South India - A Journey of Sense & Soul

South India Cultural & Nature Tour

Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry – Chettinad – Madurai – Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey – Cochin
14 Days - 13 Nights

Overview

Experience the vibrant essence of South India on this immersive journey through culture, spirituality, and natural beauty. From the serene backwaters of Kerala to the grand temples of Tamil Nadu and the royal heritage of Karnataka, this tour blends rich traditions, aromatic cuisine, lush landscapes, and timeless architecture. Discover ancient rituals, peaceful hill stations, and coastal charm while enjoying authentic local experiences that nourish both the senses and the soul.

Tour Highlights

  • Cruise through the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey on a traditional houseboat
  • Visit the majestic Meenakshi Temple in Madurai
  • Explore the tea gardens of Munnar
  • Experience spiritual rituals along the ghats of Rameswaram
  • Discover the heritage of Mysore including palaces and markets
  • Enjoy authentic South Indian cuisine and cultural performances

Tour Plan

01

Day 01: Day 01: Arrive in Chennai

Meet and greet upon arrival for a transfer to your hotel. After fresh up proceed to visit Fort St. George, St. Mary’s Church and San Thome Cathedral. overnight stay at hotel.

02

Day 02: Chennai to Mahabalipuram

After breakfast, drive to Mahabalipuram, situated on the shore of the Bay of Bengal and famous for its unique 7th-century Shore Temples, lovely beach and some of the most beautiful rock-cut temples in the world. On arrival check in resort, after fresh up proceed to visit Sea shore temple, Arjuna’s Penance, Five Rathas and enjoy the sunset. Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.

03

Day 03: Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry ( 100 Km drive time approx 2 hrs)

After breakfast, depart from Mahabalipuram and drive to Pondichhery, enjoy a beautiful drive along the East Coast Road (ECR)—one of South India’s most scenic coastal routes. On arrival check in hotel. Afternoon expore the French Quarter, Walk through mustard-yellow and pastel colonial villas, Bougainvillea-covered streets & quiet lanes & Visit local boutiques, art galleries, and handicraft stores. Evening visit Promenade Beach. Overnight stay in hotel.

04

Day 04: Pondicherry

After breakfast, proceed to visit Auroville is an experimental township. It was made with the purpose of human harmony. Roger Anger built this place so that men and women from any part of the world could come here and live peacefully. After lunch visit the Indian Quarter, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and Sri Aurobindo Ashram. Night stay at Pondichery

05

Day 05: Pondicherry -- Kumbakonam ( 170 Km 5-6 hrs approximately)

After breakfast, depart from Pondicherry and drive inland towards Kumbakonam, passing through scenic rural landscapes of Tamil Nadu. En route, visit Chidambaram ( Optional) to explore the famous Nataraja Temple, known for its remarkable Dravidian architecture, Towering gopurams (gateway towers) covered with hundreds of colorful sculptures. Later continue drive to Kumabkonam, On arrival check in hotel. After fresh up experince Darasuram a UNESCO SITE visit the stunning Airavatesvara Temple renowned for its intricate stone carvings and Chola-era architecture. This is not just a temple—it’s a masterpiece of ancient art and engineering. Evening explore the Village and surrounding Area on Cycle or enjoy the Bullock Cart ride. Overnight stay at Kumbakonam.

06

Day 06: Kumbakonam - Tanjore - Chettinad

After breakfast check out from the hotel and drive to Chettinad en-route visit Tanjore, It will take about 1 hrs to reach Tanjore, which is famous today for its beautiful architecture temples and the amazing bronze works it creates. It is a centre for the classical arts like dance and music. Tanjore sightseeing covering Brihadishwara Temple, Thanjavur Palace & Museum. Later drive to Chettinad, known for its palatial mansions and unique cuisine. On arrival check in heritage mansion. Evening explore the mansion and havelis of Chettinad.

