Mystieke wonderen – Een reis door de tempels&binnenwateren van Zuid –India

Upon arrival at Chennai airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your luxurious hotel, such as The Leela Palace or Taj Coromandel. Rest and relax for the day, enjoying the world-class amenities and services offered by the hotel.

After breakfast, embark on a full day of sightseeing in Chennai. Visit popular attractions such as the Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Fort St. George, and the Government Museum. In the afternoon, take an excursion to the sacred city of Kanchipuram. Explore the Ekambareswarar Temple, Kailasanathar Temple, and the Silk Weaving Center. Return to Chennai and overnight at your luxurious hotel.

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After breakfast, drive to Pondicherry and check in to your luxurious 5-star hotel, such as The Promenade or Palais de Mahe. En route, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, famous for its intricately carved stone temples. Explore the Shore Temple, Arjuna's Penance, and the Five Rathas. Continue your journey to Pondicherry and spend the evening exploring the vibrant streets and coastal beauty of the city.

Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Pondicherry. Begin with a visit to the Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community dedicated to Sri Aurobindo and The Mother. Explore the French Quarter with its colonial architecture, visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and stroll along the Promenade Beach. Experience the tranquility of Auroville, an experimental township known for its sustainable living practices. Return to your luxurious hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, drive to Thanjavur and check in to your luxurious 5-star hotel, such as Svatma or Sangam Hotel. En route, visit the Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram, known for its exquisite architecture. Continue your journey to Thanjavur and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Great Living Chola Temples at Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the region. Overnight stay in Thanjavur.

Discover the historical and cultural treasures of Thanjavur. Visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a magnificent example of Dravidian architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery, housing a remarkable collection of artifacts. Delve into the world of classical music and dance with a visit to the Saraswathi Mahal Library. Enjoy the luxurious facilities of your hotel and unwind for the evening.

After breakfast, drive to Chettinad and check in to your luxurious 5-star heritage hotel, such as Chidambara Vilas or Visalam. En route, stop at Trichy and visit the Rockfort Temple, perched atop a rock formation. Explore the intricate carvings and religious significance of the temple. Continue your journey to Chettinad and immerse yourself in the architectural marvels and culinary delights of the region. Relax and indulge in the opulent ambiance of your hotel.

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After breakfast, embark on a morning sightseeing tour of Chettinadu, known for its opulent 19th-century mansions. Marvel at the grandeur of these architectural gems, adorned with marble and teak. Experience the rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions of the region. Later, drive to Madurai and check in to your luxurious 5-star hotel, such as The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai or Heritage Madurai. Spend the evening at leisure, relaxing in the lavish comforts of your hotel.

Explore the cultural and religious hub of Madurai with a visit to the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, known for its towering gopurams and intricate sculptures. Witness the evening prayer ceremony, a mesmerizing spectacle of devotion. Afterward, drive to Thekkady, home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Check in to your luxurious 5-star hotel, such as Spice Village or Cardamom County. In the evening, attend a traditional martial art and Kathakali dance show. Relax and rejuvenate in the lap of luxury.

Embark on an adventurous day in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Cruise along the serene Periyar Lake, surrounded by lush forests, on a boat safari. Encounter diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, deer, and exotic bird species. Afterward, immerse yourself in the fragrant world of spices with a guided tour of a spice plantation. Learn about the cultivation and processing of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, and more. Return to your luxurious hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

After breakfast, proceed to Alleppey, known as the "Venice of the East," famous for its enchanting backwaters. Board a traditional houseboat and embark on a leisurely cruise through the scenic backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery and swaying palm trees. Experience the tranquility and charm of Kerala's backwaters as you glide along the waterways. Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared on board and soak in the serenity of this unique experience. Overnight stay on the houseboat.

Disembark from the houseboat after breakfast and transfer to Marari beach. Check in to your luxurious 5-star beachfront resort, such as Marari Beach Resort or Carnoustie Beach Resort. Spend the day at leisure, relaxing on the pristine sandy beach, listening to the soothing sound of the waves, and indulging in rejuvenating spa treatments. Immerse yourself in the tranquility and natural beauty of the coastal paradise.

Enjoy two full days at leisure to soak up the sun, indulge in beach activities, and explore the local surroundings at your own pace. Take leisurely walks along the beach, visit nearby fishing villages, or simply unwind by the poolside. Pamper yourself with luxurious amenities and impeccable service offered by your resort. Immerse yourself in the serenity and charm of Marari, creating unforgettable memories.

Day free and easy to relax on the beach. Overnight at the hotel. (Transport not included)

After breakfast, bid farewell to the serene beauty of Marari and drive to Cochin. Upon arrival, meet your guide and embark on a city tour of Cochin. Explore the historic Fort Kochi area, visit the St. Francis Church, Chinese Fishing Nets, and the Mattancherry Palace. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of this vibrant city. In the evening, transfer to Cochin airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your enchanting South India Temples and Backwater tour.