South India Tour
Chennai > Mahabalipuram > Pondicherry > Tanjore > Madurai > Alleppey > Cochin
South India is a land of incredible temples, each of which tells a unique story about its rich history and culture. From the intricately carved pillars to the towering gopurams, these temples are a testament to the region’s architectural and artistic achievements.
South India’s temples are not just a testament to the region’s art and architecture, but also offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the people who visit and worship there. The colors, sounds, and smells of these temples create an unforgettable sensory experience that should not be missed. So, come and immerse yourself in the spirituality and culture of South India’s magnificent temples.
As you land in Chennai, Vimla India Tours' representative will extend a warm welcome and escort you to your hotel. After checking in, take some time to relax and prepare for the upcoming adventure.
Start the day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, followed by a sightseeing tour of Chennai. Begin the tour with a visit to St. Mary's Church, which was built in 1678-80 and was the first English church in Chennai. Explore the Saint Thomas Cathedral, which was built in 1504 and is an ancient Shiva temple. The tour also includes a visit to the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Sri Parthasarathy Temple, National Art Gallery and Museum, as well as a drive past the High Court Building, Fort St. George, and famous film studios.
In the afternoon, drive from Chennai to Mahabalipuram, which takes approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel and spend the night there.
After a satisfying breakfast at the hotel, embark on an excursion to Kanchipuram, also known as the Golden City of a Thousand Temples and one of the seven sacred cities of India. The city is a haven for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers. Later, return to Mahabalipuram and visit the ancient coastal port, which is world-famous for its shore temple. The place was once the second capital and seaport of the Pallava Kings of Kanchipuram. Spend the night at the hotel and soak in the charm of this ancient city.
After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, embark on a journey to explore the vibrant city of Pondicherry. A unique blend of Indian and French cultures, Pondicherry is home to several landmarks, including the Auroville Ashram - a tribute to Sri Aurobindo, an entirely new concept in education and urban living. Visit the famous Aurobindo Ashram, founded by Sri Aurobindo in 1926, which is known worldwide as the "Centre of Integral Yoga." Soak in the serene atmosphere and marvel at the beautiful architecture of this spiritual abode.
After a scrumptious breakfast at your hotel, set out on a scenic drive to Tanjore, which is famous for its rich cultural heritage and exquisite temples. Enroute, visit the ancient town of Chidambaram, known for its stunning temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Continue your journey to Tanjore and upon arrival, check-in at your hotel. In the afternoon, proceed for a sightseeing tour of Tanjore, where you will visit the magnificent temples built during the 10th and 14th centuries. Admire the intricate architecture and learn about the rich history and culture of this temple town. Spend a comfortable overnight stay at your hotel.
After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a scenic drive from Tanjore to Madurai, with a visit to Trichy en route. Trichy, also known as Tiruchirapalli, is famous for its iconic "Rock Fort Temple." The Srirangam temple, covering an area of 156 acres, is a temple city with seven enclosures representing the seven chakras of spiritual energy centers in the human body. Afterward, continue your journey to Madurai and check in to your hotel on arrival.
After breakfast at the hotel, explore the best of Dravidian temple architecture with a visit to the Meenakshi Sundaraswarar Temple, located on the southern bank of the Vaigai River in Madurai. Dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi and her consort, Sundareswarar, the temple is a historic Hindu temple and a must-visit attraction in Madurai. Your tour also includes visits to Thirumalai Nayak Palace and Thiruparangundram temple. Spend your afternoon at leisure and in the evening, witness a temple ceremony at the Shree Meenakshi temple. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a morning drive from Madurai to Periyar. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel and enjoy an afternoon game viewing in the park. Cruise on the Periyar Lake to view the wildlife and stay overnight in the hotel.
After breakfast at the hotel, drive from Periyar to Alleppey boat jetty in the morning to board a houseboat for a backwater cruise and overnight stay. Cruise the backwaters on one of these beautifully crafted vessels with your attentive crew - a relaxing and romantic way to explore this remarkable area. Lunch and dinner will be served on board. Stay overnight on the houseboat.
Enjoy breakfast on board and arrive at Alleppey boat jetty in the morning. Then, drive to Cochin and check-in at the hotel upon arrival. In the evening, witness a Kathakali dance performance at a local theater, performed by various artists. Kathakali is a traditional dance form depicting Indian epics such as Ramayana and Mahabharata. The dancers are dressed in very colorful and elaborate costumes and their faces are painted to depict various characters of these epics. This dance has a lot of facial expressions and brisk yet articulate body movements. Stay overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast at the hotel, in the morning visit the Dutch Palace (closed on Fridays), adjacent to which is the Jewish Synagogue (closed on Fridays & Saturdays) built in 1568. Also visit the St. Francis Church (closed on Sundays), established by the Portuguese Franciscan friars in 1503. Vasco Da Gama was buried in the courtyard of this European church built in India. Other attractions include traditional fishing hamlets and the fisher folk in their colorful costumes.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to the airport for your onward flight. Goodbye!
