Classical South India-12-Day-Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Chennai and Transfer to Mamallapuram

Upon arrival at Chennai International Airport, you’ll be greeted by a company representative and transferred to Mamallapuram, located between the beach and a lagoon. Famous for its rock-cut sculptures and historic monuments from the 7th to 9th centuries, this open-air museum is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 2: Mamallapuram Exploration

Enjoy a morning at leisure by the Mahabalipuram Beach. You can opt for a half-day city tour to visit highlights like Arjuna’s Penance and the Five Rathas temples. These historic monuments feature detailed carvings depicting Indian myths and life scenes. A traditional South Indian lunch served on a banana leaf is also available as an optional experience.

Day 3: Transfer to Pondicherry

Depart for Pondicherry, a city with a mix of French and Tamil influences. En route, visit Auroville, an experimental village promoting unity and self-sustained living. Upon arrival, enjoy the rest of the day exploring Pondicherry’s beaches and colonial architecture.

Day 4: Transfer to Tanjore

After breakfast, travel to Tanjore, known for its temples and as the capital of the ancient Chola Empire. On the way, visit the Dharasuram Temple, dedicated to the mythical white elephant Airavata. Upon arrival in Tanjore, relax for the evening.

Day 5: Tanjore Exploration and Transfer to Madurai

Visit the 1000-year-old Brihadeeswara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about traditional bronze casting. Afterward, drive to Madurai, one of Southern India’s oldest cities, known for its bustling streets and vibrant culture.

Day 6: Madurai at Leisure

Spend the day exploring Madurai’s landmarks such as the Meenakshi Temple and Thirumalai Nayak Palace. You can also join an optional cycle rickshaw tour to explore the narrow streets and markets while supporting the local rickshaw pullers.

Day 7: Transfer to Periyar

Drive to Periyar, also known as Thekkady, and visit its famous spice plantations. Here, you’ll learn about the local spices and their uses in cuisine and medicine. An optional elephant ride offers a scenic view of the area’s natural beauty.

Day 8: Kumarakom Backwaters

Start the day with an optional river safari on Lake Periyar before heading to Kumarakom, a stunning region known for its backwaters. Spend the evening relaxing in this tropical paradise.

Day 9: Leisure in Kumarakom

Enjoy a day of relaxation or exploration in Kumarakom. You can opt for a houseboat ride, go fishing, or indulge in an Ayurvedic massage while enjoying the serene beauty of the Kerala backwaters.

Day 10: Transfer to Cochin

Drive to Cochin, a city with rich European influences reflected in its Dutch, Portuguese, and British architecture. Spend the day at leisure, or explore the city’s colonial landmarks, including Fort Cochin and the spice markets.

Day 11: Explore Cochin

Discover the charm of Cochin on an optional city tour, visiting historical sites like St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, and the Chinese fishing nets. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance showcasing Kerala’s traditional dance-drama.

Day 12: Departure from Cochin

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Cochin International Airport for your onward flight, concluding your Classical South India tour.