Temple of Tamilnadu & Nature, Backwater of Kerala

Day 1: Arrive Chennai

Upon your arrival at Chennai Airport, our representative will warmly receive you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. After check-in, take some time to freshen up and relax before beginning your South India journey. In the evening, begin the city tour of Chennai with a visit to Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world and a lively place to experience the city’s coastal spirit. Continue to Kapaleeshwarar Temple, an elegant Dravidian temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its colorful gopuram and spiritual ambiance. Later, visit Fort St. George, an important colonial-era landmark that reflects the city’s early European history. End the day with a visit to the Government Museum, home to a rich collection of art, archaeology, and cultural exhibits. Return to the hotel after the tour. Overnight at hotel in Chennai.

Day 2: Chennai – Kanchipuram – Vellore (Approx. 140 km)

After breakfast, check out and drive toward Vellore with an enriching stop at Kanchipuram, the famous City of a Thousand Temples. Here, begin the city tour with visits to Ekambareswarar Temple, one of the Pancha Bhoota temples representing the element of Earth, followed by Kamakshi Amman Temple and the ancient Kailasanathar Temple, both admired for their sacred importance and architectural excellence. Continue your drive to Vellore and check in at the hotel. Later, visit the dazzling Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple, an extraordinary shrine covered in gold foil and surrounded by beautifully maintained pathways. Proceed to Vellore Fort, a striking 16th-century fortress with massive ramparts and deep moats. Inside the fort, explore Jalakandeswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and noted for its elaborate stonework. The evening is at leisure. Overnight at hotel in Vellore.

Day 3: Vellore – Tiruvannamalai – Trichy (Approx. 280 km)

After breakfast, drive toward Trichy, making a meaningful stop at Tiruvannamalai en route. Visit the revered Annamalaiyar Temple, a major Shiva temple known for its spiritual atmosphere and impressive architecture. Explore the sacred Arunachala Hill, which holds deep significance in Hindu tradition, and continue to the peaceful Ramana Ashram, associated with the teachings of Sri Ramana Maharshi. The drive offers a blend of spiritual landmarks and scenic countryside views. Continue the journey to Trichy and check in at your hotel on arrival. The evening is free for rest after the long drive. Overnight at hotel in Trichy.

Day 4: Trichy – Madurai (Approx. 135 km)

After breakfast, begin the day with a visit to the famous Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam, one of the largest temple complexes in India and a major Vaishnavite pilgrimage site. Continue to Rock Fort Temple, a hilltop temple complex offering panoramic views of Trichy city and the surrounding river landscape. After the sightseeing, drive to Madurai, one of the oldest living cities in the world and a powerful center of Tamil culture. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and spend the evening at leisure. You may choose to rest or explore the local area near the hotel. Overnight at hotel in Madurai.

Day 5: Madurai – Munnar (Approx. 160 km)

Begin your day with a city tour of Madurai. Visit the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, one of South India’s most celebrated temples, known for its towering gopurams, vibrant sculptures, and spiritual vibrancy. Continue to Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a beautiful fusion of Dravidian and Rajput architecture, and later visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum for insight into India’s freedom movement. After sightseeing, drive to Munnar, the famed hill station of Kerala, surrounded by tea plantations and misty mountains. On arrival, check in at the hotel and enjoy the cool climate and lush green surroundings. The evening is free to relax. Overnight at hotel in Munnar.

Day 6: Munnar Sightseeing

After breakfast, begin a full-day sightseeing tour of Munnar. Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and vast stretches of rolling grasslands. Continue to Anamudi Peak viewpoint, offering scenic views of South India’s highest mountain. Proceed to the Tea Museum, where you can learn about tea cultivation, processing, and the heritage of Munnar’s plantation culture. Later, explore Blossom Park and Pothamedu Viewpoint, both offering refreshing natural beauty and sweeping views over tea estates. Spend time walking through the tea gardens and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the hill station. Return to the hotel in the evening. Overnight at hotel in Munnar.

Day 7: Munnar – Thekkady (Approx. 110 km)

After breakfast, drive to Thekkady, a destination known for its spice plantations and wildlife sanctuary. En route, stop at Ramakkalmedu, a scenic hilltop point with panoramic valley views and windmills, followed by the famous Kuravan and Kurathi rock formations. Upon arrival in Thekkady, check in at the hotel and relax. In the evening, enjoy a boat cruise on Periyar Lake inside the wildlife sanctuary, where you may spot elephants, deer, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Later, attend a Martial Arts and Kathakali performance, giving you a glimpse into Kerala’s rich performing arts tradition. Return to the hotel after the show. Overnight at hotel in Thekkady.

