Must Visit Temples of East & South India and Kerala Backwater

Duration 16 Nights / 17 Days

Starting From On Request

Destination India

Tour Code AGORA719

Embark on a captivating spiritual and cultural journey across East and South India as you explore the historic city of Kolkata, the temple-rich landscapes of Bhubaneswar and Puri, the cultural and colonial charm of Chennai and Pondicherry, and the architectural brilliance of Thanjavur and Madurai, before continuing into the lush hill stations and wildlife regions of Kerala including Munnar and Thekkady, culminating in a serene houseboat cruise through the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey and concluding in Cochin, offering a seamless blend of sacred experiences, heritage exploration, scenic beauty, and relaxing natural landscapes.

Day 1: Arrive Kolkata

Upon arrival at Kolkata International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take time to relax and recover from your journey. Kolkata, known for its colonial charm and vibrant culture, offers a fascinating introduction to your journey. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore nearby areas or enjoy hotel facilities. You may opt for a short evening walk to experience the city’s local atmosphere. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Kolkata City Tour

After breakfast at the hotel, begin the city tour of Kolkata. Visit the grand Victoria Memorial, followed by the Indian Museum, showcasing a vast historical collection. Continue to Howrah Bridge for scenic views of the Hooghly River and visit Marble Palace, a fine example of neoclassical architecture. Later, visit Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity to witness inspiring humanitarian work. The day offers a deep insight into Kolkata’s culture and heritage. Return to the hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 3: Kolkata – Bhubaneswar (Flight)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to board your flight to Bhubaneswar. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and begin your temple exploration. Visit the Lingaraj Temple, a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture and a major pilgrimage site. Continue to Mukteshwar Temple and Rajarani Temple, known for intricate carvings. Later, visit Dhauli Stupa, associated with Emperor Ashoka and Buddhist history. Return to the hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 4: Bhubaneswar – Puri (60 km / approx. 1.5 hrs)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Puri. En route visit the famous Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its chariot-like structure and detailed carvings. Continue to Pipili village to witness traditional applique work, followed by Raghurajpur artisan village known for Pattachitra paintings. Upon arrival in Puri, check in at the hotel. Later visit the sacred Jagannath Temple. Overnight at hotel.

Day 5: Excursion to Chilika Lake (55 km one way / approx. 1.5 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Chilika Lake, the largest coastal lagoon in India. Enjoy a boat ride through the serene waters and spot migratory birds and dolphins. The lake offers a peaceful natural environment and scenic beauty. Spend time exploring the surroundings and enjoying the tranquility. Later, return to Puri and relax by the beach. Overnight at hotel.

Day 6: Puri – Bhubaneswar – Chennai (Flight)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Bhubaneswar Airport (60 km / approx. 1.5 hrs). Board your flight to Chennai. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in. Later, begin a brief city orientation visiting Marina Beach and Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Explore Fort St. George and Government Museum if time permits. Chennai offers a blend of tradition and modern life. Overnight at hotel.

Day 7: Chennai – Pondicherry (160 km / approx. 4 hrs)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Pondicherry. En route visit Kanchipuram, known for its temples and silk weaving tradition. Continue to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO site famous for rock-cut temples and sculptures. Explore Shore Temple and Arjuna’s Penance. Proceed to Pondicherry and check in at the hotel. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 8: Pondicherry Sightseeing

After breakfast, begin the city tour of Pondicherry. Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville, known for spiritual philosophy and peaceful surroundings. Continue to Promenade Beach and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Explore the French Quarter with its colonial architecture and charming streets. The town offers a unique Indo-French cultural experience. Return to the hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 9: Pondicherry – Thanjavur (220 km / approx. 5 hrs)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Thanjavur. En route visit Chidambaram Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva’s cosmic dance. Continue to Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram, both UNESCO-listed Chola temples. These sites reflect architectural brilliance and historical importance. Upon arrival in Thanjavur, check in at the hotel. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 10: Thanjavur – Trichy – Madurai (190 km / approx. 5 hrs)

After breakfast, visit Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO site and masterpiece of Chola architecture. Explore Thanjavur Palace and Saraswathi Mahal Library. Later, drive to Madurai with a stop in Trichy to visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple and Rock Fort Temple. Continue to Madurai and check in at the hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 11: Madurai – Munnar (160 km / approx. 4–5 hrs)

After breakfast, visit Meenakshi Temple, known for its towering gopurams and vibrant sculptures. Continue to Thirumalai Nayakar Palace and nearby temples. Later, drive to Munnar, a scenic hill station known for tea plantations. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes en route. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 12: Munnar Sightseeing

After breakfast, begin the sightseeing of Munnar. Visit Pothamedu viewpoint, Mattupetty Dam, and Echo Point. Continue to Eravikulam National Park to see the Nilgiri Tahr. Visit Tea Museum to learn about tea processing. The lush greenery and cool climate make Munnar a refreshing destination. Return to the hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 13: Munnar – Thekkady (100 km / approx. 3 hrs)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Thekkady. En route visit scenic viewpoints like Ramakkalmedu offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. The region is known for spice plantations and wildlife. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 14: Thekkady

After breakfast, proceed for a boat safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spot wildlife including elephants, deer, and various bird species. Later, visit a spice plantation to learn about spice cultivation. Enjoy the aromatic environment and local culture. The day offers a perfect mix of nature and exploration. Overnight at hotel.

Day 15: Thekkady – Alleppey (160 km / approx. 4–5 hrs)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Alleppey. Upon arrival, board a traditional houseboat for a backwater cruise. Sail through canals, lagoons, and villages surrounded by lush greenery. Experience Kerala’s unique lifestyle and scenic beauty. Enjoy onboard meals and peaceful surroundings. Overnight on houseboat.

Day 16: Alleppey – Cochin (60 km / approx. 1.5 hrs)

After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and drive to Cochin. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. Begin the city tour visiting Fort Kochi, Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, and Jewish Synagogue. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance. Cochin reflects a blend of cultural influences. Overnight at hotel.

Day 17: Cochin – Departure

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to Cochin International Airport. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping. Depart with wonderful memories of temples, culture, and Kerala backwaters. Tour concludes.

Meet & greet assistance at all arrival airports
16 nights accommodation in selected hotel category + 1 night houseboat stay in Alleppey
Daily buffet breakfast at hotels and all meals on houseboat (lunch, dinner, breakfast)
Private air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers, intercity travel, and sightseeing
English-speaking local guides in each city as per itinerary
Monument entrance fees and sightseeing as mentioned
Boat ride at Chilika Lake and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Traditional Kerala houseboat experience with crew
Bottled drinking water in vehicle
All toll taxes, parking charges, fuel, and driver allowances
Applicable government taxes

Hotels used or similar for 16 nights accommodation

Kolkata x 2 nights
3* - Regenta Orko's/ The Fern Residency
4* - The Peerless Inn/ The Fern Residency
5* - ITC Sonar, a Luxury Collection/ The Lalit Great Eastern

Bhubaneswar x 1 nights
3* - Kalinga Ashok/ The HHI
4* - Fortune Park Sishmo/ Mayfair Convention
5* - Mayfair Lagoon/ Trident Hotel

Puri x 2 nights
3* - Toshali Sands/ Blue Lily Beach Resort
4* - The Hans Coco Palms/ The Chariot Resort & spa
5* - Mayfair Waves

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

Pondicherry x 2 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

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

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