South India: Temples & Spice Route

DURATION
14 days
FROM
£1850 pp

This brilliant South India tour from the Coromandel coast in the east to the Malabar coast in the west, brings to you the best of South India. Discover the towering temples of Indian state of Tamil Nadu, the dewy tea plantations and fragrant spice plantations of the hills of Munnar and the tranquil Keralan backwaters. Start your tour by exploring the shore temples of Mahabalipuram and later proceed to a charming colonial town of Pondicherry (a former French colony) . Proceed to explore the most impressive temple region in India- the famous temples in Tanjore and Madurai. As you journey on to the rather contrasting yet complementing state of Kerala, you reach the hilly town Munnar dotted with tea plantations and a great place for walking and cycling enthusiasts. Journey on to the historic city of Cochin, once home to the European traders due to the spice route. Explore historic Cochin before you head for your stay at the boutique rustic Marari Beach resort for a relaxing stay amidst warm Keralan hospitality.

 

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1: Fly to Chennai

Fly to Chennai. We will work out most efficient route for you.

DAY 2: Mahabalipuram-Temple Bay

Arrive at Chennai airport and our authorised representative will assist you in transfer to Mahabalipuran. Rest of the day at leisure. First of two nights here.

DAY 3: Mahabalipuram-Temple Bay

Morning sightseeing of Mahabalipuram includes a visit to the ancient Shore Temples and rock carvings. Afternoon at leisure or opt in for Chennai sightseeing tour.

DAY 4: Pondicherry- Palaise De Male

Drive to the former French colony of Pondicherry. Take a walking tour of the colonial town. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

DAY 5: Tanjore- Tanjore Hi

Drive to Tanjore. Visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple- a UNESCO world heritage site. Opt to visit Airavatesvara temple- another world heritage site- enroute to Tanjore. Overnight stay in Tanjore.

DAY 6: Madurai- GRT Regency

Drive to Madurai. Afternoon temple visit and witness evening aarti ceremony. First of two nights here.

DAY 7: Madurai- GRT Regency

Today take a walking tour of the city with your private guide.

DAY 8: Munnar- Windermere Estate

Drive to Munnar enroute visiting spice plantations. First of two nights here.

DAY 9: Munnar- Windermere Estate

Half day sightseeing with your private guide visiting local tea factory, the nearby waterfall and Eravikulam National Park. Opt for cycling or walking trips.

DAY 10: Cochin- Old Harbour

Drive to Cochin. Evening witness performance of classical dance of Kathakali by local artists. First of two nights here.

DAY 11: Cochin- Old Harbour

Today explore Cochin city with your private guide visiting the Jewish synagogue, St. Francis Church- the oldest European Church in India, the Santa Cruz Basilica built in 1557 by the Portuguese, the Dutch Palace, the Spice market and the 15th century Chinese fishing nets bustling with local life.

DAY 12: Mararikulam- Marari Beach Resort

Drive to Marari Beach. Rest of the day at leisure. First of two nights here.

DAY 13: Mararikulam- Marari Beach Resort

Day at leisure at beach.

DAY 14: Depart Cochin

Fly back home.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

What's included

  • Accommodation in double or twin room with daily breakfast
  • Your private chauffeur driven air-conditioned car for all transfers with car at disposal for local town travel during leisure times
  • Full program of guided sightseeing with your private guide

What's excluded

  • International flights as these are quoted separately
  • Expenses of personal nature, visa, medical & travel insurance gratuities & tips, single room supplement

MAP


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