07

Day 07: Chettinad Sightseeing - Madurai

Morning after breakfast check out and visit tile-making unit where tiles are still handmade, Cotton Saree Weaving centre. ( OPTIONAL) Later drive to Madurai - the third-largest city in Tamil Nadu. On arrival check-in at the hotel. After fresh up visit Meenakshi Anam Temple. (non-Hindu faith are not allowed inside the innermost sanctum of the temple). Overnight stay in hotel.

08

Day 08: Madurai sightseeing

After breakfast, proceed to visit Flower Market, Spices Market Street, Banana / Vegetable Market Nayak Palace and Gandhi Museum & explore local bazar. Evening is at leisure. Overnight stay in hotel

09

Day 09:- Madurai - Munnar ( 5-6 hrs )

After breakfast, check out and begin your journey from the plains of Tamil Nadu toward the lush highlands of Kerala. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Western Ghats with enroute stops at waterfalls and spice plantations. On arrival, check-in to your luxury hill resort and relax amidst tea gardens and cool mountain air. Overnight in Munnar

10

Day 10:- Munnar - Tea & Nature Experience

Begin with a guided walk through picturesque tea plantations followed by a tea tasting session. Visit Eravikulam National Park a premier UNESCO World Heritage site to witness stunning landscapes and rare wildlife like Nilgiri Thar. Continue to scenic viewpoints for breathtaking valley views. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Munnar

11

Day 11:- Munnar - Thekkady ( 3-4 hrs)

Drive through scenic hills to Thekkady, known for its rich biodiversity and spice plantations. On arrival, visit Periyar National Park and experience the region’s natural beauty. Enjoy a guided spice plantation walk to learn about Kerala’s famous spices such as cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon. In the evening, you may opt to attend a traditional Kalaripayattu (martial arts) show. Overnight in Thekkady

12

Day 12:- Thekkady - Alleppey ( 4-5 hrs)

Morning proceed to Periyar National park and enjoy the boating. Later back to hotel and have breakfats, after breakfast check out and Drive through scenic countryside to Alleppey, famously known as the “Venice of the East.” On arrival, board your private houseboat and begin a relaxing cruise through the tranquil backwaters lined with coconut palms and village life. Enjoy freshly prepared local meals on board as you glide past canals, paddy fields, and traditional homes. Experience the slow rhythm of Kerala’s backwater lifestyle—one of the highlights of the journey. Overnight on houseboat

13

Day 13:- Alleppey - Cochin ( 1.5 hrs)

After breakfast, disembark from your houseboat and drive to Cochin, vibrant blend of colonial heritage and coastal charm. On arrival check in hotel, After freah up proceed to explore Fort Kochi, known for its quaint streets, colonial architecture, and artistic vibe. Visit the iconic Chinese fishing nets along the shoreline and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this historic port town. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance, a classical art form of Kerala known for its elaborate costumes and storytelling.

14

Day 14:- Cochin depart

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Cochin International Airport for your onward journey.

Inclusion

  • Welcome Drink on Arrival in hotel
  • Accommodation as per the mentioned hotels or Similar hotels
  • Breakfast in the hotel.
  • Monument entrace fees as per the program.
  • All meal while stay in Houseboat in Alleppey.
  • All transfer and sightseeing by AC Vehicle as per itinerary.
  • French speaking guide during the sightseeing.
  • Boat ride at Periyar wildlife Sanctury.
  • One Kathakali dance performance in Cochin.
  • Kalaripayattu (traditional martial arts) show.
  • 2 Bottle daily packaged drinking water ( 500 Ml each).
  • Drivers allowance, Fuel Charges, Toll and parking charges.
  • All applicable taxes including GST

Exclusion

  • Any Air fare untill it mention
  • VISA fees
  • Lunch or Dinner
  • Any sightseeing or entry to park or monument or museum or anything not included in the inclusion list.
  • Additional sightseeing or extra usage of vehicles, other than mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Any portage at hotels, tips, insurance, wine, telephone charges, and all items of personal nature.
  • Expenses of a personal nature and any other expenses not mentioned.
  • Cost arising out of flight cancellation/road blockades/landslides others beyond our control