1 612 869 8502 

South India Discovery: Kerala and Tamilnadu


11 days 10 nights

Code SI-KT2

Category South India Classic Tours

  • Group Size 2-16 Person
  • Difficulty Level 1
  • Rating Popular
  • Trip Starts From Cochin
  • Trip Ends At Chennai
  • Accommodation Hotels
  • Type Tours
  • Destination Chennai Mahabalipuram Pondicherry Tanjore Madurai Thekkady Periyar Alleppey Kochi
Dates & Prices
Please, contact us for the price and the dates for this trip

Overview

This trip takes you through the two most famous Southern states of India-Tamilnadu and Kerala, both rich in history, culture, religion, and architecture. We will visit the major religious and architectural wonders of the area and also will have the opportunity to experience rural life. We will have ample free time to sample the mouth-watering cuisines, attend the yoga lessons, and enjoy the traditional Ayurvedic massages at your leisure time.

The state of Tamilnadu is known for the rock-cut and Dravidian style of temples. We appreciate the architectural wonders and masterpiece temples, heritage lanes, and markets as we travel through Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Kumbakonam, Chidambaram, Thanjavur, and Madurai.

In Kerala, we cruise the backwaters of Alleppey by houseboat and explore the wildlife of Thekkady Wildlife Reserve where we have chances of seeing the herds of wild elephants, tigers, deer, wild-boar, among others. We conclude the trip in the coastal city of Kochi-formerly known as Cochin.

Trip Cost

US$ 1899 per person on double occupancy basis.
US$ 680 Private room supplement

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01~Arrive in Chennai

Welcome to India! Upon arrival, you are met by our local representative and transferred to the hotel for check-in. Balance of the day is at leisure.

Overnight: Abu Sarovara Portico
Day 02~The rock-cut temples of Mahabalipuram

(63 miles, 2.5 hours)

A leisurely morning breakfast. Today, we travel to Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram-a town in the strip of land between the Salt Lake and the Bay of Bengal-known for the temples and monuments built during the 7th and 8th centuries.

First, we check into our accommodations and then we proceed for sightseeing of Mahabalipuram. Mahabalipuram is famous for its rock-cut temples built along the Coromandel Coast and caves associated with Hindu epic Mahabharata.

We visit Arjuna's Penance- a substantial open-air sculpture that shows the various events that occurred during Arjuna’s Penance. It's built on two big rocks which are approximately 43 feet high. The rock sculpture is intricate and is unlike any other you can find in India.

Next, we visit the Thirukadalmallai - one of the 108 temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is an 8th-century temple built in the time of Pallavas dynasty. It has Dravidian Pallava style architecture with a white colored tower.

Now, we move on to the rock-cut cave temples of the 7th century. The rock sculptures here are dedicated to various Hindu deities, and these are among the most exquisite masterpieces of Indian art. We also visit the Shore Temple, that overlooks the beaches of Bay of Bengal, and that's how it got its name. It is a distinct Pallava style architecture, finely cut into granite rock, decorated with various rock-cut reliefs and sculptures.

The final stop of the day will be at Pancha Rathas which are open-air rock-cut reliefs, designed in the form of chariots named after the Pandava from the Hindu epic Mahabharata. We can notice the distinctive Dravidian style of architecture in the design. The monoliths are carved out of pink granite, and the tallest one of them is around 40 feet high. The sculptures in the niches in the chariot shaped temples are various characters of Hindu mythology.

Depending on available time and interest, we may or may not visit all the attractions listed but the above are the most important ones, and of course, there are a lot more to see in Mahabalipuram.

Overnight: Chariot Beach Resort
Meals : Breakfast
Day 03~The French colonial town of Pondicherry

38 miles, 1.5 hour

Leisurely morning breakfast and travel to the French colonial town of Pondicherry. You will have time to settle into your rooms and then set out to explore Pondicherry, also called Puducherry. French left in 1954, but we can still see the French legacy well preserved in French quarters, with yellow colored colonial villas, elegant boutiques, and tree-lined streets.

This afternoon, explore the French town, literally walking down the lane of history! It's a heritage walk starting at the French Consulate near the north end of seafront Goubert Ave, then gradually head south, passing by the Bharathi Park with neoclassical governor's residence, Raj Nivas, Gandi Memorial, Hotel De Ville, White Town-Dumas, Romain Rolland, Suffren, and Labourdonnais Sts.

