from ₹385,840
Book Now

Sacred Shrines & Scenic Escapes: A Journey through South India

0/5
Duration

14 Nights / 15 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Sacred Shrines & Scenic Escapes: A Journey through South India offers an immersive exploration of South India’s rich heritage and natural beauty. Begin in Bangalore, where you’ll discover historical landmarks before venturing to Vellore’s golden temple and the vibrant city of Chennai. Journey through Pondicherry’s French charm and the ancient temples of Thanjavur, then immerse in the Chettinad culture and the grandeur of Madurai’s temples. Experience the lush landscapes of Munnar, the wildlife of Thekkady, and the serene backwaters of Kumarakom and Alleppey. Conclude in Cochin, exploring its historic sites and vibrant cultural scene, culminating in a journey filled with sacred sites and stunning scenery.

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 46.2%
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 45.2%
3 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 54.3%
4 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 54.2%
5 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 58.1%
6 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 57.5%
7 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 61.9%

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Bangalore

On arrival, assistance and transfer to the hotel. Rest time for personal activities.

Day 2: Bangalore

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Visit Lal Bagh Garden, a botanical haven with a glasshouse inspired by London’s Crystal Palace and a vast collection of tropical plants. Explore Cubbon Park, a sprawling urban park with beautifully landscaped gardens and historical monuments. Tour Bangalore Fort, a historic fortification built in the 16th century with impressive ramparts and bastions. Visit Tippu Sultan's Summer Palace, known for its ornate wooden pillars and vibrant frescoes. See the Bull Temple, famous for its massive monolithic bull statue, a significant religious site. Drive past Vidhana Soudha and Secretariat, notable for their grand architecture and governmental importance.

Day 3: Bangalore - Vellore (220kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Vellore, with a stop at Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple, renowned for its lavish golden interiors and intricate carvings. Explore Vellore Fort, a grand fort built in the 16th century with a moat, ramparts, and several historic structures inside.

Day 4: Vellore - Chennai (145kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Chennai, stopping at Kanchipuram, an ancient city known for its numerous temples. Upon arrival in Chennai, check in at the hotel. Visit Fort St. George, the first British fortification in India, with a museum and historic artifacts. Explore St Mary’s Church inside the fort, one of the oldest churches in India with its colonial charm. See Kapaleeshwarar Temple, an ancient temple with a stunning gopuram (gateway tower) and vibrant carvings. Visit Vadapalani Murugan Temple, dedicated to the deity Murugan with colorful sculptures and a lively atmosphere. Tour the Government Museum, featuring collections of ancient artifacts, sculptures, and artworks. Explore Dakshinachitra Museum, showcasing South Indian art, culture, and crafts. Stroll through Santhome Cathedral, a beautiful church with a significant historical background, and relax at Marina Beach, known for its long stretch of sandy shoreline.

Day 5: Chennai - Pondicherry (160kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Pondicherry, visiting Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with rock-cut temples, including the Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, and Krishna’s Butterball. Upon arrival in Pondicherry, check in at the hotel. Visit Auroville, an international community dedicated to sustainable living and unity. Walk through the French Quarters, known for its charming colonial architecture and vibrant streets.

Day 6: Pondicherry - Thanjavur (180kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Thanjavur, with a visit to Chidambaram Nataraja Temple, famous for its detailed carvings depicting Shiva’s cosmic dance. Explore the Great Living Chola Temples at Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites with exceptional Chola architecture. Check in at the hotel in Thanjavur

Day 7: Thanjavur - Chettinadu (140kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Visit Brihadeshwara Temple, a grand Chola-era temple known for its massive dome and intricate carvings. Drive to Chettinad, visiting Trichy to see Ranganathaswamy Temple, an extensive temple complex with elaborate sculptures, and Rock Fort Temple, situated on a rocky outcrop with stunning views. Check in at the hotel in Chettinad.

Day 8: Chettinad - Madurai (90kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Explore Chettinad’s 19th-century mansions, featuring grand courtyards, intricate woodwork, and unique architecture. Drive to Madurai and check in at the hotel.

Day 9: Madurai - Munnar (160kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Visit Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, known for its vast complex, colorful sculptures, and elaborate Dravidian architecture. Explore Thirumalai Nayakar Palace, famous for its grand arches and historical significance. Visit Alagar Koil, a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located on a picturesque hill. See Tiruparankundram Murugan Temple, an important pilgrimage site carved into a rock face. Visit Palamuthirsolai Murugan Temple, situated on a hill with scenic surroundings. Drive to Munnar and check in at the hotel.

Day 10: Munnar

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Visit Pothamedu, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of tea plantations and rolling hills. Explore Mattupetty Dam, a scenic spot for boating and enjoying the surrounding landscapes. Visit Rajamala Hill, known for its rare Nilgiri Tahr wildlife and beautiful vistas. Explore Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and lush greenery. Tour Mattupedi Dairy Farm, known for its dairy production and picturesque location. Visit Echo Point, famous for its natural echo phenomenon and serene atmosphere. Explore the Tea Museum, showcasing the history and process of tea production in the region.

Day 11: Munnar - Thekkady (110kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Thekkady, stopping at Ramakkalmedu, known for its scenic wind farms and breathtaking views. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Martial Arts performance and a Kathakali Dance show, both integral to Kerala’s cultural heritage.

Day 12: Thekkady - Kumarakom (140kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Explore Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary on a boat safari, where you may spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species. Visit a spice plantation to see the cultivation of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper. Drive to Kumarakom and check in at the hotel.

Day 13: Kumarakom - Alleppey

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to Alleppey boat jetty and board a houseboat. Sail through the tropical backwaters, enjoying the serene landscapes and traditional Kerala village life from the comfort of the houseboat.

Day 14: Alleppey - Cochin (60kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. After disembarking from the houseboat, drive to Cochin. Check in at the hotel and visit Fort Cochin, a historic area with colonial architecture and cultural sites. Explore St. Frances Church, one of the oldest churches in India, and Jewish Synagogue, known for its beautiful tiles and historical significance. Visit Mattancherry Palace, featuring Kerala murals and artifacts from the region’s royal history. See the Chinese fishing nets, a traditional fishing method with a unique operation. In the evening, watch a Kathakali Dance performance, a traditional Kerala art form known for its elaborate costumes and storytelling.

Day 15: Cochin - Departure

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for departure.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 14 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.
  • Any flight tickets.
  • 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 14 nights accommodation

4 Star Hotels
Bangalore x 2 nights: Lemon Tree Premier/ Gokulam Grand Hotel & Spa
Vellore x 1 night: Fortune Park Vellore
Chennai x 1 night: Accord Metropolitan/ The Park Chennai
Pondicherry x 1 night: Le Pondy/ Accord Puducherry
Thanjore x 1 night: GReaT Trails Riverview Resort
Chettinad x 1 night: Chidambara Vilas/ Chettinadu Mansion
Madurai x 1 night: Fortune Pandiyan Hotel/ Regency Madurai by GRT Hotels
Munnar x 2 nights: Elixir Hills Resort/ Tea County Munnar
Pariyar (Thekkady) x 1 night: Amritara Shalimar Spice Garden/ The Elephant Court
Kumarakom x 1 night: Gokulam Grand Resort & Spa/ Rhythm Kumarakom
Alleppey x 1 night: Premium Houseboat (Full Time AC)
Cochin x 1 night: Casino Hotel/ Le Maritime

Reviews

0/5
Not Rated
Based on 0 review
Excellent
0
Very Good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Showing 1 - 0 of 0 in total

Write a review

from ₹385,840

You might also like