South India Highlights – 12 Nights / 13 Days

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Verified Tour

Duration 12 Nights / 13 Days

Destination South India

Transport Private AC Cab

Support 24/7 Assistance

Tour Highlights

Grand 13-day journey across the iconic highlights of Tamil Nadu & Kerala

Chennai gateway: city orientation and heritage landmarks drive

UNESCO World Heritage in Mahabalipuram: Shore Temple, Arjuna's Penance & Pancha Rathas

French colonial quarter, seafront promenade & heritage lanes of Pondicherry

Thiruchirappalli (Trichy) Rockfort Temple & grand Brihadeeswarar Chola Temple in Thanjavur

Iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple and bustling traditional old bazaars of Madurai

Sacred island of Rameswaram: Ramanathaswamy Temple long corridors & Agni Theertham

Kanyakumari at Land’s End: Vivekananda Rock Memorial & confluence of three seas

Golden coastal relaxation and beachside resort stay in Kovalam

Exclusive private Kettuvallam houseboat cruise with overnight stay on Alleppey backwaters

Munnar hill station retreat: rolling tea plantations, Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point & Kundala Lake

Cultural legacy of Fort Kochi: Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church & Mattancherry Palace

Private AC vehicle with dedicated driver from Chennai arrival to Kochi departure

Tour Overview

"Discover the diverse soul of South India on a grand 12 Nights / 13 Days journey through Tamil Nadu and Kerala: Chennai, Mahabalipuram, French Pondicherry, Trichy, Thanjavur Chola temples, Madurai Meenakshi Temple, holy Rameswaram, Kanyakumari, Kovalam beach, private Alleppey houseboat, misty Munnar tea hills, and historic Fort Kochi."

“A Grand Odyssey Through Temples, Heritage, Backwaters & Tropical Landscapes”

Discover the diverse beauty, living spiritual traditions, and breathtaking landscapes of South India on a meticulously designed 12 Nights / 13 Days journey. Spanning across Tamil Nadu and Kerala, this tour connects monumental Dravidian temple towers, UNESCO World Heritage monuments, charming French colonial boulevards, holy pilgrimage sanctuaries, serene coastal shores, misty Western Ghat tea plantations, and the world-famous tranquil backwaters of God’s Own Country.

From the rock-cut sanctuaries of Mahabalipuram and the grand Chola architecture of Thanjavur to the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple of Madurai and the sacred sea-meeting point at Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu immerses you in deep spirituality and classical heritage. Transition into Kerala to unwind on the golden sands of Kovalam, glide through palm-fringed backwaters on a private traditional houseboat in Alleppey, breathe in the crisp mountain air of Munnar’s emerald tea estates, and absorb the multicultural maritime legacy of Fort Kochi. This journey offers the definitive South Indian travel experience with private AC transport, expert guidance, and handpicked stays.

Day-by-Day Detailed Itinerary

Thoughtfully planned schedule with temple darshan, guided visits & relaxation.

DAY 1

DAY 01 | ARRIVAL CHENNAI – Gateway to South India

Welcome Refreshments

Arrive at Chennai International Airport, the bustling cultural gateway to South India. Meet and greet by our executive and chauffeur with a warm traditional welcome, followed by a comfortable transfer to your pre-booked hotel.

Complete check-in formalities and refresh after your flight. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a relaxed orientation drive through the major landmarks of Chennai, taking in glimpses of historic colonial architecture, Marina Beach promenade, and the vibrant pulse of Tamil Nadu's capital city.

Overnight stay at hotel in Chennai.

DAY 2

DAY 02 | CHENNAI – MAHABALIPURAM – PONDICHERRY

Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and embark on a scenic coastal drive along the East Coast Road (ECR) towards Pondicherry.

En route, pause at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram), the legendary 7th-century seaport of the Pallava dynasty renowned for its sublime rock-cut monuments and cave temples. Explore:
• Shore Temple: Beautifully weathered stone sanctuary standing on the edge of the roaring Bay of Bengal.
• Arjuna's Penance (Descent of the Ganges): Massive open-air bas-relief intricately carved with celestial beings, elephants, and divine figures.
• Pancha Rathas: Monolithic rock-cut shrines carved out of single granite boulders in distinctive chariot shapes.
• Krishna's Butter Ball: Enormous natural granite boulder precariously perched on a smooth rock slope.

Continue south to Pondicherry (Puducherry) and check in at your hotel. Later in the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely walk through the charming French Quarter (White Town), admiring tree-lined avenues, mustard-yellow colonial mansions, chic cafes, and the seaside Promenade along the Bay of Bengal.

