Southern Splendors: A Journey Through Tamil Nadu & Kerala

Welcome to Chennai! Known for its warm and friendly people, the city offers a perfect blend of tradition and modern charm without the usual hustle and bustle. In recent years, Chennai has blossomed into a cosmopolitan hub, featuring luxury hotels, trendy boutiques, cozy cafes, contemporary restaurants, and stylish bars and clubs.

A private car will be waiting to pick you up from Chennai airport and take you to your hotel for check-in. Spend your evening relaxing or exploring the city at your own pace.

Overnight stay will be at your hotel in Chennai.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and travel to Mahabalipuram. This charming town is famous not just for its stunning ancient architecture, but also for its tall casuarina trees, soft sandy beaches, and beautiful traditional handicrafts, all combining to create a truly magical atmosphere.

Arrive in Mahabalipuram by noon and check in to your hotel. After some rest, head out for an afternoon of sightseeing. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage monuments that make this town so special. Start with the iconic Shore Temple, a magnificent granite temple dating back to the 8th century CE. Then visit the Pancha Rathas, five unique monuments each named after the Pandavas from Indian epic mythology. Finally, explore the Cave Temples perched on a nearby hill, decorated with intricate panels from the Pallava period of the 7th century.

Enjoy dinner and relax with an overnight stay at your hotel in Mahabalipuram.

After breakfast, embark on a day trip to Kanchipuram, a city known as a sacred center for advanced learning in Jainism and Buddhism between the 1st and 5th centuries. It’s also famous for its exquisite hand-woven silk sarees and is home to 14 of the 108 holy temples dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu.

Begin your visit at the Kailasanathar Temple, the oldest structure in town dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built between 685 and 705 CE, this stunning Dravidian-style temple is crafted from sandstone and decorated with intricate carvings, including many half-animal deities popular during that era.

Next, explore the sprawling Varadharaja Perumal Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This vast temple complex covers 23 acres and features multiple temples, pillared halls, pavilions, and sacred tanks.

Then, visit the magnificent Ekambareswarar Temple, devoted to Lord Shiva. Covering 25 acres, it is one of India’s largest temple complexes, famous for its four towering gateway towers called gopurams. The tallest of these rises 11 stories high, measuring an impressive 58.5 meters (192 feet).

Return to Mahabalipuram by evening and enjoy a relaxing evening at your leisure.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and travel to Pondicherry, a charming union territory once ruled by the French until 1954. Even today, you’ll find traces of French culture here, some locals still speak French, and English is often spoken with a French accent.

Arrive in Pondicherry by afternoon, check in to your hotel, and take some time to relax. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Your private car will be available for you, so feel free to explore the local markets or simply soak in the unique blend of French and Indian cultures.

Overnight stay will be at your hotel in Pondicherry.

After breakfast, set out for a day of sightseeing in Pondicherry. Begin with a visit to the Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Inside, you’ll find beautifully carved stone walls featuring forty different forms and incarnations of the beloved elephant-headed deity.

Next, take a heritage walk through the charming French Quarter. Stroll along the historic lanes of French Town, where colonial-era buildings stand as elegant reminders of Pondicherry’s French past. Many of these stunning structures in White Town are protected heritage sites, showcasing exquisite architecture and timeless beauty.

In the evening, unwind at Promenade Beach. Here, the peaceful ambiance along the shore offers a perfect contrast to the powerful waves of the sea, creating a uniquely calming experience.

Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Pondicherry.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and travel to Thanjavur. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to relax.

In the late afternoon, visit the Royal Palace Museum, one of the oldest museums in the town. It houses ancient artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and detailed exhibits that bring the rich history of the region to life.

Enjoy dinner at your hotel. Later, at around 8:30 pm, experience the enchanting pooja ceremony at the Brihadeeshwara Temple. This magnificent temple is one of the largest in South India and a stunning example of Dravidian architecture. Built by the Chola rulers, it stands as a testament to their architectural brilliance.

Return to your hotel late in the evening for an overnight stay in Thanjavur.

After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, set out for a day trip to Kumbakonam. Visit the magnificent Airavatesvara Temple, built by Rajaraja II in the 12th century CE. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a stunning Lord Shiva temple located in Darasuram, near Kumbakonam. Designed in the shape of a stone chariot, the temple features smaller shrines dedicated to various Vedic and Puranic deities, showcasing the architectural genius of the Chola dynasty.

