Tour Sacred Temples And Serene Backwaters: South India Tour With

Accommodation

We offer accommodations in the following category: Chennai - Taj Connemara / Taj Fisherman’s Cove Resort / Similar Pondicherry - Maison Perumal / Palais de Mahe / Similar Kumbakonam - Mantra Koodam / Indeco Hotels Swamimalai / Similar Chettinad - Visalam / Chidambara Vilas / Similar Madurai - The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai / Heritage Madurai / Similar Thekkady - Spice Village / Niraamaya Retreats / Similar Kumarakom - Coconut Lagoon / Taj Kumarakom Resort / Similar Please Note: It is always our endeavor to provide you with the hotels listed in the program. However, if the listed hotels are unavailable, we will provide the best possible options within the same category.

Guide

All tours and transfers as per the itinerary will be conducted in a private vehicle accompanied by an English-speaking guide. For groups larger than six people, an accompanying tour guide will be provided for the entire group. Accommodations for the additional guide will be arranged separately.

Transport

Our fleet consists of brand-new, meticulously maintained vehicles to ensure optimal comfort and safety throughout your journey. Each vehicle undergoes rigorous inspections to guarantee reliability. Our drivers are extensively vetted, ensuring they possess thorough knowledge of local routes, making solo travel with them completely secure. Transportation is provided in air-conditioned private vehicles with drivers fluent in local languages. Our offerings include: •Swift Dzire or similar for up to 2 passengers •Innova Crysta or similar for 3-4 passengers •Tempo Traveller or similar for groups of 5-8 passengers •AC Coach for more travellers Rest assured, our commitment to quality transport ensures a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

Hygieneprotocol

In accordance to the COVID 19 pandemic all our tours are operated with all precautionary measures including SANITIZED CARS AND HOTELS/COMPLIMENTARY SANITIZERS/MASKS (Your safety is our priority)

Meals

•Breakfast is included as per the itinerary. •For departures during Christmas and New Year, mandatory Gala Dinner charges will apply.

Others

Accommodation in pre-selected hotels as per the itinerary. Buffet breakfast as per the program. Admission fees to monuments and activites are included as per the program. Boat Ride on Periyar Lake Houseboat excursion on Vembanad Lake Transfers and sightseeing as per the itinerary in a private AC vehicle. Local English-speaking guides as per the itinerary. For groups of 6 or more travelers, an accompanying tour escort will be provided for the entire tour. Stay hydrated with two complimentary bottles of water provided daily inside the vehicle. 24/7 local assistance. All taxes, parking, tolls, and driver expenses.

Not included:

Optional

Optional experiences are available on this tour for an additional cost and will be included in your finalized travel documents. Thekkady - Ancient Martial Art Show - USD 25 per person Thekkady - Cooking Class and Dinner - USD 35 per person Thekkady - Elephant Experience - USD 50 per person Periyar - Elephant Sanctuary Tour - USD 85 per person Madurai - Heritage Walking Tour - USD 55 per person Kumarakom - Traditional Ayurvedic Massage (1 Hour) - USD 55 per person Chettinad Bullock Cart Ride Experience - USD 60 Per Person

Insurance

Travel insurance is not included in the program. It is advisable to obtain travel insurance for your tour.

Others

Flights, visa fees, and insurance. Tips, personal expenses, extra visits, or additional vehicle usage. Anything not specifically mentioned in the inclusions or itinerary.

Flights

Flights are not included in the tour package; however, we can arrange them upon request. Please consult with us regarding the timings before booking your domestic flight.

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Day 1 Arrival In Chennai
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Arrival In Chennai

Upon your arrival in Chennai, you will be warmly welcomed by our MTA representative, who will assist you with your transfer to the hotel. After checking in, take some time to relax and recover from your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore the nearby attractions or simply enjoy a leisurely evening in the city, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Chennai.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Transport, Assistance
Day 2 Chennai Sightseeing
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Chennai Sightseeing

After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Chennai.

Start with a visit to Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India, which now houses the Tamil Nadu legislative assembly and other official buildings. Proceed to the majestic San Thome Basilica, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century over the tomb of Saint Thomas, an apostle of Jesus. Next, explore the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, an excellent example of Dravidian architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva. Conclude your tour with a stroll along Marina Beach, the longest natural urban beach in India. Spend the evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Chennai.

