Temple, Backwater & Palaces of South India

Day 1: Arrive Chennai

Upon arrival in Chennai, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in. After some rest, begin the city tour of Chennai, exploring Fort St. George and St. Mary’s Church reflecting colonial history. Continue to Kapaleeshwarar Temple and Vadapalani Murugan Temple to witness the spiritual life of the city. Visit the Government Museum, known for its art and archaeological collections. Drive past Marina Beach to enjoy the coastal ambiance. Return to the hotel after sightseeing. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Chennai – Mahabalipuram (120 km / 3 hrs approx.)

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and drive to Mahabalipuram along the scenic coastal route. En route visit Kanchipuram, renowned for its temples and silk weaving tradition. Explore Kailasanathar, Ekambareswarar, and Varadharaja Perumal Temples showcasing Dravidian architecture. Continue your drive to Mahabalipuram and check in at the hotel. Begin the sightseeing tour including Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and Arjuna’s Penance. Enjoy the seaside charm and ancient rock-cut architecture. Overnight at hotel.

Day 3: Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry (100 km / 2.5 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Pondicherry, a former French colony with a unique cultural blend. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax briefly. Begin the city tour with a visit to Auroville, an international township promoting peace and unity. Continue to Pondicherry Museum to explore historical artifacts. Later, walk through the French Quarter featuring colonial villas and vibrant streets. Visit Raj Nivas, churches, and the seaside promenade. Overnight at hotel.

Day 4: Pondicherry – Thanjavur (180 km / 4 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Thanjavur. En route visit Chidambaram Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva in cosmic dance form. Continue to Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram temples, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites known for intricate carvings. Proceed towards Thanjavur enjoying rural landscapes. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. The journey highlights South India’s temple architecture and spiritual heritage. Overnight at hotel.

Day 5: Thanjavur – Trichy (60 km / 1.5 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, begin the city tour of Thanjavur with a visit to Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO-listed masterpiece. Explore the Palace Complex showcasing royal artifacts and history. Later, drive to Trichy and check in at the hotel. Visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in India. Continue to Rock Fort Temple for panoramic city views. Experience the spiritual significance of Trichy. Overnight at hotel.

Day 6: Trichy – Madurai (135 km / 3 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. Begin the city tour with Meenakshi Amman Temple, famous for its towering gopurams and intricate carvings. Visit Thirumalai Nayakar Palace showcasing grand architecture. Later, explore nearby temples such as Alagar Koil and Murugan temples. Witness evening rituals at the temple for a cultural experience. Overnight at hotel.

Day 7: Madurai – Thekkady (160 km / 4 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Thekkady through scenic countryside and hills. En route visit Ramakkalmedu, offering panoramic views and wind farms. Stop at viewpoints like Frog Rock and Turtle Rock. Continue the drive to Thekkady and check in at the hotel. Spend the evening at leisure exploring spice markets or relaxing. Enjoy the cool climate and natural surroundings. Overnight at hotel.

Day 8: Thekkady

After breakfast, begin the exploration of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of India’s famous reserves. Enjoy a boat safari on Periyar Lake, offering chances to spot elephants, deer, and birds. Later, visit a spice plantation to learn about cultivation of cardamom, pepper, and tea. Explore local markets to purchase fresh spices. The day offers a mix of wildlife, nature, and culture. Return to the hotel for relaxation. Overnight at hotel.

Day 9: Thekkady – Alleppey (135 km / 4 hrs approx.) – Houseboat

After breakfast, check out and drive to Alleppey, known for its backwaters. Upon arrival, board a traditional houseboat and begin your cruise. Sail through canals lined with coconut trees, paddy fields, and villages. Enjoy freshly prepared Kerala meals onboard. Experience the peaceful rhythm of backwater life. Relax and enjoy scenic views throughout the journey. Overnight on houseboat.

Day 10: Alleppey – Cochin (60 km / 1.5 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and drive to Cochin. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. Begin the city tour of Cochin, visiting Fort Cochin and colonial landmarks. Explore St. Francis Church, Jewish Synagogue, and Mattancherry Palace. Witness the famous Chinese fishing nets along the coast. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance. Overnight at hotel.

Day 11: Cochin – Ooty (280 km / 7 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Ooty, a charming hill station in the Nilgiri Hills. Enjoy scenic views of forests and plantations during the journey. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. Spend the evening at leisure exploring local markets or walking around the town. Enjoy the pleasant weather and tranquil surroundings. Overnight at hotel.

