Backwaters and Beyond: South India
Overview: Explore the enchanting realm of South India, where ancient temples stand as intricate testimonies to a deeply rooted spiritual heritage and architecture.
Immerse yourself in sun-kissed beaches, serene backwaters, and vibrant traditions for a lifelong memorial trip.
Cochin: Cochin, often called the Queen of the Arabian Sea, is a busy trading city with a history over 600 years. This bustling port city, a vibrant blend of Arabian, Dutch, Portuguese, Chinese, and British influences, stands as Kerala's financial, commercial, and industrial heartbeat.
Alleppey: Discover the enchanting allure of Alappuzha, where houseboat retreats and tranquil beachside moments create unforgettable experiences. Surrounded by lush greenery and embraced by leaning coconut trees, Alappuzha's famed backwaters offer a serene escape, where traditional boats, notably the Kerala River boats, gracefully navigate the scenic waters, leaving a lasting mark on your journey.
Thekkady: Immerse yourself in the captivating realm of Thekkady, where the allure of regal elephants, aromatic spice plantations, and breathtaking hills converge. The Periyar forest, a national gem, cradles an unparalleled diversity of flora and fauna, inclusive of many migratory species, offering a truly remarkable natural spectacle.
Munnar: Discover the captivating allure of Munnar, a hill-station nestled at 1600 meters in the Western Ghats, often known as the ‘Kashmir of South India’. Situated on the banks of the Madupetti, Nallathanni, and Periavaru rivers, its charm extends to natural bird sanctuaries and sprawling tea plantations that grace its landscape.
Madurai: Madurai is a sacred city which stands renowned for its majestic Hindu temples, making it an iconic pilgrimage site in India. Adorned with the aromatic essence of South India's prized Sambac jasmine, Nandan market abounds with vibrant strings of flowers, including ylang-ylangs, marjorams, tulsis, roses, tuberose, and lotuses.
Thanjavur: Thanjavur, the ochre-hued cradle of an extraordinary Dravidian legacy, stands as a testament to a civilization that extended Hinduism beyond India's borders, igniting aesthetic currents from Madurai to the Mekong. At its heart, the grand Brihadishwara Temple witnesses daily worship, while the city's intricate royal palace echoes with the powerful dynasties that followed.
Pondicherry: Known as the French Riviera of the East, Pondicherry weaves an enchanting tale of traditional Indian charm intertwined with captivating French architecture, crafting a fairytale escape where two worlds harmoniously converge.
Mahabalipuram: Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, stands as a historical gem on the Coromandel Coast, where intricate temples and rock-cut caves paint a vivid tapestry of the past. Serene ambience, captivating shores, and Casuarina-dotted white sandy beaches create an irresistible allure in this charming coastal town.
Mumbai: Mumbai (also known as Bombay), is a metropolitan city on India’s west coast, which captivates travelers with its vibrant energy, iconic landmarks, rich tapestry of culture and cuisine which reflects the city’s diverse heritage perfectly.
ITINERARY
Day 1-3
Cochin
You will be received by one of our representatives or your designated driver with a signed board under your name, as per your arrival details. Early arrival will give you a better experience of Cochin in all its forms. Afternoons can be spent exploring the city and enjoying a shopping spree during evenings.
Next stop: Alleppey
Distance to be covered: 1 hour 20 mins (55 KM)
Day 3-4
Alleppey
Explore the backwater lifestyle of Kerala at Vembanad Lake and experience the true beauty of this small town in its most beautiful and unfiltered form. You get to witness the view which is unimaginable and one which will stay with you for a lifetime.
Next stop: Thekkady
Distance to be covered: 3 hour 30 mins (140 KM)
Day 4-6
Thekkady
Boating on the Periyar Lake and experiencing the adventurous wildlife sanctuaries of South India can really be an experience of a lifetime. With multiple animal species you’ll get to explore different spice plantations as well inclusive of cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, coffee and tea. Indulge in shopping for your favorite spices fresh of the season as well.
Next stop: Munnar
Distance to be covered: 3 hour (90 KM)
Day 6-8
Munnar
Explore one of the highest tea plantations in the world. Visit the magnificent Mattupetty Dam, immerse yourself in the diverse wildlife of Eravikulam’s National Park and the Kundala Lake.
Next stop: Madurai
Distance to be covered: 4 hours 20 mins (155 KM)
Day 8-10
Madurai
Explore the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple and witness the lively evening ceremony at the temple and stroll through the streets of the old city and experience the flower market. Madurai, is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers where each corner tells a unique tale.
Next stop: Thanjavur
Distance to be covered: 3 hours (190 KM)
Day 10-11
Thanjavur
The city of Thanjavur awaits you with its rich heritage, extraordinary paintings and handicrafts. Visit the Brihadeshwara temple built in the 11th century during the Chola dynasty, famous for being the second largest monolithic sculpture. Saraswati Mahal library has a rare collection of books and manuscripts which one should definitely explore.
Next stop: Pondicherry
Distance to be covered: 4 hours 20 mins (170 KM)
Day 11-13
Pondicherry
One of the Union territories of India, Pondicherry offers you with beautiful beaches, museums, sculpture galleries, and mesmerizing collections of artifacts. Navagraha temple is a must-visit when in Pondicherry, it is known that all nine planets of the universe are worshiped here. Also, make the most of the city by experiencing the Auroville city, famously known as the City of Dawn.
Next stop: Mahabalipuram
Distance to be covered: 2 hours (100 KM)
Day 13-15
Mahabalipuram
Experience the intricately carved rock-cut temples & explore the fascinating group of monuments and witness the architecture by the Pallava dynasty, the mesmerizing Five Rathas. The iconic Shore Temple can not be missed while you’re here.
Mahabalipuram offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich architectural monuments.
Next stop: Mumbai
Distance to be covered: 2 hour flight
Day 15-16
Mumbai
Marvel at the iconic Gateway of India, stroll along the vibrant Marine Drive which lies in the heart of Mumbai, and immersing yourself in the diverse street food options are some of the things that you should not miss while you’re there.
Explore the historic Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, the popular Elephanta Caves and indulge yourself in the city’s bustling markets and lively nightlife for an unforgettable experience.
Day 17
Departure
With a trip filled with memories and experiences, you will finally be traveling back home. Your designated driver will take you to the airport according to your flight schedule. Hope you had a fulfilling trip to India. Visit again soon.