Welcome to southern India! Upon arrival at Chennai airport, meet your driver for a scenic drive to the historic village of Mahabalipuram (1 hour). Known for its ancient temples and beautiful beaches, Mahabalipuram dates back to the seventh century. Relax at your hotel or take a stroll on the beach before enjoying traditional Tamil cuisine in the evening.
Start your day early to visit the Shore Temple, a stunning example of Pallava architecture. Continue to explore other sites, including the Descent of the Ganges and the Five Rathas. In the afternoon, drive south to the coastal town of Pondicherry (1.5 hours), once a French colony. Enjoy a traditional meal served on a banana leaf at Pushpa’s, where you’ll meet the chef and learn about local cuisine.
Join a walking tour of Pondicherry’s French Quarter, with its colonial architecture and quaint streets. Continue to the bustling Indian district for a local market experience, perfect for shopping. In the evening, relax with a seaside promenade walk along the Bay of Bengal.
Travel south to visit the iconic Thillai Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram, a UNESCO site dedicated to Shiva. Explore other Chola temples in Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram. Continue your journey to Thanjavur.
Visit the Brihadishvara Temple in Thanjavur, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. After lunch, drive through lush fields to Chettinad, known for its palatial homes. Visit the Thirumayam Fortress and Sri Gokarneshwara Temple before exploring the region’s grand mansions.
Depart for Madurai (2 hours), one of the world’s oldest cities and a major Hindu pilgrimage site. Visit the Sri Meenakshi Amman Temple and Thirumalai Nayak Palace. In the evening, witness a religious procession at the temple.
Enjoy a Tamil breakfast before heading to Munnar (5-6 hours) in Kerala. The scenic drive through the Western Ghats offers breathtaking views of tea plantations and waterfalls. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax.
Travel to Periyar (4.5 hours), surrounded by spice and tea plantations. Visit a renowned spice garden to learn about Kerala’s spice trade. Continue to Thekkady, located near Periyar National Park.
Take a boat cruise on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife, including elephants and bison. Later, enjoy an elephant ride and participate in washing the elephant. Optionally, experience Kalaripayattu, a traditional martial arts performance.
Travel to Kumarakom (3.5 hours) to explore Kerala’s backwaters aboard a kettuvallam houseboat. Drift along tranquil canals and lakes, listening to the sounds of tropical birds as you spend the night on the boat.
Disembark from your houseboat and travel to Cochin (2 hours). Explore the city’s historic landmarks, including St. Francis Church, Mattancherry Palace, and the 16th-century synagogue. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance.
Before departure, enjoy a morning stroll along Cochin’s harbor or indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage. Afterward, enjoy a local curry and chai before heading to the airport for your onward journey.
