Arrive at Chennai International Airport in the morning. 

Chennai: Chennai, located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal in eastern  India, is the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu. The city is home to Fort St. George,  built in 1644 and now a museum showcasing the city’s roots as a British military  garrison and East India Company trading outpost, when it was called Madras.

Upon arrival, once you clear immigration and collect your baggage, please proceed to the arrival hall to meet our representative/driver. 

Transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Chennai

After breakfast proceed for half-day city sightseeing of Chennai with a local English-speaking guide visiting proceed for half day sightseeing of Chennai visiting:

Marina Beach, This 12 km long beach stretch is a mesmerizing juncture of sand and sea which provides breath taking views of sunrise and sunset.

Fort St. George, the first bastion of British power in India & built in the year 1640  AD by the British East India Company. Within the Fort we visit St. Mary’s Church,  built in the year 1680 & oldest Protestant Church in the East. Fort Museum has 10  galleries & displays armoury, old uniforms, crockery & silverware, coins, palanquins,  paintings, letters, old prints, etc.  

Santhome Cathedral, built in 1504, is said to house the remains of St. Thomas the  Apostle, who is believed to have visited Madras (Chennai) sometime during 52 AD.  National Art Gallery, established in the year 1857, it is undoubtedly one of the country’s finest museums. It has sections devoted to geology, archaeology,  anthropology, botany, zoology, sculpture & numismatics.  

Kapaleshwar Temple, located in Mylapore, the arresting architecture of the  Kapaleshwar temple is of the Dravidian style. The temple is devoted to Lord Shiva. Rest of the day at leisure.  

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Chennai

Depart Chennai for Pondicherry by surface enroute visiting Mahabalipuram visiting Shore Temple- a World Heritage Monument (Approx: 150 kms/3 ½ hours)

Mahabalipuram: Mamallapuram, or Mahabalipuram, is a town on a strip of land between the Bay of Bengal and the Great Salt Lake, in the south Indian state of Tamil  Nadu. It’s known for its temples and monuments built by the Pallava dynasty in the  7th and 8th centuries. The seafront Shore Temple comprises 3 ornate granite shrines. Krishna’s Butter Ball is a massive boulder balanced on a small hill near the Ganesha Ratha stone temple.

Pondicherry: Pondicherry (or Puducherry), a French colonial settlement in India until 1954, is now a Union Territory town bounded by the southeastern Tamil Nadu state. Its French legacy is preserved in its French Quarter, with tree-lined streets,  mustard-coloured colonial villas and chic boutiques. A seaside promenade runs along the Bay of Bengal and passes several statues, including a 4m-high Gandhi Memorial.

Arrive in Pondicherry and proceed to the hotel.  

Rest of the day at leisure.  

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Pondicherry

After breakfast proceed for a half-day visit to Auroville with a local English-speaking guide. 

Auroville: Founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa, also known as ‘The Mother’, Auroville is an experimental township or a universal town. Designed by famous architect  Roger Anger, Auroville is a must-visit attraction of Puducherry where people of different nationalities, cultures, and beliefs live together in harmony. One of the major highlights of Auroville is the Matrimandir, a modern structure with a high significance for integral Yoga practitioners. Matrimandir has a lotus-shaped dome almost 30 meters high and is covered by golden discs that reflect sunlight. Prior bookings are required for visiting or for a concentration session (meditation) at the  Matrimandir. First-time visitors are given a tour of the Matrimandir, along with a background on its history and importance. 

Afternoon: proceed for a half-day city sightseeing of Pondicherry with a local English-speaking guide.  

Pondicherry city sightseeing includes visit to Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Botanical  Gardens, Churches, French quarter, Old Light house & Museums.  

Rest of the day at leisure.  

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Pondicherry

After breakfast, depart Pondicherry for Kumbakonam enroute visiting  Chidambaram & Kumbakonam by surface (approx.: 137 kms/ 3 ½ hours+ time  for sightseeing)

Chidambaram: Chidambaram Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the heart of the temple town of Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu). Chidambaram is one of the five holiest Shiva temples, each representing one of the five natural elements; Chidambaram represents akasha (aether). The temple complex spread over  50 acres in the heart of the city. It is an ancient and historic temple dedicated to Lord  Shiva Nataraja and Lord Govindaraja Perumal, 

Kumbakonam: The Kumbha means Pot in which Lord Brahma collected all the tools and Vedha Amrutham to recreate the Universe as the Pralaya (dissolution of the  Universe) took place at that time. That Pot washed away in the flood and came to the place where Kumbakonam stands now. Thus, this place got the name of Kumbakonam or Pot’s Corner. 

Arrive in Kumbakonam and proceed to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure for independent activities 

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Kumbakonam

Breakfast at the hotel.

