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Temple Trails & Backwater Bliss: A South India Adventure

5/5
Duration

14 Nights/ 15 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through South India with our “Temple Trails & Backwater Bliss” tour. Begin in Chennai, where you’ll explore historic temples and vibrant local culture before heading to Mahabalipuram to marvel at its ancient UNESCO-listed monuments. Discover the charm of Pondicherry’s French heritage, then delve into the grandeur of Thanjavur’s Chola temples. Journey through the lush landscapes of Munnar and Thekkady, experiencing tea estates and wildlife sanctuaries. Glide through the serene backwaters of Alleppey on a traditional houseboat, and immerse yourself in Cochin’s rich history and Kovalam’s coastal beauty. This adventure offers a blend of spiritual exploration, natural wonders, and cultural immersion.

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 46.9%
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 43.8%
4 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 54.6%
5 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 53.2%
6 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 58.2%
7 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 56.7%
8 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 61.3%

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Chennai

Arrival transfer to hotel (check-in/out time 12pm). Visit Fort St. George, a historic fort that served as the headquarters of the British East India Company and features the oldest English church in India. Explore St. Mary Church within the fortress, notable for its historical significance and beautiful architecture. Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a grand temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with impressive Dravidian architecture and vibrant festivals. Discover Vadapalani Murugan Temple, renowned for its colorful sculptures and elaborate ceremonies. Explore the Government Museum, showcasing an extensive collection of artifacts, sculptures, and archaeological findings. Visit Dakshinachitra Museum, a cultural museum dedicated to South Indian heritage with exhibits of traditional arts and crafts. Conclude with Santhome Cathedral, a beautiful church built over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. Relax at Marina Beach, a bustling urban beach known for its long sandy stretch and vibrant local life. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Chennai - Mahabalipuram (120kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Mahabalipuram, a historic coastal town known for its rock-cut temples and monuments. Visit Kanchipuram, an ancient city renowned for its thousands of temples and silk weaving industry. On arrival, check in at hotel. Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mahabalipuram, including Monolithic Temples carved from single rock pieces. See Krishnas Butterball, a massive spherical rock perched precariously on a slope. Visit Cave Temples, featuring intricate carvings and ancient artwork. Discover Shore Temple, a stunning temple complex overlooking the Bay of Bengal. Admire The Arjuna Penance, a colossal bas-relief depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. Overnight at hotel.

Day 3: Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry (120kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Pondicherry, a charming town with a blend of French colonial and Indian influences. Check in at hotel. Visit Auroville, an international township dedicated to peace and sustainable living, known for its unique architecture and community life. Explore Pondicherry Museum, showcasing artifacts from the region’s rich history and colonial past. Stroll through the French Quarters, admiring colonial villas, mustard-colored streets, and historical buildings such as the French consulate, Raj Nivas, and Government Square. Visit Churches and French schools, reflecting the town's colonial heritage and architectural charm. Overnight at hotel.

Day 4: Pondicherry - Thanjavur (180kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Thanjavur, a city renowned for its grand temples and historical monuments. Visit Chidambaram Nataraja Temple, famous for its intricate carvings and the deity Nataraja in a cosmic dance pose. Explore the Great Living Chola Temples, including Gangaikonda Cholapuram, known for its impressive Chola architecture. Visit Darasuram Temple, an architectural marvel with intricate stone carvings and a massive courtyard. On arrival in Thanjavur, check in at hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 5: Thanjavur - Trichy (60kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Visit Brihadeshwara Temple, a grand Chola-era temple with remarkable architecture and extensive carvings. Explore the Palace Complex, showcasing the opulent lifestyle of the Chola kings. Drive to Trichy and check in at hotel. Visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, the largest functional temple in the world, known for its vast complex and intricate architecture. Explore The Rock Fort, an ancient rock formation with a temple complex offering panoramic views of the city. Overnight at hotel.

