Well Organized Trip
We appreciated our travel design er (Ovijit) was able to customize our trip to add in additional stops and tailor our hotels to what we were looking for.
South India · Private Tour
12 Days South India from Chennai
Included:
Accommodation
Private Vehicle
Sightseeing
Daily Breakfast
Tour Overview
This 12-day South India tour from Chennai blends ancient temples, cultural stories, serene backwaters and vibrant coastal towns. Begin your journey in Tamil Nadu, exploring Chennai’s spiritual landmarks and the temple cities of Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram, Tanjore and Trichy. Continue toward Madurai’s sacred architecture before entering Kerala for wildlife experiences in Periyar, peaceful backwaters in Kumarakom and Alleppey, and the historic charm of Cochin. A journey ideal for travelers who want to experience South India’s culture, heritage and natural beauty in one route.
Tour Highlights:
- Visit ancient temples in Chennai, Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram.
- Explore UNESCO heritage temples of Tanjore and Darasuram.
- Experience Madurai’s Meenakshi Temple and night rituals.
- Enjoy a boat ride at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Discover Kerala backwaters in Kumarakom and Alleppey.
- Explore Cochin’s historic streets, Chinese fishing nets and Kathakali dance.
Detailed Itinerary
Arrive in Chennai, the cultural and coastal capital of Tamil Nadu. Transfer to your hotel and settle in. The rest of the day is free for leisure, allowing you to relax after your journey or explore the neighborhood markets and promenades.
Overnight stay in Chennai.
After breakfast, begin your sightseeing tour of Chennai. Visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, followed by Fort St. George and its museum showcasing the city’s colonial history. Explore the Basilica of St. Thomas in Mylapore and end the day at Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world.
Overnight stay in Chennai.
Drive to Kanchipuram, known as the “City of 1000 Temples.” Visit iconic temples like Kailasanatha, Ekambaranathar, Kamakshi Amman and Vaikuntha Perumal. Continue to Mahabalipuram, the ancient coastal town known for its rock-cut monuments including Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance and the Five Rathas.
Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.
After breakfast, drive toward Gangaikonda Cholapuram to explore the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple. Continue to Kumbakonam, known for its clusters of ancient temples dedicated to various deities. Enjoy an evening at leisure.
Overnight stay in Kumbakonam.
Visit the Darasuram Airavatesvara Temple, a fine example of Chola architecture. Continue to Tanjore to see the stunning Brihadeeshwarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later, drive to Trichy and check in at your hotel.
Overnight stay in Trichy.
Drive to Madurai with an en-route visit to Chettinad, known for its palatial mansions and unique regional cuisine. Enjoy a traditional lunch before continuing to Madurai, one of India’s oldest cultural centers.
Overnight stay in Madurai.
Visit Madurai’s vibrant flower market in the morning. Later, explore Meenakshi Amman Temple, Tirumalai Nayak Palace and Thiruparankundram Temple. In the evening, attend the temple’s iconic night ceremony where the idols are carried in procession.
Overnight stay in Madurai.
Drive toward Periyar and enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Periyar Lake with chances to spot wildlife. Later, continue to the lush backwater village of Kumarakom. Enjoy a relaxed evening at your resort.
Overnight stay in Kumarakom.
After breakfast, drive to Alleppey and visit tea and cardamom plantations en route. In Alleppey, enjoy a boat ride through scenic backwater canals before continuing to Cochin.
Overnight stay in Cochin.
Explore Old Cochin including the Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church and the famous Chinese fishing nets. Walk through the heritage-filled lanes of Fort Kochi. In the evening, watch a traditional Kathakali dance performance.
Overnight stay in Cochin.
Enjoy breakfast and transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule. Standard check-out time is 12:00 PM. Proceed to the next leg of your journey or fly home.
End of Cochin services.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Depending on your flight timing, transfer to Trivandrum Airport for your departure. Your South India tour concludes with warm memories and cultural insights.
Tour Ends.
What's Included
Clear details of what is covered in your private tour.
Included
- Hotel accommodation on double/twin sharing.
- Daily breakfast at all hotels.
- Private vehicle for all transfers & sightseeing as per itinerary.
- Domestic flight tickets (as per itinerary).
- Train tickets (as per itinerary).
- Professional driver with fuel, tolls, parking & allowance.
- All applicable taxes.
- Assistance on arrival & departure.
Not Included
- International airfare.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses: shopping, laundry, tips, etc.
- Entry tickets, activity fees & guide charges.
- Camera/permit charges wherever applicable.
- Travel insurance.
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