Explore South India Tour - South India 11 Days Tour Package
  • Duration

    Duration

    11 Days
  • Destination Covered

    Destination Covered

    Chennai, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Madurai, Perriyar, Kumarakom, Allepy, Cochin
  • Places

    Places

    8 Places

Overview

South India is a land of deep traditions, vibrant cultures, serene landscapes, and timeless architecture that tells the stories of its magnificent past. This Best South India tour takes you on an enchanting route from the eastern coast of Tamil Nadu to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, giving you a taste of the true essence of southern India. From the minute you step into the busy and historical city of Chennai, you will be surrounded by age-old temples, ancient philosophies, traditional music, and colourful silk markets that have attracted visitors from around the world. Tamil Nadu, once known as Tamizhagam, is widely considered the cradle of Dravidian civilization and has been home to some of the most influential schools of Hindu thought. The mighty Nilgiri Hills, rising to a height of 2500 meters, divide this diverse land, offering cool retreats and misty forests to travellers who venture into its winding paths.

As you travel through cities like Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Tanjore, and Madurai, you will find yourself walking through open-air museums of culture and devotion. You will witness magnificent temple towers that stretch toward the sky, each etched with stories of gods, kings, and commoners alike. You will experience the refined legacy of the Chola dynasty, whose capital cities still stand proudly in Trichy and Tanjore. In Madurai, the vibrant streets pulse with energy and devotion, cantered around the renowned Meenakshi Temple whose gopurams are a celebration of artistic splendour. From spiritual pilgrimages to architectural marvels, the land of Tamil Nadu constantly reminds its visitors that its soul lives in both its people and its past.

As you leave the granite-carved temples and head westward, the lush green Western Ghats gently welcome you to a land of wildlife, spices, and water-bound serenity. Periyar, set amidst the forested slopes of Kerala, invites you to breathe in the pure mountain air and observe elephants and deer by the lakeside. As you descend into the shimmering waterscapes of Kumarakom and Alleppey, the rhythm of life slows, and you will find yourself moving with the flow of the backwaters, past fishing nets, coconut groves, and stilted village homes. The overnight houseboat stay in Alleppey will remain etched in your memory, as will the scent of fresh spices from the boat’s kitchen.

In Cochin, you will find the rich confluence of cultures that have shaped Kerala’s history. From the Jewish Synagogue built in 1568 to the Dutch Palace showcasing paintings of the Kochi kings, this port city reflects the diversity of trade, migration, and shared heritage. With the Kathakali performance in the evening, you will witness how art, myth, and dance merge to tell stories older than time. This South India tour package is not simply about destinations; it is about discovering a region where history breathes in the architecture, where culture echoes as in rituals, and where every meal, view, and step is part of an ever-unfolding story.

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    HIGHLIGHTS:

    • Begin your journey in the cultural and coastal capital city of Chennai with assistance from a local tour guide and smooth hotel check-in arranged by our team.
    • Explore Kanchipuram, known as the city of a thousand temples, where you will learn about ancient Pallava architecture and visit the Lourdes Shrine Church.
    • Discover the Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site built during the reign of the Pallava dynasty, reflecting Dravidian rock-cut artistry.
    • Enjoy guided sightseeing in Pondicherry, a former French colony with European charm, including visits to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and Pondicherry Museum.
    • Travel through the fertile Kaveri Delta and explore Gangaikondacholapuram, a historical site built by Rajendra Chola I to mark his victory across the Ganges.
    • Experience Tanjore, home to the iconic Brihadeeswarar Temple and a treasure trove of Chola bronzes and paintings, with personalized commentary from your tour guide.
    • Visit Trichy and the Srirangam Temple complex, one of the largest functioning Hindu temples in the world, as well as the ancient Rock Fort Temple.
    • Explore Madurai, a bustling city revered for its Meenakshi Amman Temple, known for its striking architecture and deep spiritual significance
    • Enjoy comfortable accommodation with modern amenities and daily breakfast and dinner included throughout your journey.
    • Drive into the Western Ghats to reach Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala’s premier nature reserve, where you will enjoy a boat ride across Lake Periyar.
    • Witness herds of elephants, sambar deer, and exotic birdlife in their natural habitat, accompanied by a forest guide and ranger team.
    • Travel to Kumarakom, a tranquil lakeside village, and stay at a scenic resort near the Vembanad Lake, once a rubber plantation, now home to birdlife and tropical flora.
    • Enjoy a guided nature walk through the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary to spot migratory and endemic birds like the Siberian stork and kingfisher.
    • Cruise through the backwaters of Alleppey aboard a traditional Kerala houseboat with all meals freshly prepared on board using local ingredients.
    • Experience a night under the stars on the calm backwaters, with private bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms, and attentive staff to cater to your comfort.
    • Arrive in Cochin, a historic port city, and explore its colonial legacy with visits to the Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, and Fort Kochi area.
    • Marvel at the traditional Kerala murals and royal portraits inside Mattancherry Palace and walk along the narrow lanes lined with spice shops.
    • Witness an enchanting Kathakali dance performance in the evening, including a behind-the-scenes look at the makeup and costume preparation.
    • Travel in air-conditioned private vehicles with experienced drivers who ensure safe and relaxed journeys across all destinations.
    • A dedicated tour manager will accompany you throughout the journey to assist with local insights, logistics, and language support.
    • All monument entry fees, cultural shows, hotel tips, and porterage are covered in your package for a seamless travel experience.