Return to Thanjavur by noon. In the late afternoon, explore the famous Thanjavur brass workshops. Here, you can admire exquisite Thanjavur-style paintings and intricate brass work, a true reflection of the region’s rich artistic heritage.

Spend your evening at leisure. Dinner and overnight stay will be at the hotel in Thanjavur.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and travel to Madurai, the cultural heart of Tamil Nadu and one of India’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Known as the ‘Lotus City’ for its unique lotus-shaped city plan, Madurai has a rich history shaped by the long rule of the Pandya kings and ancient trade links with Rome.

On the way, stop for a visit to Tiruchirapalli’s magnificent Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This sprawling temple complex covers 155 acres and includes 81 shrines, 21 towers, and 39 pavilions. It is the largest temple compound in India and one of the largest religious sites in the world, with roots dating back to the Sangam Era (1st to 4th century AD).

Continue your journey to Madurai and arrive by evening. Check in to your hotel and relax.
Dinner and overnight stay will be at the hotel in Madurai.

After breakfast, begin your day exploring the vibrant city of Madurai. Start with a visit to the bustling Madurai Flower Market, one of the largest in Tamil Nadu, where up to 10 tons of fresh flowers are sold daily, an incredible feast for the senses.

Next, visit the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, the heart of Madurai for over 2,500 years. This ancient temple is not only a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture but also a place rich in mythology and history. Though it narrowly missed being named one of the Seven Wonders of the World, it remains one of India’s true architectural marvels.

In the late afternoon, embark on a delicious food tour that will take you through Madurai’s lively street food scene. Sample a variety of mouthwatering South Indian dishes from popular local stalls, an absolute treat for any food lover.

As evening falls, attend the colorful Pooja ceremony at Meenakshi Temple, a spiritual experience filled with vibrant rituals and devotional chants.

Return to your hotel for dinner and a restful overnight stay in Madurai.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and set off for Munnar, one of South India’s most stunning hill stations. Known for its vast tea plantations, rolling green hills, and cool, refreshing climate, Munnar is nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala and is a paradise for nature lovers. This charming town is also home to rare and endangered species like the Nilgiri Thar and the beautiful Neelakurinji flower, which blooms only once every 12 years.

After a scenic 4 to 5-hour drive, arrive in Munnar by late afternoon and check into your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a fascinating performance of Kalaripayattu, an ancient martial art that originated here in Kerala and is believed to be one of the oldest martial arts in the world, dating back to the 3rd century BCE.

Relax with dinner and spend a peaceful overnight stay at your hotel in Munnar.

Start your day with a guided soft trek through Munnar’s breathtaking landscape. Over approximately 3 hours, you’ll cover around 9 kilometers, strolling through lush tea plantations, open grasslands, and rocky paths. It’s a gentle trek, perfect for soaking in nature’s beauty. Be sure to carry a small backpack with sun cream and a hat to keep comfortable. Along the way, enjoy a delicious homemade breakfast amidst the serene surroundings.

Next, visit the Munnar Tea Museum, where you’ll discover the fascinating history and development of tea plantations in Kerala’s Western Ghats. Learn how this region became one of the world’s premier tea producers.

Then, head to the Pothamedu Viewpoint, a spectacular spot that offers sweeping panoramic views of the valley below. On a clear day, you can even spot the winding Muthirapuzha River and the impressive Idukki Dam from high above. The hills here are blanketed in emerald green, thanks to tea, coffee, cardamom, and pepper plantations stretching as far as the eye can see.

Return to your hotel in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of your evening at leisure.

Dinner and overnight stay will be at your hotel in Munnar.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and embark on a scenic drive to Periyar, also known as Thekkady. Just hearing the name conjures up images of gentle elephants, rolling hills, and fragrant spice plantations. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of India’s finest forest reserves, home to diverse wildlife and lush greenery. The surrounding district is dotted with charming plantations and hill towns, perfect for those who enjoy trekking and nature walks.

