South Indian Treats – Explore Temples, Beaches & Heritage

Welcome to Chennai! Upon arrival at Chennai International Airport, our representative will greet you and assist with a comfortable transfer to your hotel. Experience a warm welcome reception and settle in for a relaxing overnight stay in Chennai, a vibrant city known for its rich heritage, bustling beaches, and cultural landmarks.

After breakfast, embark on a guided half-day city tour of Chennai, a city rich in history and cultural heritage. Begin at Fort St. George, a historic British-era fortress, where you’ll explore its fascinating museum showcasing colonial artifacts. Next, delve into the heritage of Mylapore, one of Chennai’s oldest neighborhoods, inhabited since the 16th century. Visit the Basilica of St. Thomas, built in honor of the apostle who preached in India during the 1st century.

Continue to the stunning Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Chennai’s largest and most iconic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, dating back to the 13th century. Experience the serene beauty of Marina Beach, the world’s second-longest urban beach, stretching over 12 km along the Bay of Bengal.

After lunch, drive to the charming coastal town of Mahabalipuram, renowned for its UNESCO-listed rock-cut temples and sculptures. Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.

Start your day exploring the breathtaking temples and intricate carvings of Mahabalipuram, a serene coastal town that was once a thriving seaport of the ancient Pallava dynasty. Known for its UNESCO-listed monuments, this town showcases some of the finest examples of Dravidian architecture.

Enjoy a half-day guided tour, visiting the iconic Five Rathas Temple, an extraordinary rock-cut structure representing different architectural styles, and the Shore Temple, a stunning 8th-century masterpiece overlooking the Bay of Bengal. The afternoon is yours to stroll through the charming town, soak in the peaceful atmosphere, or relax by the pristine beach.

Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Pondicherry, a charming town where French colonial heritage meets vibrant Indian traditions. Known for its serene ambiance, tree-lined streets, and colonial architecture, Pondicherry offers a unique cultural experience.

Enjoy a guided city tour, exploring the French Quarter, with its colorful colonial buildings and chic cafés. Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, founded in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, a spiritual haven attracting seekers from around the world. Next, explore Auroville, an experimental township dedicated to peace, unity, and sustainable living, where people from diverse backgrounds work together towards a progressive and conscious lifestyle.

Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

After breakfast, we will embark on a drive to Tanjore, a city of immense historical significance in Dravidian culture. Our first stop will be the magnificent Brihadishwara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning Chola architecture. Built in the 11th century by Rajaraja I, this temple showcases intricate carvings and towering structures that are a testament to the grandeur of the Chola dynasty.

Next, we will visit the Royal Palace of Tanjore, an architectural masterpiece blending the styles of the Nayaks and Marathas. With its fine masonry and fascinating history, the palace offers a glimpse into the region’s royal past.

Overnight stay in Tanjore.

After breakfast, we will drive towards Madurai, making a stop in Trichy for an insightful city tour. Our first visit will be the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest and most revered temples in India, with 49 shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Next, we will explore the Rock Fort Temple, where you can climb 400 stone-cut steps to reach the top, offering panoramic views of the city.

After lunch, we will continue our journey to Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India. Upon arrival, we will visit the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, a true architectural marvel with intricate carvings and a rich spiritual history. You will have the opportunity to witness the evening ceremonies held inside the temple, a captivating ritual that draws thousands of pilgrims every day.

Overnight stay in Madurai.

After breakfast, we will embark on a city tour of Madurai, starting with a visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple. This ancient temple is a true masterpiece of architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and rich history. Next, we will head to the Tirumalai Nayak Palace, a stunning blend of Dravidian and Islamic styles, showcasing the grandeur of the Nayak dynasty.

Our tour continues with a visit to the Gandhi Memorial Museum, where you can learn about India's struggle for independence. The museum displays poignant artifacts, including the blood-stained dhoti worn by Mahatma Gandhi when he was assassinated.

In the evening, you’ll have free time to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Madurai, or return to the Meenakshi Temple to witness the traditional pooja (offering) ceremony after sunset.

Overnight stay in Madurai.

