South India Highlights
13 NIGHTS /14 DAYS FROM $2,205OVERVIEW OF YOUR INDIA TOUR
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DAY 1 - ARRIVE CHENNAI
Arrive at Chennai airport. Meeting and assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 2 - TO MAHABALIPURAM
Breakfast at the hotel.
You will drive to Mahabalipuram.
Mahabalipuram, “The City of Seven Pagodas” is the largest port in the kingdom of the Pallavas. Visit the monuments of Mahabalipuram, Shore Temple, the Descent of the Ganges and the five Rathas, a set of exceptional beauty for its monolithic stone carvings.
Located around 60 Km from Chennai, Mamallapuram occupies a stunning position on a rocky outcrop between the beach and a lagoon. Built by the pallava rulers in the seventh century the complex comprises of 14 cave-temples, nine monolithic “Rathas”, three stone temples and two relief sculptured rock panels.
These two rock-panels & gives a graphic description of Arjuna’s penance when he prayed for the powers of Shiva and form the largest Bass Relief in the world. Particularly of interest is the shore temple built on the water’s edge with an east-facing altar designed to catch the rising Sub, this has now been declared a World Heritage Site.
Check in and overnight at the hotel.
DAY 3 - IN MAHABALIPURAM
Breakfast at the hotel. Day free for independent activities.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 4 - TO PONDICHERRY
Today visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Auroville – the final resting place of Sri Aurobindo, a Saint/Yogi who synthesized yoga and modern science. Visit Matri mandir – meaning “Temple of the mother”, the geographical and spiritual heart of Auroville. The outside is plated with gold, while the inside is stark white with a gigantic crystal in the centre. Also, visit The Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus which has some beautiful stained-glass windows depicting the life of Jesus.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 5 - TO TANJORE
Morning drive to Tanjore, en-route visit Chidambaram.
The small town of Chidambaram is built around the great temple complex of Natraja – the dancing Shiva. The Natraja Temple Complex is a highlight of the Dravidian architecture and was built by the Cholas from 907 to 1310.
Check in and overnight at the hotel.
DAY 6 - IN TANJORE
Visit to the Temple of Brihadeshwara, Natharaja Shiva shrine, declared World Heritage site and considered the most perfect of Dravida school. Gangaikondacholapuram next to where we admire the Brihadeshwara stone temple was built by Chola king in the s. X.
Visit in Darasuram, Arravatesvara Temple built by Raja Chola II in the s. XII noble sculptures that decorate the outline of the temple.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 7 - TO MADURAI
Drive to Madurai, on arrival check in at the hotel. Evening witness the aarti ceremony- lighting of lamps and prayers , at the Meenakshi Temple.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 8 - IN MADURAI
After breakfast proceed for an experience of the rich cultural heritage of Madurai, at the Meenakshi Temple, whose soaring towers are covered with stucco figures of deities, mythical animals and monsters painted in vivid colours. The temple is dedicated to the consort of Lord Shiva with its towers rising high above the surrounding township. Also visit the Tirumala Nayak Palace, built in 1636 by King Thirumalai Nayak with the help of an Italian Architect.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 9 - TO PERIYAR
Morning drive to Periyar.
The Periyar Lake is a paradise for nature lovers. It allows you to observe the wild animals roaming in the jungle. The lake is also a birdwatcher’s delight. The greatest attraction of Periyar Lake, however, is the herds of wild elephants that come down to play in the lake. Moreover, the sanctuary Watch Tower situated in the forest interior gives you a panoramic view of the park.
Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Periyar. Covering an area of 300 square miles Periyar is one of the largest and most frequently visited wildlife reserves in India. It is part of the Project Tiger campaign and animals inhabiting the area include elephants, deer, pigs, tigers, leopards, bison, monkeys and Malabar squirrel. Whilst spotting an elusive tiger or leopard could prove difficult, the mix of wooded hills and valleys makes it a wonderful place to enjoy the greenery.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 10 - TO KUMARAKOM
After breakfast at the hotel, you will proceed towards Kumarakom. Upon arrival, you will be enjoying the serene surroundings and the view of the backwaters.
Here you will be visiting Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatchers. Explore the sanctuary’s trails and spot a variety of resident and migratory birds, including herons, egrets, kingfishers, and more.
Take a leisurely walk along the Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala. Enjoy the scenic views, feel the refreshing breeze, and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
If you want, you can also indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage or spa treatment to relax and rejuvenate your body and mind. Kumarakom is known for its Ayurvedic therapies, and experiencing one is a great way to immerse yourself in the local wellness culture.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Kumarakom.
DAY 11 - IN KUMARAKOM
Start the day with breakfast, after which check out from the hotel. Get assistance for transfer to Alleppey. On arrival in the town, check-in to your houseboat. Enjoy the full day at the scenic backwater. Cruise through the wonderful ecology. The sight of picturesque villages, paddy fields, charming churches and temples is soothing. Spot rare birds and cherish the blessings. Even the dark is quite amazing when on the houseboat. Spend the stargazing on the deck.
Overnight stay on the houseboat.
DAY 12 - TO COCHIN
After breakfast disembark the houseboat and start driving to Cochin. Being a major harbour from the times of the British and Portuguese, Cochin has a rich heritage of forts, churches, and temples. Arrive and check in at the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 13 - IN COCHIN
Later enjoy a sightseeing tour of Cochin visiting the Dutch Palace, (Closed on Fridays), Jewish synagogue (closed on Fridays & Saturdays), Chinese fishing nets & St. Francis Church. Visit the Dutch Palace, built by the Portuguese and presented to the Raja of Cochin in 1555 AD. Also, visit the Jewish Synagogue, built in 1568 AD, Fort Kochi, St. Francis Church, and the Chinese Nets.
Later drive to Mattencherry area to stroll in the animated bazaar. Afternoon is at leisure to explore this ancient port town. In the evening there is a visit to the cultural centre to see the traditional dance form of Kathakali.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 14 - TO DELHI
After breakfast transfer to Cochin airport to Board flight for Delhi. Meet & Assist on arrival at airport & transfer to the International Airport.
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