Tranquil
South India
We begin with Tamil Nadu and it’s culture, rush of a metro, beauty of beaches and temples as we slowly moves to the edge of India and visit last road where water activities are hidden, southernmost tip and take you back in backwater through lovely forest and tradition of Kerala. This trip will make you wanting for more.
Chennai – Mahablipuram – Pondicherry – Trichy – Thanjavur – Madurai – Rameshwaram – Kanyakumari – Kollam – Thekkady – Mararikulam – Cochin
- Best time to visit October to April
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With India Wanders
Day 1 : Arrive in Chennai
Get a warm welcome at Chennai airport. Being the capital of Tamil Nadu, Chennai flaunts it’s modernization along with connection to it’s heritage and amazing food options. Relax rest of the day
Day 2 : From Chennai to Mahabalipuram (60 Kms – 1.5 Hrs. approx.)
Today you will embark on a sightseeing tour of Chennai. Be ready to start your trip by visiting Fort St. George, which is the first English fortress of India. After exploring this historical beauty, you will visit the Kapaleeshwar Temple, where you will experience a mix of history, architectural styles, and spirituality. Later, you will explore the Vivekananda House, which has become a cultural hub. After sightseeing, we will proceed towards Mahabalipuram. Dates back to the seventh century and is famous for its many temples and beautiful beaches.
Day 3 : Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram Sightseeing
Start your road journey for Kanchipuram. The capital of the Chola dynasty during the 2nd century. Some of the places worth-visiting here are Kamakshi Amman temple, Ekambareswarar temple etc. Do not forget to visit the silk weavers here who have been residing in the city from past four centuries. Later on, proceed to Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram, the ancient port of the Pallava rulers. They constructed a number of architectural gems during their reign. Enjoy a visit to one of such attraction-Krishna Mandapam, dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is the largest cave-cut Hindu temple in the world. Later on, head to the 8th century Shore temple, a fine specimen of Dravidian style of architecture. Lastly, you visit Panch Rathas or the Five Chariots, also known as Paandava Rathas. It is a collection of five monolithic temples wherein each has a different architecture.
Day 4 : Drive to Pondicherry (100 Kms – 2.5 Hrs. approx.)
Today transfer to Pondicherry. The attractions that you visit today include the Basilica of Sacred Heart Church- a wonderful piece of Gothic style of architecture, and the Rai Niwas- the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor of Pondicherry. The last visit of the day is to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram- founded in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo. This Ashram is a kind of spiritual community, which is visited by a huge number of followers and devotees all year round.
Day 5 : At leisure in Pondicherry
Today is at leisure. You can indulge in activities of your interest or can explore the place on your own, savor local delights, visit the local markets, interact with the locals and so on. This French enclave has Mediterranean architecture and even bakeries! Pondicherry is also known “Peaceful Pondicherry”, and you will understand the reason: there is not much to do there but enjoying the pace of life or meditating. The best way to enjoy Pondi is from the surroundings.
Day 6 : To Thanjavur via Chidambaram (200 Kms – 5 Hrs. approx.)
The road journey to Tanjore begins today. On the way, visit the quaint town Chidambram. This town is known as the seat Lord Nataraja, the Cosmic Dancer. Head to the Chidambram temple, also known as Thillai Nataraja temple. Then continue your drive to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, a Hindu Temple dedicated to Shiva with an imposing gopuram that can be seen from afar, followed by a stop at Swamimalai. Further continue to Tanjore and take rest in the evening
Day 7 : Thanjavur and Trichy sightseeing
This day is scheduled for visiting the prime attractions of Trichy. First of all you visit Srirangam, around 5 km from the main city. Here visit the Sri Ranganathaswami temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple complex is one of the largest temple complexes in India. Next in line is the Tiruchirapalli Rock Fort, positioned on the banks of the River Kaveri. Return to Thanjavur & visit Brihadeeshwarar Temple, it is an outstanding example of Chola architecture. Thanjavur’s crowning glory is its Brihadeeshwarar temple with its 66.5 m high ‘srivimana’ dominating The Town. The monolithic granite block that forms a cupola on the top, reflecting he architectural prowess of the Chola builders. End the day with visit to Palace, near the temple is a vast building of masonry built partly by the Nayaks around 1550 AD and partly by the Marathas. There is one acoustically perfect ancient music hall in the palace. Nearby is a tank Sivaganga, known for its sweet water.
Day 8 : Drive to Madurai (190 Kms – 4 Hrs. approx.)
Madurai, known as the Athens of the East. The rest of the day is free for leisure activities. Today you can explore the place on your own. This ancient, colourful city on the banks of River Vaigai, Madurai is an ideal place for those who like experiencing and exploring the country’s old rich heritage. One of the oldest cities in India, Madurai once traded with ancient Rome and has been a center for worship and commerce for centuries.
