

After breakfast, check out and drive from Chennai to Pondicherry, covering approximately 160 km in about 4 to 5 hours. En route, stop at Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient rock-cut monuments and coastal setting. Visit the Shore Temple, one of the oldest stone temples in South India, and explore Arjuna’s Penance, a remarkable rock relief that showcases detailed carvings and mythological scenes. Continue your drive to Pondicherry and check in to your hotel. Later, begin the city tour with a visit to Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a peaceful spiritual center that draws visitors from around the world. Explore the French Quarter, where colonial buildings, quiet streets, and charming cafés reflect the town’s unique heritage. Visit Auroville and enjoy time at Promenade Beach before returning to the hotel. Overnight at hotel in Pondicherry.

Day 6: Pondicherry to Thanjavur via Chidambaram, Gangaikonda Cholapuram & Darasuram (Approx. 180 km / 5–6 hrs drive)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Thanjavur, covering approximately 180 km in around 5 to 6 hours with sightseeing stops along the way. Begin with a visit to the Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram, one of the most sacred Shiva temples in South India, known for its spiritual energy and architectural excellence. Continue to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, where the grand Chola temple stands as a reminder of the dynasty’s power and artistic brilliance. Proceed to Darasuram to admire the Airavatesvara Temple, a UNESCO-listed monument celebrated for its intricate carvings and sculptural detail. Each site offers a deep insight into the Chola legacy and Dravidian temple architecture. After the en route visits, continue to Thanjavur and check in to your hotel. Overnight at hotel in Thanjavur.

Day 7: Thanjavur to Chettinad (Approx. 140 km / 3–4 hrs drive)

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your sightseeing in Thanjavur with a visit to the Brihadeeswara Temple, one of India’s greatest architectural masterpieces and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire its towering vimana, the massive Nandi statue, and the grand stone courtyard that reflect the glory of the Chola dynasty. Continue to the Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery, where royal artifacts, bronze statues, and paintings reveal the city’s cultural richness. Visit the Saraswathi Mahal Library to glimpse ancient manuscripts and rare historical records. Later, drive to Chettinad, covering approximately 140 km in about 3 to 4 hours. The region is known for its grand mansions, traditional craftsmanship, and distinct culinary heritage. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax for the evening. Overnight at hotel in Chettinad.

Day 8: Chettinad to Madurai (Approx. 90 km / 2 hrs drive)

After breakfast, begin your exploration of Chettinad’s heritage by visiting some of its elegant mansions, where carved woodwork, tiled courtyards, and spacious halls reflect the aristocratic lifestyle of the Chettiar community. You may also visit local craft centers or tile workshops to understand the region’s artistic traditions. Later, drive to Madurai, covering approximately 90 km in about 2 hours. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and begin the city tour with the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple, one of the most vibrant and important temples in India. Admire its towering gopurams, colorful sculptures, and sacred atmosphere that make it the heart of Madurai. Spend the evening at leisure, soaking in the lively spirit of the city. Overnight at hotel in Madurai.

Day 9: Madurai to Rameshwaram (Approx. 170 km / 4–5 hrs drive)

After breakfast at the hotel, continue your journey to Rameshwaram, covering approximately 170 km in around 4 to 5 hours. Before leaving Madurai, you may spend more time at the Meenakshi Temple if needed. The drive to Rameshwaram is scenic and takes you closer to the sacred coastal landscapes of Tamil Nadu. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and begin sightseeing with the Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the holiest Shiva temples in India and an important pilgrimage center. Visit the temple’s famous long corridors and sacred wells, which hold great religious significance. Later, enjoy time at the beach or walk around the quiet surroundings of the island town. Overnight at hotel in Rameshwaram.

Day 10: Rameshwaram to Kanyakumari (Approx. 320 km / 6–7 hrs drive)

After breakfast, begin a full-day drive from Rameshwaram to Kanyakumari, covering approximately 320 km in about 6 to 7 hours. En route, visit the Pamban Bridge, an engineering landmark that connects Rameshwaram to the mainland and offers beautiful sea views. Stop at Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple and, if time permits, learn about the legendary Ram Setu, a site linked to epic tradition and mythology. Continue your drive to Kanyakumari, the southernmost point of mainland India, where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean meet. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and later visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial to witness the dramatic sunset over the sea. Overnight at hotel in Kanyakumari.