Overnight: Hotel Atithi
Meals : Breakfast
Day 04~Sightseeing of Pondicherry

We begin from the Aurobindo Ashram - one of the most renowned and the wealthiest Hindu retreat in India, with devotees from India and all over the world gathering here for spiritual knowledge. Next, we head to the Puducherry Museum (closed on Monday and national holidays) with a wide range of exhibits including rare bronzes and stone sculptures from the Pallava and Chola dynasties.

Now, we drive little out of the city to visit the Auroville - or the ‘City of Dawn.' A project of spiritual leader Aurovinda, Auroville is a universal town that promotes peace and progressive harmony, above all faiths, all politics and all nationalities. We begin from the visitor's center, that offers detailed exhibitions and video viewings on the city’s aims and activities, and we take a walk around.

Next, visit the Pondicherry Museum-an art and history museum, known for its collection of beautiful lost wax bronzes from the period of the Chola dynasty that ruled India from 3rd century BC through the 13th century.

Conclude the day in the Pondicherry Botanical Garden-also built by the French. Here, you will discover many flowers of South India and information on them, including their botanical names.

Overnight: Hotel Atithi
Meals : Breakfast
Day 05~Via Kumbakonam to Thanjavur

After breakfast, leave for Thanjavur-popularly known as Tanjore. It's long day travel (122 miles, 5-hours) with two essential stops for sightseeing.

On the way, we stop in Chidambaram (47 miles, 2-hours)-an famous pilgrimage destination for the followers of Lord Shiva. We visit the Natraj Temple situated at the center of the town. Natraj is the dancing form of Lord Shiva. Spread out over 40 acres, Natraj Temple complex includes several other temples, a water pool, and the 'hall of thousand pillars.’ The complex is open to everyone, but the gold-plated sanctum sanctorum that houses the idol is for Hindu worshippers only.

Our next stop is at (25 miles, 1 hour before Thanjavur) to visit some of the 118 temples of the city. Kumbakonam city was the capital in the medieval Chola kings and became the center of studies for Hindu culture and European education during the British reign. Some of the prominent temples we visit here are Kumbeswara Temple, Ramaswamy Temple, and Sarangapani Temple, etc.

Upon arrival, check in hotel and balance of the day is at leisure. 

Overnight: Ideal River View
Meals : Breakfast
Day 06~Madurai-The home of Meenkashi Amman Temple

After breakfast, visit the world heritage sites of Thanjavur. First, visit the Brihadeswara Temple dating back to the 11th century and claiming to be among the tallest temples of the world. It's undoubtedly an architectural wonder, and a perfect example of the Chola rulers love and passion to the original architecture.

Next, visit the Palace of Tanjore. Situated near the Brihadeswara Temple, the Palace of Tanjore is a large building built over several decades by the kings of different dynasties. We visit the Art Gallery, situated in the palace. The palace preserves some of the magnificent and precious Granite and Bronze statues of the Chola period. 

Thanjavur is also known for paintings, jewelry, inlaid copperware, silk brocades, and rugs if you are interested in shopping.

Now, we leave for Madurai (119 miles, 4 hours)-a vibrant ancient city on the Vaigai River in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Meenakshi Amman Temple with 14 towers, known as Gopurams, is the main attraction here. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel.

After dinner, we visit the temple to watch the evening procession ceremony of Lord Shiva. Amidst chanting and prayers, the idol of Lord Shiva is carried on a palanquin from his shrine to his residence where Goddess Meenakshi waits for him.

Overnight: Heritage Madurai
Meals : Breakfast
Day 07~Travel to Thekkady

After breakfast, we return to the Meenakshi temple complex again to see the temple in daylight. The temple complex has 14 towers which are known as the Gopurams, meaning gateway towers. Two of the towers which are elaborately sculptured and painted are for the main deities. Meenakshi Temple is among the most famous temples of India. The temple is known for its outstanding and impressive architectural grandeur.

Next, we visit the Thirumalai Nayak Palace, a 17th-century palace, built by King Thirumalai Nayak. Designed by an Italian architect, this temple is a perfect fusion of Dravidian, Islamic, and European styles. The palace, listed as the national monument of India and protected by Tamil Nadu Archaeological department, is truly an architectural wonder of India.

