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Ancient Temples & Enchanting Backwaters: A Comprehensive Indian Tour Experience

0/5
Duration

16 Nights/ 17 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Discover the rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty of India on this comprehensive tour. Begin in Kolkata, exploring its historic landmarks and vibrant cityscape. Journey through Bhubaneswar’s ancient temples and Puri’s sacred sites before immersing in the serene Chilika Lake. Traverse South India’s temple treasures in Chennai, Pondicherry, and Thanjavur, and marvel at the Great Living Chola Temples. Experience the lush landscapes of Munnar and Thekkady, culminating in a tranquil houseboat cruise through Kerala’s enchanting backwaters. This journey seamlessly blends India’s spiritual heritage with its stunning natural vistas.

Highlights

  • This is a private tour/activity only for your group.
  • Enhanced cleaning/ traveler safety.
  • In-depth cultural experience.
  • Flexible sightseeing & stopover.
  • Most travelers can participate.

Bulk discount (by Percent)

Bulk discount adult
# Discount group From adult To adult Value
1 Discount on 2-person group 2 2 46.3%
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 44.5%
3 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 53.4%
4 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 53.1%
5 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 57.7%
6 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 56.9%
7 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 61.3%

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Kolkata

On arrival at Kolkata airport, receive assistance and transfer to your hotel. Spend the day relaxing and acclimating to the city's vibrant atmosphere, enjoying the comfort of your hotel.

Day 2: Kolkata

Breakfast at the hotel. Begin your city tour with a visit to Fort William, an impressive British fortification featuring grand colonial architecture and expansive gardens overlooking the Hooghly River. Explore the Victoria Memorial, a magnificent white marble building surrounded by lush gardens, housing a museum with exhibits on British India’s history and art. Visit Netaji Bhawan, the historic residence of Subhas Chandra Bose, now a museum dedicated to his life and the Indian freedom struggle. See Howrah Bridge, an engineering marvel and one of the busiest cantilever bridges in the world, offering stunning views of the Hooghly River. Discover Dakshineswar Kali Temple, a revered Hindu shrine on the banks of the Hooghly River, known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual significance.

Day 3: Kolkata - Bhubaneshwar (Flight)

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for a flight to Bhubaneswar. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and refresh. Explore Bhubaneswar’s architectural wonders, starting with Parasurameshwar Temple, an ancient Shiva temple renowned for its detailed carvings and classic Kalinga architecture. Visit Mukteshwar Temple, often referred to as the ‘Gem of Odisha Architecture’ due to its exquisite carvings and ornate entrance. Explore Rajarani Temple, named after the red and yellow sandstone used in its construction, known for its intricate sculptures and serene atmosphere. Visit Lingaraj Temple, a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, notable for its towering spire and vibrant rituals (entry to the sanctum is restricted to Hindus). Discover Khandagiri and Udayagiri caves, ancient rock-cut Jain monasteries with fascinating carvings and historical significance. Visit Dhauli Rock Edicts, a series of inscriptions by Emperor Ashoka marking his conversion to Buddhism, etched into a rocky outcrop.

Day 4: Bhubaneshwar - Puri (60kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Puri, stopping en route at the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its chariot-shaped architecture and intricate stone carvings depicting solar deities. Visit Pipili, a village famous for its vibrant applique work, where artisans create colorful, handcrafted textiles. Explore Raghurajpur artisan village, known for its traditional Pattachitra paintings and crafts, showcasing local artistic skills. Visit Ramchandi Temple, a serene shrine dedicated to the goddess Ramchandi, offering scenic views of the surrounding area. Relax at Chandrabhaga Beach, known for its clean sands and picturesque setting, and visit the world-famous Jagannath Temple in Puri (entry to the sanctum is restricted to Hindus).

Day 5: Puri - Chilika Lake (55kms one way)

Breakfast at the hotel. Take an excursion to Chilika Lake, the largest brackish water lagoon in India and an important wintering ground for migratory birds. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake, exploring its diverse birdlife and unique ecosystems. Return to Puri and relax at your hotel.

Day 6: Puri - Bhubaneshwar/ Chennai (flight)

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to Bhubaneswar airport for a flight to Chennai. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Begin your Chennai city tour with visits to Fort St. George, the first British fortress in India, and St. Mary’s Church, the oldest Anglican church in the country. Explore Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its colorful gopurams and detailed sculptures. Visit Vadapalani Murugan Temple, renowned for its vibrant decorations and religious significance. Explore the Government Museum, which houses an extensive collection of art, antiques, and archaeological artifacts. Visit Dakshinachitra Museum, a cultural center displaying South Indian art, crafts, and heritage, and see Santhome Cathedral, built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle. Relax at Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world, offering a lively atmosphere and scenic views.

Day 7: Chennai - Pondicherry (160kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Pondicherry, stopping en route at Kanchipuram, an ancient city renowned for its historic temples such as Kailasanathar Temple, known for its intricate carvings and architecture. Explore Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring monumental rock-cut temples, including the Shore Temple, famed for its coastal setting, and Arjuna’s Penance, a massive bas-relief depicting mythological events.

