Temples & Backwater Tour of South India

Day 1: Arrival in Chennai

Upon arrival in Chennai, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in. After a brief rest, begin your exploration of this vibrant coastal city blending colonial charm with Dravidian heritage. Visit Fort St. George, a historic British-era fort showcasing colonial artifacts and administrative buildings. Continue to Kapaleeshwarar Temple, an iconic temple known for its towering gopuram and intricate carvings. Later, explore the Government Museum displaying ancient sculptures and artifacts. Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll along Marina Beach before returning to your hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Chennai – Kanchipuram – Mahabalipuram (130 km / 4 hrs)

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Kanchipuram, one of the seven sacred cities of India, renowned for its temples and silk sarees. Visit Kailasanatha Temple, famous for its sandstone architecture and intricate carvings depicting mythological themes. Continue to Ekambareswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and known for its massive temple complex. Proceed to Varadaraja Perumal Temple, a significant Vaishnavite shrine with beautiful sculptures. Later, drive to Mahabalipuram and check in at your hotel. Explore the Shore Temple overlooking the Bay of Bengal and admire Arjuna’s Penance, one of the world’s largest bas-reliefs. Visit the Pancha Rathas, showcasing monolithic rock-cut architecture. Overnight at hotel.

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

After breakfast, drive along the scenic East Coast Road to Pondicherry, a charming coastal town with French colonial influence. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Begin your exploration with a visit to the French Quarter, known for its colorful colonial buildings and quiet streets. Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a peaceful retreat ideal for meditation and reflection. Walk along the Promenade Beach, enjoying views of the Bay of Bengal and the refreshing sea breeze. Explore local cafes and boutiques reflecting a blend of Indian and French cultures. Overnight at hotel.

Day 4: Pondicherry – Thanjavur (170 km / 4 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Thanjavur, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu. En route, visit Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his cosmic dancer form, known for its spiritual significance and artistic beauty. Continue to Gangaikonda Cholapuram and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites showcasing Chola architecture. Admire intricate carvings and temple structures that narrate ancient legends. Upon arrival in Thanjavur, check in at your hotel. Evening at leisure to relax or explore the local surroundings. Overnight at hotel.

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

After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to Brihadeeswarar Temple, an architectural masterpiece built by the Chola dynasty and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery, showcasing royal artifacts, paintings, and sculptures. Later, drive to Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) and check in at your hotel. Visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in India with impressive gopurams. Continue to Rock Fort Temple, offering panoramic views of the city from its hilltop location. Explore Jambukeshwara Temple, representing the water element among the Pancha Bhoota temples. Overnight at hotel.

Day 6: Trichy – Madurai (130 km / 3 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Visit the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, renowned for its colorful towers, intricate carvings, and vibrant religious ceremonies. Continue to Thirumalai Nayak Palace, showcasing grand architecture with impressive pillars and courtyards. Visit Gandhi Memorial Museum to gain insight into India’s independence movement. Later, explore local markets filled with textiles, handicrafts, and traditional items. Overnight at hotel.

Day 7: Madurai – Munnar (170 km / 5 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations and cool climate. Enjoy a scenic drive through winding roads, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls. On arrival, check in at your hotel and unwind amidst nature. Visit Attukal Waterfalls, surrounded by greenery and offering a tranquil setting. Explore tea estates and local markets famous for spices and handmade products. Spend the evening relaxing in the serene environment of the hills. Overnight at hotel.

Day 8: Munnar Sightseeing

After breakfast, begin a full-day exploration of Munnar’s natural beauty. Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and offering breathtaking landscapes. Continue to Mattupetty Dam for scenic views and optional boating. Visit Echo Point, known for its natural echo phenomenon. Explore the Tea Museum to learn about the history and processing of tea. Later, proceed to Top Station for panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Return to hotel for overnight stay.

Day 9: Munnar – Thekkady (90 km / 3 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Thekkady, famous for wildlife and spice plantations. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Visit a spice plantation to learn about the cultivation of cardamom, pepper, and other spices. Enjoy a guided tour through lush plantations. In the evening, witness a traditional Kathakali dance or Kalaripayattu martial arts performance. Explore local markets offering spices and handicrafts. Overnight at hotel.

Day 10: Thekkady Exploration

After breakfast, visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary for a nature experience. Enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you may spot elephants, deer, and exotic bird species. Take a guided walk through the forest to explore its rich biodiversity. Visit local villages to experience traditional Kerala lifestyle. Spend time exploring spice markets and interacting with locals. Overnight at hotel.

Day 11: Thekkady – Alleppey (140 km / 4 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Alleppey, known for its serene backwaters. Board a traditional houseboat and begin your cruise through canals, lagoons, and villages. Enjoy views of paddy fields, coconut groves, and daily life along the waterways. Relish freshly prepared Kerala meals onboard. Experience the calm and beauty of backwater life. Overnight stay on houseboat.

Day 12: Alleppey – Cochin (60 km / 1.5 hrs)

After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and drive to Kochi. Check in at your hotel and begin sightseeing. Visit Chinese Fishing Nets, a unique feature of the coastal landscape. Explore Paradesi Synagogue and Dutch Palace showcasing Kerala murals. Visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. Walk through spice markets and explore Fort Kochi area. Overnight at hotel.

Day 13: Cochin – Kovalam (200 km / 5 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Kovalam, a popular beach destination. Upon arrival, check in at your resort and relax. Spend the day enjoying the sandy beaches and calm waters. Visit Lighthouse Beach and Samudra Beach for scenic views. Explore local markets and enjoy coastal cuisine. Overnight at hotel.

Day 14: Kovalam & Trivandrum Sightseeing

After breakfast, proceed for sightseeing in Trivandrum. Visit Napier Museum showcasing art and cultural artifacts. Explore Kuthira Malika Palace known for its traditional architecture. Visit Sree Chitra Art Gallery displaying rare collections. Continue to Padmanabhapuram Palace known for intricate woodwork. Return to Kovalam and relax by the beach. Overnight at hotel.

Day 15: Kovalam – Departure (16 km / 30 mins)

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Trivandrum airport. Bid farewell to the beautiful landscapes of South India. Depart with unforgettable memories of temples, hills, wildlife, and backwaters. End of tour.

• Assistance on arrival and departure
• 14 nights accommodation in selected hotels
• Daily breakfast at all hotels
• 1 night stay on private houseboat with all meals
• Private AC vehicle for entire tour
• English-speaking local guides in major cities
• Monument entrance fees as per itinerary
• Boat ride in Periyar Lake
• Cultural shows (Kathakali/Kalaripayattu)
• Bottled water during travel
• All tolls, parking, driver allowance
• Government taxes

Hotels used or similar for 14 nights accommodation

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

Mahabalipuram x 1 night
3* - INDeco Hotels/ Mamalla Beach Resort
4* - Ideal Beach Resort/ Confluence The Banquet & Resort
5* - Radisson BLU Resort Temple Bay/ Fisherman's Cove

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* - Le Pondy/ The Windflower Resort & Spa
5* - Svatma

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

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

Day cruise in 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

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

• International & domestic flights
• Visa fees
• Lunch & dinner (except houseboat stay)
• Personal expenses (tips, laundry, beverages)
• Camera/video charges
• Travel insurance
• Optional tours & activities
• Any cost due to delays or unforeseen events