Morning: Proceed for a visit to Gangaikondacholapuram and Darasuram Temples with a local English-speaking guide.

Gangaikondacholapuram: The temple is considered as one of the largest temples in the country and is a fine example of the grandeur of Dravidian style of architecture of the Chola dynasty. The temple was built by Rajendra Chola I and was completed in the year 1035 AD. At present the temple stands tall amongst ruining walls. The temple tower here measures 55 m in height and holds a striking similarity  to the Brihadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur 

Darasuram: Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram, Tamilnadu is one such divine historic temple brimming with rich heritage and surprising artistic splendors. One among the three ancient temples that are collectively called the “Great Living Chola Temples“, Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram is bestowed with the UNESCO heritage tag. 

Later on, during the day experience the many available activities from Bullock Cart ride to Bharatanatyam.  

Rest of the day at leisure.  

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Kumbakonam

Breakfast at the hotel.

After breakfast, depart Kumbakonam for Chettinad enroute visiting Tanjore to visit the spectacular Brihadeeshwara Temple by surface (approx: 132 kms/ 3 hours)  

Tanjore: Tanjore also known as Thanjavur is a city in the south Indian state of Tamil  Nadu. Its many temples include the 11th-century Brihadeeswarar Temple, a vast Chola dynasty–era complex with a frescoed interior. Thanjavur Maratha Palace is home to the centuries-old Saraswathi Mahal Library, with palm-leaf manuscripts, and  Thanjavur Art Gallery, with bronze statues. 

Chettinad: Located in the Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu, Chettinad Showcases the rich heritage, striking art and grand architecture of the state. Apart from being known as a temple town, the Chettinad Cuisine is the most renowned in the repertoire of Tamil Nadu. The word “Chetti” is a Sanskrit term meaning wealth 

Arrive in Chettinad and proceed to the hotel

Afternoon: Visit the Raja’s Palace, old Chettiar mansions and clan temples. shop for handmade tiles at the Athangudi village, learn about the intricate handloom process of saree weaving, purchase souvenirs at the local markets and take a bullock cart ride or cycle tour.  

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Chettinad

After breakfast, depart Chettinad for Thekkady enroute visiting Madurai by surface (approx: 240 kms/6 hours) 

Madurai: Madurai is an energetic, ancient city on the Vaigai River in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Its skyline is dominated by the 14 colorful gopurams (gateway towers) of Meenakshi Amman Temple. Covered in bright carvings of Hindu gods, the Dravidian-style temple is a major pilgrimage site. Millions attend the processions and ceremonies of April’s Chithirai Festival celebrating Meenakshi and Lord Vishnu.

Arrive at Thekkady and proceed to the hotel.  

Evening: Proceed for Kalaripayattu show with a local French/English-speaking guide.

Kalaripayattu: Kalaripayattu-the oldest of martial arts-is a gift to the modern world and known as the mother of all martial arts. Legend traces the 3000-year-old art form to sage Parasurama-the master of all martial art forms and credited to be the re-claimer of Kerala from the Arabian Sea. Kalaripayattu originated in ancient south India. Kung-fu, popularized by the monks of the shaolin temple traces its ancestry to Bodhi Dharma-an Indian Buddhist monk and Kalaripayattu master.  After show return back to the hotel.

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Thekaddy

After breakfast proceed for a half-day visit to Spice Plantation followed by an Elephant ride with a local English-speaking guide. 

Spice Plantation: As you take a walk along the winding pathways among the plantations, the thing that strikes you first is the lingering aroma in the air. The scent may be of cloves, nutmeg, pepper, cinnamon or cardamom and sometimes a fragrance that combines the scents of two or more spices. The geographical and climatic peculiarities of Thekkady such as the cool climate and its elevation from the sea level make it ideal for spice cultivation. There are many factors that make the plantation experience a memorable one. For some, it could be the unassuming beauty of the tiny flowers of the cardamom that grow at the base of the plant; for others, the tantalizing aroma of cinnamon or cloves, and for some others, the cool breeze that lovingly strokes the green plantations and everything in it. 

Late afternoon, proceed for a boat ride on Lake Periyar with a local English-speaking guide. 

Boat ride on Lake Periyar: Thekkady Boating conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hill and spice-scented plantations. A herd of elephants or a wandering family of deer are common sights near the lake. In the hot months of  March and April, visitors stand a better chance of viewing wildlife as the animals come to the lake frequently for drinking water. You may be able to spot herds of  Gaur, Sambar and wild boars in the grasslands adjacent to the shores. A variety of avian fauna such as darters, egrets and kingfishers can be seen resting on dead tree trunks that stick out over the lake. During your boat ride, there is also a high probability of observing the antics of the Smooth Indian Otter. Return back to hotel.

