| Trip price | Contact us |
| Duration | 15 Days |
| Group size | Minimum 2, maximum 14 |
Chennai – Pondicherry – Thanjavur – Madurai – Periyar – Alleppy homestay – Alleppy House boat – Varkala – Cochin
South India has witnessed the rise and fall of many great dynasties, the development of the prosperous Dravidian culture, and the influence of foreign architecture. The generous nature and friendly people make this region even more inspiring and delightful. This journey takes you through parts of two different states including Kerala and Tamilnadu and also the union territory of Pondicherry .You will be introduced you to the lush landscape, mesmerizing architecture, rich cultural heritage and some of the finest sights of south India.
Day 1 Chennai
Welcome to Chennai, Once famous as Madras.
You will be welcomed at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Your exciting journey of South India begins with a Trip briefing by your tour guide followed by a visit to the famous Marina beach and St. Thomas Basilica.
Day 2-3 Pondicherry
Drive to Pondicherry via Mammlapuram and visit around the Shore Temple, Five Rathas, and stop to take a look at the beautiful rock carvings of Arjuna’s penance. Later continue to Pondicherry later in the evening enjoy walking on the local beachside.
On the following day, travel to Auroville, the famous universal township serving as a symbol of world peace and unity. Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, wander around the colonial buildings and statues, explore the streets of Pondicherry; admire the Indo-French architecture and acquaint yourself with the history in the local museum.
Day 4 Thanjavur
Today we travel to the historical city Thanjavur which is famous for its ancient temples including the mesmerizing 11th century Brihadeeswarar Temple, a vast Chola dynasty–era complex with a frescoed interior. We will immerse ourselves in the ancient history of Cholas and the magnificent architecture created by them.
Day 5- 6 Madurai
Journey to the holy city of Madurai, popularly known as ‘Varanasi of South India’. Walk through its lively streets and witness the mystifying rituals in Sri Meenakshi Temple, a labyrinth of lamp-lit corridors and shrines. Visit the famous Gandhi museum once built to commemorate the visit of Mahatma Gandhi .
Day 7-8 Periyar (Kumley)
Today you drive up into the scenic ‘Western Ghats’ towards Periyar. Walk through the spice shops of Kumli and breathe in the fresh aromas on a visit to nearby spice plantation.
Next morning go for a nature tour in Periyar National park in the hope of spotting wild elephants with the help of experienced jungle guides. Relish with a taste of famous Niligiri tea at a tea plantation. Explore the market in your free time or relax with the famous Kerala Ayurvedic massage, enjoy the Kalaripaytu martial arts show in the evening as an option.
Day 9 Alleppy home stay
Travel to the backwaters of Kerala and spend a night in a backwater’s village enjoying the hospitality of local families.
Explore the rice fields and tribal houses on a village tour and enjoy the local drink Toddy. Get a real sense of rural Kerala as you enjoy a simple home stay.
Day 10 Alleppy house boat
Climb aboard a house boat floating on the backwaters. As you sail past beautiful rice fields and coconut groves, enjoy delicious, freshly cooked food. You will spend the night sleeping on the houseboat. Please note that the air-conditioning only works in the night time after 8 pm.
Day 11-12 Varkala
Journey to Varkala and for the next two days enjoy the stunning beaches, sipping coffee in a cliff cafe, taking a dip into Arabian sea, visiting the ancient Janardan swami temple and relaxing with the famous Kerala Ayurvedic massages.
Day 13-14 Cochin
Our beautiful trips ends at Cochin; famous as the queen of Arebian sea. The sightseeing tour of Cochin includes a visit to the St. Francis church, Dutch palace, and a walk around the colourful bazaars of fort Cochin.
You will have free afternoons to explore the vibrant streets; we enjoy an exciting Kathakali dance performance on one of the evenings.
Day 15 Departure
There are no planned activities on day 15, but we will be happy to help you organise other activities and sightseeing. Please confirm check out time with hotel reception. If you wish to extend your stay in Cochin we can book additional accommodation if you notify us at the time of booking.
| Accommodations | 3-4 star category hotels/boutique hotels (12 nights), house boat(1 night). backwater home stay (1 night). All accommodations are on twin/Double sharing basis. Extra charges are applicable for single supplement. |
| Transport | Private Taxi/Coach, Auto Rickshaw, House Boat, and Foot. |
| Meals | 14 Breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners |
| Arrival Departure | From Chennai International airport and to Cochin International airport |
| Local Help | An Indian tour leader on the entire journey. An Organized, passionate and knowledgeable individual who is there to convert your travel into a memorable experience. |
| Sightseeing |
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Anything which is not mentioned in the inclusions list will be paid by you, such as International flights, valid travel insurance, visa fee, alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks, meals not included in the itinerary, single supplement, pre and post accommodation, hotel extras (Laundry, mini bar, spa), tipping, optional activities, camera fee at the monuments, additional transportation etc. |
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Political disturbance, strikes, riots, evacuations, natural disasters, accidents, cancellations or delays or rescheduling of trains/flights, etc. are some of the reasons which are beyond our control, thus Horizon Journeys will not be able to bear any expenses caused by any of the above reasons. In case any of the above situations occur all expenses will be incurred by the passenger. |