Afternoon, leave for Thekkady (88 miles, 4 hours)

Overnight: Poetry Sarovra Portico
Meals : Breakfast
Day 08~Boating safari in Lake Periyar

After breakfast at the hotel, we leave for Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, also called Thekkady (Approx. 100 miles/4 hrs. by car). Thekkady is a popular hill resort and a spice trading town. Thekkady is also known for wildlife Sanctuary and is home to wild elephants.

The afternoon is for a boating trip on Lake Periyar. The boat takes us around the sanctuary. Most commonly spotted animals are monkeys, wild pigs, deer, wild-buffaloes, and elephants. Tiger sighting is very rare. The boat ride lasts in about 2-hour.

Meals : Breakfast
Day 09~Cruise the backwaters of Alleppey

Early morning breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Alleppey by car (Approx. 88 miles, 3 ½ hrs. drive).

Embark on your houseboat cruise on the Kerala's backwaters. The boats are made by joining wooden planks together with the help of coconut ropes. Originally, these traditional boats were used for transporting rice. The boats have one or two fan-cooled bedrooms with western style en suite bathroom and shower. The sides can be opened to allow the breeze to flow freely. You will have private crew, steering the boat and cooking meals and serving for you. Tea and soft drinks are also served.

As you float along the backwaters, you can observe the local life in the shores. Some are fishing and others are washing clothes and children trying their English with you while they are splashing in the water. Backwater cruising also offers opportunities to view the various species of aquatic birds; mainly storks, egrets.

Afternoon, we take canoe trip through the narrow canals that go through the paddy fields, coconut lagoons and isolated islands. We observe the daily life of the locals in the land as well as on water.

 

Overnight: Houseboat
Meals : Breakfast
Day 10~Travel to Cochin

After breakfast, disembark your boat and transfer to Cochin, also called Kochi ( approx. 1 ½ hrs drive) en route visiting fisherman village. Check into your hotel and balance of the day is at leisure.

Your guide and driver will take you for sightseeing of Cochin. We begin from Fort Cochin, also called Old Cochin. Fort Cochin was the fishing village in pre-colonial Kerala, and later it went to the control of Portuguese, Dutch and British in different period. We visit the Church of St. Francis, which is the oldest church in India. Vasco de Gama- the Portuguese explorer, was originally buried in this church but his body was later moved to Lisbon, Portugal. Next, we visit the Portuguese built Mattancherry Palace (closed on Friday) where you will find some of the most exquisite murals in India. The Chinese Fishing Nets are also attractions of Cochin as they are in no other states of India. The fishing nets are huge and have elegant construction. The way they are operated is quite hypnotic. Interestingly, catches can be purchased individually, and if you wish, you can take it a street vendor nearby who can cook it for you.

In the afternoon enjoy the Kathakali dance – the stylized and theatrical art form retelling stories from Hindu legend. Kathakali, as a form of dance, has evolved from many social and religious dramas which existed in the southern region in ancient times.

Overnight: Abad Atrium
Meals : Breakfast
Day 11~Explore Kochi

Today, explore the port city with your guide and driver.We begin from Fort Cochin, also called Old Cochin. Fort Cochin was the fishing village in pre-colonial Kerala and later it went to the control of Portuguese, Dutch and British in different period of time. We visit the Church of St. Francis which is the oldest church in India. Vasco de Gama- the Portuguese explorer was originally buried in this church but his body was later moved to Lisbon, Portugal.

Next, we visit the Portuguese built Mattancherry Palace (closed on Friday) where you will find some of the finest murals in India. The Chinese Fishing Nets are also attractions of Cochin as they are in no other states of India. The fishing nets are huge and have elegant construction. The way they are operated is quite hypnotic. Interestingly, catches can be purchased individually and needs to be taken to a street vendor nearby who will cook it for you.

In the afternoon enjoy the Kathakali dance – the stylized and theatrical art form retelling stories from Hindu legend. Kathakali, as a form of dance has evolved from many social and religious dramas which existed in the southern region in ancient times.

 

Overnight: Abad Atrium
Meals : Breakfast
Day 12~Depart

After breakfast, you are transferred to the airport in time for flight to your next destination.

Trip Map

Trip Info

Trip Includes

  • Accommodation for (8) nights on the twin or double share basis in superior class (4*) hotels or resorts.
  • Daily breakfast at your hotel and full board while in the houseboat.
  • English speaking local guides.
  • Sightseeing admission fees.
  • A private vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing.
  • Boat ticket in Lake Periyar.
  • Currently applicable taxes

Trip Does Not Include

  • Airfares.
  • Meals other than indicated in the itinerary.
  • Drinks, tipping, laundry, phone, internet usage, and other personal expenses.
  • Extra expenses due to nature and unforeseen events.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Additional fees for the camera.
  • Early check-in and late checkout fee.

