10 Days South India Splendors Tour

kapaleeswarar temple chennai

Tour Overview

Explore the vibrant tapestry of South India on this captivating 10-day journey. Embark from Chennai, a city steeped in history, and embark on a full-day exploration, delving into the city’s treasures like the Museum and Art Gallery, the impressive Fort St. George, and the resplendent Marina Beach. Venture forth to Madurai, a city of devotion and architectural splendor, where you’ll witness the awe-inspiring Meenakshi Temple and partake in an enchanting aarti ceremony.

Traverse to Periyar, where the lush landscapes house thrilling encounters with elephants and the wilderness during a boat ride. Engage in a jeep safari through the charming hills, immersed in the aroma of spices, and connect with local tribes. Continue your journey to the serene backwaters of Kumarakom, where you’ll embark on a rejuvenating houseboat voyage.

Wind through Alleppey to the captivating Cochin, where the echoes of colonial history blend seamlessly with traditional Indian culture. Marvel at Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets. Immerse yourself in the ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu, and savor the rich legacy of Kerala before departing from Cochin.

Duration:  10 Days / 9 Night

Places:  Chennai > Madurai > Periyar > Kumarakom > Alleppey > Cochin

10 Days South India Splendors Tour from Chennai

Destinations Covered

Chennai: Begin your journey in the bustling metropolis of Chennai, a city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modernity. Explore its colonial past through the monumental Fort St. George and the ancient St. Mary’s Church within the fort complex. Stroll along the Marina Beach, one of the world’s longest urban beaches, and witness the grandeur of Kapaleeswarar Temple and San Thome Cathedral. Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture at the Flower & Fruit Market and the bustling streets.

Madurai: Step into the heart of Tamil culture in Madurai, a city famous for its majestic Meenakshi Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture adorned with intricate carvings. Visit the Thirumalai Nayak Palace, a testimony to regal splendor, and experience the spirituality of the city through the divine rituals at Meenakshi Temple.

Periyar: Immerse yourself in the wilderness of Periyar National Park, where the serene Periyar Lake offers the opportunity to spot wildlife during a tranquil boat ride. Engage with elephants at an Elephant Camp, and venture on a jeep safari through spice plantations, cascading hills, and tribal villages. Feel the harmony of nature as you explore this lush paradise.

Kumarakom: Journey to the enchanting backwaters of Kumarakom, a serene paradise renowned for its natural beauty and tranquil surroundings. Let the soothing backwaters, swaying palms, and picturesque landscapes wash away your worries. This is your time to relax, rejuvenate, and savor the serene ambiance.

Alleppey: Embark on a unique experience as you cruise the mesmerizing backwaters of Alleppey on a traditional houseboat. Drift through the narrow canals, catch glimpses of local life, and savor delicious cuisine onboard. Witness the magical allure of Kerala’s backwaters as you spend a day immersed in its beauty.

Cochin: Immerse yourself in Cochin’s rich heritage, where colonial influences meet local traditions. Wander through the atmospheric lanes, admire the intricate architecture of the Dutch Palace, and explore the vibrant Jewish Synagogue. Gaze upon the iconic Chinese fishing nets, take in the rhythms of Kathakali dance, and witness the ancient martial art form of Kalaripayattu.

This captivating journey through South India takes you on a diverse exploration of culture, history, spirituality, and natural beauty, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that will stay with you long after the tour concludes.

Detailed Tour Plan

Day 01: Arrive Chennai 

Chennai International Airport

You will arrive at Chennai Airport. Following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection, our representative will meet you as you exit the arrival terminal after which you would be transferred to your hotel. Check in to your hotel. Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 02: Chennai

Full day sightseeing tour of Chennai. Founded in 1639, Chennai was the site of the first settlement of the East India Company. Sightseeing tour of the city visiting the Museum and Art Gallery ( closed on Friday).

Flower & Fruit Market Chennai

Drive through the Flower & Fruit Market; visit the Fort St. George (closed on Friday), which once served as the very first bastion of the East India Company. Within the Fort complex, is also the oldest Anglican Church in India, St Mary’s Church, built in 1678-1680.

fort st. george chennai

Drive along the Marina Beach, one of the longest beaches in the world.

kapaleeswarar temple chennaiAlso visit Kapaleeswarar Temple   (temple remain closed from 1230 -1600 hours) & San Thome Cathedral, which is said to contain the remains of St. Thomas the Apostle (Doubting Thomas) and drive past the Marina Beach.

marina beach chennai

Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 03: Chennai – Madurai (Flight) 

Breakfast at hotel. In -time transfer to airport to connect  flight to Madurai.

Arrive Madurai – Meeting and assistance on arrival at airport and transfer to hotel.

Thirumalai-Nayaka-PalaceAfternoon city tour visit the Thirumalai Nayak Palace and magnificent Shree Meenakshi temple – an excellent example of Dravidian architecture.

meenakshi temple madurai

Evening witness aarti ceremony at Meenakshi Temple. Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 04: Madurai – Periyar (Surface Drive) 

Drive to Thekkady. Arrive Periyar and check-in at hotel.

Elephant Camp periyar

Afternoon proceed for Elephant Camp – Elephant ride, bathing, washing, feeding, commanding and timber dragging.

Day 05: Periyar 

Early morning proceed for the boat ride in the Park for wildlife viewing.

wildlife-sanctuary-of-Periyar

Return for the breakfast at hotel. In the afternoon enjoy jeep safari to Ottakathalemedu Cross hills (approx 1500 meters above sea level).

Spice Plantation PeriyarDrive through cardamom coffee, pepper plantation to chellarcovil mettu  (1200 meters high from sea level). A small walk though the area (Black Tea/ cardamom tea & local snack served on the hill). En-route visiting the spice plantations cardamom, pepper, coffee, cinnamon, vanilla  and different spices.

tribal village periyarVisit Tribal village during the Jeep Safari.  Stay overnight at hotel/ resort.

Day 06: Periyar – Kumarakom (Surface Drive)

After breakfast, proceed to Kumarakom – the spectacular and inviting backwater destination. Arrive at Kumarakom by noon. Check-in to your hotel.

KumarakomThe rest of the day is at leisure to explore the beauty of the natural surrounding and serenity of the beaches. Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 07: Kumarakom – Alleppey (HouseBoat)

Breakfast at Hotel. By noon board Houseboat from resort jetty.

houseboat-from-Kumarakom-to-Alleppey

Lunch on board, cruise through the canals, witness the  serenity of the surroundings and the local lifestyle. Dinner on board.

Day 08: Alleppey – Cochin (Surface Drive) 

Awake early to experience a magical backwater morning. Breakfast on board Houseboat.

Disembark Houseboat (around 0930 hours) at Alleppey, where you will be met and transferred to Cochin, a short drive away. Upon arrival check in at the hotel. Afternoon is free for individual activities.

Kochi chinese fishnets

Cochin is a fascinating blend of medieval Portugal, Holland, an English country village and the local tropical Malabar culture. Here you see the India’s oldest church, old fashioned Chinese fishing nets, a classical Indian dance performance and five hundred year old Portuguese houses as you tour Cochin, a quiet seaside city in Kerala found here. Kathakali-dance

Evening witness Kathakali Dance performance in regular theater. Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 09: Cochin 

Mattancherry Dutch PalacePost breakfast proceed for a sightseeing tour of Cochin visiting the Dutch Palace (closed on Fridays), Jewish Synagogue (closed on Fridays and Saturdays).

Jewish-Synagogue-Cochin

Also visit the cantilevered Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church where Vasco da Gama was originally buried, and the Santa Cruz Church with its pastel colored interior and carved wooden panels.

St. Francis Church

Also witness the traditional martial of South India – Kalaripayattu.  Kalaripayattu is the oldest martial art form of Kerala in South India, is formed by the combination of two words Kalari means school, gymnasium and Payattu means to fight or exercise. This unique martial art form is said to be more than 2000 years old.

kalaripayattu danceStay overnight at hotel.

Day 10: Cochin 

In-time transfer from hotel to airport to board onward flight.

End of Tour

FAQs about the Tour

Q1: What are the main destinations covered in this tour?
A1: This tour covers Chennai, Madurai, Periyar, Kumarakom, Alleppey, and Cochin in South India.

Q2: What attractions can I expect to see in Chennai?
A2: In Chennai, you can explore attractions like the Fort St. George, St. Mary’s Church, Marina Beach, Kapaleeswarar Temple, and San Thome Cathedral.

Q3: What is the highlight of Madurai?
A3: The highlight of Madurai is the magnificent Meenakshi Temple, an excellent example of Dravidian architecture, and the Thirumalai Nayak Palace.

Q4: What experiences can I enjoy in Periyar?
A4: In Periyar, you can engage with elephants at an Elephant Camp, go on a boat ride on Periyar Lake for wildlife viewing, and take a jeep safari through spice plantations and tribal villages.

Q5: What is special about Kumarakom?
A5: Kumarakom is known for its enchanting backwaters, serene surroundings, and picturesque landscapes, providing a perfect setting for relaxation.

Q6: How can I experience the backwaters of Alleppey?
A6: You can experience the backwaters of Alleppey by boarding a traditional houseboat, where you’ll cruise through narrow canals, witness local life, and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

Q7: What attractions await in Cochin?
A7: Cochin offers attractions like the Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, and the chance to witness Kathakali dance and Kalaripayattu martial art.

Q8: How do I explore these destinations?
A8: You’ll explore these destinations through guided tours, sightseeing, boat rides, safaris, and immersive cultural experiences.

Q9: What are the key activities in this tour?
A9: Key activities include visiting temples, experiencing backwaters on a houseboat, wildlife viewing, exploring historic sites, and witnessing traditional performances.

Q10: How does the tour end?
A10: The tour concludes in Cochin, where you can enjoy a final sightseeing tour before departing for your onward journey.

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