Day 1: Arrival in Chennai

Overnight: Chennai

Arrive at Chennai International Airport, where you will be welcomed by your representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in and some relaxation, begin exploring the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu.

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple, known for its colourful Dravidian architecture, followed by San Thome Basilica, an important historic church. If time permits, enjoy a leisurely walk along Marina Beach and experience the lively atmosphere of the city.

Highlights: Temple architecture, historic landmarks and local culture.

Day 2: Chennai – Mahabalipuram

Approx. 60 km | Overnight: Mahabalipuram

After breakfast, drive along the scenic East Coast Road to Mahabalipuram, an ancient coastal town celebrated for its remarkable stone-carved monuments.

Explore the Shore Temple, the Five Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance and Krishna’s Butter Ball. Admire the extraordinary craftsmanship of the Pallava dynasty and learn about the town’s maritime heritage. In the evening, relax by the beach or explore the local stone-carving workshops.

Highlights: UNESCO-listed monuments, ancient rock-cut art and coastal scenery.

Day 3: Mahabalipuram – Puducherry

Approx. 100 km | Overnight: Puducherry

Enjoy breakfast before travelling to Puducherry, a charming coastal destination with a distinctive blend of Indian and French influences.

Discover the French Quarter, with its elegant colonial buildings, tree-lined streets and colourful facades. Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, explore the promenade and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the seaside town. Depending on time and access arrangements, visit Auroville’s visitor centre.

Highlights: French colonial heritage, spiritual landmarks, cafés and seaside walks.

Day 4: Puducherry – Chidambaram – Thanjavur

Approx. 180–220 km | Overnight: Thanjavur

After breakfast, travel towards Thanjavur, the historic heartland of the Chola dynasty. En route, stop at Chidambaram to visit the famous Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his cosmic dancing form.

Continue to Thanjavur and visit the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, renowned for its monumental tower, intricate stonework and outstanding Chola architecture. Enjoy the peaceful temple surroundings and learn about the region’s contribution to South Indian art and culture.

Highlights: Chola dynasty heritage, sacred temples and traditional architecture.

Day 5: Thanjavur – Trichy – Madurai

Approx. 200 km | Overnight: Madurai

Begin the day with breakfast and, time permitting, visit Thanjavur Royal Palace and the Saraswathi Mahal Library area to appreciate the city’s artistic and literary traditions.

Proceed to Tiruchirappalli (Trichy), where you can explore the impressive Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam. Continue to Madurai, one of South India’s oldest historic cities. After check-in, enjoy a relaxed evening exploring the local markets and sampling authentic Tamil cuisine.

Highlights: Temple complexes, royal history, traditional markets and regional food.

Day 6: Explore Madurai’s Cultural Heritage

Overnight: Madurai

After breakfast, enjoy a guided exploration of Madurai’s historic and spiritual attractions. Visit the celebrated Meenakshi Amman Temple, admired for its colourful sculpted towers, elaborate pillars and sacred courtyards.

Continue to the historic Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, an architectural landmark showcasing Indo-Saracenic influences. Explore the bustling flower markets and traditional shopping streets, where you can discover local handicrafts, textiles and Madurai’s famous culinary specialities.

In the evening, attend a temple ceremony if timings and access permit.

Highlights: Meenakshi Temple, royal architecture, flower markets and Tamil traditions.

Day 7: Madurai – Thekkady

Approx. 140 km | Overnight: Thekkady

After breakfast, leave Madurai and travel through the scenic countryside towards Thekkady in Kerala. Enjoy changing landscapes as the plains give way to forested hills and spice-growing regions.

On arrival, check in to your hotel and relax. Later, visit a local spice plantation to learn about cardamom, pepper, cinnamon and other spices that contribute to Kerala’s culinary heritage. You may also enjoy a traditional cultural performance in the evening, subject to availability.

Highlights: Western Ghats scenery, spice plantations and Kerala’s cultural traditions.

Day 8: Thekkady – Alleppey Houseboat Experience

Approx. 140 km | Overnight: Houseboat

After breakfast, drive to Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, a beautiful destination famous for its network of canals, lagoons and palm-fringed backwaters.

Board a traditional Kerala houseboat and begin a relaxing cruise through the tranquil waterways. Observe village life, paddy fields, coconut groves and local fishing activities along the banks. Enjoy freshly prepared regional meals on board and experience the peaceful charm of Kerala’s backwaters.

Highlights: Traditional houseboat cruise, scenic waterways, village life and authentic Kerala cuisine.

Day 9: Alleppey – Kochi Heritage Tour

Approx. 55 km | Overnight: Kochi

Enjoy breakfast and disembark from the houseboat before driving to Kochi, a historic port city shaped by centuries of maritime trade and cultural exchange.

Explore Fort Kochi’s historic streets, see the iconic Chinese fishing nets and visit St. Francis Church. Continue to Mattancherry Palace and the historic Jew Town area, subject to opening hours. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance, if available, and discover Kerala’s distinctive performing arts.

Highlights: Colonial heritage, historic trading quarters, waterfront scenery and traditional dance.

Day 10: Kochi – Bengaluru – Mysore

Overnight: Mysore

After breakfast, transfer to Kochi Airport for a flight to Bengaluru, subject to flight schedules. On arrival, continue by road to Mysore, the historic royal city of Karnataka.

Check in to your hotel and spend the remainder of the day relaxing or exploring the local markets. Mysore is renowned for its royal legacy, silk weaving, sandalwood crafts and celebrated cultural traditions.

Highlights: Scenic journey, royal heritage and traditional handicrafts.

Day 11: Mysore Sightseeing

Overnight: Mysore

After breakfast, explore the magnificent Mysore Palace, famous for its ornate interiors, grand halls and Indo-Saracenic architectural style.

Continue to Chamundi Hill to visit Chamundeshwari Temple and enjoy panoramic views of the city, subject to weather and access. Depending on your interests, visit St. Philomena’s Church or the Devaraja Market to discover local produce, flowers, silk and handicrafts.

Spend the evening at leisure, with time to enjoy Mysore’s traditional cuisine and relaxed atmosphere.

Highlights: Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill, local markets and Karnataka’s royal traditions.

Day 12: Mysore – Bengaluru Departure

Approx. 145 km | Tour concludes

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out and driving to Bengaluru International Airport for your onward flight. If your departure schedule allows, you may enjoy a brief stop in Bengaluru for sightseeing or shopping.

Depart with wonderful memories of South India’s sacred temples, historic cities, traditional arts, royal architecture and tranquil backwaters.

Highlights: Comfortable departure transfer and a memorable conclusion to your South India cultural journey.