South India Temples & Ayurveda Treatment
This carefully designed itinerary offers a perfect blend of South India’s temple architecture, cultural heritage, and wellness traditions. Starting in Chennai, explore historic landmarks and Dravidian temples before proceeding to Mahabalipuram’s UNESCO-listed monuments. Continue to Pondicherry’s French colonial quarters and spiritual centers, followed by Thanjavur’s Chola temples and Chettinad’s heritage mansions. Experience the sacred ambiance of Madurai before entering a phase of relaxation and healing at Kalari Kovilakom, where authentic Ayurveda treatments, yoga, and meditation restore balance. The journey concludes in Cochin, known for its colonial past, vibrant markets, and cultural performances. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking both cultural immersion and wellness.
Day 1: Arrive Chennai
Upon arrival at Chennai airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take time to relax and recover from your journey. Begin your introduction to South India with a visit to Fort St. George, reflecting colonial history. Continue to Kapaleeshwarar Temple, showcasing classic Dravidian architecture. In the evening, enjoy a walk along Marina Beach, experiencing local life and coastal views. Overnight at hotel.
Day 2: Chennai – Kanchipuram – Mahabalipuram (120 km / 3 hrs)
After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Mahabalipuram with an en route visit to Kanchipuram. Visit Ekambareswarar Temple, one of the Pancha Bhoota temples representing Earth. Continue to Kamakshi Amman Temple and Kailasanathar Temple, known for ancient architecture. Proceed to Mahabalipuram and check in at the hotel. Later, explore Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, and Pancha Rathas, all UNESCO-listed monuments. Overnight at hotel.
Day 3: Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry (120 km / 3 hrs)
After breakfast at the hotel, drive along the scenic East Coast Road to Pondicherry. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Begin exploration of the French Quarter with its colonial buildings and charming streets. Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, known for its peaceful spiritual atmosphere. Continue to Auroville, an experimental township promoting global harmony. In the evening, walk along Promenade Beach. Overnight at hotel.
Day 4: Pondicherry – Chidambaram – Thanjavur (180 km / 4 hrs)
After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Thanjavur with multiple heritage stops. Visit Nataraja Temple at Chidambaram, dedicated to Lord Shiva in cosmic dance form. Continue to Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram, both UNESCO-listed Chola temples. Proceed to Thanjavur and check in at the hotel. Later, visit Brihadeeswarar Temple, a masterpiece of Chola architecture. Overnight at hotel.
Day 5: Thanjavur – Trichy – Chettinad (140 km / 3 hrs)
After breakfast at the hotel, revisit Brihadeeswarar Temple for a deeper exploration. Drive to Trichy and visit Rock Fort Temple offering panoramic views. Continue to Srirangam to visit Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of India’s largest temple complexes. Proceed to Chettinad and check in at your heritage hotel. Explore Chettinad mansions known for unique architecture. Overnight at hotel.
Day 6: Chettinad – Madurai (90 km / 2 hrs)
After breakfast at the hotel, explore Chettinad heritage homes and temples showcasing intricate craftsmanship. Later, drive to Madurai and check in at your hotel. In the evening, visit Meenakshi Amman Temple, known for its towering gopurams and vibrant sculptures. Experience the temple rituals and lively surroundings. Overnight at hotel.
Day 7: Madurai – Kalari Kovilakom (225 km / 5 hrs)
After breakfast at the hotel, begin a short city tour of Madurai visiting Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace and Gandhi Museum. Later, drive to Kalari Kovilakom in Kerala. Upon arrival, check in at the Ayurvedic retreat and consult with an Ayurvedic doctor. Begin your wellness journey with therapies and a prescribed diet. Overnight at retreat.
Day 8: Kalari Kovilakom (Ayurveda Program)
After breakfast, begin your personalized Ayurvedic treatment program under expert supervision. Participate in therapies such as Abhyanga and relaxation massages. Enjoy yoga and meditation sessions designed to improve mental and physical balance. Follow a carefully curated Ayurvedic diet. Spend the rest of the day at leisure in a tranquil environment. Overnight at retreat.
Day 9: Kalari Kovilakom (Ayurveda Program)
Continue your Ayurvedic treatments as per your wellness plan. Engage in detox therapies such as Panchakarma under professional guidance. Participate in daily yoga and meditation sessions. Learn about Ayurvedic lifestyle practices and healing techniques. Relax in the serene surroundings of the retreat. Overnight at retreat.
Day 10: Kalari Kovilakom (Ayurveda Program)
After breakfast, continue with therapeutic treatments focusing on rejuvenation and stress relief. Enjoy herbal therapies and oil treatments designed to restore balance. Participate in guided meditation and breathing exercises. Spend free time reading or relaxing within the retreat. Overnight at retreat.
Day 11: Kalari Kovilakom (Ayurveda Program)
Continue your healing journey with personalized treatments and therapies. Engage in yoga sessions aimed at improving flexibility and energy flow. Enjoy nutritious Ayurvedic meals prepared with medicinal herbs. Experience complete relaxation of mind and body. Overnight at retreat.
Day 12: Kalari Kovilakom (Ayurveda Program)
After breakfast, continue final sessions of your Ayurvedic treatment program. Review progress with the in-house doctor and receive lifestyle recommendations. Enjoy peaceful surroundings and prepare for departure. This day focuses on consolidation of wellness benefits. Overnight at retreat.
Day 13: Kalari Kovilakom – Cochin (255 km / 5 hrs)
After breakfast at the retreat, drive to Cochin and check in at your hotel. Begin sightseeing with Fort Kochi area, known for colonial architecture. Visit Chinese Fishing Nets and St. Francis Church. Explore local markets and spice shops. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance showcasing Kerala’s traditional art. Overnight at hotel.
Day 14: Cochin – Departure
After breakfast at the hotel, begin a short city tour of Cochin. Visit Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, and Mattancherry area. Explore spice markets and local streets reflecting Kerala’s trading history. Later, transfer to Cochin airport for your onward journey. The tour concludes with a blend of cultural and wellness memories.
- Assistance on arrival and departure
- 13 Nights accommodation in selected category hotels and Ayurvedic retreat
- Daily breakfast at hotels and full board meals at Ayurveda retreat
- Private AC vehicle for transfers and sightseeing
- English speaking local guides as per program
- Monument entrance fees as per itinerary
- Ayurvedic consultation, treatments, yoga, and meditation sessions
- Bottled drinking water in vehicle
- All applicable taxes
- Any international or domestic flight tickets
- Meals not mentioned in inclusions
- Personal expenses (laundry, tips, beverages, etc.)
- Camera/video charges at monuments
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions