South Indian Highlights

South Indian Highlights

Day 1: MAMALLAPURAM

Arrive in Chennai where you are met and transferred to your hotel at Mamallapuram. Here stunning archaeological remains co-exist with a beautiful long white-sand beach. In the afternoon visit the shore temples. Stay at Hotel Sea Breeze.

Day 2: PONDICHERRY

The coastal road from Mamallapuram leads to the former French colony of Pondicherry, a small town of multi-coloured villas, quiet, tree shaded lanes and a long boulevard along the sea. Stay at Hotel de Lorient.

Day 3: TRANQUEBAR

Further south from Pondicherry is Tranquebar, once a fort established by the Danish for exports of spices, silks and other textiles. Rest of your day is at leisure to relax on the beach. Stay at the Bungalow on the Beach.

Day 4: THANJAVUR

From Tranquebar an inland road leads to Thanjavur, a city which boasts of almost a hundred temples including the monumental Brihadeshwara Temple, built entirely from granite. Stay at Ideal River View Resort for two nights.

Day 5: THANJAVUR

Visit the extraordinary 10th century Brihadeshwara Temple, now a World Heritage monument. In the afternoon you make an excursion to Trichy where you visit the Rock Fort and the superb Srirangam Temple complex, probably the largest in India.

Day 6: KARAIKUDI

Moving southwards from Thanjavur you reach Karaikudi, the bastion of Chettinads and home to some of the most exquisite heritage homes which provide genuine home-cooked Chettinad Food. Stay at The Bangala.

Day 7: MADURAI

From Karaikudi, Madurai is just a short drive. Here you find the magnificent Meenakshi Temple complex whose soaring temple towers are covered with stucco figures of deities, mythical animals and monsters, painted in vivid colours. Stay at Royal Court.

Day 8: THEKKADY

This morning drive to Thekkady. Enjoy the enchanting journey as the road winds through tranquil countryside, rich plantations and thick jungles. Stay at The Wildernest for two nights.

Day 9: PERIYAR NATIONAL PARK

The best way to explore Periyar is by an early morning boat trip, which allows visitors to watch animals drinking at the lakeside. Enjoy the aromas of exotic spices with a walk in a spice plantation.

Day 10: HOUSEBOAT

The greatest joy of travelling in Kerala is exploring the backwaters, a labyrinthine network of waterways which weave through villages set amidst lush vegetation. The most relaxing and romantic way of seeing the backwaters is by taking a cruise on a houseboat. There is a larger open sitting area where you can relax and watch the world go by, sipping from a tender coconut and enjoying the sheer peace of the surroundings.

Days 11-12: MARARI

Mararikulam is one of the picturesque fishing villages that dot the lovely coastline of Kerala. It offers one of the most fabulous stretches of soft sandy beach fringed with swaying palms. Marari is an excellent place to soak up the sun and enjoy the sea. Stay at A Beach Symphony for two nights.

Day 13: KOCHI

A short drive takes you to Kochi (Cochin). The rest of the day is at leisure to relax or explore Fort Cochin on your own. Walking around the city lanes is a great delight. Stay at The Old Courtyard for two nights.

Day 14: KOCHI

Enjoy a guided tour of Fort Cochin. This evening watch the enthralling classical dance-drama of Kerala, the Kathakali.

Day 15: KOCHI

Tour ends. Transfer to Kochi airport for your onward flight.

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