Chennai – Kanchipuram – Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry – thanjavur - Chettinad – Madurai - Munnar – Thattekad – Periyar Jeep Safari - Thekkady – Alleppey - Marari – Cochin
Duration: 09 Nights / 10 Days
Group size: Individual or Any Group Size
Tour type: Historical - Cultural - Heritage
Languages: English or Other Languages
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the cultural heartland of South India with our Mystical South India Tour. This immersive South India travel experience covers the most iconic destinations across Tamil Nadu and Kerala, including Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Thanjavur, Madurai, Munnar, Periyar, Alleppey, and Marari Beach. From ancient Dravidian temples and UNESCO World Heritage Sites to serene backwaters, tea plantations, vibrant markets, and bird sanctuaries, this tour offers the perfect blend of history, spirituality, nature, and local culture. Ideal for travelers seeking a deeply enriching and offbeat India experience, this South India itinerary is customizable and designed to give you the best of both Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Discover the hidden gems, architectural marvels, and scenic wonders of South India on this 18-day cultural and wildlife adventure
Tour Highlights:
Your South India adventure begins in Chennai, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu. After arriving, explore the Government Museum, take a heritage walk through Mylapore, and visit the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple and San Thome Basilica. Overnight: Chennai
Drive to the temple town of Kanchipuram, famed for its rich history and handwoven silk sarees. Visit ancient temples and watch local silk weavers in action. Continue your scenic drive to Mahabalipuram. Overnight: Mahabalipuram
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Shore Temple, Five Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance, and Krishna’s Butterball. Don’t miss witnessing intricate stone carving artisans at work. Overnight: Mahabalipuram
Head south to the charming coastal town of Pondicherry. Explore the French Quarter with a guided walk and visit the Pondicherry Museum for a taste of its colonial past. Overnight: Pondicherry
Spend the day exploring the peaceful Aurobindo Ashram, visit spiritual Auroville (optional), see beautiful churches, and enjoy a walk along the promenade past Gandhi Statue and memorials. Overnight: Pondicherry
En route to Thanjavur, stop at Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram – exquisite examples of Chola architecture. Also visit a local bronze craft village to see artisans at work. Overnight: Thanjavur
Visit the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, the royal palace, and then drive to Trichy to see the vast Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. End your day in the heritage-rich region of Chettinad. Overnight: Chettinad
After breakfast, transfer to Madurai. Explore the iconic Meenakshi Temple, Gandhi Museum, and the Thirumalai Nayak Palace. End the day with local market strolls. Overnight: Madurai
Start the day with a heritage walk in Madurai before heading into the hills. The drive to Munnar offers stunning landscapes of the Western Ghats. Overnight: Munnar
Visit Eravikulam National Park (home to Nilgiri Tahr), the Tea Museum, and famous viewpoints like Echo Point and Mattupetty Lake. Overnight: Munnar
Drive to Thattekad, a lush birding paradise tucked into Kerala’s forests. Check in to your nature retreat for a relaxing evening. Overnight: Thattekad (Amritara / Dollar Bird Retreat)
Enjoy a full-day birdwatching excursion at the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. Spot hornbills, woodpeckers, and countless species in this tranquil wilderness. Overnight: Thattekad
Drive to Thekkady, visit a spice plantation, and take a boat safari on Periyar Lake. Optional activities include a traditional martial arts show. Overnight: Periyar (Thekkady)
Venture deep into the forests of Gavi in a full-day 4x4 jeep safari, spotting wildlife and enjoying unspoiled nature in one of Kerala’s most pristine reserves. Overnight: Periyar
Experience the iconic Kerala backwaters on a private houseboat. Cruise along coconut-lined canals and enjoy freshly prepared traditional meals onboard. Overnight: Houseboat (Alleppey)
After breakfast on the boat, transfer to Marari – a quiet beachside escape. Spend the day relaxing, taking in the sunset, or indulging in an Ayurvedic spa. Overnight: Marari Beach Resort
Relax at your beach resort or take an optional half-day excursion to Cochin to see Chinese Fishing Nets, Dutch Palace, and enjoy a Kathakali dance show. Overnight: Marari Beach Resort
Bid farewell to South India with a transfer to Cochin International Airport for your onward journey. Tour Ends
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