Complete South India Travel Package

Tour Duration: 29 Nights / 30 Days
Destinations Covered: Chennai - Kanchipuram - Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry - Tanjore - Tiruchirappalli - Tranquebar - Chettinad - Madurai - Periyar - Munnar - Kumarakom - Alleppey - Cochin - Wayanad - Ooty - Coonoor - Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary - Mysore - Hassan - Belur - Halebid - Bengaluru

Day 01: Arrival at Chennai
Your journey of thirty days will start as you arrive at Chennai International Airport. You’ll be welcomed by our representative who’ll accompany you to the hotel for a check-in. Here, you’ll freshen up and get ready to explore Chennai - the Gateway of South India. A visit will be made to the most powerful symbol of the British Empire - the first British Warehouse. The sandy beach was acquired from the local Nayakas on lease to build this store. Another attraction for the day will be Fort St. George, the first piece of real estate for British in India. Check out the grey granite exteriors, unlike the Mughal forts that exude lavish decoration and luxury. In the evening, you’ll return to the hotel for night stay.

Day 02: Chennai
After filling your tummy with delicious food at the hotel, you’ll proceed for a city tour of Chennai. The tour will begin with the ancient Portuguese church - San Thome Cathedral, built in the 14th and 15th centuries. Next, you’ll visit the famous temple of Lord Shiva, Kapaleeswarar Temple. The temple is admired for its inscriptions, dating back to the 13th century AD, and the ‘Gopuram’ (tower), portrayed in typical Dravidian architectural style. You’ll then be taken to Chennai Museum. The museum is well-equipped with sculptures and paintings from both traditional and modern eras. Spend the evening in shopping and thereafter, proceed for an evening performance of folk dance and dinner at a South Indian restaurant. At night, you’ll be driven to the hotel for night’s rest.

Day 03: Chennai - Kanchipuram - Mahabalipuram
On the third day of the tour, you’ll proceed to Mahabalipuram, after breakfast. En-route, you’ll stop at Kanchipuram - the ancient capital of the Pallavas and famous as a city of 1000 temples. Here, you’ll visit the temples of Ekambareswarar, Kailasanatha, Sri Kamakshi Amman and Varadharaja Perumal. Kanchipuram is also highly revered famous for its silk fabrics. You’ll then continue your travel to Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, an ancient seaport which once served as the main harbor and naval base of the Pallava Empire. Today, the site offers picturesque views of a large compilation of temples and shrines. On your arrival at Mahabalipuram, you’ll make a check-in at the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 04: Mahabalipuram
Munch on a yummy breakfast served at the hotel. Henceforth, you’ll proceed for a full day city tour. Mahishasuramardhini Cave is a fine example of artistic sculptures depicting the fight of goddess and demon on one side and Lord Vishnu’s cosmic sleep on the other. From here, you’ll head to Krishna Mandapam, a bas-relief significant for its realistic representation. The sculptures inside the Mandapam are beautiful depictions of the myth of Lord Krishna’s adulthood. For lunch, you’ll be taken to a popular South Indian restaurant. This will be followed by a visit to Arjuna’s Penance, a sculpted artwork rising up to 27 x 9 meters, thus becoming the world’s largest one-of-a-kind marvel. This bas relief constitutes figures of gods, demigods, men, beasts, birds and nearly the whole of creation. The Five Rathas fall in next. These five monolithic temples, also known as the Pancha Pandava Rathas, are carved form a single rock, each one crafted in a different style. Shore Temple, one of the oldest Hindu shrines, houses the idols of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Drive back to the hotel to spend the night.

Day 05: Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry
Early in the morning, you’ll journey to Pondicherry, post breakfast. After three hours of travel, you’ll reach Pondicherry, an epitome of the French kingdom. Upon arrival, make a check-in at the hotel, freshen up and get ready to explore the city. Here, you’ll visit Pondicherry Beach, Auroville, Chunnambar Boat House, Bharati Park and Pondicherry Museum. You’ll be taken to one of the best restaurants of Pondicherry for a luxurious dinner and return to the hotel for sleepover.

Day 06: Pondicherry - Tanjore
Start the day with a sumptuous breakfast at the hotel. Soon after, you’ll be taken to the famous “the city of dawn” known as Aurbindo Ashram. The Ashram is emblematic in promoting Shri Aurbindo ideas to bring about a fusion of Yoga and modern science, thereby perfectly merging spirit and matter. Lunch will be organized at a local restaurant. From here, you’ll be transferred to Thanjavur. En-route, a visit to the brass factory at Kumbakonam will be made. When you reach Tanjore, a check in at the booked hotel will be followed by a drive to Brihadeeswarar Temple. Dinner and overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Day 07: Tanjore - Tiruchirappalli - Tranquebar
After breakfast, you’ll head towards Tranquebar, with a break at Trichy. Situated on the banks of Cauvery River, Trichy is a blend of history, tradition and religion. Sri Ranganatha temple is the most admired temple here. Post lunch at a neaby eatery, your journey to Trichy will continue. Upon arrival, you’ll be accommodated at a bungalow by the seaside. Witness the glory of the beach and spend the night here.

