Arrive in Chennai, a city where a vibrant cosmopolitan spirit intertwines with its deep-rooted history, showcased through stunning temple architecture. With a military and economic legacy dating back to the 1st century, Chennai has long been a coastal trade hub, further shaped by the British East India Company’s establishment of a fort in 1639. After some time to relax and refresh, enjoy a day at leisure to explore this historic city.

Our city tour begins with visits to some of Chennai’s most iconic landmarks. First, we explore the Government Museum, where the renowned Bronze Gallery showcases an impressive collection of ancient bronze sculptures. As we journey through history, we’ll pass the grand High Court building and the historic Fort St. George, the first British fortress in India. A stop at Marina Beach offers a glimpse of its soft sands and clear blue waters.

Next, we visit the towering Santhome Cathedral Basilica, believed to be the final resting place of St. Thomas the Apostle, before heading to the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple. While non-Hindus can only access the outer courtyard, the temple’s intricate carvings and vibrant colors are sure to captivate. From here, we continue our journey to Mamallapuram.

Mamallapuram is a world-renowned destination, home to some of the most breathtaking and awe-inspiring temples, set against a backdrop of salty sea air and coastal beauty. Today, we embark on a sightseeing tour of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site, immersing ourselves in an era of extraordinary artistic and architectural brilliance.

The rest of the day is yours to explore this historic site at your own pace. Alternatively, you may choose to take an optional excursion to the DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum, a living history museum showcasing the rich culture and lifestyle of India’s southern states.

We embark on a scenic drive to Puducherry, one of Southern India’s most charming and picturesque cities. Along the way, we stop at Auroville, an internationally recognized community dedicated to human unity and the transformation of consciousness.

At the Visitor Centre, we’ll gain fascinating insights into Auroville’s philosophy and way of life before continuing to the awe-inspiring Matrimandir. This striking temple, with its distinctive golden dome and serene surroundings, serves as the spiritual and physical heart of Auroville, offering a space for peace and silent contemplation.

Today, we delve into the enchanting city of Puducherry, where colonial elegance meets traditional Tamil heritage. With its blend of French architecture and ancient Hindu temples, the city reflects nearly 300 years of cultural coexistence.

Our exploration begins in the Heritage French Quarter, where we’ll take a leisurely stroll along quiet streets lined with bougainvillea-draped town houses. We then visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community that has evolved over the past century from a small group of 12 disciples into a thriving collective of around 2,000 members dedicated to a balanced and spiritual life.

To add a touch of adventure, we’ll hop on a rickshaw for a ride through the bustling streets, soaking in Puducherry’s vibrant energy and charm. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, or you may opt for an excursion to local fishing villages, where you can interact with families, observe their daily lives, and learn about traditional fishing methods and their evolution over time.

This morning, we set off to explore the fascinating town of Thanjavur, stopping en route at Chidambaram to visit the sacred Thillai Nataraja Temple.

Upon arrival in Thanjavur and after checking in at our hotel, we’ll dive into the rich historical legacy of the Chola Empire with a visit to the magnificent Brihadishvara Temple. Late afternoon is the perfect time to witness this architectural masterpiece, as the setting sun casts a warm glow over its intricate sculptures, illuminating the temple in stunning shades of red and orange.

We set off on a journey to Madurai, stopping along the way in Trichy. As we drive through the city, we’ll catch a glimpse of the impressive Rock Fort, dramatically perched atop a massive rocky outcrop.

Our main stop is the awe-inspiring Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, a vast complex so grand it feels like a city within itself. As we explore its sacred grounds, we’ll admire towering gopurams, intricately carved pillars, and exquisite frescoes illustrating scenes from Hindu mythology.

Upon arriving in Madurai, one of India’s oldest cities, we’ll check in at our hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening at leisure.

We start our day early with a visit to Madurai’s vibrant flower market, a sensory feast of colors and fragrances. The early morning hours offer the best experience as the market comes alive with an array of blooms—delicate jasmine, revered for its religious significance, vivid red and pink roses, bold orange marigolds, and the towering elegance of gladioli.

Next, we immerse ourselves in the spiritual heart of Madurai at the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, a dazzling tribute to the triple-breasted warrior goddess Meenakshi. With its towering, intricately decorated gopurams, the temple is an iconic landmark of the city. We then step back in time at the grand yet weathered Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a stunning blend of Dravidian and Islamic architectural styles.

