Best of South India

In the morning, enjoy breakfast before embarking on a comprehensive tour of Chennai. Discover the city’s historical significance as the economic and political hub for the East India Company from the 17th century. Visit the emblematic Fort St. George, St Mary’s Church, and delve into the cultural heart of Mylapore, exploring the Kapleeswarar Temple and vibrant local markets. Our exploration extends to the esteemed Government Museum and Art Gallery, noting its closure on Fridays and public holidays. Later, we journey to Mamallapuram, checking into our hotel for a peaceful overnight stay.

In the morning, journey to Kanchipuram, a city celebrated as one of Hinduism’s seven sacred cities, with a heritage dating back to the 7th century Chola dynasty. Of the original 1000 temples, approximately 70 remain, including the magnificent Kailasanatha Temple. Experience the local culture with a visit to silk-weaving villages. In the afternoon, return to Mamallapuram to explore the ancient rock-hewn monuments of the 7th century, including the UNESCO-listed Shore Temple and the grand bas-relief depicting the descent of the Ganges, culminating with a visit to the Five Rathas. Conclude the day with an overnight stay at the hotel.

In the morning, depart for Puducherry, a city where French colonial influence permeates through its architecture and lifestyle. En route, visit Auroville and the Matrimandir for a guided tour, and explore the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. In the afternoon, pass by Raj Nivas, visit the Romain Rolland Library, the Puducherry Museum, and a local paper factory. Experience the charm of old Puducherry’s French Quarter with a leisurely walk. The day ends with an overnight stay at the hotel.

Today, after breakfast, embark on a journey to Thanjavur. En route stop to visit Gangaikondacholapuram and Darasuram Temples. 

Gangaikonda Cholapuram is a testament to early 11th-century architectural brilliance, commissioned by Rajendra Chola, heir to Rajaraja Chola. This temple celebrates the king’s martial victories, notably his expedition that brought Ganges water back in a golden pot, inspiring the name “Gangaikondan” or ‘he who brought the Ganges’. It symbolizes not just the king’s achievements but also the extraordinary craftsmanship of its creators. The site, with its remarkable design and historical significance, stands as a tribute to the prowess and artistic vision of the Chola dynasty, captivating visitors with its enduring legacy and intricate artistry.

Next we visit the Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram, a masterpiece of 12th-century Chola architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to the zenith of Chola artistic and engineering prowess. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple, built by King Rajaraja Chola II, features intricate stonework depicting music, dance, and mythology, offering insights into the Chola dynasty’s cultural life. Its detailed carvings, compact yet lavishly ornamented vimana, and the legendary stone chariot, make it a must-visit for anyone.

Continue drive to Thanjavur, check-in to the hotel upon arrival for an overnight stay.

Enjoy a morning excursion to Trichy, a historical city on the Cauvery River’s banks. Begin at Amma Mandapam, where locals perform rituals to honor loved ones. Next, visit Srirangam, a revered Vishnu temple on a lush island, known for its architectural splendor and spiritual significance. Later visit Rock Fort, an ancient geological marvel offering panoramic views and ancient temples dedicated to Lord Ganapathi and Lord Shiva, accessible via a series of steps adorned with shrines. 

Return to Thanjavur for an afternoon tour, including the UNESCO-listed Brihadeshwara Temple and the Raja Museum. The day concludes with an overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast, drive to Madurai, with a stop at Chettinad to admire its grand mansions. Enjoy lunch served on a banana leaf at a popular local restaurant. Upon arrival in Madurai, check into your hotel. After an early dinner, visit the Meenakshi Temple for the evening prayer ceremony.

The evening ceremony at the Meenakshi Temple starts with priests carrying Lord Sundareswarar’s image to Goddess Meenakshi’s shrine, amidst temple music, bell ringing, hymn chanting, and incense. This procession, witnessing the symbolic union of the deities, attracts devotees in droves, offering flowers and lighting lamps in a devout atmosphere. This event offers a unique insight into Tamil Nadu’s enduring Hindu traditions and cultural heritage.

Later return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Following breakfast, you have time at leisure till the afternoon. 

After lunch, we leave for the visit of Tirumala Nayak Palace, an exquisite example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, renowned for its intricate stucco work. Later, we visit a Weavers Village, tracing back 800 years to when Saurashtra artisans settled here, enriching the locale with their resist dyeing and weaving techniques. Despite modern challenges, these artisans persist in their traditional crafts, including batik and sungdi, ensuring the legacy of their forebears continues in the villages around Madurai. 

Overnight stay is at the hotel.

The morning brings a scenic drive towards Periyar, ascending into the Western Ghats to reach this erstwhile hill station. Upon arrival and hotel check-in, the afternoon is reserved for a boat ride on Periyar Lake, offering a serene perspective of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. While sightings of wildlife are a cherished rarity, the tranquil waters provide a chance to observe elephants, wild boar, and sambar deer along the shores. An overnight stay at the hotel wraps up the day.

Post-breakfast, our journey leads us to Alleppey, where we board a houseboat for an immersive backwater cruise. This voyage unveils the serene village life of Alleppey, from women gathering mussels to the intricate process of coir production from coconut husk. Amidst this tranquility, meals are freshly prepared and served on board, ensuring a memorable overnight stay on the waters.

Disembarking from the houseboat, we proceed to Kochi. The afternoon is leisurely, setting the stage for an evening immersed in the cultural spectacle of Kathakali dance, showcasing stories from the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata. The elaborate preparation of the dancers, coupled with the vibrant performance, promises an unforgettable experience. The day concludes with an overnight hotel stay.

The day begins leisurely post-breakfast. The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Kochi’s rich history, from the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, to the Mattancherry Palace renowned for its murals. The journey continues to the Jewish Synagogue and the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, culminating in a walk through the preserved sections of Fort Kochi.

The evening features a dinner hosted by Nimmy Paul in her traditional home, offering an intimate glimpse into Kerala’s Syrian Christian cuisine, guided by her vast culinary expertise. An overnight stay in Kochi caps off the day.

After breakfast, the journey concludes with a transfer to the Kochi airport, carrying forward memories and experiences of India’s unparalleled cultural heritage, as you board your flight home.