Day 08: Tranquebar
Sea tides will welcome you on a fresh morning. Add an extra zing of flavor with a traditional South Indian breakfast. Soon after, a full day city tour will follow. The Danish Fort holds great significance in the history of Tranquebar with monuments dating back to the bygone era. Shore Temple, Dansborg, New Jerusalem Church, Naik House and Gate House are other attractions. Come back to the hotel for night’s rest.

Day 09: Tranquebar - Chettinad - Madurai
Start your day with a gorgeous morning meal. Thereafter, you’ll head towards Madurai. A short halt at Chettinad will be made on the way. Famous for its saris and temples, Chettinad offers exemplary views of the ancient houses built from lime, sand and egg yolk. You’ll then proceed to the destination of the day, Madurai. Dinner and sleepover will follow a check-in to the pre-booked hotel.

Day 10: Madurai
Post breakfast, a full day excursion of Madurai will be organized. The main attraction is the Meenakshi Amman Temple. The temple is an excellent example of the fine architecture, thereby attracting tourists in large numbers throughout the year. Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, Great Tank, Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam and Gandhi Museum are other places of interest. Return back to the hotel for night stay.

Day 11: Madurai - Periyar
A drive to Periyar will be embarked after the morning meal. The only perennial river in South India with clean water, Periyar occupies an important place in the history of Kerala. On reaching, a check-in at the hotel will be followed by a boat cruise in Periyar Lake. Lunch will be served onboard. Meanwhile, you can view the flora and fauna inhabiting the wildlife sanctuary. Come back to the hotel to spend the night.

Day 12: Periyar
Morning meal will be served at the hotel. Thereafter, a trekking tour will be organized. This will serve as the most exuberant activity for the day. A nature trek will be followed by a trip to the spice plantations. After lunch and relaxation at the hotel, you are free to visit the spice market and take a short cooking class from the chef. End the day with a drive back to the hotel for night stay.

Day 13: Periyar - Munnar
Take an early morning breakfast. Afterwards, a four hour drive will commence from Periyar to Munnar. The entire journey will have your eyes glued on the scenic beauty and lush greenery. As you reach Munnar, take time to accommodate at the resort booked or you. Since no further activities will be arranged, you can opt for an Ayurvedic massage at the resort for a rejuvenating and refreshing experience. Dinner and sleepover will be at the resort.

Day 14: Munnar
Day 14 will begin with a delectable breakfast at the hotel. A sightseeing tour of Munnar will follow next. Tourist attractions are Christ Church, Devikulam - one of the most picturesque spots in the world, Kundale Tea Plantation, Neelakurinji flowers and Pothamedu. All these sites offer panoramic glimpses of supreme beauty to tourists residing in the plains. For dinner and overnight stay, come back to the hotel.

Day 15: Munnar - Kumarakom
Your day will start early with a drive to Kumarakom, after breakfast. Enjoy the fascinating views of the traditional Kerala houses, undulating tea gardens and striking rubber plantations on the way. When you reach Kumarakom, you’ll board a houseboat, which will serve as your abode for the night. The very sight of enthralling backwaters will induce you to plunge yourself and stay here for the rest of your life. Enjoy the meals onboard and spend the night amidst utmost beauty.

Day 16: Alleppey - Cochin
The overnight houseboat journey will complete at Alleppey. After breakfast onboard, disembark at Alleppey and drive to Cochin. Make a quick check-in at the hotel and proceed for a boat cruise in Kochi Harbour. Also, revitalize yourself with an entertaining performance of the Kathakali Dance, before you bid adieu to the day.

Day 17: Cochin
}After a tasty breakfast at the hotel, you’ll proceed for a city tour. Starting with Fort Kochi, you’ll visit Chinese fishing nets, Vasco Da Gama Square, Santa Cruz Basilica, St. Francis Church, VOC Gate, Bastion Bungalow, Jewish Synagogue, and Mattancherry Palace. Every tourist site narrates a unique story about the city’s heritage. A delicious supper will be served at the hotel upon your return, after which you can go off to sleep.

Day 18: Cochin - Wayanad
Post breakfast, you’ll travel to the next destination on the tour - Wayanad. By afternoon, you’ll reach Wayanad, wherein you’ll make a check-in to the eco- friendly lodge in the midst of the forest. The ideal location in proximity to Pookode Lake, with gushing waterfalls and gleaming rivulets in the backdrop, presents a perfect getaway from the hustling and bustling city life. Spend the rest of the time at leisure. Overnight stay will be at the lodge.