Day 9 : Madurai Sightseeing
Its highlight is the spectacular Meenakshi Temple, which draws over 15,000 visitors every day. Decorated with colourful mythological figures, this is a site you’ll definitely want your camera for. Visit this dazzling structure both during the day and in the evening to witness an Aarti Ceremony. This lively event sees Hindu devotees gather with candles to sing songs of praise and is a cultural experience. Afterwards, visit the Tirumalai Nayak Palace, founded in 1636 and built in the style of Indo-Muslim art with Italian influence.
Day 10 : Further to Rameshwaram (180 Kms – 4 Hrs. approx.)
Head to the highly Rameshwaram. After arrival the day is at leisure to try water sports or drive down to the last road of India, Dhanushkodi. Enjoy rest of the day.
Day 11 : Rameshwaram – Kanyakumari (310 Kms – 6.5 Hrs. approx.)
Visit the famous Rameshwaram temple. According to legends, the temple and the island have been named after Lord Rama. It is said that this was the site where Lord Rama had worshipped Lord Shiva for penance, once he was back from Lanka after killing Ravana. Later head towards Kanyakumari. At the confluence of Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean the beach of Kanyakumari are wild and offer beautiful sunrise and sunset. You will also discover the Gandhi Mandapam and Temple.
Day 12 : Kanyakumari – Kollam (160 Kms – 4 Hrs. approx.)
Blessed with a long coastline, over a third of its surface is covered by the great Ashtamudi Lake, the entrance to the renowned backwaters of Kerala. Get onboard a houseboat and let the beautiful landscape transport you to an age where nature resided in our midst. Once known as Quilon, Kollam has a host of other attractions. People love visiting the Ashtamudi Backwaters along with the Thenmala Ecotourism Centre, Palaruvi Waterfalls, Jatayupara and Alumkadavu. The area is home to some of the most ornate temples built in traditional Kerala style. These are important relics of Kollam’s glorious past. One can also go and relax at the nearby beaches, namely Kollam, Thirumullavaram and Thangasseri.
Day 13 : Into woods, Thekkady (150 Kms – 5 Hrs. approx.)
Early this morning, you’ll travel Periyar / Thekkady. Prepare to discover this land of elephants, unending hills and spice-scented plantations. The flora and fauna of Periyar’s wildlife sanctuary is absolutely thrilling, and the Periyar Lake is a paradise for nature lovers, the greatest delight it offers being the herds of elephants that come down to play in its waters. Enjoy an afternoon boat ride on Periyar Lake and contemplate the wildlife (subject to water level). Keep an eye out for sambhar, bison, spotted deer, tigers, leopards, malabar flying squirrels, stripe-necked mongooses and more.
Day 14 : In Thekkady
Set out early for hike through plantations. Surrounded by tea and spice plantations, you’ll visit a nearby world-renowned spice garden and learn the secrets of making masala, a combination of spices that perfume most Indian dishes. Take the opportunity to stock up on the aromatic spices before driving the short distance to Thekkady, another small village on the outskirts of the Periyar National Park. In the evening, watch a Kerala martial arts performance called Kalaripatitty at a theatre in Periyar. Known as the mother of all martial arts, Kalaripayattu originated in South India and is one of the oldest fighting systems in existence. It includes strikes, kicks, grappling, weaponry and healing methods.
Day 15 : To the beach, Mararikulam (140 Kms – 4 Hrs. approx.)
After long time on the road and different cities, enjoy the time at pristine and quaint beach of Mararikulam. No sightseeing, no tours, just you and your photographs from the trip till now.
Day 16 – Day 18 : In Mararikulam
Enjoy next 3 days at beach with no disturbance and no hurry, enjoy the slow movement of time at peaceful beach.
Day 19 : Further to Kochi for departure (50 Kms – 1.5 Hrs. approx.)
Drive north along the coast of the Laccadive Sea to Cochin (also known as Kochi). The cultural and historical capital of Kerala, Cochin, is a melting pot of cultures, including Portuguese, Jewish, Dutch, Hindu, and even Chinese heritage due to the centuries of colonization. Find your way to the historic core of the city and to Fort Cochin. Here you will discover India’s oldest European church, St. Francis Church, a 16th-century synagogue, the Mattancherry Palace, a Portuguese palace commonly referred to as the Dutch Palace, and a number of mosques, like the Kanjiramattam and Chembittapally mosques. In the evening, take in a traditional performance of Kathakali—a classical Indian dance unique to Kerala. Kathakali is a story-driven dance and consists mostly of male dancers wearing elaborate and colourful makeup, costumes, and facemasks.
After the visit of city, we drop you at airport / railway station with regards and cheerful memories.