Overnight stay at hotel in Pondicherry.

DAY 3

DAY 03 | PONDICHERRY – THIRUCHIRAPPALLI – THANJAVUR

Breakfast

After breakfast, check out and proceed inland towards the ancient Chola heartland of Thanjavur.

En route, pause at Thiruchirappalli (Trichy) along the banks of the Kaveri River. Explore the dramatic Rockfort Temple (Ucchi Pillayar Temple), an ancient fortress and temple perched high atop an enormous 83-meter-high geological rock formation, and visit the surrounding lively heritage bazaar.

Continue the short drive to Thanjavur, celebrated as the historic cradle of Carnatic music, bronze sculpture, and South Indian classical arts. Arrive and visit the awe-inspiring Brihadeeswarar Temple (Peruvudaiyar Kovil), a 1,000-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Great Living Chola Temple built by Emperor Raja Raja Chola I. Marvel at its monumental 66-meter-high vimana (tower) crowned by an 80-tonne single granite capstone, majestic monolithic Nandi, and magnificent frescoes.

Overnight stay at hotel in Thanjavur.

DAY 4

DAY 04 | THANJAVUR – MADURAI & Meenakshi Amman Temple

Breakfast

Following breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive towards Madurai, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and the soul of Tamil cultural heritage.

On arrival in Madurai, check in at your hotel and freshen up. Later in the afternoon, explore the historic city and visit the spectacular Meenakshi Amman Temple, an architectural masterpiece of Dravidian art dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar. Walk through its soaring, multi-tiered gopurams (gateways) encrusted with thousands of brightly painted stucco deities, the monumental Hall of Thousand Pillars (Aayiram Kaal Mandapam), and the sacred Golden Lotus Tank (Porthamarai Kulam).

In the evening, soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the ancient temple city, exploring traditional markets bustling with jasmine flower sellers, handwoven Madurai Sungudi cotton sarees, and brass lamps.

Overnight stay at hotel in Madurai.

DAY 5

DAY 05 | MADURAI – RAMESWARAM Island Pilgrimage

Breakfast

After breakfast, check out and proceed eastward across the coastal plains to the sacred pilgrimage island of Rameswaram, deeply revered in Hindu mythology as the sacred bridge crossing point associated with the epic Ramayana.

Cross the historic Pamban channel via the iconic bridge, enjoying sweeping views of the turquoise ocean waters. Upon arrival in Rameswaram, check in at your hotel.

Proceed to visit the grand Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlinga shrines. Marvel at its world-famous corridors—the longest pillared temple corridors in the world—lined with over 1,200 elaborately carved stone pillars. Experience the sacred Agni Theertham sea beach where pilgrims take holy dips, explore the holy temple water wells (22 Kunds), and visit nearby coastal pilgrimage landmarks.

Overnight stay at hotel in Rameswaram.

DAY 6

DAY 06 | RAMESWARAM – KANYAKUMARI (Land's End)

Breakfast

After breakfast, depart Rameswaram and journey southward to Kanyakumari (Cape Comorin), the southernmost tip of mainland India where the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean converge.

On arrival, check in at your hotel. Later in the afternoon, embark on an exploratory tour of this legendary land's end:
• Ferry Ride to Vivekananda Rock Memorial: Stand on the sacred offshore granite rock where Swami Vivekananda meditated and attained enlightenment in 1892.
• Thiruvalluvar Statue: Gaze upon the monumental 133-foot stone statue dedicated to the immortal Tamil poet-philosopher Thiruvalluvar.
• Bhagavathy Amman Temple: Visit the 3,000-year-old sea-facing shrine dedicated to virgin Goddess Kanyakumari.
• Seafront Promenade: Witness the extraordinary spectacle of sunset over the confluence of three oceans from the southern shoreline.

Overnight stay at hotel in Kanyakumari.

DAY 7

DAY 07 | KANYAKUMARI – KOVALAM Beach Resort

Breakfast

Wake up early for a magical sunrise experience over the boundless waters of the Indian Ocean (subject to weather conditions).

After breakfast, check out and cross the border from Tamil Nadu into the verdant tropical landscapes of Kerala, driving towards the internationally renowned beach haven of Kovalam.

On arrival in Kovalam, check in at your seaside hotel or beach resort. The remainder of the day is at complete leisure. Relax under coconut palm groves, walk along the crescent-shaped golden sands of Lighthouse Beach and Hawah Beach, or indulge in an authentic Ayurvedic rejuvenation massage.