Inclusions : Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights : Fort St. George, San Thome Basilica, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Marina Beach
Day 3 Chennai To Mahabalipuram Sightseeing And Transfer To Pondicherry (155 Km, 5 Hours Approx. Excluding Stops)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Chennai To Mahabalipuram Sightseeing And Transfer To Pondicherry (155 Km, 5 Hours Approx. Excluding Stops)

Depart Chennai early in the morning and drive to the coastal town of Mahabalipuram. Known for its rock-cut temples and sculptures, Mahabalipuram is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Shore Temple, a stunning structure overlooking the Bay of Bengal, and the Pancha Rathas, five monolithic temples each carved from a single granite rock. Don’t miss Arjuna’s Penance, an enormous bas-relief sculpted on two large boulders. After a comprehensive tour, continue your journey to Pondicherry. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a peaceful evening.

Inclusions : Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights : Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance
Day 4 Pondicherry Sightseeing And Transfer To Kumbakonam Via Chidambaram (135 Km, 4 Hours Approx. Excluding Stops)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Pondicherry Sightseeing And Transfer To Kumbakonam Via Chidambaram (135 Km, 4 Hours Approx. Excluding Stops)

Begin your day with a sightseeing tour of Pondicherry, a former French colony with a unique blend of French and Indian cultures. Visit the French Quarter, characterized by its colonial architecture and tree-lined streets. Explore the serene Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community dedicated to the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother. Stroll along the Promenade Beach and enjoy the coastal ambiance. Afterward, drive to Chidambaram to visit the Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer. Continue to Kumbakonam, where you will check in to your hotel and rest for the night.

Inclusions : Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights : French Quarter, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Promenade Beach, Nataraja Temple
Day 5 Kumbakonam And Tanjore Sightseeing And Kumbakonam (80 Km, 4 Hours Approx. Ex-Cluding Stops)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Kumbakonam And Tanjore Sightseeing And Kumbakonam (80 Km, 4 Hours Approx. Ex-Cluding Stops)

After breakfast, embark on a tour of Kumbakonam, known for its rich history and numerous temples. Visit the Adi Kumbeswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Sarangapani Temple, one of the largest Vishnu temples in South India. Later, drive to Tanjore (Thanjavur) to visit the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, also known as the Big Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage site, built by the Chola king Raja Raja I, is renowned for its grand architecture and exquisite sculptures. Return to Kumbakonam in the evening and relax at your hotel.

Inclusions : Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights : Adi Kumbeswarar Temple, Sarangapani Temple, Brihadeeswarar Temple
Day 6 Kumbakonam To Chettinad Via Trichy Sightseeing (135 Km, 4 Hours Approx. Excluding Stops)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Kumbakonam To Chettinad Via Trichy Sightseeing (135 Km, 4 Hours Approx. Excluding Stops)

Depart Kumbakonam in the morning and head towards Trichy (Tiruchirappalli). Your first stop will be the Rockfort Temple, perched atop a massive rock, offering panoramic views of the city. Visit the Srirangam Temple, the largest functioning Hindu temple in the world, and the Jambukeshwarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. After exploring these iconic sites, proceed to Chettinad, a region famous for its unique cuisine and heritage mansions. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and spend the evening at leisure.

Inclusions : Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights : Rockfort Temple, Srirangam Temple, Jambukeshwarar Temple
Day 7 Chettinad Sightseeing And Transfer To Madurai (90 Km, 2 Hours Approx. Excluding Stops)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Chettinad Sightseeing And Transfer To Madurai (90 Km, 2 Hours Approx. Excluding Stops)

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel in Chettinad, then explore the region’s highlights. Visit the grand Chettinad Palace, known for its exquisite architecture and historical significance. Explore local temples such as the Sri Soundararaja Perumal Temple and the Karpagambal Temple, renowned for their intricate carvings. Drive to Madurai, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax for the evening.