Activities to Opt
- Kovalam : Day with farmers in backwater
- Madurai : Food tour in Madurai for delicious local cuisine
- Pondicherry : Tranquil spa treatment, The Watsu is a method inspired by the Zen Shiatsu
- Kochi : Spend the day cycling through village
Day 1 : Arrive in Chennai
Get a warm welcome at Chennai airport. Being the capital of Tamil Nadu, Chennai flaunts it’s modernization along with connection to it’s heritage and amazing food options. Relax rest of the day
Day 2 : From Chennai to Mahabalipuram (60 Kms – 1.5 Hrs. approx.)
Today you will embark on a sightseeing tour of Chennai. Be ready to start your trip by visiting Fort St. George, which is the first English fortress of India. After exploring this historical beauty, you will visit the Kapaleeshwar Temple, where you will experience a mix of history, architectural styles, and spirituality. Later, you will explore the Vivekananda House, which has become a cultural hub. After sightseeing, we will proceed towards Mahabalipuram. Dates back to the seventh century and is famous for its many temples and beautiful beaches.
Day 3 : Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram Sightseeing
Start your road journey for Kanchipuram. The capital of the Chola dynasty during the 2nd century. Some of the places worth-visiting here are Kamakshi Amman temple, Ekambareswarar temple etc. Do not forget to visit the silk weavers here who have been residing in the city from past four centuries. Later on, proceed to Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram, the ancient port of the Pallava rulers. They constructed a number of architectural gems during their reign. Enjoy a visit to one of such attraction-Krishna Mandapam, dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is the largest cave-cut Hindu temple in the world. Later on, head to the 8th century Shore temple, a fine specimen of Dravidian style of architecture. Lastly, you visit Panch Rathas or the Five Chariots, also known as Paandava Rathas. It is a collection of five monolithic temples wherein each has a different architecture.
Day 4 : Drive to Pondicherry (100 Kms – 2.5 Hrs. approx.)
Today transfer to Pondicherry. The attractions that you visit today include the Basilica of Sacred Heart Church- a wonderful piece of Gothic style of architecture, and the Rai Niwas- the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor of Pondicherry. The last visit of the day is to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram- founded in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo. This Ashram is a kind of spiritual community, which is visited by a huge number of followers and devotees all year round.
Day 5 : At leisure in Pondicherry
Today is at leisure. You can indulge in activities of your interest or can explore the place on your own, savor local delights, visit the local markets, interact with the locals and so on. This French enclave has Mediterranean architecture and even bakeries! Pondicherry is also known “Peaceful Pondicherry”, and you will understand the reason: there is not much to do there but enjoying the pace of life or meditating. The best way to enjoy Pondi is from the surroundings.
Day 6 : To Thanjavur via Chidambaram (200 Kms – 5 Hrs. approx.)
The road journey to Tanjore begins today. On the way, visit the quaint town Chidambram. This town is known as the seat Lord Nataraja, the Cosmic Dancer. Head to the Chidambram temple, also known as Thillai Nataraja temple. Then continue your drive to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, a Hindu Temple dedicated to Shiva with an imposing gopuram that can be seen from afar, followed by a stop at Swamimalai. Further continue to Tanjore and take rest in the evening
Day 7 : Thanjavur and Trichy sightseeing
This day is scheduled for visiting the prime attractions of Trichy. First of all you visit Srirangam, around 5 km from the main city. Here visit the Sri Ranganathaswami temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple complex is one of the largest temple complexes in India. Next in line is the Tiruchirapalli Rock Fort, positioned on the banks of the River Kaveri. Return to Thanjavur & visit Brihadeeshwarar Temple, it is an outstanding example of Chola architecture. Thanjavur’s crowning glory is its Brihadeeshwarar temple with its 66.5 m high ‘srivimana’ dominating The Town. The monolithic granite block that forms a cupola on the top, reflecting he architectural prowess of the Chola builders. End the day with visit to Palace, near the temple is a vast building of masonry built partly by the Nayaks around 1550 AD and partly by the Marathas. There is one acoustically perfect ancient music hall in the palace. Nearby is a tank Sivaganga, known for its sweet water.
Day 8 : Drive to Madurai (190 Kms – 4 Hrs. approx.)
Madurai, known as the Athens of the East. The rest of the day is free for leisure activities. Today you can explore the place on your own. This ancient, colourful city on the banks of River Vaigai, Madurai is an ideal place for those who like experiencing and exploring the country’s old rich heritage. One of the oldest cities in India, Madurai once traded with ancient Rome and has been a center for worship and commerce for centuries.
