Duration : 11 Days / 10 Nights
Destinations : Chennai → Mahabalipuram → Puducherry → Thanjavur → Madurai → Munnar → Thekkady → Alleppey → Kochi
Tour Highlights
- Discover the cultural, historical, and natural wonders of South India on a budget-friendly group tour.
- Visit iconic Dravidian temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and vibrant heritage cities.
- Explore the coastal beauty of Mahabalipuram and the French colonial charm of Puducherry.
- Admire the architectural masterpiece of the Brihadisvara Temple in Thanjavur.
- Experience the spiritual atmosphere of the Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai.
- Enjoy the scenic tea plantations, mist-covered hills, and waterfalls of Munnar.
- Visit fragrant spice plantations and enjoy cultural performances in Thekkady.
- Cruise through the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey aboard a traditional Kerala houseboat.
- Discover the colonial landmarks, Chinese fishing nets, and vibrant markets of Kochi.
- Travel comfortably with an experienced tour leader, private transportation, and quality accommodations.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Chennai
Arrive at Chennai International Airport, where you will be welcomed by your tour representative. Transfer to your hotel and check in. Depending on your arrival time, visit Marina Beach and Kapaleeshwarar Temple before attending a welcome briefing with your group.
Overnight: Chennai
Day 2: Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Puducherry
After breakfast, drive along the scenic East Coast Road to Mahabalipuram. Explore the UNESCO-listed Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance, and Krishna’s Butter Ball. Continue to Puducherry and enjoy an evening walk along the Promenade Beach.
Overnight: Puducherry
Day 3: Puducherry – Thanjavur
After breakfast, explore the French Quarter and Sri Aurobindo Ashram before continuing to Thanjavur. Visit the magnificent Brihadisvara Temple and discover the city’s rich Chola heritage.
Overnight: Thanjavur
Day 4: Thanjavur – Madurai
Travel to Madurai, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in India. Visit the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, and the bustling local markets. In the evening, witness the temple’s traditional prayer ceremony.
Overnight: Madurai
Day 5: Madurai – Munnar
Leave Tamil Nadu behind and drive into Kerala’s beautiful Western Ghats. Arrive in Munnar, known for its rolling tea plantations, cool climate, and breathtaking mountain scenery.
Overnight: Munnar
Day 6: Munnar Sightseeing
Spend the day exploring Munnar’s highlights, including Eravikulam National Park (subject to seasonal opening), the Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and scenic tea estates.
Overnight: Munnar
Day 7: Munnar – Thekkady
After breakfast, drive to Thekkady. Visit a spice plantation to learn about Kerala’s famous spices, then enjoy free time or attend an optional Kathakali dance performance or Kalaripayattu martial arts show.
Overnight: Thekkady
Day 8: Thekkady – Alleppey
Travel to Alleppey and board a traditional Kerala houseboat. Cruise through the peaceful backwaters, passing coconut groves, villages, and lush paddy fields while enjoying freshly prepared local cuisine onboard.
Overnight: Houseboat in Alleppey
Day 9: Alleppey – Kochi
After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and drive to Kochi. Visit Fort Kochi, the Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, Mattancherry Palace, and the historic Jewish Quarter.
Overnight: Kochi
Day 10: Kochi Sightseeing
Explore Kochi’s cultural and colonial heritage with visits to local markets, Marine Drive, and art cafés. Enjoy free time for shopping, relaxing, or an optional harbor cruise before joining your group for a farewell dinner.
Overnight: Kochi
Day 11: Departure from Kochi
After breakfast, transfer to Kochi International Airport for your onward journey. Depart with wonderful memories of South India’s magnificent temples, scenic hill stations, peaceful backwaters, and warm hospitality.