South India Explorer - 14 days
14 Days Starting in Chennai, India and ending in Kochi, India
Visiting: Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Thanjavur, Madurai, Trichy, Kochi, Munnar, Alleppey, Kumarakom
Tour operator:
Tour code:
2037/SIEX
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 24
Age range:
15-
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Please contact On The Go Tours with specific dietary requests
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating 14-day journey through South India, exploring its rich cultural tapestry and stunning landscapes. Begin in Chennai and traverse through the French colonial charm of Pondicherry, the ancient temples of Mahabalipuram, and the vibrant city of Tanjore. Experience the tranquil village life in Chettinad, renowned for its flavorful cuisine, and witness the spiritual fervor in Madurai. Discover the lush tea plantations of Munnar and the wildlife sanctuary of Periyar. Sail the serene Kerala backwaters on a deluxe rice boat, and conclude your adventure in the coastal city of Kochi. With guided tours, luxurious accommodations, and the option to witness traditional Kathakali dance, this small group tour offers an immersive cultural experience in the heart of India.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Chennai
Location: Chennai
Welcome to Southern India! On arrival in Chennai you'll be transferred to our hotel in Mahabalipuram where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 2 : Mahabalipuram
Location: Mahabalipuram
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a guided visit to see the plethora of temples at Kanchipuram and enjoy a guided tour of Mahabalipuram. See the beautiful Shore Temple, the largest bas-relief in the world at Arjuna's Penance and the Five Rathas. These temples were covered by sand until the British rediscovered them 200 years ago.
Day 3 : Pondicherry
Location: Pondicherry
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel to Pondicherry today for a guided tour. Stroll along the beach and see the beautiful red and white Sacred Heart Basilica.
Day 4 : Thanjavur
Location: Thanjavur
Accommodation Name: overnight in Tanjore
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we drive to Tanjore, with numerous stops en route. Visit the famous temple at Chidambaram and the iconic Airavateswara Temple before we arrive in Tanjore for an evening at leisure.
Day 5 : Madurai
Location: Madurai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today we tour the city of Tanjore including the towering Brihadishwara Temple. After the tour we drive to Madurai and attend the evening Aarti prayer at Meenakshi Temple.
Day 6 : Madurai
Location: Madurai
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a half day guided tour of Madurai including the rock-cut temple of Thirupparankunram Murugan and then explore the bustling local bazaar this evening.
Day 7 - 8 : Trichy
Location: Trichy
Accommodation Name: Overnight Train
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel to Trichy and explore the iconic Rock Fort Temple, which sits on a hill overlooking the city. After our tour we board the overnight train to Kochi.
Day 9 : Munnar
Location: Munnar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a guided tour of Fort Kochi and see the famous Chinese fishing nets and St Francis' Church. We then travel to the former hill station of Munnar and enjoy a guided stroll through a tea plantation on day 10. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 10 : Munnar
Location: Munnar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a guided stroll through a tea plantation on day 10. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 11 : Alleppey
Location: Alleppey
Accommodation Name: Deluxe rice boat
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel to Alleppey today and board our deluxe rice boat for a cruise along the lush Kerala Backwaters. Enjoy freshly prepared meals and the night onboard and admire your stunning surroundings as we sail.
Day 12 : Kumarakom
Location: Kumarakom
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Disembark at Kumarakom for two free days to relax or explore. Opt to visit the Kumarakom bird sanctuary or take a boat ride on Lake Vembanad.
Day 13 : Kumarakom
Location: Kumarakom
Meals Included: Breakfast
Disembark at Kumarakom for two free days to relax or explore. Opt to visit the Kumarakom bird sanctuary or take a boat ride on Lake Vembanad.
Day 14 : Kochi
Location: Kochi
Meals Included: Breakfast
Return to Kochi this morning where our tour ends with an included airport transfer. Flights from Kochi should depart after 2pm.
What's Included
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Accommodation
3 - 4 star and heritage properties -
13 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 2 dinners
Enjoy 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 2 dinners during your tour.
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12 nights 3-4 star and heritage hotels
Stay for 12 nights in 3-4 star and heritage hotels.
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1 night deluxe houseboat cruise along the Keralan backwaters
Experience a 1-night deluxe houseboat cruise along the Keralan backwaters.
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Guided sightseeing - Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Chettinad, Madurai and Munnar Tea Plantation
Enjoy guided sightseeing tours in Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Chettinad, Madurai, and Munnar Tea Plantation.
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Boat ride on Lake Periyar
Take an included boat ride on Lake Periyar to spot wildlife.
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Escorted by an English-speaking Indian tour guide (for groups of 4 or more)
Be escorted by an English-speaking Indian tour guide for groups of 4 or more.
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Services of English-speaking Indian specialist guides at some sites
Benefit from the services of English-speaking Indian specialist guides at some sites.
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Airport arrival transfer on day 1 (For departures in 2024 a departure airport transfer is provided on day 14)
Receive an airport arrival transfer on day 1, and for departures in 2024, a departure airport transfer on day 14.
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All relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles
Enjoy all relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles.
What's Not Included
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International flights and visa
International flights and visa are not included in the tour package.
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Tip for your tour guide
Tip for your tour guide is not included.
It is recommended to allow USD$4-7 per day, per traveller. -
Entrance Fees
Entrance fees ranging from USD$35-45 per person, paid in local currency, are not included.
Age Policy
15 + if accompanied by an adult.
Accommodation
Experience a blend of modern comfort and heritage charm with stays at The Residency, Hotel GRT Grand, Hotel Atithi, Hotel Sangam, Chidambara Vilas, JC Residency, Eastend Munnar, The Elephant Court, Deluxe Houseboat, Eastend Lakesong, and Trident Hotel Kochi. Enjoy spacious rooms, luxurious amenities, and unique cultural settings across South India.
Mode of Transport
Travel in private air-conditioned vehicles throughout the tour, with all relevant transfers included. Enjoy a deluxe houseboat cruise along the Keralan backwaters and a boat ride on Lake Periyar. Airport arrival transfer is provided on day 1, and a departure transfer is available for 2024 departures.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 12 nights in 3-4 star and heritage hotels, and 1 night on a deluxe houseboat cruise along the Keralan backwaters.
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Is there a guide provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour is escorted by an English-speaking Indian tour guide for groups of 4 or more, and there are also services of English-speaking Indian specialist guides at some sites.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 2 dinners.
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Are airport transfers included in the tour?
Yes, an airport arrival transfer is included on day 1, and for departures in 2024, a departure airport transfer is provided on day 14.
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What activities are included in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary visit?
The visit to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary includes a boat ride on Lake Periyar to spot herds of wild elephants.
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What is the highlight of the visit to Mahabalipuram?
The highlight of the visit to Mahabalipuram is the exploration of the 7th century Shore Temple and the Five Rathas, which are UNESCO-listed sites.
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What can I expect during the houseboat cruise on the Keralan backwaters?
During the houseboat cruise on the Keralan backwaters, you will sail along the enchanting palm-fringed backwaters, pass by local villages, and enjoy meals prepared by the onboard chef using fresh local produce.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Free Date Changes
CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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