Splendor of the South

Duration: 11 Days/10 Nights
Cities: Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Kanchipuram, Pondicherry, Chidambaram, Kumbakonam, Tanjore, Trichy, Madurai, Periyar, Alleppey, Cochin

Visiting South India is one of the most memorable experiences for any traveler. It is a wonderful combination of Chennai – the Gateway to South India, Mahabalipuram – the epitome of ancient South Indian architecture, Pondicherry – a glimpse of French India, Tanjore – an architectural excellence, Periyar – one of the most picturesque destinations in South India, the Houseboat in Alleppey – a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and Cochin – a blend of modern and ancient India.

Day 01: Arrival in Chennai
Arrive at Chennai Airport. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 02: Chennai – Mahabalipuram (55 Km – 1 Hour)
Breakfast at the hotel. Morning tour of Chennai, including St. George Fort, Government Museum, Valluvarkottam, Snake Park, Kapaleeswarar Temple, and Marina Beach. (The Government Museum will be closed on Fridays). Later, transfer to Mahabalipuram. Afternoon tour of Mahabalipuram, including Arjuna’s Penance, the Sea Temple, and Krishna’s Mandapam. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 03: Mahabalipuram – Kanchipuram – Mahabalipuram (160 Km, 4 Hours)
Morning departure to Kanchipuram. It was the historic capital of the Pallavas during the 7th-9th centuries. It is also famous for its silk textiles and handwoven saris. Return to Mahabalipuram. In the afternoon, relax on the beach. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 04: Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry (155 Km – 3 Hours)
After breakfast, transfer to Pondicherry. Pondicherry is synonymous with French heritage in India. In the afternoon, visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, established in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo Ghose. His philosophy is a combination of yoga and modern science. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 05: Pondicherry – Chidambaram – Tanjore (170 Km – 4 Hours)
Morning departure to Tanjore, with an en route visit to Chidambaram. Visit the Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram. Continue the journey to Tanjore and, upon arrival, check-in at the hotel. In the afternoon, visit Brihadeshwara Temple. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 06: Tanjore – Trichy – Madurai (197 Km, 3.5 Hours)
After breakfast, visit Trichy. Visit the famous landmark of this bustling city: Rock Fort Temple. Also visit Srirangam Temple. Then drive to Madurai. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 07: Madurai
Breakfast at the hotel, followed by a tour of Madurai covering the famous Meenakshi Temple, Tirumala Naik Palace, and Gandhi Museum. The temple is famous for its massive entrance tower, which is 49 meters high. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 08: Madurai – Periyar (140 Km, 4 Hours)
Morning departure to Periyar. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise, the best way to experience the wildlife in Periyar Sanctuary. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 09: Periyar – Alleppey (130 Km, 4 Hours)
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Alleppey. Upon arrival, embark on a houseboat. Enjoy a memorable houseboat ride through the charming canals of Alappuzha to explore its stunning surroundings and the fascinating Kerala countryside. All meals will be served on board. Overnight on the houseboat.

Day 10: Alleppey – Cochin (60 Km, 2 Hours)
Breakfast on the houseboat and continue the morning cruise on the houseboat. Disembark and transfer to Cochin. In the afternoon, enjoy a half-day tour of Cochin. Cochin has one of the best natural harbors in the country. Afternoon tour of Kochi includes the Dutch Palace Museum, the Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church, and the Chinese Fishing Nets. In the evening, enjoy one of the classical dance forms of South India, Kathakali. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 11: Departure from Cochin
At the scheduled time, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

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