Inclusions : Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights : Chettinad Palace, Sri Soundararaja Perumal Temple, Karpagambal Temple
Day 8 Madurai Sightseeing And Transfer To Thekkady (142 Km, 3 Hours Approx. Excluding Stops)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Madurai Sightseeing And Transfer To Thekkady (142 Km, 3 Hours Approx. Excluding Stops)

Start your day with a visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a marvel of Dravidian architecture dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar. Explore the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, built in the 17th century with a blend of Dravidian and Rajput styles. Also, visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum, which houses an impressive collection of memorabilia related to Mahatma Gandhi. In the afternoon, depart for Thekkady, home to the renowned Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a restful evening.

Inclusions : Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights : Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, Gandhi Memorial Museum
Day 9 Thekkady Sightseeing And Transfer To Kumarakom (121 Km, 3.5 Hours Approx. Exclud-Ing Stops)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Thekkady Sightseeing And Transfer To Kumarakom (121 Km, 3.5 Hours Approx. Exclud-Ing Stops)

Start your day with an early breakfast at your hotel in Thekkady, then head to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary for a boat ride on Periyar Lake. This scenic boat ride offers the chance to observe wildlife, including elephants and deer, in their natural habitat. If time permits, consider visiting a local spice plantation to learn about the cultivation of spices like cardamom and pepper. After this enchanting experience, depart for Kumarakom, a picturesque backwater destination. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to unwind. In the evening, you may choose to explore the serene surroundings or relax by the lakeside. Overnight stay in Kumarakom.

Inclusions : Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights : Boat ride on Periyar Lake
Day 10 Kumarakom Sightseeing
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Kumarakom Sightseeing

Spend a full day immersing yourself in the serene beauty of Kumarakom, renowned for its tranquil backwaters and lush landscapes. Begin your morning with a visit to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a haven for bird enthusiasts. This sanctuary is home to a diverse range of migratory birds, including kingfishers, egrets, and the majestic great hornbill. Stroll through the sanctuary’s peaceful paths and observe the vibrant avian life in their natural habitat.

Following your visit to the bird sanctuary, enjoy a leisurely houseboat cruise on Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala. As you glide along the backwaters, take in the picturesque views of the sur-rounding greenery, traditional Kerala houses, and local life. The houseboat experience offers a unique perspective of the region’s serene landscapes and provides a perfect opportunity to relax and reflect. Throughout the day, you’ll have the chance to experience the charm and tranquility of this idyllic re-gion, making the most of your time in Kumarakom.

Inclusions : Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights : Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Houseboat Cruise
Day 11 Kumarakom To Cochin For Departure (50 Km, 1 Hour Approx.)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Kumarakom To Cochin For Departure (50 Km, 1 Hour Approx.)

After breakfast, drive to Cochin (Kochi) for your departure. If time permits, explore the historic Fort Kochi area, visiting attractions such as the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church (the oldest European church in India), and the Jewish Synagogue, known for its exquisite Belgian glass chandeliers and hand-painted Chinese tiles. Transfer to the airport for your onward journey, taking with you cherished memories of your South India tour.

Inclusions : Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights : Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, Jewish Synagogue

11 days tour

Sacred Temples And Serene Backwaters: South India Tour With

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Sacred Temples And Serene Backwaters: South India Tour With

Arrival In Chennai

Chennai Sightseeing

Chennai To Mahabalipuram Sightseeing And Transfer To Pondicherry (155 Km, 5 Hours Approx. Excluding Stops)

Pondicherry Sightseeing And Transfer To Kumbakonam Via Chidambaram (135 Km, 4 Hours Approx. Excluding Stops)

Kumbakonam And Tanjore Sightseeing And Kumbakonam (80 Km, 4 Hours Approx. Ex-Cluding Stops)

Kumbakonam To Chettinad Via Trichy Sightseeing (135 Km, 4 Hours Approx. Excluding Stops)

Chettinad Sightseeing And Transfer To Madurai (90 Km, 2 Hours Approx. Excluding Stops)

Madurai Sightseeing And Transfer To Thekkady (142 Km, 3 Hours Approx. Excluding Stops)

Thekkady Sightseeing And Transfer To Kumarakom (121 Km, 3.5 Hours Approx. Exclud-Ing Stops)

Kumarakom Sightseeing

Kumarakom To Cochin For Departure (50 Km, 1 Hour Approx.)

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