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Thekaddy

After breakfast, depart Thekkady for Kumarakom by surface (approx: 135  kms/4 ½ hours) 

Kumarakom: Kumarakom is a cluster of beautiful little islands on the Vembanad Lake, Kerala’s largest lake in South India. It offers a scenic view of emerald green backwaters of Kerala flanked by luxuriant vegetation and paddy fields. Being endowed with worldwide recognition on account of its backwater tourism, the tourist places in  Kumarakom is most sought-after tourist destination due to its pristine beauty and tranquility. With miles of solitude and peace being one of the most serene offerings of  Kumarakom, this fascinating destination has got something for everybody whether you are seeking relaxation, rejuvenation or on a honeymoon trip. 

Arrive in Kumarakom and proceed to your hotel 

Late Afternoon: Proceed for a sunset cruise on Vembanad Lake 

Sunset Cruise on Vembanad Lake: Whispering waves suggest to opt for a sunset cruise at Kumarakom. Since Kumarakom located on the east shore of Vembanad Lake, watching sun set gazing towards west is most memorable and definitely a treat for the eyes. Witness the spectacular tranquil view of the sunset as they explore the waters of the Vembanad Lake and is an experience to behold. 

Rest of the day at leisure for independent activities. 

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Kumarakom

Early morning proceed for a visit to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary with a local English-speaking guide. 

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, the bird sanctuary is spread across 14 acres. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, an ornithologist’s paradise is a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. A visit to the bird sanctuary, set within the lush acres of wooded land nearby, acquaints you to the variety of migratory birds that flock in thousands, some from the Himalayas, some even from as far as Siberia. In addition, you can get thrilled of the native kingfishers ablaze in psychedelic colours, experience a walk under rookeries of egrets and night herons or lone golden-backed woodpeckers and even delight in the acrobatics of the paradise fly-catchers. 

After breakfast, morning at leisure for independent activities. 

Late afternoon, proceed for a Manual Canoe ride on the backwaters of Kumarakom

Canoe Ride: Canoeing across Kerala’s stunning backwaters is the best way to experience the countryside. Apart from taking in the beautiful scenery, travellers can indulge in local life and culture. Canoe Kerala allows travellers to explore the backwaters in every way possible. With canoe rides, you can go to narrow canals and get a closer experience of the backwater villages. Canoe Kerala was conceived with the sole intention of providing travellers with a fulfilled and satisfying experience of Kerala backwaters

Evening at leisure for independent activities.  

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Kumarakom

After breakfast depart Kumarakom for Cochin by surface (Approx: 60 kms/2 hours) 

Cochin (Kochi): Cochin is one of the most picturesque destinations on the southwest coast line of Kerala. An all-weather harbour and a grand seascape mark it as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea”. The peaceful city is also one of the leading commercial centers of southern India. It is the top supplier of aromatic spices to global markets, so if you’re looking for spices for your curries this is the place to buy them. Moreover, voyagers also coveted fine sandalwood, perfumes & gold that came from this market town. Kochi kingdom dates back to the 12th century. It is believed that Chinese & Arab traders were the first visitors to Kochi who paved the way for Portuguese and Dutch visitors, followed by the British Raj in this region. This place has been a safe haven for travel enthusiasts for several decades. Sites reflecting those influences include Fort Kochi, a settlement with tiled colonial bungalows and diverse houses of worship. Cantilevered Chinese fishing nets, typical of Kochi, have been in use for centuries. 

Arrive in Cochin and proceed to the hotel.

Evening: Proceed for Kathakali show. 

Kathakali show: When travelling to South India, one must watch the traditional Kathakali Dance which is one of the oldest theatre dance forms in the world. Kochi is one of the best places to witness this heritage dance form. Kathakali artists wear elaborate, billowing costumes with intricately painted faces, flowing scarves, detailed ornaments, and magnificent crowns. Learn about Indian culture and its classic dance form of South India. This classical Indian dance performance tells stories of Hindu mythology, especially the two epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata through footwork and hand gestures. 

Return to the hotel.

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Cochin

After breakfast proceed for half-day city sightseeing of Cochin with a local English-speaking guide. 

Cochin city sightseeing visit includes Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), Fort Kochi, St Francis Church, Jewish Synagogue 

Later in the afternoon, proceed for Cochin harbor cruise with a local English-speaking guide.

Cochin Harbor Cruise: Undoubtedly one of the most happening and picturesque part of the city, take an hour-long private cruise for a more relaxed tour of the city. Witness Bolgatty palace, Chinese fishing nets and other attractions. 

Rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Cochin

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Varanasi Airport for your onward journey