After breakfast, we will bid farewell to Tamil Nadu and head towards Kerala, specifically Thekkady, a key destination near the Periyar National Park and renowned for its spice plantations. As we drive through Kerala’s lush green mountains and breathtaking landscapes, you’ll experience why this state is famously known as "God's Own Country."

In the evening, enjoy a captivating performance of Kalaripayattu, an ancient martial art form that originated in Kerala around the 12th century AD.

Overnight stay in Thekkady.

After breakfast, get ready for an exciting day exploring Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of South India’s most renowned wildlife destinations. Home to elephants, tigers, sambars, wild boars, and bisons, this sanctuary offers a unique wildlife experience.

Enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake, an artificial lake created in the 19th century by the British, where you can spot various animals and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Next, we’ll take a walk through the spice plantations, where you’ll learn about the cultivation and processing of coffee, tea, cardamom, and other spices that make this region famous.

Overnight stay in Thekkady.

After breakfast, we’ll drive to Kumarakom, a serene village located on the shores of Vembanad Lake, Kerala’s largest lake. Known for its peaceful backwaters, Kumarakom offers a perfect retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Enjoy an unforgettable stay on a houseboat, cruising through the picturesque backwaters, surrounded by lush rice paddy fields and tranquil water canals. Experience the beauty of Kerala’s natural landscape while you unwind.

Visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, home to a variety of migratory and domestic birds, offering a delightful experience for nature lovers. For adventure enthusiasts, there are opportunities to engage in water sports like wind sailing or water skiing during your free time.

Overnight stay in Kumarakom on a houseboat, enjoying the serenity of this idyllic destination.

Start your day with a delicious traditional Kerala breakfast on the houseboat while enjoying the serene backwater views. As we cruise through the picturesque canals, witness the beauty of lush greenery, swaying coconut palms, and charming village life along the shores.

Arriving in Alleppey (Alappuzha), known as the "Venice of the East," you’ll have the evening free to explore this stunning backwater town at your own pace. Stroll through its vibrant markets, visit scenic beaches, or simply unwind by the tranquil waters.

Overnight stay in Alleppey on a houseboat.

After breakfast, embark on a unique adventure to explore the villages around Alleppey. Cruise through the exotic canals on a traditional rice boat and immerse yourself in local life. Witness the age-old practices of coir-making, toddy tapping (palm beer), and boat building.

You will also have the opportunity to enjoy a traditional meal with a local family, gaining insight into the lifestyle of the fishermen and farmers who call the backwaters home.

After this authentic experience, we will drive to Marari, just 14 km from Alleppey, where you can unwind and relax on the serene beach.

Overnight stay in Marari, soaking in the tranquility of the coastal beauty.

Enjoy a leisure day at the serene Marari Beach, one of Kerala’s most peaceful and picturesque coastal retreats. Take in the golden sands, sway with the palm trees, and soak up the tranquil ambiance.

Unwind with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage, a signature wellness experience in Kerala, or simply relax by the beach.

Overnight stay in Marari, embracing the slow and soothing rhythm of coastal life.

After a relaxing morning by the beach, we will drive to Cochin (Kochi), the cultural capital of Kerala. A true melting pot of cultures, this historic port city showcases an intriguing blend of Portuguese, Dutch, British, Jewish, and Indian influences.

On a half-day guided tour, we will explore Fort Cochin, starting with the Dutch (Mattancherry) Palace, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Next, we’ll walk through the Jewish Quarter and visit the Paradesi Synagogue, famous for its exquisite hand-painted Chinese tiles.

We’ll also visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European-built church in India, where Vasco da Gama’s tomb still remains. A highlight of the day will be witnessing the iconic Chinese fishing nets, an ancient technique still used by local fishermen.

To end the day on a cultural note, enjoy a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, a traditional Keralan art form known for its dramatic expressions and elaborate costumes.

Overnight stay in Cochin.

Spend your final day in Cochin at your leisure, exploring its charming streets, shopping for souvenirs, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city.

As a token of appreciation, Dhyanam India Tours will present you with a special farewell gift, marking the end of your unforgettable South Indian journey.

Tour Ends – Safe Travels!