ECHOES OF ANCIENT SOUTH INDIA
- 16 Days -
Uncover South India’s charm with ancient temples, French colonial towns, lush plantations, Kerala backwaters, and Ayurveda by serene beaches.
Embark on a journey through the heart of South India, visiting Trichy, Madurai, and Mahabalipuram to immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and architecture of the Dravidian civilization. The tour also takes you to the former French colony of Pondicherry, the tranquil Mangroves of Pitchavaram, the lush Periyar National Park, the picturesque hill resort of Munnar, and the peaceful Mararikulam Beach. You’ll have three days in Kochi to discover its colonial heritage, serene backwaters, and vibrant cultural scene.
ECHOES OF ANCIENT SOUTH INDIA
DURATION
16 Days
START CITY
Chennai
END CITY
Kochi
TOUR TYPE
Private, Group, Theme tours
LANGUAGE
English, Italian, German ...
FITNESS LEVEL
Moderate
IDEAL SEASON
All year round
IDEAL SIZE
02, 04, 06, 08 ...
MEAL PLAN
Based on personal choices
ACCOMODATION
3 to 5 Star hotels, Boutique
TRANSPORTATION
Private vehicle on disposal
SUPPORT
24 x 7
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TOUR
Explore Chennai’s colonial heritage and visit Mahabalipuram
Discover the French Quarter and visit the renowned Aurobindo Ashram.
Take a boat ride through pristine mangroves and visit the historic Port Nova.
Visit Brihadeeswara Temple and explore Trichy’s iconic Srirangam Island Temple and Rock Fort Temple.
Visit tea and spice plantations in Kerala’s scenic hill station.
Echoes of Ancient South India
Overnight flight to Chennai.
Arrive in Chennai early morning, where you will be met and assisted upon arrival before transferring to your hotel. Enjoy a leisurely morning at your own pace. In the afternoon, embark on a city tour.
Situated along the Coromandel Coast, Chennai was the site of the East India Company's first settlement, gradually expanding around Fort St. George from 1640.
Today, embark on a drive to the ancient town of Mahabalipuram, renowned for its exquisite rock-cut monuments, monolithic structures, and intricate bas-reliefs.
Depart for the seaside city of Pondicherry, where you'll visit the Aurobindo Ashram and explore the charming French Quarter. Enjoy an overnight stay in Pondicherry.
After breakfast, depart for Pitchavaram and enjoy a boat ride through its pristine mangroves, considered among the healthiest in the world. Visit Port Nova, a historic port once occupied by the Portuguese and Dutch. Continue to Swamimalai, stopping en route to explore Chidambaram. Overnight stay in Swamimalai.
Drive to Trichy, stopping en route at Tanjore, the cultural capital of the region, renowned for the Tanjore School of painting. Explore the magnificent Brihadeeswara Temple complex, home to stunning 1,000-year-old paintings. Enjoy a two-night stay in Trichy.
Trichy, known as the land of the Three-Headed Demon, is a vibrant temple town rich in history and spirituality. Today, visit the magnificent Srirangam Island Temple complex, one of the most revered Vaishnavite temples, and explore the iconic Rock Fort Temple, offering panoramic views of the city.
Drive to Madurai and embark on an afternoon city tour. Visit the grand Thirumalai Nayak Palace and the magnificent Shree Meenakshi Temple, a stunning example of Dravidian architecture. Explore the vibrant temple market before settling in for an overnight stay in Madurai.
Drive to Thekkady and enjoy an afternoon wildlife viewing experience by boat in Periyar National Park, renowned for its elephant herds and diverse birdlife. Overnight stay in Thekkady.
Start the day with an early morning wildlife viewing experience. Later, drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill resort nestled amid lush cardamom and tea plantations. As a major center of Kerala’s tea industry, Munnar offers stunning landscapes and a refreshing climate. In the afternoon, explore the town before settling in for an overnight stay in Munnar.
In the morning, visit the lush tea and spice plantations. Later, drive to Kochi, often referred to as the ‘Venice of the East.’ In the evening, witness a captivating Kathakali dance performance. Enjoy a two-night stay in Kochi.
Embark on a morning tour of Kochi, exploring the Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, Fort Kochi, and St. Francis Church. In the evening, enjoy a scenic sunset harbor cruise, offering views of Bolgatty Island and the iconic Chinese fishing nets.
Drive to Alleppey and embark on a scenic boat cruise to Kottayam, a journey of over three hours through picturesque narrow canals and serene waterways. Continue by road to Mararikulam on the stunning Malabar Coast. Enjoy a three-night stay in Mararikulam.
Relax by the beach at your own pace. The resort offers Ayurveda facilities for rejuvenation. If you wish, take a stroll to explore the nearby fishing village and experience the local coastal life.
Transfer to Cochin International Airport for your onward journey. Safe journey!
Cost
The Cost Includes
- English-speaking driver as guide or separate tour guide as applicable.
- Private transfers as specified in the itinerary.
- Entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary.
- Meal plan according to mutual agreement, Full board in houseboat
- Local expert team assistance.
The Cost Excludes
- Travel & health insurance.
- Visa application charges.
- Camera fees.
- Beverages other than drinking water and any personal expenses.
- Ayurveda body massage charges
Express contact
If you’re interested, be sure to ask us about the optional extensions available for this itinerary!
Discover other South India tours
Why should you holiday with us?
- Experienced local experts always at your support
- Best Price Guarantee
- Tailor-made experiences based on travelers’ preferences, interests, and budgets.
- Exclusive & Offbeat Destinations
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