Overnight stay at hotel/resort in Kovalam.

DAY 8

DAY 08 | KOVALAM – ALLEPPEY Private Houseboat Cruise

Breakfast Lunch Evening Tea & Dinner

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive north towards Alleppey (Alappuzha), affectionately celebrated as the 'Venice of the East'.

Around midday, board your exclusive private traditional Kerala Kettuvallam Houseboat. Settle into your air-conditioned room and begin an unforgettable leisurely cruise through the tranquil backwaters, meandering canals, and peaceful lagoons of Lake Vembanad.

Gaze out at idyllic emerald scenery: swaying coconut groves, rustic village settlements, ancient wooden canoes, and lush green paddy fields cultivated below sea level. Relish authentic, freshly prepared Kerala cuisine for lunch, evening tea with traditional banana fritters, and dinner served on board by your dedicated private chef and crew.

Overnight stay on board the Houseboat in Alleppey.

DAY 9

DAY 09 | ALLEPPEY – MUNNAR (Ascent to Western Ghats)

Breakfast

Wake to the gentle ripples of backwater life and enjoy a traditional breakfast on the houseboat deck. Disembark at the jetty and meet your chauffeur.

Begin your scenic ascent towards Munnar, Kerala's premier hill station situated 1,600 meters above sea level in the majestic Western Ghats. The winding mountain road takes you through picturesque countryside, rubber plantations, bubbling waterfalls (Cheeyappara and Valara falls), and misty mountain ridges.

On arrival in Munnar, check in at your hotel or resort. Enjoy a relaxed evening surrounded by cool mountain breezes, crisp air, and panoramic valley views.

Overnight stay at hotel in Munnar.

DAY 10

DAY 10 | MUNNAR SIGHTSEEING – Tea Gardens & Mountain Lakes

Breakfast

After breakfast, embark on a full-day guided sightseeing excursion across the breathtaking natural landscapes of Munnar:
• Lush Tea Plantations: Drive through vast undulating carpets of emerald tea estates and visit the KDHP Tea Museum (subject to opening days) to learn about the history and processing of fine orthodox teas.
• Mattupetty Dam: Beautiful concrete gravity dam set amidst rolling hills, offering boating options and scenic mountain backdrops.
• Echo Point: Picturesque natural spot known for its unique natural acoustic echo phenomenon and serene lake vistas.
• Kundala Lake: Peaceful dam and reservoir where the rare Neelakurinji flowers bloom once every 12 years.
• Scenic Viewpoints: Take in sweeping panoramic vistas of the Western Ghats and cloud-kissed mountain peaks.

Return to your hotel in the evening to relax amidst the cool mountain weather.

Overnight stay at hotel in Munnar.

DAY 11

DAY 11 | MUNNAR – Historic KOCHI (Fort Kochi)

Breakfast

Following breakfast, check out from the hotel and descend from the mist-clad hills of Munnar towards the historic port city of Kochi (Cochin), the historic 'Queen of the Arabian Sea'.

On arrival in Kochi, check in at your hotel. Later in the afternoon, proceed to explore historic Fort Kochi, where multi-layered Portuguese, Dutch, British, Arab, and Jewish influences harmoniously blend:
• Chinese Fishing Nets (Cheena Vala): Iconic shore-operated cantilevered fishing nets introduced by Chinese traders in the 14th century, silhouetted against the harbour.
• St. Francis Church: India's oldest European-built church (erected in 1503), the original burial site of explorer Vasco da Gama.
• Mattancherry & Jew Town: Stroll through antique shops, spice warehouses, and the historic Jewish heritage quarter.
• Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace): Famous for its traditional Kerala architectural woodwork and extraordinary Hindu mythological murals (subject to opening).

Overnight stay at hotel in Kochi.

DAY 12

DAY 12 | KOCHI – Heritage, Culture & Leisure

Breakfast

After breakfast, continue your leisurely exploration of Kochi at an unhurried, comfortable pace.

Combine culture, shopping, and heritage:
• Optional Kathakali Dance Theatre: In the evening, witness a spellbinding traditional Kathakali performance, featuring elaborate face makeup, vibrant costumes, expressive mudras, and captivating storytelling from Indian epics.
• Culinary & Spice Trail: Explore the famous spice markets of Mattancherry, smelling fresh cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, and cloves that drew global merchants to the Malabar coast for centuries.
• Leisure & Wellness: Enjoy an authentic Kerala Ayurvedic wellness therapy, shop for traditional handicrafts and spices, or simply relax at a heritage cafe overlooking the waterfront.