Day 9 : Madurai Sightseeing
Its highlight is the spectacular Meenakshi Temple, which draws over 15,000 visitors every day. Decorated with colourful mythological figures, this is a site you’ll definitely want your camera for. Visit this dazzling structure both during the day and in the evening to witness an Aarti Ceremony. This lively event sees Hindu devotees gather with candles to sing songs of praise and is a cultural experience. Afterwards, visit the Tirumalai Nayak Palace, founded in 1636 and built in the style of Indo-Muslim art with Italian influence.
Day 10 : Further to Rameshwaram (180 Kms – 4 Hrs. approx.)
Head to the highly Rameshwaram. After arrival the day is at leisure to try water sports or drive down to the last road of India, Dhanushkodi. Enjoy rest of the day.
Day 11 : Rameshwaram – Kanyakumari (310 Kms – 6.5 Hrs. approx.)
Visit the famous Rameshwaram temple. According to legends, the temple and the island have been named after Lord Rama. It is said that this was the site where Lord Rama had worshipped Lord Shiva for penance, once he was back from Lanka after killing Ravana. Later head towards Kanyakumari. At the confluence of Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean the beach of Kanyakumari are wild and offer beautiful sunrise and sunset. You will also discover the Gandhi Mandapam and Temple.
Day 12 : Kanyakumari – Kollam (160 Kms – 4 Hrs. approx.)
Blessed with a long coastline, over a third of its surface is covered by the great Ashtamudi Lake, the entrance to the renowned backwaters of Kerala. Get onboard a houseboat and let the beautiful landscape transport you to an age where nature resided in our midst. Once known as Quilon, Kollam has a host of other attractions. People love visiting the Ashtamudi Backwaters along with the Thenmala Ecotourism Centre, Palaruvi Waterfalls, Jatayupara and Alumkadavu. The area is home to some of the most ornate temples built in traditional Kerala style. These are important relics of Kollam’s glorious past. One can also go and relax at the nearby beaches, namely Kollam, Thirumullavaram and Thangasseri.
Day 13 : Into woods, Thekkady (150 Kms – 5 Hrs. approx.)
Early this morning, you’ll travel Periyar / Thekkady. Prepare to discover this land of elephants, unending hills and spice-scented plantations. The flora and fauna of Periyar’s wildlife sanctuary is absolutely thrilling, and the Periyar Lake is a paradise for nature lovers, the greatest delight it offers being the herds of elephants that come down to play in its waters. Enjoy an afternoon boat ride on Periyar Lake and contemplate the wildlife (subject to water level). Keep an eye out for sambhar, bison, spotted deer, tigers, leopards, malabar flying squirrels, stripe-necked mongooses and more.
Day 14 : In Thekkady
Set out early for hike through plantations. Surrounded by tea and spice plantations, you’ll visit a nearby world-renowned spice garden and learn the secrets of making masala, a combination of spices that perfume most Indian dishes. Take the opportunity to stock up on the aromatic spices before driving the short distance to Thekkady, another small village on the outskirts of the Periyar National Park. In the evening, watch a Kerala martial arts performance called Kalaripatitty at a theatre in Periyar. Known as the mother of all martial arts, Kalaripayattu originated in South India and is one of the oldest fighting systems in existence. It includes strikes, kicks, grappling, weaponry and healing methods.
Day 15 : To the beach, Mararikulam (140 Kms – 4 Hrs. approx.)
After long time on the road and different cities, enjoy the time at pristine and quaint beach of Mararikulam. No sightseeing, no tours, just you and your photographs from the trip till now.
Day 16 – Day 18 : In Mararikulam
Enjoy next 3 days at beach with no disturbance and no hurry, enjoy the slow movement of time at peaceful beach.
Day 19 : Further to Kochi for departure (50 Kms – 1.5 Hrs. approx.)
Drive north along the coast of the Laccadive Sea to Cochin (also known as Kochi). The cultural and historical capital of Kerala, Cochin, is a melting pot of cultures, including Portuguese, Jewish, Dutch, Hindu, and even Chinese heritage due to the centuries of colonization. Find your way to the historic core of the city and to Fort Cochin. Here you will discover India’s oldest European church, St. Francis Church, a 16th-century synagogue, the Mattancherry Palace, a Portuguese palace commonly referred to as the Dutch Palace, and a number of mosques, like the Kanjiramattam and Chembittapally mosques. In the evening, take in a traditional performance of Kathakali—a classical Indian dance unique to Kerala. Kathakali is a story-driven dance and consists mostly of male dancers wearing elaborate and colourful makeup, costumes, and facemasks.
After the visit of city, we drop you at airport / railway station with regards and cheerful memories.
Activities to Opt
- Kovalam : Day with farmers in backwater
- Madurai : Food tour in Madurai for delicious local cuisine
- Pondicherry : Tranquil spa treatment, The Watsu is a method inspired by the Zen Shiatsu
- Kochi : Spend the day cycling through village
