Explore South India
From Chennai to Cochin, a 11 night tour of South India
from £1365
Day 1: London/Chennai
Overnight flight to Chennai from London.
Day 2: Chennai
Arrive at Chennai and transfer to the GRT Grand Chennai Hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Day 3: Mahabalipuram
In the morning enjoy a tour of Chennai. After your tour drive to Mahabalipuram and check in at the GRT Temple Bay hotel.
Day 4: Mahabalipuram
This morning take an excursion to the Kancheepuram Temples and also a visit to the famous silk weaving factories. In the afternoon enjoy a visit to the amazing temples of Mahabalipuram dotted along the coast. Constructed of granite, the behemoth Shore Temples dates from the 8th century AD.
Day 5: Pondicherry
The former French colony of Pondicherry exudes a positively Mediterranean aura, thanks to its sunny coastal promenade and whitewashed residences. Enjoy the sights combined with a visit to the famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram, whose spiritual tenets combine yoga and modern science. The remains of the day are at leisure. Overnight at the Hotel Promenade.
Day 6: Thanjavur
This morning drive to Thanjavur. En route visit Gangaikondacholapuram and Darasuram Temples. Upon arrival at Thanjavur, check in to the Hotel Parisutham. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Day 7: Thanjavur
Enjoy a half day excursion of Thanjavur including the enormous Brihadishwara Temple. This UNESCO-Listed temple has a dome weighing an estimated 80 tonnes which was hauled into place along an earth ramp in a manner similar to that used for the Egyptian pyramids. Also visit the Thanjavur Palace and its museum. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Day 8: Madurai
After breakfast drive to Madurai visiting the historical village of Trichy en route. Visit the Srirangam Temple, the largest temple complex of South India. Arrive Madurai and check in at the Hotel Sangam. Remainder of day is at leisure.
Day 9: Periyar
In the morning take a half day tour ot Madurai. Our tour includes the Sri Meenakshi Temple, built in 1560 and the city's busy bazaars. We also include a visit to Thirumalai Nayak Palace. From Madurai, drive to Periyar and check in at The Elephant Court. Periyar has South India's most popular wildlife sanctuary and home to sambar wild boar, elephant, bison, antelope, and langur. Close to the sanctuary is a pretty town dotted with small spice and handicraft shops.
Day 10: Periyar
Today enjoy a lake cruise at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in search for local wildlife. In the afternoon visit a spice plantation and also a tribal village. In the evening enjoy a classical dance performance of Kathakali.
Day 11: Cochin
Drive to Cochin and check in at the Travancore Court Hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Day 12: Cochin
Morning at leisure. In the afternoon embark on a city tour of Cochin. Visit the Dutch Palace, St. Francis Church and the Santa Cruze Church.
Day 13: Cochin/London
Transfer to the airport in time for your return flight back to London. Alternativley, take our backwaters extension.
» Accommodation
IN BRIEF...
Day 1:London to Chennai
Day 2:Chennai
Day 3:Mahabalipuram
Day 4:Mahabalipuram
Day 5:Pondicherry
Day 6:Thanjavur
Day 7:Thanjavur
Day 8:Madurai
Day 9:Periyar
Day 10:Periyar
Day 11:Cochin
Day 12:Cochin
Day 13:Cochin to London
Extensions
Kumarakom Backwaters
Experience the stunningly lush Keralan backwaters on a mellow 1-night traditional Keralan houseboat cruise. From here drive to Kumarakom for 2 nights before driving back to Cochin for your return flight back to London.
(from £315 extra)