Day 8: Pondicherry

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Auroville, an international community dedicated to peace and sustainable living, offering insights into its unique philosophy and architecture. Explore Pondicherry Museum, which displays artifacts from the region’s colonial past and archaeological finds. Stroll through the French Quarters, characterized by charming colonial architecture, including the French consulate, Raj Nivas, and various churches and French schools. Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the serene beaches of Pondicherry.

Day 9: Pondicherry - Thanjore (220kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Thanjavur, visiting Chidambaram Nataraja Temple, renowned for its intricate dance sculptures and significance in Tamil Hindu culture. Explore The Great Living Chola Temples at Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram, celebrated for their grand scale and detailed architectural features, reflecting the prowess of the Chola dynasty. Arrive in Thanjavur and check in at the hotel.

Day 10: Thanjavur - Trichy - Madurai (190kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Brihadeshwara Temple, an iconic Chola-era temple known for its massive central dome and detailed sculptures. Drive to Madurai, with a stop in Trichy to explore Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in the world, and Jambukeswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Visit The Rock Fort, an ancient fortification atop a rock offering panoramic views and historical insights. Continue to Madurai and check in at your hotel.

Day 11: Madurai - Munnar (160kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Meenakshi Temple, famous for its towering gopurams and intricate carvings depicting Hindu mythology. Explore Thirumalai Nayakar Palace, known for its grand architecture and historical significance as a royal residence. Visit Alagar Koil and Tiruparankundram Murugan Temple, important Hindu temples with rich cultural and historical backgrounds. Drive to Munnar, a scenic hill station known for its lush tea gardens and cool climate, and check in at your hotel.

Day 12: Munnar

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Pothamedu, offering stunning views of tea plantations and rolling hills. Explore Mattupetty Dam, known for its picturesque setting and opportunities for boating. Visit Rajamala Hill, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and Eravikulam National Park, famous for its biodiversity and scenic beauty. Tour Mattupedi Dairy Farm to see dairy farming practices and enjoy the views from Echo Point, where sounds reverberate across the hills. Visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history and processing of tea in Munnar.

Day 13: Munnar - Thekkady (100kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Thekkady, passing through Ramakkalmedu, known for its wind farms and stunning landscapes. Visit Frog Rock and Turtle Rock, natural rock formations with unique shapes and cultural significance. See Kuravan & Kurathi twin-statue, symbolizing local legends and offering cultural insights into the region.

Day 14: Thekkady

Breakfast at the hotel. Explore Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary on a boat ride on Periyar Lake, observing diverse wildlife such as tigers, elephants, and rare lion-tailed macaques. Take a spice plantation tour to see the cultivation of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, and coffee, and learn about their uses and processing.

Day 15: Thekkady - Alleppey (160kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Alleppey boat jetty to board a houseboat. Sail through the picturesque backwaters of Kerala, enjoying the tranquil environment and lush greenery. The houseboat features modern amenities including a dining area, separate bedroom with attached English toilets, sun deck, and a fully equipped kitchen with a chef and driver.

Day 16: Alleppey - Cochin (60kms)

After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and drive to Cochin. Check in at the hotel and later explore Fort Cochin, known for its colonial architecture and historical sites. Visit St. Frances Church, the oldest European church in India, Jewish Synagogue with its beautiful antiques, and Mattancherry Dutch Palace with its impressive murals. See the Chinese fishing nets, iconic structures used by local fishermen, and in the evening, watch a Kathakali Dance show, a traditional Kerala art form known for its elaborate costumes and dramatic performances.

Day 17: Cochin - Departure

As per your flight schedule, transfer to the airport for your onward destination, concluding your memorable tour of East and South India.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 16 Nights' accommodation in 4-star hotels.
  • Daily breakfast and meal as per day plan.
  • Private air-conditioned deluxe car for airport transfer, sightseeing and excursion as per program.
  • English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.
  • Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Bottled drinking water in car.
  • Government taxes.
  • Kolkata - Bhubaneshwar - Chennai flight fare approx. ₹15500 per person in economy class.
  • Camera charges at monuments.
  • Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc.
  • Gratuities & optional activities.
  • Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

Tour's Location

FAQs

What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

Hotels used or similar for 16 nights accommodation

4 Star Hotels
Kolkata x 2 nights: The Elgin Fairlawn/ ZONE By The Park
Bhubaneshwar x 1 night: Fortune Park Sishmo/ Lemon Tree Premier
Puri x 2 nights: MAYFAIR Heritage/ Mayfair Waves
Chennai x 1 night: Accord Metropolitan/ The Park Chennai
Pondicherry x 2 nights: Le Pondy/ Accord Puducherry
Thanjavur x 1 night: GReaT Trails Riverview Resort
Madurai x 1 night: Fortune Pandiyan Hotel/ Regency Madurai by GRT Hotels
Munnar x 2 nights: Elixir Hills Resort/ Tea County Munnar
Thekkady x 2 nights: Amritara Shalimar Spice Garden/ The Elephant Court
Alleppey x 1 night: Premium Houseboat (Full Time AC)
Cochin x 1 night: The Tower House/ The Killians

Can travelers upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels?

Yes, travelers can upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels by paying the supplement. Please send inquiry for same from the booking page to get the price quote.

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