Day 6: Trichy - Madurai (135kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Madurai and check in at hotel. Visit Meenakshi Temple, a sprawling temple complex known for its stunning sculptures, colorful gopurams (gateway towers), and vibrant festivals. Explore Thirumalai Nayakar Palace, famous for its grand architecture and historical significance. Visit Alagar Koil, a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu situated on a picturesque hill. Explore Tiruparankundram Murugan Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to the Hindu deity Murugan. Visit Palamuthirsolai Murugan Temple, located in a serene environment with lush greenery. Overnight at hotel.

Day 7: Madurai - Munnar (160kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Munnar, a scenic hill station known for its tea plantations. Check in at hotel. Visit a tea estate to learn about tea cultivation and enjoy a tea tasting session. Overnight at hotel.

Day 8: Munnar

Breakfast at hotel. Explore Pothamedu for panoramic views of the surrounding hills and plantations. Visit Mattupetty Dam, offering opportunities for boat rides and scenic views. Discover Rajamala Hill, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Visit Eravikulam National Park, known for its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes. Explore Mattupedi Dairy Farm, where you can observe dairy farming practices. Visit Echo Point, known for its natural acoustics and scenic beauty. Explore the Tea Museum to learn about the history and process of tea production. Overnight at hotel.

Day 9: Munnar - Thekkady (110kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Thekkady, a town known for its wildlife sanctuary and spice plantations. Visit Ramakkalmedu, known for its strong winds and breathtaking views. In the evening, watch a Martial Arts and Kathakali Dance show, showcasing traditional Kerala performances. Overnight at hotel

Day 10: Thekkady

Breakfast at hotel. Explore Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary on a boat safari, offering chances to see elephants and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Tour a spice plantation to learn about the cultivation of spices like cardamom, pepper, and cloves. Drive to Kumarakom and check in at hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 11: Thekaddy - Alleppey (135kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to Alleppey boat jetty to board a houseboat. Sail through the backwaters of Kerala, enjoying the lush tropical landscape and serene waterways. Lunch, dinner, and overnight stay on board the houseboat, experiencing the unique charm of the backwaters.

Day 12: Alleppey - Cochin (60kms)

After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat. Drive to Cochin and check in at hotel. Visit Fort Cochin, a historic area known for its colonial architecture and vibrant culture. Explore St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. Visit the Jewish Synagogue, famous for its antique scrolls and unique architecture. Explore Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, renowned for its murals and historical exhibits. See the Chinese fishing nets, iconic symbols of Cochin’s maritime history. In the evening, watch a Kathakali Dance performance, a traditional dance-drama showcasing elaborate costumes and storytelling. Overnight at hotel.

Day 13: Cochin - Kovalam (200kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Kovalam, a picturesque beach destination known for its scenic beauty. Check in at hotel. Enjoy a free day for personal activities and relaxation on the beach. Overnight at hotel.

Day 14: Kovalam

Breakfast at hotel. Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple, an important Hindu temple known for its architectural grandeur and religious significance. Explore Attukal Temple, known for its unique festivals and beautiful surroundings. Visit Napier Museum, showcasing a rich collection of art and historical artifacts. Explore Kuthira Malika, a historic palace with exquisite architecture and intricate wood carvings. Visit Sri Chitra Art Gallery, home to a collection of traditional Indian paintings. Drive through popular beaches such as Kovalam Beach and others, enjoying the scenic beauty and local atmosphere. Overnight at hotel.

Day 15: Kovalam - Departure

Breakfast at hotel. Departure transfer to airport for your onward journey.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 14 Night's accommodation in 4-star hotels.
  • Daily breakfast & meal as per day plan (B- Breakfast, L- Lunch, D- Dinner)
  • 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
Chennai x 1 night: Accord Metropolitan/ The Park Chennai
Mahabalipuram x 1 night: Chariot Beach Resort/ Confluence The Banquet & Resort
Pondicherry x 1 night: Le Pondy/ Accord Puducherry
Thanjore x 1 night: GReaT Trails Riverview Resort
Trichy x 1 night: Courtyard by Marriott
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 2 nights: Amritara Shalimar Spice Garden/ The Elephant Court
Alleppey x 1 night: Premium Houseboat (Full Time AC)
Cochin x 1 night: Casino Hotel/ Le Maritime
Kovalam x 2 nights: Estuary Sarovar Portico / Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel

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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