Overnight stay at hotel in Kochi.

DAY 13

DAY 13 | DEPARTURE FROM KOCHI (Cochin International Airport)

Breakfast

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the hotel. Spend your final morning soaking in the serene coastal ambiance of Kerala.

Check out from the hotel according to your flight schedule. Your private chauffeur will transfer you to Cochin International Airport (COK) for your onward flight home.

Your unforgettable 13-day South India Highlights journey concludes with cherished memories of majestic Dravidian temples, tranquil backwaters, misty mountain tea hills, and warm Konkan-Malabar hospitality.

Need adjustments to this itinerary?

Add more days, include Ayodhya/Prayagraj sacred visits, upgrade hotel categories or request VIP temple darshan.

Package Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions (What’s Included)

12 Nights accommodation (11 Nights in selected hotels/resorts + 01 Night private AC houseboat in Alleppey)
Daily buffet breakfast at all hotels and resorts
Full board meals (Lunch, Evening Tea/Snacks & Dinner) on board the private Alleppey houseboat
Airport pick-up at Chennai International Airport and drop-off at Cochin International Airport
All inter-city transfers and local sightseeing in a private air-conditioned vehicle
Services of a courteous, experienced chauffeur throughout the entire tour
Dedicated private houseboat cruise along Alleppey’s scenic backwaters with crew & chef
All toll taxes, state border permits, parking fees, fuel charges, and driver allowances
All applicable hotel and luxury taxes

Exclusions (What’s Not Included)

Airfare and train tickets to Chennai / from Kochi
Lunches and dinners at hotels (except on the houseboat where all meals are included)
Monument, museum, and temple inner sanctum entrance tickets
Optional activities: Kathakali performance, Ayurvedic massages, spice plantation visits, and boat rides
Personal expenses: laundry, room service, telephone calls, and porterage
Tips and gratuities for driver, guides, boat crew, and hotel staff
Travel and medical insurance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Essential information and queries regarding this tour package

The tour commences with pick-up at Chennai International Airport (MAA) in Tamil Nadu and concludes with drop-off at Cochin International Airport (COK) in Kerala.

We provide an exclusive private traditional Kerala Kettuvallam houseboat equipped with air-conditioned bedrooms, private attached bathrooms, an open lounge, and a dedicated captain, crew, and chef serving authentic freshly prepared Kerala cuisine.

Yes. Traditional modest clothing is required for major temples like Meenakshi Amman (Madurai), Brihadeeswarar (Thanjavur), and Ramanathaswamy (Rameswaram). Shorts, sleeveless tops, and short skirts are strictly prohibited. Dhotis or trousers for men and sarees/salwar kameez for women are recommended.

Yes, this itinerary can be tailored to include additional destinations such as Thekkady (Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary), Chettinad heritage mansions, or Kumarakom, with choices between 3-star, 4-star, and luxury 5-star heritage properties.

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South India Highlights – 12 Nights / 13 Days

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Duration 12 Nights / 13 Days

Destination South India

Itinerary 13 Days Planned

Group Size Solo / Family / Group

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Tour Overview

Day-by-Day Detailed Itinerary

DAY 01 | ARRIVAL CHENNAI – Gateway to South India

DAY 02 | CHENNAI – MAHABALIPURAM – PONDICHERRY

DAY 03 | PONDICHERRY – THIRUCHIRAPPALLI – THANJAVUR

DAY 04 | THANJAVUR – MADURAI & Meenakshi Amman Temple

DAY 05 | MADURAI – RAMESWARAM Island Pilgrimage

DAY 06 | RAMESWARAM – KANYAKUMARI (Land's End)

DAY 07 | KANYAKUMARI – KOVALAM Beach Resort

DAY 08 | KOVALAM – ALLEPPEY Private Houseboat Cruise

DAY 09 | ALLEPPEY – MUNNAR (Ascent to Western Ghats)

DAY 10 | MUNNAR SIGHTSEEING – Tea Gardens & Mountain Lakes

DAY 11 | MUNNAR – Historic KOCHI (Fort Kochi)

DAY 12 | KOCHI – Heritage, Culture & Leisure

DAY 13 | DEPARTURE FROM KOCHI (Cochin International Airport)

Need adjustments to this itinerary?

Package Inclusions & Exclusions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why Book With Eternal Ganges?

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