    Important Notes for Explore South India tour

    • Travelers must carry a valid government-issued photo ID such as an Aadhaar card, passport, or driver’s license at all times during the trip.
    • Domestic flight charges are not included unless specified; kindly coordinate with the travel coordinator for ticket booking assistance.
    • All hotel check-ins generally begin at 12 noon or 2 PM depending on the property; early check-in requests are subject to availability.
    • For temple visits, modest clothing is required, including garments that cover shoulders and knees; footwear must be removed before entry.
    • Meals include breakfast and dinner at hotels and houseboat meals during backwater cruising; lunches are free for local exploration.
    • Photography inside temples, museums, or ashrams may be prohibited or subject to additional charges at some sites.
    • Wildlife sightings in Periyar are based on nature and season; while likely, they cannot be guaranteed.
    • Water provided during travel will be sealed bottled water; tap water in hotels and restaurants should be avoided.
    • Some parts of Periyar and the Western Ghats may have limited mobile network coverage; please inform family accordingly.
    • The tour includes moderate walking at temples and forts; those with mobility concerns should carry walking aids and consult in advance.
    • During houseboat stays, air conditioning is available during fixed hours in the evening to preserve energy and reduce generator noise
    • Mosquito repellent is strongly recommended in forest and lakeside regions like Periyar and Kumarakom.
    • Luggage must be kept within airline weight limits and is best packed in soft suitcases or duffel bags for easy handling.
    • In case of emergencies, all destinations on the itinerary have access to nearby medical services or hospitals.
    • Personal medication must be carried along with prescriptions; not all regional pharmacies stock international brands.
    • Avoid over-scheduling your evenings; cultural shows and nature walks are relaxing but should be followed by adequate rest.
    • Footwear suitable for temple visits (easily removable) and non-slip shoes for wet surfaces in monsoon are recommended.
    • Smoking and alcohol consumption may be restricted in temple zones, houseboats, and some nature reserves.
    • Any changes to itinerary due to weather, political or social events will be communicated promptly by the travel coordinator.

    Best Time to Go for Explore South India Tour

    The most pleasant time to embark on the Explore South India Tour is from October to March, when the weather remains cool, dry, and ideal for sightseeing across Tamil Nadu and Kerala. During these months, coastal cities like Chennai and Pondicherry offer warm days and breezy evenings, while hill towns like Periyar and Kumarakom stay lush and comfortable. This period also aligns with many regional festivals and temple events, allowing travellers to witness cultural rituals and local celebrations first-hand. December and January see a festive spirit in cities like Madurai and Cochin, marked by vibrant decorations and community gatherings. Although summer months from April to June are hotter and more humid, hill stations remain relatively cooler and peaceful for off-season travellers. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall, especially in Kerala, and may cause travel delays, but it also paints the backwaters and forests in a richer shade of green. For families, solo travellers, and cultural explorers, the winter months ensure smoother travel conditions and more immersive experiences.

