South India Highlights
Chennai - Kanchipuram- Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry - Tanjore - Madurai - Periyar - Cochin – Coimbatore - Mysore - Bangalore - Hassan - Belur - Halebid- Hospet - Hampi - Badami - Aihole - Pattadakal - Goa – Mumbai
South India is peninsular region bounded by the sea on three sides and separated from rest of India by a river in its North. It is a cradle of art and culture. South Indian Culture and Architecture stands in contrast to Northern part of India.
South India has been ruled by various native dynasties since times immemorial till its colonization in modern era. The kings being native were steeped in the local culture and ethos. Temple architecture in South India with its various forms developed to its perfection unlike in other parts of India.
Upon arrival at Chennai International Airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, spend the remainder of the day at leisure to rest or explore the nearby market areas on your own.
Overnight in Chennai.
After breakfast depart from Chennai and drive towards Mahabalipuram. En route stop at Kanchipuram, one of the oldest temple towns in India, where you will visit Ekambareswarar Temple and Kailasanathar Temple. You may also visit one of the famous silk-weaving centres of Kanchipuram.
Later continue your drive to Mahabalipuram and check into your hotel. In the afternoon visit the Shore Temple, Five Rathas and the magnificent bas relief of Arjuna’s Penance. End the day with a leisurely walk along the beach.
Overnight in Mahabalipuram.
In the morning proceed by road to Pondicherry, a former French colony with a charming colonial atmosphere. After arrival visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram and take a walk through the tree-lined streets of the French Quarter, followed by a stroll along the seaside promenade.
Overnight in Pondicherry.
After breakfast depart for Tanjore. Upon arrival check in at the hotel and later visit the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage monument built by the Chola dynasty. After visiting the temple also explore the Tanjore Palace and its beautiful bronze gallery.
Overnight in Tanjore.
After breakfast drive to Madurai, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. On arrival check in at the hotel. In the late afternoon visit the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple and explore its richly decorated corridors. In the evening participate in the colourful evening aarti ceremony inside the temple complex.
Overnight in Madurai.
After breakfast drive through the scenic Western Ghats towards Periyar in Kerala. Arrive and check in at the hotel. In the afternoon visit a local spice plantation to learn about cardamom, pepper and other spices grown in the region. In the evening you may enjoy a Kathakali dance show or relax at the hotel.
Overnight in Periyar
In the morning you may take an optional boat ride on Periyar Lake to view wildlife in the reserve. Later drive to Cochin and upon arrival check into the hotel. In the evening explore the popular Marine Drive or the local markets of Cochin.
Overnight in Cochin.
After breakfast take a short sightseeing tour of Cochin including the Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, St Francis Church and the Chinese Fishing Nets. Later continue by road to Coimbatore. On arrival, check into your hotel.
Overnight in Coimbatore.