Day 12: Ooty – Mysore (140 km / 4 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, begin the city tour of Ooty with a visit to Botanical Gardens featuring exotic plants. Enjoy a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (subject to availability). Later, drive to Mysore and check in at the hotel. Spend the evening at leisure or explore nearby areas. The day combines nature and scenic travel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 13: Mysore

After breakfast, begin the excursion to Somanathapura to visit Chennakesava Temple, known for detailed carvings. Return to Mysore and visit Mysore Palace, a symbol of royal grandeur. Continue to Chamundeshwari Temple and Nandi Bull statue. Visit St. Philomena’s Church showcasing Gothic architecture. Explore the city’s cultural heritage and royal legacy. Overnight at hotel.

Day 14: Mysore – Bangalore (150 km / 3.5 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Bangalore. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. Begin the city tour visiting Lalbagh Botanical Garden and Cubbon Park. Explore Bangalore Fort and Tipu Sultan’s Palace. Drive past Vidhana Soudha, the administrative hub. Experience the blend of heritage and modern city life. Overnight at hotel.

Day 15: Bangalore – Departure

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and transfer to the airport for your onward journey. The tour concludes with wonderful memories of temples, backwaters, and palaces of South India. Reflect on the diverse experiences and cultural richness explored during the journey. Depart with a deeper appreciation of South India’s heritage.

• Assistance on arrival and departure.
• 14 nights accommodation in selected hotels on twin / double sharing basis.
• 1 night houseboat stay in Alleppey with all meals.
• Daily breakfast at hotels.
• Private air-conditioned vehicle for transfers, sightseeing, and intercity travel.
• English-speaking local guides during sightseeing tours.
• Monument entrance fees as per itinerary.
• Periyar boat safari and Nilgiri train ride (subject to availability).
• Bottled drinking water in vehicle.
• Toll tax, parking, driver allowance, and government taxes.

Hotels Used or Similar (14 Nights Accommodation)

3-Star Hotels

• Chennai (1 night): ZONE By The Park / Raj Park
• Mahabalipuram (1 night): INDeco Hotels / Ideal Beach Resort
• Pondicherry (1 night): Shenbaga Hotel / Hotel Annamalai International
• Thanjavur (1 night): Sangam Hotels
• Trichy (1 night): Red Fox Hotel / Hotel Blossoms
• Madurai (1 night): JC Residency / Hotel Royal Court
• Periyar (Thekkady) (2 nights): Abad Green Forest / Hotel PepperVine
• Alleppey (1 night): Deluxe Houseboat (AC During Night Only)
• Cochin (1 night): Bolgatty Palace & Island Resort / Gokulam Park – Ernakulam
• Ooty (1 night): Accord Highland Ooty / Monarch Hotel
• Mysore (2 nights): Sandesh The Prince / Regenta Central Herald By Royal Orchid Hotels
• Bengaluru (1 night): Royal Orchid Central / Ramada Bangalore

4-Star Hotels

• Chennai (1 night): Accord Metropolitan / The Park Chennai
• Mahabalipuram (1 night): Chariot Beach Resort / Confluence The Banquet & Resort
• Pondicherry (1 night): The Residency Towers / Accord Puducherry
• Thanjavur (1 night): GReaT Trails Riverview Resort
• Trichy (1 night): Courtyard by Marriott
• Madurai (1 night): Fortune Pandiyan Hotel / Regency Madurai by GRT Hotels
• Periyar (Thekkady) (2 nights): Blanket Days Resort and Spa / Cardamom County by Xandari
• Alleppey (1 night): Premium Houseboat (Full Time AC)
• Cochin (1 night): Casino Hotel / Amritara The Poovath Beach Front Heritage
• Ooty (1 night): Gem Park Ooty / Fortune Resort Sullivan Court
• Mysore (2 nights): Fortune Park JP Palace / Royal Orchid Brindavan Garden
• Bengaluru (1 night): Lemon Tree Premier / Gokulam Grand Hotel & Spa

5-Star Hotels

• Chennai (1 night): Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels / Radisson Blu Hotel GRT Chennai
• Mahabalipuram (1 night): Radisson BLU Resort Temple Bay / WH By ITC Hotels, Kences Palm Beach
• Pondicherry (1 night): Palais De Mahe / La Villa
• Thanjavur (1 night): Svatma
• Trichy (1 night): Courtyard by Marriott
• Madurai (1 night): Courtyard by Marriott / The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai
• Periyar (Thekkady) (2 nights): Spice Village / Hills & Hues
• Alleppey (1 night): Luxury Houseboat (Full Time AC)
• Cochin (1 night): Eighth Bastion - CGH Earth / Fragrant Nature Kochi
• Ooty (1 night): Savoy, Ooty - IHCL SeleQtions
• Mysore (2 nights): Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel
• Bengaluru (1 night): The Oberoi / ITC Gardenia, a Luxury Collection

• International / domestic airfare and visa charges. 
• Travel insurance and medical expenses. 
• Lunches and dinners except houseboat meals. 
• Camera / video fees at monuments. 
• Personal expenses such as laundry, tips, drinks, and phone calls. 
• Anything not mentioned under inclusions.