South India: A Land of Rich Cultural Tapestry and Diverse Experiences
Indo Asia Tours
India offers a kaleidoscope of culture and experiences that span centuries of tradition and diversity. From the vibrant festivals to the echoes of ancient temples and forts that whisper tales of empires long past, bustling bazaars and aromatic food, India invites visitors to immerse themselves in a cultural mosaic that is as enchanting as it is profound.
On this cultural journey you will come across the highlights of Tamil Nadu & Kerala the 02 vibrant states in Southern India. Tamil Nadu is famous for beautiful and mammoth temples exhibiting Dravidian architecture and Kerala is famous for its history, backwaters and its natural beauty. The program offers a deep dive into the cultural richness, historical heritage, and natural splendor of these places, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking diverse and immersive experiences.
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive Chennai
Arrive in Chennai. On arrival, you will be greeted and assisted by our representative and transferred to the hotel. Rooms will be available from 1400 Hrs.
CHENNAI - Formerly called Madras, is the capital city of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This metropolis is often called the cultural capital of India for its deep-rooted traditions and long heritage.
In the late afternoon enjoy a short orientation drive through the city and watch sunset at the Marina Beach, said to be the second longest urban beach in the world.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 02: Chennai / Mahabalipuram / Pondicherry
Drive to Pondicherry, which was a former French colony.
On the way visit the UNESCO listed group of monuments in Mahabalipuram. This group of sanctuaries, founded by the Pallava kings, was carved out of rock along the Coromandel coast in the 7th and 8th centuries. It is known especially for its rathas (temples in the form of chariots), mandapas (cave sanctuaries), giant open-air reliefs such as the famous 'Descent of the Ganges', with thousands of sculptures to the glory of Shiva.
Overnight at the hotel in Pondicherry.
Day 03: Pondicherry
Morning is reserved for a visit to Auroville, described as "the City of Tomorrow", followed by the visit of Sri Aurobindo Ashram.
Afternoon is reserved for a Heritage walk in the French quarters of the city.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 04: Pondicherry / Kumbakonam
After breakfast, drive to Kumbakonam. On the way visit Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram which is an excellent example of a unique amalgamation of several architectural styles.
On arrival in Kumbakonam, transfer to hotel.
Late afternoon is reserved for a guided bullock cart ride in the village. It will be followed by a visit of a Silk weaving cooperative that has approx. 1000 registered weavers with about 50% of them being female weavers. The cooperative works for the benefit the local society.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 05: Kumbakonam / Tanjore / Chettinadu / Madurai
Morning after breakfast drive to Tanjore and visit the magnificent Brihadeshwara Temple which is among one of the three UNESCO listed Great Living Chola Temples, built in the 10th century.
Continue your journey to Chettinadu a historical town famous for its unique architecture, rich art, cultural heritage and delicious cuisine. Enjoy your visit around the town marvelling at some of the exemplary mansions followed by a sumptuous banana leaf lunch in one of the old mansions.
Later continue your drive to Madurai, also called the “Athens of the East”.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 06: Madurai
Early morning, enjoy a city walk and get acquainted with the local life of the oldest city of South India.
After breakfast visit Meenakshi Temple, a splendid example of Dravidian architecture and Tirumalai Nayak Mahal.
Evening is reserved to attend 'Bedtime of the God', ceremony, at Meenakshi Temple. A colourful procession, in which the image of Shiva is carried accompanied by musicians, temple singers and priests from his shrine.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 07: Madurai / Periyar
After breakfast, drive to Periyar.
In the afternoon enjoy a Scenic jeep ride tour where you can have glimpses of the Western Ghats. It is an internationally recognized region of immense global importance for the conservation of biological diversity, besides containing areas of high geological, cultural, and aesthetic values.
In the evening enjoy a mesmerizing Kalaripayattu performance (a form of martial arts).
Overnight at the hotel
Day 08: Periyar / Backwaters
In the morning visit a Spice Plantation and know about the usage of different spices in Indian cooking.
Later drive to Backwaters and board a houseboat (also known as Rice boat or Kettuvallam) for a cruising experience on the famed backwaters of Kerala with lunch and dinner served on board.
Overnight on the houseboat.
Day 09: Backwaters / Cochin
Morning after breakfast disembark the houseboat and drive to Cochin, eulogized as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’.
On arrival in Cochin, transfer to the hotel.
In the afternoon enjoy visit of Cochin including Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church, Dutch Palace and Chinese Fishing Nets.
In the evening enjoy an enthralling Kathakali Dance Performance - a traditional dance form of Kerala. The impressive facial expressions, hand gestures and dance moves will leave one spellbound.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 10: Cochin Departure
In time transfer to the airport and connect flight back home. IMP: Room will be available till 1200 Hrs.
The program can be extended to include some days on the beach.
Services included
- Double room on sharing basis.
- Daily breakfast. Full board in the Rice boat.
- All transfers and sightseeing using airconditioned vehicle.
- Entrance at all the monuments as listed in the program.
- Services of English/Language speaking local guides for the sightseeing.
- Heritage walk in French quarters of Pondicherry
- All walking tours as mentioned in the program.
- Bullock cart in Kumbakonam.
- Scenic jeep tour, Spice Plantation tour and Kalaripayattu performance in Periyar.
- Kathakali dance performance in Cochin.
- Currently applicable taxes.
Services excluded
- Any airfares / airport taxes.
- Any expense of personal nature such as tips, phone calls, drinks etc.
- Any new tax imposed by the Government.
Recommended travel period
October - March
Lufthansa City Center