Experience the enchanting tapestry of South India, where religious towns, spice plantations, coastal wonders, ancient ruins, and majestic forts converge into an unparalleled cultural treasure. Embark on a personalized 10-day journey, "The Essence of South India," crafted by 365 Leisure India Holidays India, as we traverse the breathtaking landscapes of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, from the mesmerizing wildlife sanctuaries to the iconic cultural landmarks that define this vibrant region.
Upon your arrival at Chennai Airport or railway station, you will receive a warm welcome from 365 Leisure India Holidays India representative. They will assist you and accompany you to your pre-booked hotel for check-in. After settling in, your representative will provide you with a detailed tour itinerary and other relevant documents.
Following a short rest and refreshment at the hotel, embark on a city sightseeing tour of Chennai, including attractions like the lighthouse, British-built Old Government House, Basilica of San Thome, Marina Beach and more.
After breakfast, embark on a road trip to Kanchipuram. Immerse yourself in the spirituality of the region as you visit the sacred Ekambaranathar and Kailasanathar temples. Later, proceed to the culturally rich town of Mahabalipuram. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind.
Enjoy breakfast, and then explore the cultural heritage of the once-thriving port city of Mahabalipuram. Visit prominent sites such as the Mahishasura Mardini Cave, the majestic Mahabalipuram shore temple, the enchanting Krishna Mandapam, and more.
Afterward, continue your journey to Tanjore. Upon reaching Tanjore, take some rest and refresh at the hotel before visiting the famous Brihadeeswarar Temple and other magnificent Chola Temples.
After breakfast, set out on a road trip to Madurai via Trichy. En route, halt at Trichy to explore the impressive Rock Fort and the revered Srirangam Temple. Upon reaching Madurai, check into a pre-booked hotel.
After a brief relaxation, visit the awe-inspiring Meenakshi Sundareshwar Temple. The rest of the day is yours to discover the cultural wonders of Madurai at your own pace.
After breakfast, visit the grand Tirumalai Palace and the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple. Later, embark on a city exploration tour. In the evening, return to Meenakshi Amman Temple to witness the captivating evening rituals.
After breakfast, begin your road trip to the picturesque hill station of Munnar in Kerala. Upon arrival in Munnar, check into the hotel and embark on a tea garden walking tour and a visit to the Tea Museum (closed on Mondays). Witness the tea leaves' refining, drying, and cleaning process at a tea factory.
After breakfast, proceed on a road trip to Periyar. En route, take a stop at the scenic Idukki Dam for sightseeing. Upon reaching Periyar, embark on a serene lake cruise on Lake Periyar to witness the abundant wildlife and birdlife at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spot animals such as tigers, elephants, sambars, monkeys, leopards, antelopes, wild boars, and more. Enjoy an evening sightseeing tour before retiring for the night in Periyar.
After breakfast, continue your journey to Alleppey, where you will experience the enchanting backwaters on a houseboat cruise from Kumarakom to Alleppey. Backwater cruising is a mesmerizing way to connect with nature and observe the local village lifestyle. Marvel at the scenic beauty of Kerala as you glide through the exotic backwaters on traditional rice boats.
After breakfast, travel to Cochin. Upon checking into a hotel, experience the vibrant cultural scene of Kerala with a live Kathakali performance at a cultural center.
After breakfast, embark on a half-day tour of Cochin, covering highlights such as the Synagogue, Jew Town (not available on Saturdays), and the spice market. Later, check out from the hotel and proceed to the airport for your onward journey.
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