Upon landing at Kolkata airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and facilitate your transfer to the hotel. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at the hotel, where you can savor local and international flavors. Take the day to unwind and settle into the vibrant atmosphere of the City of Joy.
Itinerary
Embark on a soul-stirring journey with "Divinity & Serenity: A Temple Tour of East & South India with Kerala Backwaters." This 17-day expedition invites you to explore the sacred realms of Kolkata's iconic landmarks, Bhubaneswar's ancient temples, and Puri's revered Jagannath Temple. Witness the vibrant blend of Indian and French influences in Pondicherry, discover the architectural marvels of Thanjavur, and delve into the lush tea plantations of Munnar. Experience the tranquil backwaters of Kerala on a houseboat, concluding your odyssey in Cochin with a cultural exploration of historical landmarks and a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance. Immerse yourself in spirituality and serenity on this divine and delightful sojourn.
Tour program
Arrive Kolkata
Start point
Kolkata, West Bengal, India
09:00 - 18:00
Kolkata City Tour
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, embark on a comprehensive exploration of Kolkata's cultural treasures. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Victoria Memorial, Indian Museum, Howrah Bridge, Marble Palace, and delve into the legacy of Mother Teresa at the Missionaries of Charity. Immerse yourself in the city's history and energy before returning to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Kolkata to Bhubaneswar (Flight)
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bhubaneswar. Upon arrival, delve into a rich cultural and spiritual experience with visits to revered temples like Lingaraj, Mukteshwar, and Rajarani. Explore the Dhauli Stupa, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site with profound historical significance. Return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.
Bhubaneshwar - Puri (60kms)
Start your day with a nutritious breakfast before embarking on a scenic drive to Puri. En route, stop at the awe-inspiring Konark Sun Temple, known for its intricate stone carvings. Discover the artistic richness of Pipili, famous for its vibrant applique work, and Raghurajpur, an artisan village celebrated for Pattachitra paintings. Arrive in Puri and visit the sacred Jagannath Temple. Enjoy a delightful dinner at your hotel.
Excursion to Chilika Lake
After a refreshing breakfast, enjoy an excursion to Chilika Lake, the largest coastal lagoon in India. Hop on a boat and cruise through the scenic lake, observing the rich biodiversity and serene surroundings. Return to Puri and spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the local markets or relaxing on the beach. Dinner will be served at your hotel.
Puri - Bhubaneshwar/ Chennai (flight)
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast before transferring to Bhubaneswar airport for your flight to Chennai. Upon arrival, embark on a city tour of Chennai, visiting attractions such as Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Fort St. George, and the Government Museum. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and architectural beauty of the city before retiring to your hotel for the night.
Chennai - Pondicherry (160kms)
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a scenic drive to Pondicherry. En route, visit the famous temples of Kanchipuram and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, known for its intricately carved temples and rock-cut sculptures. Arrive in Pondicherry and enjoy a pleasant dinner at your hotel.
Pondicherry Sightseeing
After a delicious breakfast, explore the charming town of Pondicherry, known for its serene beaches, colonial architecture, and spiritual centers. Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Auroville, Promenade Beach, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and the French Quarter. Experience the tranquil ambiance and cultural heritage of this coastal town before returning to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.
Pondicherry to Thanjavur (220kms)
Kickstart your day with a nutritious breakfast before embarking on a scenic drive to Thanjavur, known for its rich cultural heritage and architectural marvels. En route, visit the famous Chidambaram Nataraja Temple and the Great Living Chola Temples at Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram. Upon arrival in Thanjavur, check-in at your hotel and enjoy a delightful dinner.
Thanjavur - Trichy - Madurai (190kms)
After a wholesome breakfast, explore the city of Thanjavur and visit its famous attractions, including the Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur Palace, and Saraswathi Mahal Library. Then drive to Madurai, making a stop in Trichy to visit the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple and the Rock Fort. Continue your journey to Madurai and check in at your hotel. Enjoy a delectable dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Madurai - Munnar (160kms)
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Meenakshi Temple, known for its impressive architecture and vibrant surroundings. Explore the Thirumalai Nayakar Palace and the sacred sites of Alagar Koil, Tiruparankundram Murugan Temple, and Palamuthirsolai Murugan Temple. Afterward, drive to Munnar and check in at your hotel. Enjoy a delicious dinner as you soak in the serene beauty of Munnar.
Munnar
Savor a delightful breakfast at the hotel before spending the day exploring the picturesque hill town of Munnar. Visit Pothamedu, a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the tea plantations and rolling hills. Explore the Mattupetty dam, Rajamala hill (home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr), Eravikulam National Park, Mattupedi Dairy Farm, Echo Point, and the Tea Museum. Enjoy a scrumptious dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.
Munnar - Thekkady (100kms)
After a wholesome breakfast, leave Munnar behind and embark on a scenic drive to Thekkady, enjoying the breathtaking landscapes along the way. En route, visit Ramakkalmedu, known for its panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Upon arrival in Thekkady, check in at your hotel and relax. Enjoy a delicious dinner before retiring for the night.