Day 8: Thekkady – Kumarakom (Approx. 140 km)

After breakfast, depart for Kumarakom, a peaceful backwater destination located on the shores of Vembanad Lake. On arrival, visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a wonderful place for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Take time to enjoy the calming surroundings of the lake and the lush greenery that defines this tranquil village. You may also enjoy a short boat ride on the backwaters, depending on time and local arrangements. Kumarakom offers a slower, more relaxing pace after the hill station and wildlife experiences. Check in at the hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel in Kumarakom.

Day 9: Kumarakom – Alleppey

After breakfast, proceed to Alleppey and board your traditional houseboat for a memorable backwater cruise. Glide through narrow canals, palm-lined waterways, paddy fields, and peaceful villages that define Kerala’s unique waterway life. Enjoy freshly prepared Kerala meals onboard while watching life unfold along the banks. The cruise offers a deep sense of calm and an intimate experience of the state’s backwater culture. As the houseboat drifts through the serene waters, enjoy the sunset and the soft rhythm of the lake and canal network. Overnight on houseboat in Alleppey.

Day 10: Alleppey – Cochin (Approx. 60 km)

Disembark from the houseboat after breakfast and drive to Cochin. On arrival, check in at the hotel and begin your city tour of Kochi, one of Kerala’s most historic coastal cities. Explore Fort Kochi, known for its colonial streets and multicultural heritage, followed by the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets along the waterfront. Visit Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, and the Jewish Synagogue, one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth. Continue to St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and later enjoy a Kathakali dance performance in the evening. Return to the hotel after sightseeing. Overnight at hotel in Cochin.

Day 11: Cochin – Kovalam (Approx. 200 km)

After breakfast, drive to the beautiful beach town of Kovalam. On arrival, check in at the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. You may enjoy the golden sandy beaches, relax by the sea, or take a gentle walk along the shore as the waves roll in. Kovalam is known for its peaceful coastal charm and laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal place to unwind after several active sightseeing days. The rest of the day is free for personal relaxation or optional beach activities. Overnight at hotel in Kovalam.

Day 12: Kovalam – Trivandrum Sightseeing

After breakfast, proceed for a city tour of Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala. Visit the sacred Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a Dravidian-style shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu and known for its spiritual significance and grandeur. Continue to Napier Museum, which houses a rich collection of historical and cultural artifacts, and Kuthiramalika Palace, admired for its traditional Kerala architecture and intricate wooden carvings. Spend some peaceful time at Shangumugham Beach, where you can enjoy the sea breeze and coastal charm. Return to Kovalam in the evening. Overnight at hotel in Kovalam.

Day 13: Kovalam – Kanyakumari (Approx. 85 km)

After breakfast, drive to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of mainland India. On arrival, check in at the hotel and begin sightseeing with visits to Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the towering Thiruvalluvar Statue, both of which stand as landmarks of spiritual and cultural significance. Continue to Kanyakumari Temple, located near the confluence of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean. Spend time enjoying the unique coastal setting and the striking natural geography of the region. In the evening, witness the famous sunset over the sea, a truly memorable experience. Return to the hotel. Overnight at hotel in Kanyakumari.

Day 14: Kanyakumari – Rameshwaram (Approx. 325 km)

After breakfast, drive to Rameshwaram, one of India’s holiest pilgrimage destinations. On arrival, check in at the hotel and begin the local sightseeing tour. Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple, famous for its sacred corridors and status as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Continue to Agnitheertham, a sacred bathing ghat associated with religious rituals. Spend time at Dhanushkodi Beach, known for its pristine shoreline and spiritual significance. The evening is free to relax after a fulfilling day of pilgrimage and coastal exploration. Overnight at hotel in Rameshwaram.

Day 15: Rameshwaram – Chettinad (Approx. 150 km)

After breakfast, drive to Chettinad, a region famous for its heritage mansions and distinctive cuisine. On arrival, explore the elegant Chettinad mansions, each displaying grand courtyards, teak wood craftsmanship, antique furnishings, and finely detailed architecture. Walk through the heritage lanes and learn about the Chettiar community’s mercantile history and cultural traditions. Enjoy the atmosphere of this aristocratic region, known for preserving its old-world charm. The day provides a unique insight into one of Tamil Nadu’s most distinctive cultural landscapes. Overnight at hotel in Chettinad.

