11 days Chennai – Pondicherry –Thanjavur - Madurai – Thekkady – Munnar - Cochin
Starting from Rs 25000/Person 11 Days
11 days
Chennai – Pondicherry –Thanjavur - Madurai – Thekkady – Munnar - Cochin
Day 01: Chennai Arrival
Arrival at Chennai international airport and later transferred to your hotel to check in. Chennai, a vibrant metropolis on the southeastern coast of India. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Chennai seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Evening visit to the iconic Marina Beach. Remaining time is at leisure till next day.
Day 02: Chennai
After breakfast, spend your day exploring Chennai. Your morning will be spent visiting the iconic 7th-century Kapaleeshwar Temple, Parthasarthy Temple, and the San Thome Basilica. Later visit the 17th-century Fort Saint George before returning to your hotel.
Day 03: Chennai – Pondicherry
After breakfast you will depart for Pondicherry, stopping at the Mahabalipuram rock carvings. These ancient rock-cut sculptures, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcase intricately carved depictions of Hindu mythology and ancient Indian art. Continue your journey to Pondicherry, where you will spend the night.
Day 04: Pondicherry
The most apparent legacy of Pondy's colonial past is the French and Tamil quarters of the town; separated by a canal. Firstly visit the French Quarter, distinguished by the Goubert Avenue which runs along the Promenade Beach. The manicured layout of the avenue is lined with heritage villas and buildings and statues - the most significant part of Pondy's history. Then cross the canal to visit the Tamil Quarter which has its own architectural heritage, best demonstrated by restored mansions (like Hotel Maison Perumal) which feature semi-public street verandahs, central courtyards and large windows. The Tamil Quarter bustles with activity all day long and displays the Indian side of Pondicherry. Afterwards, visit the unique Aurbindo Ashram, the city of dawn. This ashram promotes Aurbindo's ideas in bringing about a synthesis of Yoga and modern science, so as to unite the spirit and matter. Later in the day, the tour will take you to Auroville, the township established in 1968 to celebrate the unity among human beings. The world's largest solid crystal can be found in this township.
Day 05: Pondicherry - Thanjavur
Have delicious breakfast and we will drive you to your next destination Tanjore, a city with 1500 years of impressive history, stopping on the way in Chidambaram to visit the vibrant Nataraja Temple, famed for its bronze dancing Shiva. Observe the daily Brahmin rituals at shrines throughout the 40-acre complex. Thanjavur is home to many magnificent temples and shrines, making it one of the most important and most visited historical sites in India today.After brief refresh, visit 1000-year-old Brihadishvara temple, one of the largest temples in South India. The Sacred Bull made from a single piece of stone is one of the significant highlights in the temple.
Day 06: Thanjavur – Madurai
Proceed to Madurai after breakfast. Visit to the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. Explore its towering gopurams, intricate carvings, and vibrant temple complex dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar. Proceed to Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, an impressive example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Admire the grandeur of the palace's pillared halls, ornate ceilings, and exquisite frescoes depicting scenes from Tamil literature and mythology. Conclude your cultural tour with a visit to the Gandhi Memorial Museum, dedicated to the life and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. Explore exhibits showcasing photographs, documents, and artifacts related to India's struggle for independence.
Day 07: Madurai - Thekkady
Checkout from hotel after breakfast and drive to Thekkady. Visit to spice plantation, where you could see commercial plantations of cardamom, pepper, coffee etc., after check in to the hotel. Elephant ride through the spice plantations, enjoy watching the martial arts of Kerala (Kalari) and witness the tradition and culture through the famous Kathakali performance. Overnight stay at Thekkady.
Day 08: Thekkady
Experience a boat safari on Periyar Lake, spotting wildlife like elephants and birds amidst the dense forests. Animals like elephant, gaur and sambar are sighted keeping close to the edges of the lake. Other activities include Nature walk, Bird watching, trekking, Bamboo rafting, Jeep safari, agriculture farm tour & sightseeing. Evening could go for a massage to relax your body and mind. A comfortable overnight stay in the hotel.
Day 09: Thekkady - Munnar
After breakfast check out from hotel and drive to, through the scenic network of roads leading to Munnar. This hill station in Kerala is marked by vast spans of lush green tea plantations, waterfalls and a pleasant weather. After Check in to the hotel proceed to echo point, where your whispers reverberate amidst the tranquil surroundings and top station, the highest point in Munnar. Other places to visit are Eravikulam National Park, Chinnar wildlife sanctuary, Anamudy peak. Evening market visit. Overnight stay at Munnar.
Day 10: Munnar – Cochin
After refreshing breakfast, proceed to Cochin. A blend of history and culture, Kochi offers colonial charm with landmarks like Fort Kochi and Mattancherry Palace. The backwaters add tranquility, while vibrant markets showcase local life.
Day 11: Cochin Departure
After a hearty breakfast, drive to Cochin airport for your journey back home, feeling contented about a wonderful holiday you spend in the ‘God’s Own Country.