    Day By Day Itinerary

    • DAY 1

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      Arrival at Chennai

      After arrival you will be assisted to the hotel for a two night long stay, followed by a tour around Chennai in the afternoon.

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    • DAY 2

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      Chennai

      Known as the city of 1,000 temples, Kanchipuram, is also famous for its silks. We visit Kanchipuram and Lourdes Shrine Church.

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    • DAY 3

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      Chennai - Poducherry (also known as Pondicherry)

      The Shore Temple in Mahaballipuram is now counted as a World Heritage monument. A drive to this coastal temple town is arranged, followed by a visit to Sri Aurobindo Ashram and later a visit to the Pondicherry Museum and overnight stay at the hotel.

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    • DAY 4

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      Pondicherry - Tanjore

      We travel further south to visit temples of Gangaikondacholapuram, through the Kaveri’s flat landscapes and heartlands of Chola. A 6hr travel to the ‘Rice Bowl’ of Tamil Nadu, Tanjore for an overnight hotel stay.

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    • DAY 5

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      Tanjore - Madurai

      The Chola dynasty ruled Tamil Nadu between 1st and 4th century. Their capital was Tiruchirapalli or now known as Trichy as mentioned by Ptolemy. We set out for a visit to this historic place along with a visit to the Rock Fort and Srirangam temple complex. After this we continue our journey to Madurai, stay at the hotel overnight.

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    • DAY 6

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      Madurai - Periyar

      Synonymous with the celebrated Meenakshi temple with tower Gopurams, is one of India’s greatest temple towns, Madurai. A visit to this cultural and architectural beauty in the morning and then a continued 5 hour long journey to Perriyar to visit most popular wildlife sanctuary of Southern India followed by a two night long stay the hotel.

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    • DAY 7

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      Periyar

      An escape from the buzz of city life is a paradise set in the Western Ghats, Periyar. We start off with a relaxing boat ride early in the morning.

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    • DAY 8

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      Periyar - Kumarakom

      A 4hr travel to Kumarakom currently located on the shores of Lake Vembanad, formerly a rubber plantation, the estate is now a bird sanctuary. Stay at the hotel, overnight.

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    • DAY 9

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      Kumarakom - Alleppey

      A day cruise on the popular Kerala houseboat and a night on board with breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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    • DAY 10

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      lleppey - Cochin

      After the fun boat ride, we arrive at Cochin, a vibrant city with scenic, is located between the backwaters and the Arabian Sea. Here we visit the Jewish Synagogue, built by Malabar Yehudan people in 1568, and the Mattancherry Palace, that has Kerala murals depicting Hindu temple art, portraits and other exhibits of the Rajas of Kochi, also known as the Dutch Palace, in the afternoon. In the evening we watch a Kathakali dance show, one of the most exotic and vibrant dance forms in India.

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    • DAY 11

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      Departure

      Drop at the Cochin airport in the morning.

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    How to Book Explore South India Tour?

    Booking your Explore South India Tour is simple, secure, and designed to suit your comfort. You can begin by selecting your preferred travel dates and finalizing your itinerary in consultation with our travel planning team. All arrangements—transport, accommodation, guided sightseeing, and special requests—will be handled in advance to ensure a smooth journey.

    Once you confirm your details, we will share a secure payment link for deposit or full payment based on your choice. You may also opt for easy payment instalments or custom date blocking if you are still finalizing your calendar.

    We understand the importance of support, especially for long journeys. That is why you will be assigned a dedicated travel coordinator who will be available from the time of booking till your journey ends. They will assist you with packing tips, medical travel guidance, and travel insurance options if needed.

    Whether you are traveling solo or with family, all preferences and comfort levels will be respected. Airport transfers, dietary requests, and customized experiences can be added on request. Visa guidance, especially for foreign travellers, is also available.

    If you prefer a more personal approach, you may contact our booking desk directly through phone, email, or chat support. We believe in transparency, so no hidden charges or surprise costs will be added beyond what is agreed at booking.

    If you are looking for a custom tour, please submit the contact form on our website. Our team will contact you as soon as possible.

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