Arrive in Periyar by afternoon and check in to your hotel. Spend the evening relaxing and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

Dinner and overnight stay will be at your hotel in Periyar (Thekkady).

Start your day early with an exciting half-day guided jungle trek and bamboo rafting at Periyar National Park. This immersive experience lasts about 6 hours and offers a wonderful chance to reconnect with nature, breathe in the fresh forest air, and unwind from the hustle of everyday life. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled, you might spot a herd of elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat.

After about two and a half hours of trekking through dense forests, you’ll arrive at the serene Periyar Lake. Here, enjoy a unique bamboo rafting ride, drifting peacefully across the water while surrounded by lush greenery. Once the rafting is done, you’ll retrace your steps back to the park entrance and return to your hotel by afternoon. (Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes and long pants to make your trek more enjoyable.)

In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Kerala with a traditional Kathakali dance performance, a spectacular Indian classical dance form known for its colorful costumes and dramatic storytelling.

Dinner and overnight stay will be at your hotel in Periyar (Thekkady).

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and journey to Kumarakom, a peaceful village nestled on the tranquil shores of Vembanad Lake in Kerala, just 14 km from Kottayam. This charming destination is a haven for nature lovers, offering a rich variety of flora, stunning sights, and delightful experiences like boating and fishing. Kumarakom is truly a paradise on earth, a jewel in Kerala’s tourism crown that will captivate your senses and soothe your soul.

Arrive in Kumarakom by late afternoon and check in to your hotel. Spend the evening at your own pace, soaking in the calm and beauty of this idyllic retreat.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel in Kumarakom.

After an early breakfast, set out for an immersive village tour that offers a unique glimpse into the everyday life of Kerala’s locals. Experience fascinating traditional activities like coconut tree climbing, screw pine weaving, net fishing, toddy tapping, and other hands-on farm practices. This is a rare opportunity to witness the vibrant culture and time-honored skills that define rural Kerala.

Later, unwind with a serene Shikara boat ride. Smaller and more intimate than the famous houseboats, these beautifully crafted wooden boats glide gracefully over the backwaters, offering an elegant and authentic Kerala experience.

Return to your hotel before noon, where the rest of the day is yours to relax and enjoy at your own pace.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel in Kumarakom.

 After breakfast, check out from your hotel and travel to Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, famously called the “Venice of the East.” This charming city in Kerala is renowned worldwide for its vast, enchanting backwaters. Alleppey’s intricate network of palm-lined canals, serene lakes, and lush green paddy fields creates a captivating landscape, perfect for relaxation and exploration. It’s also known for rejuvenating Ayurvedic retreats that add to its peaceful vibe.

Arrive in Alleppey by noon and board your private houseboat. Settle in and enjoy a delicious lunch on board as you begin your leisurely cruise through the stunning Vembanad Lake. Drift along tranquil waters, soak in the breathtaking views, spot vibrant birdlife, and witness the timeless rhythm of local village life along the banks.

Spend the night on the houseboat, surrounded by the gentle sounds of the backwaters and a sky full of stars.

After breakfast, check out from the houseboat and transfer to Kochi, also known as Cochin. This serene coastal city has welcomed traders, explorers, and settlers for over 600 years, resulting in a fascinating mosaic of cultures and history. Here, you’ll find ancient Chinese fishing nets silhouetted against the sky, a 400-year-old synagogue, historic mosques, Portuguese colonial houses, and the weathered remnants of the British Raj, all woven into the tropical charm of the Malabar Coast.

Arrive in Kochi by noon and check in at your hotel. In the afternoon, step out to explore the city’s rich heritage. Visit the Old Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth, built in 1567 CE. This historic site reflects the long-standing presence of the Cochin Jewish community. Next, explore Mattancherry Palace, often called the Dutch Palace  renowned for its beautiful Kerala murals portraying the Rajas of Kochi. Finally, wander through the vibrant Cochin Spice Market and see the iconic Chinese fishing nets gracefully dipping into the waters.

Spend a relaxing overnight stay at your hotel in Kochi.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Kochi Airport. Your private car will ensure a smooth ride as you prepare to board your return flight.

All great journeys must come to an end. Take with you the unforgettable memories of 18 incredible days exploring the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and timeless heritage of Southern India — a trip you’ll cherish for a lifetime!