Day 16: Chettinad – Thanjavur (Approx. 100 km)

After breakfast, drive to Thanjavur, a city renowned for its artistic and temple heritage. On arrival, visit the magnificent Brihadeeswara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India’s greatest temple monuments. Continue to Vijayanagar Fort, which houses the Schwartz Church and Tanjore Palace. Explore the Thanjavur Art Gallery, famous for bronze statues and stone sculptures, and the Saraswathi Mahal Library, one of Asia’s oldest libraries with ancient manuscripts and rare collections. The city’s royal and temple heritage makes this day especially enriching. Overnight at hotel in Thanjavur.

Day 17: Thanjavur – Darasuram – Gangaikonda Cholapuram – Chidambaram – Pondicherry (Approx. 180 km)

After breakfast, begin your journey to Pondicherry with stops at some of Tamil Nadu’s most celebrated temple sites. Visit the Great Living Chola Temples at Darasuram and Gangaikonda Cholapuram, both UNESCO-listed monuments known for their intricate carvings and architectural grandeur. Continue to Chidambaram and explore the Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his cosmic dance form. Later, drive onward to Pondicherry and check in at the hotel. Spend the evening exploring the French Quarter, where colonial streets, cafes, and peaceful boulevards create a distinctly European charm. Overnight at hotel in Pondicherry.

Day 18: Pondicherry – Mahabalipuram – Chennai (Approx. 160 km)

After breakfast, enjoy a city tour of Pondicherry. Visit Auroville, the famous experimental township promoting peace and unity, followed by the Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual center with deep philosophical roots. Take a stroll through the French Quarter and enjoy the colonial architecture, tree-lined lanes, and laid-back atmosphere. Later, visit Promenade Beach before driving to Chennai. En route, stop at Mahabalipuram, known for its rock-cut temples and UNESCO World Heritage monuments. Upon arrival in Chennai, check in at the hotel and relax after the day’s journey. Overnight at hotel in Chennai.

Day 19: Chennai Departure

After breakfast, enjoy some free time for shopping or personal activities in Chennai, depending on your flight schedule. You may take a short final walk or simply relax before departure. Our representative will assist you with your transfer to Chennai Airport for your onward journey. The tour concludes with beautiful memories of temple towns, hill stations, backwaters, beaches, and South India’s timeless heritage. Depart with a rich collection of experiences from this grand journey. Overnight not included.

• Assistance on arrival at airport
• 18 nights accommodation in selected category hotels
• Daily breakfast at hotels
• Private air-conditioned vehicle for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program
• English-speaking tour guide on sightseeing days, as per program
• Monument entrance fees and activity charges mentioned in the itinerary
• Bottled drinking water in the car
• Government taxes

Hotels used or similar for 18 nights accommodation

Chennai x 2 nights
3* - Raj Park/ MGM East Woods
4* - The  Raintree/ Accord Metropolitan
5* - ITC Grand Chola/ The Leela Palace

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

Trichy x 1 night
3* - Red Fox Hotel/ Grand Gardenia
4* & 5* - Sangam Hotels

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

Kumarakom x 1 night
3* - Abad Whispering Palm/ Cocobay Resort
4* - Eastend Lake Song/ Goldfield Lake Resort
5* - Coconut Lagoon/ The Zuri

Alleppey x 1 night
3* - ATDC Houseboat/ Dream Boats
4* - ATDC Houseboat/ Dream Boats
5* - Xandari Riverscapes/ Lakes & Lagoons/ Spice Route Premium

Cochin x 1 nights
3* - The Dune Hotel/ Abad Plaza
4* - Casino Hotel/ The Avenue Regent
5* - Xandari Harbour/ Le Meridien

Kovalam x 2 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

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

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

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

Thnjore x 1 night
3* - Grand Gardenia/ Oriental Towers 
4* - Sangam Hotels/ Ideal River View Resort
5* - Svatma

Pondicherry x 1 night
3* - Shenbaga Hotel/ Annamalai International
4* - Le Pondy/ The Windflower Resort & Spa
5* - Palais De Mahe/ La Villa

• Any flight tickets
• Camera charges at monuments, if any
• Meals other than mentioned in the inclusions
• Personal expenses like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet, etc.
• Gratuities and optional activities
• Anything not mentioned in inclusions