Day 19: Wayanad
Morning breakfast will be served at the resort. Later, get ready for a nature trek to observe it from close. To spend the night, you’ll come back to the forest lodge.

Day 20: Wayanad - Ooty
In the morning, you’ll be driven to Ooty, a beautiful hill station nestled in the Nilgiri Hills. Upon arrival, a check-in at the hotel will be followed by a tour of Ooty - the Queen of Hill Stations. The stepped slopes of the Nilgiris, luxuriant tea gardens and towering hills are a treat to the eye. The fragrance of eucalyptus and sandalwood adds to the astounding hill experience. Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Day 21: Ooty - Coonoor - Ooty
After a relishing breakfast, a day excursion will be made to Coonoor. The picturesque scenery and salubrious weather invite tourists in large numbers. Most visited tourist places include Sims Park - a park cum botanical garden, Pomological Station - one of the three experimental fruit gardens in the Nilgiri Hills maintained by the Horticultural Department, Lady Canning’s Seat and Silk Rearing Station. Coonoor is also home to some ideal picnic spots, some being The Droog and Law Falls. Dolphin’s Nose is a unique enormous rock formation resembling a dolphin. Return to Ooty for night stay.

Day 22: Ooty - Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
Start the day on a tasty note with traditional delights at breakfast. A journey will then be made to Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, the wild paradise. Views of fresh, crisp flora virgin valleys, along with loaf tigers, gaurs, deer and elephants, across vast acres of green land are sure to captivate you. The sanctuary has tiny streams and rivulets flowing along Kabini River, thus creating a nervous system for the sanctuary. The three Ghats enclosing the sanctuary offer a medley of deciduous trees and shrubs of different rare species. For the day, stroll through the sanctuary with a safari, while for overnight stay, you’ll be accommodated in a tree house, constructed 100 feet above the ground.

Day 23: Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
The entire day will be spent at the sanctuary. Your meals will be served in the park. Enjoy the nature with wildlife and flora to the fullest. Spend the night at the tree house or resort.

Day 24: Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary - Mysore
Post breakfast, you’ll travel to Mysore. After a three-hour journey, you’ll reach your destination. Make a quick check-in at the resort and head on for an excursion to Bandipur National Park. Spend the night at Mysore.

Day 25: Mysore
A full day tour of Mysore will follow a sumptuous breakfast. Mysore is a mecca of historical tourist attractions. Chamundi Hills, 2000-year-old Brindavan Gardens, and Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery – housed in Jaganmohan Palace, Mysore Palace, and St. Philomena’s Church are the highly visited places. Return back to the hotel for night stay.

Day 26: Mysore - Hassan
After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll move on the next city in the tour, Hassan. Proceed for a quick check-in and freshening up session at the hotel upon arrival. A city tour will fall in next. Blessed with several picturesque sightseeing destinations, Mysore is a perfect representation of the Ganga and Hoysala dynasties. The sculptural art work is preserved with utmost care and protective measures through these years. End the day with a drive back to the hotel for supper and night’s rest.

Day 27: Hassan - Belur - Halebid - Hassan
A day tour to Belur and Halebid will be made after breakfast. First, you’ll visit Belur, situated on the banks of Yagachi River. An erstwhile capital of the Hoysala Empire, this charming hamlet is admired for its exquisite collection of temples. Chennakesava Temple is one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture since it took 103 years for completion and construction. The temple walls are decorated with beautiful sculptures of different tales from the Hindu epics. Later, you’ll be driven to Halebid. It is home to Hoysaleswara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, dating back to the 12th century. The walls are enveloped with endless gods and goddesses, animals, birds and dancing girls. For sleepover, you’ll return to the hotel.

Day 28: Hassan - Bengaluru
Breakfast will be served at the hotel. Thereafter, you’ll journey to Bengaluru. On your way, a break will be made at Srirangapatna. Tipu’s Summer Palace, tomb at Darya Daulat Bagh and Sri Ranganatha Temple are the topmost tourist sites. You’ll then proceed to Bengaluru. A check in at the hotel will be followed by a comfy sleep.

Day 29: Bengaluru
Day 29 will start with a healthy breakfast and a city tour. Being famously known as the “Garden City”, Bangalore has many gardens, like Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, Cubbon Park, and Cariappa Memorial Park. Government Museum is a special attraction for tourists and has antiquities from the Mohenjodaro period. Other attractions include Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall, the High Court and Jawahar Bal Bhavan, Gandhi Bhavan, Ulsoor Lake, Vidhana Soubha, and Bangalore Palace and Fort. Your day will end with a drive back to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 30: Bengaluru Departure
Indulge in a wholesome breakfast at the hotel. You’ll then be transferred to Bengaluru International Airport to board the flight for onward destination.