In the afternoon, you may choose an optional excursion to explore the region’s traditional crafts, including bronze-making, glass painting, and the intricate art of veena (musical instrument) making.

We journey to Periyar, one of India’s most stunning wildlife sanctuaries, nestled in the lush High Ranges. This scenic paradise is home to a rich diversity of exotic flora and fauna, offering a true retreat into nature.

After checking in at our hotel, we’ll visit the Periyar Spice and Ayurvedic Garden, where the air is filled with the fragrant aroma of spices. As we explore, we’ll see cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, tea, and coffee thriving in their natural habitat. Periyar’s altitude of 1,000 meters above sea level creates the perfect conditions for spice cultivation—remarkably, the region produces 95% of India’s pepper.

In the evening, there’s an optional opportunity to witness a captivating Kalaripayattu performance. Considered one of the world’s oldest and most scientific martial arts, this ancient Kerala-born practice emphasizes harmony between mind and body.

We begin the day with a guided nature walk through the lush jungles of Periyar National Park. Led by an experienced tribal guide, this immersive trek offers a chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, wild boar, monkeys, vibrant bird species, and delicate butterflies. The trails wind through a mix of evergreen and deciduous forests, interspersed with marshy grasslands, making for a serene yet enriching exploration of the park’s diverse ecosystem.

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, there’s an optional half-day bamboo rafting excursion. This dawn-to-afternoon adventure starts with a trek through some of Periyar Tiger Reserve’s richest forest tracts before boarding traditional bamboo rafts. As you float along the tranquil lake, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding forest-clad hills, with the possibility of spotting elephants, bison, and Sambar deer up close.

We’ll embark on a scenic morning drive to Kumarakom, a tranquil town set along the serene banks of Vembanad Lake in Kerala’s picturesque backwaters. Upon arrival, we’ll check in at our luxurious backwaters resort, where the rest of the day is yours to unwind and soak in the peaceful surroundings. You can relax at the resort, taking advantage of its many amenities, or choose to explore the area with an optional Kumarakom village walk.

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into local life, from bustling fish markets to women engaged in their daily chores. You’ll also meet skilled artisans involved in traditional coir mat weaving, coconut palm frond weaving, screw pine weaving, and broomstick making. For a hands-on experience, you can even try your hand at these age-old crafts, gaining a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage and craftsmanship of rural Kerala.

Today, we’ll set sail on a traditional Kettuvallam houseboat, gliding through the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. As we navigate the intricate network of canals and lagoons, we’ll be captivated by the serene landscapes—lush paddy fields, swaying coconut palms, and glimpses of daily life along the water’s edge.

A delicious lunch, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, will be served on board, allowing us to savor authentic Kerala flavors as we drift through this peaceful paradise. After a leisurely afternoon on the water, we’ll return to our resort to relax and soak in the beauty of our surroundings.

It's time to pack our bags and journey to Kochi, a captivating fusion of medieval Portuguese charm and British colonial influences, all set against the lush backdrop of the Malabar Coast. Upon arrival, we'll check into our hotel, where you can spend the day at leisure—perhaps unwinding in a cosy café, exploring bustling markets, or simply relaxing by the pool.

In the evening, prepare for an unforgettable experience as we witness a Kathakali dance performance. This renowned classical dance-drama of India is a mesmerizing spectacle of elaborate costumes, expressive facial movements, and intricate hand gestures. Accompanied by rhythmic drumming and live music, the performers bring ancient myths and legends to life, offering a window into Kerala’s rich artistic heritage.

On our final day, we’ll embark on a heritage walk through Fort Kochi, a captivating neighbourhood known for its iconic Chinese fishing nets lining the harbor. This stroll offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the area’s rich history and vibrant culture. Along the way, we’ll visit the historic St. Francis Church and the majestic Santa Cruz Basilica, both reflecting Kochi’s colonial past.

In the afternoon, we’ll explore the Dutch Palace, renowned for its intricate murals and royal artifacts, followed by a visit to the Jewish Synagogue, a treasured landmark adorned with beautiful hand-painted tiles. As the day winds down, you can opt for a sunset motorboat cruise, a spectacular way to soak in the coastal views and bid farewell to this remarkable journey.

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Safe journey!