Grand South India Tour
| Trip Length | 17 Days / 16 Nights |
|---|---|
| Travel Type | Small Group Tour |
| Start Point | Bangalore |
| End Point | Chennai |
| Travel Theme | Culture, Family |
Grand South India Tour
The enchanting landscapes of South India, adorned with serene backwaters, pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and lush greenery, make it an irresistible destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. The region’s unparalleled charm and vibrancy captivate every traveler, while its delectable cuisine promises a feast for the senses.
South India’s architectural marvels, from intricately carved temples to colonial-era structures, exude timeless beauty and cultural grandeur. The sight of traditionally draped women in exquisite silk sarees, their radiant smiles welcoming visitors with warmth and grace, adds to the region’s allure.
A visit to South India is nothing short of a dream come true, offering tranquility and fulfillment regardless of the season. Immerse yourself in its breathtaking beauty, soak in its rich heritage, and experience an unforgettable journey like never before!
Tour Itinerary
Welcome to Bangalore! Upon arrival, our representative will greet you in traditional style at the airport and assist with your transfer to your pre-booked accommodation. Enjoy a restful night at your hotel in Bangalore.
Included Meals: None
Sightseeing: No sightseeing planned
Bangalore, the « Garden City of India, » is a captivating blend of heritage and modernity. After a delicious breakfast, set out on a sightseeing tour. Visit Tipu Sultan’s Palace, the Bull Temple, Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, and the grand Vidhan Soudha. Enjoy an overnight stay at your hotel.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Tipu Sultan’s Palace, Bull Temple, Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, Vidhan Soudha
Post breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Hassan. En route, visit Shravanabelagola, a revered Jain pilgrimage site home to the 17-meter Gomateshwara Statue. Upon arrival in Hassan, check into your pre-booked accommodation for an overnight stay.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Sightseeing: Shravanabelagola (No entrance fees)
After breakfast, explore the architectural wonders of Belur and Halebid, renowned for their exquisite Hoysala Temples. Later, proceed to Mysore, where you will check into your pre-booked accommodation. Enjoy an overnight stay.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Belur and Halebid Temples
Start the day with a hearty breakfast before discovering Mysore’s gems, including the Mysore Palace, Nandi Bull Statue, Chamundeshwari Temple, and Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace. Later, embark on a scenic drive to Ooty, the « Queen of Hill Stations. » Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and relax overnight.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Mysore Palace, Nandi Bull Statue, Chamundeshwari Temple, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace
Discover the enchanting landscapes of Ooty, nestled in the Nilgiri Hills. Visit St. Stephen’s Church, Ooty Club, Ooty Lake, and the Botanical Gardens. Enjoy a peaceful overnight stay in Ooty.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Botanical Gardens, St. Stephen’s Church, Ooty Lake
Post breakfast, journey towards the coastal city of Kozhikode (Calicut), once a major trading hub. Explore Kappad Beach, Beypore Beach, Beypore Fort, Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary, and the Archaeology Museum. Stay overnight in Kozhikode.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Beypore Fort, Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary, Archaeology Museum
After breakfast, drive to Kochi, with an en-route stop at Guruvayur to visit the Guruvayurappan Temple and the Guruvayur Elephant Sanctuary. Upon arrival in Kochi, check into your accommodation. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali performance. Overnight in Kochi.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Guruvayur Elephant Sanctuary, Kathakali Show
After breakfast, explore the vibrant city of Cochin (Kochi). Visit Mattancherry Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, and St. Francis Church. Optional activities include a Hatha Yoga session, a traditional Kerala cooking class, or another Kathakali dance performance. Overnight stay in Kochi.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace, St. Francis Church
Drive to Alleppey, where you will board a luxurious houseboat for an unforgettable backwater cruise. Enjoy the serene landscapes, delicious meals, and breathtaking sunset views. Overnight stay on the houseboat.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sightseeing: No specific sites, backwater experience
Disembark from your houseboat post breakfast and drive to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Explore the Spice Plantations and enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake. Optional: Watch a Kalaripayattu martial arts performance. Overnight stay in Periyar.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Periyar Forest, Spice Plantation Tour
After breakfast, enjoy morning jungle activities before heading to Madurai, one of South India’s oldest spiritual cities. Visit the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple and Tirumala Nayak Palace. Overnight in Madurai.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai Nayak Palace
Depart for Tanjore, stopping at Trichy’s Rock Fort en route. Explore Brihadeshwara Temple, Thanjavur Palace, and the Tanjore Art Gallery. Overnight stay in Tanjore.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Brihadeshwara Temple, Thanjavur Palace, Tanjore Art Gallery
After breakfast, travel to the charming town of Pondicherry. Visit Auroville Ashram, a spiritual retreat blending yoga and modern science. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Sightseeing: No entrance fees
Drive to Mahabalipuram, famous for its UNESCO-listed rock-cut temples. Visit Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, and the Five Rathas. Optional: Tour a Salt Factory or Handmade Paper Factory. Overnight in Mahabalipuram.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Five Rathas, Shore Temple
Take a day trip to Kanchipuram, home to sacred temples like Kailasanatha Temple, Ekambaranatha Temple, and Kamakshi Amman Temple. Return to Mahabalipuram for leisure. Overnight stay.
Included Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, drive to Chennai for a short city tour, including Fort St. George, Government Museum, Santhome Cathedral, and Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Later, transfer to the airport for your departure.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Fort St. George, Museum, Santhome Cathedral Church