Note on itinerary

We do our best to adhere to the plan, but it's subject to change for several reasons beyond our control such as weather, travel conditions, government holidays, etc. The sightseeing or the travel order may change to adjust the local conditions.

Hotels

The hotels in this trip are first class properties, classified four stars by local standard with adequate amenities and facilities. You will have a private bathroom with running hot and cold water. During the backwater cruise, you have one night in a traditional houseboat. Usually, the houseboats have one or two bedrooms with an en suite bathroom. If listed hotels are not available under the circumstances, we will provide you the best possible alternative.

Meals

Your trip includes daily breakfast at your hotel. The houseboat cruise, the crews will cook meals for you. Most hotels do have on-site restaurants, and your guide can also recommend restaurants in the town that serve local as well as western style dishes. Please, budget $10-15 per meal.

Tour Guide

You will have a private tour guide to accompany you throughout the tour. Your guide will be a local individual, well versed in English and knowledgeable about local history, geography, culture, and religion. You will meet your guide upon arrival in Cochin. Tour Guide and driver are the different persons.

Transportation

Depending on the group size, we provide good conditioned minivan or minibus for all transfers and sightseeing. Your vehicle will be well kept, air-conditioned and driven by an experienced driver.

Getting in and away

The trip starts in Cochin, now called Kochi and concludes in Kovalam. Cochin has an international airport served by major Asian and Middle-eastern airlines. Flights to Kochi arrive from major cities of India, Middle-east and South-east Asia. If you are already traveling in South India, you can also get to Kochi by train or public transports. The trip concludes in Kovalam and the nearest airport -Trivandrum is 45 minutes' drive away.

Best Time to Travel

In terms of weather, South India is usually hot, but the period between October and March has comfortable the temperature. April and May are the hottest months, but due to its proximity with the tropics, it's not so humid. Monsoon season begins from June and lasts in early September, and this is the right time if you are into Ayurveda treatment.

Booking Deposit and Payment Schedule

We request an initial deposit of US$ 300 along with the completed trip registration and a passport scan. Typically the balance payment is due 90 days prior departure, but we may also ask you second payment if any hotels or suppliers require payment before that. Payment by credit card except the initial deposit will attract an additional 3.5% fee.

Cancellation and refund

If you need to withdraw from the trip, please, send us a notification in writing, by fax or email. Following cancellation charges will apply.

  • Ninety days prior departure: Administrative fee US$ 150 per person
  • 60-89 day's prior departure: US$ 300 or 25% of the land cost whichever is higher.
  • Forty-five days to 59 days before departure: US$ 450 or 50% of the land cost whichever is higher.
  • Thirty days to 44 days before departure: US$ 600 or 75% of the land cost whichever is higher.
  • Less than 30 days: 100%.

Cancellation and refund of air tickets cost will be as per the airline's policy plus a service charge of US$ 25 by the consolidator. Cancellation terms and conditions of particular services may vary which we will notify you on case to case basis.

No refund or adjustment to other services will be made for any unused land or air services for any reason whatsoever, once the tour begins. We highly recommend that all travelers purchase trip cancellation insurance.

We reserve the right to cancel any trip before departure for any reason whatsoever, including insufficient signup or logistical problems that may impede trip operations. We also reserve the right to refuse your participation on tour with or without any reason. So, please do not purchase your international airfare until we confirm your participation on the trip.

Final trip dossier

We will send you a comprehensive trip dossier about two months before the trip date. The trip dossier includes the final itinerary, list of confirmed hotels and flights and service details. The document will also cover travel notes, including weather, packing suggestions, currency information, etc.

Travel Insurance

While we plan and do our best that your trip goes seamlessly, there are always chances of unforeseen events and conditions such as illness, accident, inclement weather conditions, and flight cancellation or missed connection or loss of baggage, etc. that may cause interruption or delay or total cancellation of your trip putting your hard earned travel investment in jeopardy. It's also possible that you may need medical assistance, emergency evacuation, or medical transportation when you get ill or involve in an accident when you are traveling in remote areas. Far & High's Tour cost does not cover any of these expenses or losses, and so we strongly recommend you that you should protect yourself and your travel investment against those unfavorable conditions.

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