Thekkady
Start your day with a delicious breakfast before embarking on an exciting boat safari in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, deer, and exotic bird species. Afterward, visit a spice plantation and learn about the aromatic spices grown in the region. Immerse yourself in the flavors and fragrances of the spices during a guided tour. Return to your hotel for a delightful dinner.
Thekkady - Alleppey (160kms)
After a sumptuous breakfast, leave Thekkady behind and embark on a scenic drive to Alleppey, also known as the "Venice of the East." Upon reaching Alleppey, head to the boat jetty and board a traditional houseboat. Sail through the enchanting backwaters of Kerala, surrounded by lush greenery and serene landscapes. Experience the tranquility and unique charm of the backwaters during your houseboat stay. Enjoy a delicious dinner on the houseboat before retiring for the night.
Alleppey - Cochin (60kms)
Disembark from the houseboat in Alleppey and drive to Cochin (Kochi). Check in at your hotel and later embark on a city tour of Cochin. Explore historical landmarks such as Fort Kochi, the Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, and the Jewish Synagogue. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala. Enjoy a delightful dinner at your hotel before a restful night's sleep.
Cochin - Departure
After a satisfying breakfast, transfer to Cochin International Airport as per your flight schedule for your onward journey. Bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes and cultural gems of South India, marking the end of your temple and backwater adventure.
End point
Cochin International Airport (COK), Nedumbassery, Aluva, Kerala, India
08:00 - 20:00
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Policy:
100% refund up to 30 days before tour date
50% refund if tour cancelled between 29 & 15 days before tour date
No refund, if tour cancelled within 7 days of tour date
Tour Details
Accommodation
Hotels used or similar for 16 nights accommodation
3 Star Hotels
Kolkata x 2 nights: Golden Tulip/ Polo Floatel
Bhubaneshwar x 1 night: Hotel Hindusthan International/ Swosti Grand
Puri x 2 nights: Toshali Sands/ The Hans Coco Palms
Chennai x 1 night: ZONE By The Park/ Raj Park
Pondicherry x 2 nights: Shenbaga Hotel/ Anandha Inn Convention Centre
Thanjavur x 1 night: Sangam Hotels
Madurai x 1 night: JC Residency/ Hotel Royal Court
Munnar x 2 nights: Abad Copper Castle/ Elysium Garden Hill Resort
Thekkady x 2 nights: Abad Green Forest/ Hotel Treetop
Alleppey x 1 night: Deluxe Houseboat (AC During Night Only)
Cochin x 1 night: The Tower House/ The Killians
4 Star Hotels
Kolkata x 2 nights: The Elgin Fairlawn/ ZONE By The Park
Bhubaneshwar x 1 night: Fortune Park Sishmo/ Lemon Tree Premier
Puri x 2 nights: MAYFAIR Heritage/ Mayfair Waves
Chennai x 1 night: Accord Metropolitan/ The Park Chennai
Pondicherry x 2 nights: Le Pondy/ Accord Puducherry
Thanjavur x 1 night: GReaT Trails Riverview Resort
Madurai x 1 night: Fortune Pandiyan Hotel/ Regency Madurai by GRT Hotels
Munnar x 2 nights: Elixir Hills Resort/ Tea County Munnar
Thekkady x 2 nights: Amritara Shalimar Spice Garden/ The Elephant Court
Alleppey x 1 night: Premium Houseboat (Full Time AC)
Cochin x 1 night: The Tower House/ The Killians
5 Star Hotels
Kolkata x 2 nights: ITC Sonar, a Luxury Collection/ The Lalit Great Eastern
Bhubaneshwar x 1 night: Mayfair Lagoon/ Trident Hotel
Puri x 2 nights: MAYFAIR Heritage/ Mayfair Waves
Chennai x 1 night: Radisson Blu Hotel GRT Chennai/ Hilton Chennai
Pondicherry x 2 nights: Palais De Mahe/ La Villa
Thanjavur x 1 night: Svatma
Madurai x 1 night: Courtyard by Marriott/ The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai
Munnar x 2 nights: Chandys Windy Woods/ Blanket Hotel & Spa
Thekkady x 2 nights: Spice Village/ Hills & Hues
Alleppey x 1 night: Luxury Houseboat (Full Time AC)
Cochin x 1 night: Kochi Marriott Hotel/ Xandari Harbour
Transport
Transport by private air-conditioned deluxe car for airport transfer, sightseeing and excursion as per program.
Flights
Kolkata - Bhubaneshwar - Chennai flight fare approx ₹15500 per person in economy class is not included in package price. Since the flight fare are subject to change we can book the flight on best available fare
Additional Services
Assistance on arrival at airport.
16 Nights accommodation in selected price category hotels.
Monuments entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
Bottled drinking water in car.
Government taxes.
Additional Services
Camera charges at monuments.
Meals other than mentioned in inclusions.
Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc.
Gratuities & optional activities.
Anything not mentioned in inclusions.
Meals
Only breakfast included at hotels.
Guide
Service of English-speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program. (Other language guides can be organized on request at additional cost)
Good to know
Currency
Indian Rupee
India