Upon landing in Chennai, our representative welcomes you and ensures a smooth transfer to your hotel. After breakfast and a brief rest, immerse yourself in a half-day city tour. Explore Chennai's cultural tapestry, visiting Fort St. George, the historic Kapaleeshwar Temple, the Government Museum, and the expansive Marina Beach. Relax for an overnight stay in Chennai.
Itinerary
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of South India with our Temples & Backwater Tour. Begin in Chennai, where ancient temples and modern city life converge. Explore the architectural marvels of Kanchipuram before reaching Mahabalipuram's UNESCO-listed rock-cut temples. The cultural odyssey continues through the spiritual haven of Pondicherry, the temple-rich landscapes of Thanjavur and Trichy, and the bustling city of Madurai. Traverse the lush greenery of Munnar's tea gardens and wildlife wonders in Thekkady. Immerse yourself in the backwaters of Alleppey aboard a traditional houseboat, culminating in the coastal bliss of Kovalam. This 15-day expedition promises a harmonious blend of cultural exploration, spiritual immersion, and serene backwater escapades.
Tour program
Arrive Chennai
Start point
Chennai International Airport APRON, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Chennai - Kanchipuram - Mahabalipuram (120kms)
Post breakfast, depart for Mahabalipuram, with a stop at Kanchipuram, renowned as the "City of Thousand Temples." Marvel at the architectural wonders like Kailasanatha Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, and Varadaraja Perumal Temple. Continue your journey to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for rock-cut temples and intricate carvings. Explore iconic sites like the Shore Temple, Arjuna's Penance, and the Pancha Rathas. Retreat for an overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.
Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry (120kms)approx.
After breakfast, drive to the serene town of Pondicherry, a former French colony. Check into your hotel and embark on a city exploration. Wander through the charming French Quarter, visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, and stroll along the picturesque promenade overlooking the Bay of Bengal. Enjoy a peaceful overnight stay in Pondicherry.
Pondicherry - Chidambaram - Gangaikonda Cholapuram - Darasuram - Thanjavur (180kms)approx.
Today's journey takes you to Thanjavur, but not without exploring significant sites en route. Stop at Chidambaram to witness the famous Nataraja Temple, proceed to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and then visit Darasuram for the exquisite Airavatesvara Temple. Continue to Thanjavur, renowned for the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and other attractions such as the Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery. Conclude the day with a comfortable overnight stay in Thanjavur.
Thanjavur - Trichy (60kms)approx.
After breakfast, drive to Trichy, a city known for its ancient temples and historical landmarks. Explore the famous Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple and the iconic Rock Fort Temple, offering panoramic views of the city. Visit other places of interest, including the Jambukeshwara Temple and Srirangam Island. Unwind for an overnight stay in Trichy.
Trichy - Madurai (135kms)
Embark on a scenic drive to Madurai, often referred to as the "City of Temples." Check into your hotel and later, explore the magnificent Meenakshi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Thirumalai Nayak Palace and other cultural hotspots before retiring for a comfortable overnight stay in Madurai.
Madurai - Munnar (160kms)
After breakfast, check out and proceed towards Munnar, a captivating hill station in Kerala. Enjoy the scenic drive surrounded by tea gardens and lush landscapes. Check in at your hotel and savor the day at leisure, absorbing the tranquility of Munnar. Indulge in a restful overnight stay.
Munnar
Embark on a full-day exploration of Munnar's highlights after a hearty breakfast. Discover the biodiversity of Eravikulam National Park, the serenity of Mattupetty Dam, the heritage of the Tea Museum, and the panoramic views from Top Station. Return to your hotel for a rejuvenating overnight stay in Munnar.
Munnar - Thekkady (110kms)
Bid farewell to Munnar after breakfast and drive to Thekkady, a town renowned for its spice plantations and wildlife. Check in at your hotel, and the remainder of the day is yours to unwind and explore the surroundings at your own pace. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in Thekkady.
Thekkady
After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Encounter diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and a variety of bird species. Opt for a memorable boat ride on Periyar Lake, and in the evening, delve into the aromatic world of spices with a visit to a local spice plantation. Conclude the day with a relaxing overnight stay in Thekkady.
Thekaddy - Alleppey (135kms)
Post breakfast, check out and drive to Alleppey, often referred to as the Venice of the East. Board a traditional houseboat for an enchanting cruise through the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. Marvel at the palm-fringed canals, paddy fields, and quaint hamlets lining the waterways. The houseboat, fully equipped with a kitchen, chef, and driver, offers a unique experience. Delight in the sunset from the houseboat's sun-deck and relish delicious local cuisine. Spend the night aboard the houseboat for a truly immersive experience.
Alleppey - Cochin (60kms)
After a delightful breakfast on the houseboat, disembark and drive to Cochin (Kochi). Check into your hotel and utilize the day to explore the historic landmarks of Cochin, including the iconic Chinese fishing nets, the Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace, and St. Francis Church. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in Cochin.
Cochin - Kovalam (200kms)
Following breakfast, check out and drive to Kovalam, a scenic coastal town renowned for its pristine beaches. Check in at your hotel and unwind. The rest of the day is yours to relax on the beach or explore the local markets. Enjoy a serene overnight stay in Kovalam.
Kovalam
A leisure day awaits you in Kovalam. Take full advantage of the beautiful beaches, engage in water sports, or explore the local markets and cuisine. Cherish the calm ambiance and spend another night at your hotel in Kovalam.
Kovalam - Departure
After a hearty breakfast, check out from the hotel, and our team will assist you in reaching Trivandrum airport for your departure flight. Depart with cherished memories of the vibrant temples, lush landscapes, and serene backwaters of South India.
End point
Trivandrum International Airport (New Terminal), Chackai,Trivandrum, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
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 14 nights accommodation
3 Star Hotels
Chennai x 1 night: ZONE By The Park/ Raj Park
Mahabalipuram x 1 night: INDeco Hotels/ Ideal Beach Resort
Pondicherry x 1 night: Shenbaga Hotel/ Anandha Inn Convention Centre
Thanjore x 1 night: Sangam Hotels
Trichy x 1 night: Red Fox Hotel/ Hotel Blossoms
Madurai x 1 night: JC Residency/ Hotel Royal Court
Munnar x 2 nights: Abad Copper Castle/ Elysium Garden Hill Resort
Pariyar (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
Kovalam x 2 nights: Abad Harmonia Beach Resort/ Uday Suites Shanghumugham Beach
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
5 Star Hotels
Chennai x 1 night: Radisson Blu Hotel GRT Chennai/ Hilton Chennai
Mahabalipuram x 1 night: Radisson BLU Resort Temple Bay/ WH By ITC Hotels, Kences Palm Beach
Pondicherry x 1 night: Palais De Mahe/ La Villa
Thanjore x 1 night: Svatma
Trichy x 1 night: Courtyard by Marriott
Madurai x 1 night: Courtyard by Marriott/ The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai
Munnar x 2 nights: Chandys Windy Woods/ Blanket Hotel & Spa
Pariyar (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
Kovalam x 2 nights: Raviz Kovalam/ Vivanta by Taj - Green Cove
Good to know
Currency
Indian Rupee
India