South India's temples & backwaters

Embark on a spiritual and scenic journey through South India with the Temples & Backwaters Tour. Begin your adventure in Chennai, where you'll explore the vibrant culture and rich history of this bustling metropolis.

Travel to Mahabalipuram, known for its ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, including the famous Shore Temple and the intricately carved rock-cut caves.Continue to Pondicherry, a charming coastal town with a strong French influence. Explore the French Quarter, visit the Aurobindo Ashram, and relax on the picturesque beaches of Pondicherry.Visit Tanjore (Thanjavur), known for its magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest temples in India. Explore the temple and learn about its rich history and architectural significance.Travel to Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India, known for its vibrant culture and the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple. Explore the temple complex, known for its towering gopurams (gateway towers) and intricate carvings.Continue to Trichy (Tiruchirappalli), home to the famous Rock Fort Temple and the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in India.Explore the lush forests and wildlife of Periyar National Park, home to elephants, tigers, and a variety of bird species. Take a boat cruise on the Periyar Lake and soak in the natural beauty of the park.Experience the serene backwaters of Alleppey on a traditional houseboat cruise. Glide along the tranquil waters, passing through picturesque villages and lush paddy fields.Conclude your tour in Cochin (Kochi), known for its rich history and diverse culture. Explore the historic Fort Kochi area, visit the Mattancherry Palace and the Jewish Synagogue, and watch a traditional Kathakali dance performance.

South India's temples & backwaters Tour offers a perfect blend of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty, providing a memorable and enriching experience in South India.

Day 1

Indulge in the enchanting allure of India's rich traditions with a floral greeting, setting the stage for the extraordinary holiday experience that lies ahead. You are welcomed by our representative who ensures smooth transportation and check-in at the hotel. embark on a sightseeing tour of Chennai, visiting attractions such as Fort St. George (closed on Fridays and holidays), San Thome Church, and Kapaleeswarar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. You will also pass by Marina Beach, the second-longest beach in the world, stretching over 13 kilometers. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 2

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, travel from Chennai to Mahabalipuram. Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, was built in the 7th century and served as an ancient port city of the Pallava dynasty. Today, it houses several antique sculptural wonders and is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing India's magnificent rock-cut art. Check-in at the hotel upon arrival. Later in the day, enjoy a tour of Mahabalipuram and visit the Shore Temple. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 3

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, embark on another tour of Mahabalipuram, including visits to Arjuna's Penance and the Cave Temples of Mahabalipuram. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 4

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, travel from Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry. Check-in at the hotel upon arrival. Pondicherry boasts a rich French cultural heritage, having been the capital of French colonies in India since the 17th century, evident in its well-planned city layout. Later in the day, continue sightseeing in Pondicherry, visiting the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 5

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, travel from Pondicherry to Tanjore, stopping in Chidambaram along the way. Chidambaram served as the capital of the Chola dynasty for centuries and is one of the holiest cities in Tamil Nadu. After visiting Chidambaram, continue the journey to Tanjore. Check-in at the hotel upon arrival. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 6

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Tanjore. The tour begins with a visit to Brihadeeswarar Temple, built in the 10th century by Raja Chola, and continues to the Art Gallery and Sarasvathi Mahal Library. In the afternoon, travel to the city of Trichy, located about a 90-minute drive from Tanjore. Trichy, situated on the banks of the Kaveri River, is the fourth largest city in Tamil Nadu. Visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple and Rock Fort, a landmark in Trichy. After the tour of Trichy, you will be driven to Madurai. Check-in at the hotel upon arrival. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 7

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, begin the sightseeing tour of Madurai. The main attraction in Madurai is the famous Meenakshi Temple (non-Hindus are not allowed in the inner sanctum of the temple). This temple, located in the heart of the old city, is an exquisite example of Dravidian architecture, featuring towering Gopurams (towers) adorned with colorful images of gods, goddesses, animals, and mythical figures. Later, visit Thirumalai Nayak Palace, built by Thirumalai Nayak, a king from the Nayaka dynasty. Return to the hotel after the Madurai tour. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 8

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, travel from Madurai to Thekkady, also known as Periyar. Check-in at the hotel upon arrival. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 9

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, visit Periyar National Park to observe wildlife by boat. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 10

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, travel from Thekkady to Alleppey. Upon arrival in Alleppey, board a houseboat. A stay in Kettuvallams, the local name for houseboats in Kerala, offers panoramic views of God's Own Country. Lunch, dinner, and overnight stay on the houseboat.

Day 11

After breakfast on the houseboat, travel from Alleppey to Cochin. Check-in at the hotel upon arrival. Explore Cochin, visiting attractions such as Dutch Palace, also known as Mattancherry Palace (closed on Fridays and Jewish holidays), Paradesi Synagogue (closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and Jewish holidays), and St. Francis Church. In the afternoon, visit the Kathakali Dance Centre to experience various dance forms from South India. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 12

Breakfast at the hotel. Later, you will be transferred to the airport for homebound flight.

South India's temples & backwaters Tour offers a perfect blend of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty, providing a memorable and enriching experience in South India.