Highlights of South India 11 Days / 10 Nights

After breakfast, set out on a guided tour of Cochin's historic and cultural landmarks: St. Francis Church – The oldest European church in India and the original burial site of Vasco da Gama. Jewish Synagogue – Built in 1568, adorned with Belgian chandeliers and hand-painted Chinese tiles. (Closed on Fridays and Saturdays) Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace) – A heritage structure with exquisite murals and royal memorabilia. (Closed on Fridays) Chinese Fishing Nets – Iconic structures introduced by traders from Kublai Khan’s court, unique to Cochin. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali Dance Performance, an iconic art form of Kerala known for its elaborate makeup and expressive storytelling. Overnight stay in Cochin.

After breakfast, drive to the jetty to board a traditional Kettuvallam (houseboat). Cruise through the scenic backwaters of Kerala, passing lush paddy fields, village life, and coconut groves. Relax and enjoy meals onboard as the houseboat glides through this unique water world. Overnight stay on the houseboat.

Disembark from the houseboat after breakfast and drive to Periyar, a haven for nature lovers and spice enthusiasts. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. In the afternoon: Visit a tribal village to experience local culture and traditions. Head to an elephant camp for interactive activities like elephant bathing, feeding, and a 30-minute ride. Explore a spice plantation where you’ll learn about various aromatic spices like cardamom, pepper, vanilla, and turmeric. Overnight stay in Periyar. Day 05: Periyar – Madurai (Approx. 160 km / 4.5 hrs) After breakfast, drive to Madurai, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu. Check in at the hotel upon arrival. In the evening, witness the ‘Bedtime of the God’ ceremony at the Meenakshi Temple—a fascinating ritual in which Lord Shiva is paraded to his consort Parvati’s shrine accompanied by music and chants. Overnight stay in Madurai.

After breakfast, drive to Madurai, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu. Check in at the hotel upon arrival. In the evening, witness the ‘Bedtime of the God’ ceremony at the Meenakshi Temple—a fascinating ritual in which Lord Shiva is paraded to his consort Parvati’s shrine accompanied by music and chants. Overnight stay in Madurai.

Today, enjoy a full-day sightseeing tour of Madurai: Meenakshi Temple – A 2,000-year-old architectural marvel with 12 towering gopurams and intricate carvings. (Closed from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM) Thirumalai Nayak Palace – An elegant Indo-Saracenic structure known for its massive halls and domes. A sound and light show (optional) narrates the palace’s history. Overnight stay in Madurai.

Drive to Trichy via Tanjore (Thanjavur). En route, visit: Brihadeshwara Temple – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the 10th century, featuring a monolithic dome and remarkable Chola architecture. (Closed from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM) Continue to Trichy and check in at the hotel. Overnight stay in Trichy.

After breakfast, explore Trichy’s landmarks: Rock Fort Temple – A hilltop temple offering panoramic views. Climb 437 steps carved into the rock. (Non-Hindus may be restricted in certain areas) Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple – One of India’s largest temple complexes with 21 gopurams and rich history. (Closed from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM) Then, proceed to Mahabalipuram and check in at the hotel. Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.

After breakfast, explore this ancient seaport city: Arjuna’s Penance – A magnificent rock relief carved with scenes from Hindu mythology. Shore Temple – A 7th-century seaside temple dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu. Mandapams (Cave Temples) – Intricately carved rock temples including the Krishna Mandapam. Five Rathas – Monolithic temples showcasing early Dravidian architecture. Spend the evening relaxing on the beach. Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.

Drive to Chennai after breakfast. Upon arrival, explore the city: Santhome Cathedral – A neo-Gothic basilica housing relics of St. Thomas the Apostle. Marina Beach – The world’s second-longest beach with colonial-era landmarks. Kapaleeshwarar Temple – A grand Shiva temple built in Dravidian architectural style. Fort St. George & Museum – The first British fort in India, now home to government offices and a museum. Overnight stay in Chennai.

After breakfast, transfer to Chennai Airport for your onward journey with cherished memories of South India.