Day 11: Kanyakumari to Kovalam (Approx. 80 km / 2–3 hrs drive)

Wake up early to witness the beautiful sunrise in Kanyakumari, one of the rare places in India where sunrise and sunset views are equally memorable. After breakfast, visit the Kumari Amman Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kanyakumari, followed by the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the towering Thiruvalluvar Statue. These landmarks offer superb sea views and a peaceful coastal atmosphere. Later, drive to Kovalam, covering approximately 80 km in about 2 to 3 hours. Upon arrival, check in at your beach resort and spend the rest of the day relaxing along the shoreline. Enjoy the calm beaches, sea breeze, and laid-back rhythm of Kerala’s coast. Overnight at hotel in Kovalam.

Day 12: Kovalam to Trivandrum Sightseeing

After breakfast at the hotel, begin a sightseeing tour of Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala. Visit the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a sacred and architecturally impressive shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Continue to the Napier Museum, where historical artifacts, bronze idols, and decorative displays provide a deeper look into Kerala’s cultural legacy. Explore the Kuthiramalika Palace, known for its unique wooden architecture and horse-shaped brackets. In the afternoon, return to Kovalam and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure on the beach. You may relax by the sea, enjoy optional water activities, or simply unwind at your resort. Overnight at hotel in Kovalam.

Day 13: Leisure in Kovalam

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a full day at leisure in Kovalam. This is the perfect time to slow down and experience Kerala’s coastal charm at your own pace. Spend time on the beach, take a quiet walk along the shoreline, or relax at your resort with sea-facing views. You may also choose to enjoy an Ayurvedic spa treatment or sample local Kerala cuisine at a seaside restaurant. The peaceful surroundings and gentle waves make Kovalam a wonderful place to rest and rejuvenate. Overnight at hotel in Kovalam.

Day 14: Leisure in Kovalam

After breakfast, enjoy another relaxed day in Kovalam. You may revisit the beach for swimming or sunbathing, explore nearby local markets, or simply enjoy the atmosphere of your resort. This free day allows you to fully absorb the calm and scenic side of South India after your long cultural journey. Optional sightseeing in nearby areas can also be arranged if required. The day is designed for comfort, relaxation, and unhurried enjoyment. Overnight at hotel in Kovalam.

Day 15: Kovalam Departure

After breakfast at the hotel, complete your check-out formalities and transfer to Trivandrum International Airport for your onward journey. Your South India tour concludes today with unforgettable memories of temples, heritage towns, coastal landscapes, and cultural experiences. The journey from Bangalore to Kovalam offers a rich blend of exploration and relaxation, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the diversity and beauty of southern India.

• Assistance on arrival at airport
• 14 nights accommodation in selected category hotels
• Daily breakfast at hotels
• Private AC vehicle for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program
• English-speaking local guides on sightseeing days as per the itinerary
• Monument entrance fees and activity charges mentioned in the program
• Bottled drinking water in vehicle
• All applicable government taxes

Hotels used or similar for 14 nights accommodation

Bangalore x 2 nights
3* - Ramada/ The Rialto
4* - Fortune Select JP Cosmos/ Lemon Tree Premier Ulsoor Lake
5* - ITC Gardenia, a Luxury Collection/ ITC Windsor a Luxury Collection

Vellore x 1 night
3* - Hotel Khanna Fiesta/ POPPYS Anukula Residency
4* & 5* - Regency Sameera Vellore by GRT Hotels/ Fortune Park

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

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* - Sangam Hotels/ Ideal River View Resort
5* - Svatma

Chettinad x 1 night 
3* & 4*- Chidambara Vilas/ Chettinadu Mansion
5* - Visalam Cgh Earth

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

Rameshwaram x 1 night 
3* & 4*- Daiwik Hotel
5* - Hyatt Place Rameswaram

Kanyakumari x 1 night
3* - Sea Shore/ Hotel Seaface
4* & 5* - Anantya Resorts/ Annai Resorts and Spa

Kovalam x 4 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

• Airfare or train tickets
• Camera charges at monuments, if any
• Meals other than those mentioned in the inclusions
• Personal expenses such as laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet, and beverages
• Gratuities and optional activities
• Anything not specifically mentioned in the inclusions