South India Explorer Tour (140925),Holiday Packages to Ooty, Mysore, Hassan, Mahabalipuram, Madurai

Package Overview

STUNNING CULTURE, SYLVAN WOODS, SERENE BACKWATERS
This fascinating journey through India’s Deep South showcases its incredible architecture, rich culture and its simple way of life. Visit exotic destinations, enthralling hill stations, exquisite temples, marvelous palaces and abundant wildlife reserves. Glide along the backwaters of Kerala on a houseboat and enjoy delicious Keralan specialties.

Our journey commences at the charming old port city of Kochi and finishes on the golden beaches of Kovalam. Visit the beautiful hill station of Ootacamund, marvelous palaces of Mysore, and the beautiful temples of Belur and Halebid en route to Bangalore, from where we take the train southward to Chennai. After a day’s sightseeing in India’s fourth - largest city our next destination is Mahabalipuram, famous for magnificent monolithic beach temples. We also visit the old French enclave of Pondicherry and the arts centre of Thanjavur before arriving in Madurai, with its large and alluring temple-complexes full of exquisite carving. We then travel back into the hills to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary with its abundance of birds and wildlife. Fascinating equally are the spice markets of Thekkady. Finally, we embark on a memorable houseboat cruise on the backwaters of Kerala around Alleppey before we finish at Kovalam with its sandy golden beaches.

HIGHLIGHTS
Fort Kochi- an amalgam of Old Portuguese, British and Dutch colonial architecture
The spectacular Maharaja’s Palace, Mysore
Larger than life rock temple carvings in Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram
Thanjavur and Madurai – for their different architectural styles
Elephants and wildlife at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

20 days from 1300$ per person. International flight not included.International flights tickets
Travel insurance
Any optional activities
Lunches and dinners during the trip except Full board in Alleppey
Miscellaneous Expenses - drinks, souvenir, personal expenses etc.
Tips for driver and other local staff
Charges for Camera in the monuments and Parks
The cancellation and baggage insurance, assistance and repatriation
Indian Visa
All services not mentioned in "inclusion"

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Day wise Itinerary

Day 1 : Traditional welcome on arrival

Arrive at Kochi International airport. After a traditional welcome ‘Swagat’ we transfer to the hotel for check-in. Kochi has a historical sea trade connection with the Middle East, Mediterranean and northern Europe and its cosmopolitan past is reflected in the buildings and structures which represent different parts of the world - a blend of the old Portuguese, Dutch and British influences.
Day 2 : Sightseeing in Cochin

Today we visit Fort Kochi, founded by the Portuguese in 1503 and it is considered to be one of the earliest site chosen by European colonial power. An odour of spice emerges from warehouses and food stalls offering different delicacy is common sight in each nook and corner of the town. In the afternoon we enjoy a sightseeing tour of Mattancherry Palace, built by the Portuguese as a gift for the Raja of Kochi, the Jewish synagogue dating from 1568 and St Francis church. We also explore the town of Kochi, its bazaars and old harbour area. In the evening there is the chance for an optional visit to see a display of Kathakali, a form of classical dance unique to Kerala.
Day 3 : Head towards Queen of Hills

Today we leave Kerala behind and enter Tamil Nadu as the road winds up through forested hillsides to Coimbatore. The road up to Coonoor is one of the most scenic in South India providing superb views of the plains below and magnificent groves of the tall and slender areca nut palm trees lining the road. Upon arrival in Ooty, as Ootacamund is fondly known, and checking into the hotel, it’s time to move about and enjoy the beauty of this Queen of Hill Stations that is situated in the heart of the Nilgiri hills.
- Hotspots : Nilgiri Hills
- Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys
Day 4 : Exploration of the town

In the morning, we enjoy a Toy-train journey. In the afternoon, we leave for the sightseeing tour of Ootacamund (Ooty). We visit the Ootacamund Botanical Garden, laid out at an elevation of 2400 meters in 1847 and spread over 22 hectares of land with some 650 species of plants and trees. We also visit the Doddabetta Peak which stands at an altitude of 2623 meters. Merely 10 kms from Ooty it is the highest point in the district, making it possibly the best vantage point around Ooty.
- Hotspots : Botanical Garden, Doddabetta Peak
Day 5 : Drive to Mysore via Madumalai and Bandipur

Ooty - Mysore (Mysuru)
After the breakfast, we drive to Mysore. The route winds down the eastern side of the Nilgiri Hills back to the plains – a very scenic journey. We drive through the Mudumalai National Park and Bandipur National Park as we cross the border from Tamil Nadu to Karnataka with the chance to spot deer and monkeys and elephants as we pass. After arriving in Mysore and checking into our hotel, we visit Chaumundi Hill where there is a temple dedicated to Durga. On the road up to the temple there is a giant stone Nandi bull carved from single piece of granite in 1659.
- Hotspots : Bandipur National Park, Nilgiri Hills
- Meals & Drinks : breakfast
Day 6 : Explore the town in its authentic form

In the morning, we embark on a sightseeing tour of Mysore. We drive to Srirangapatna(the historic capital of Tipu Sultan who was known for his struggle against the British rule), where we visit Daria Daulat Bagh, the Summer Palace of Tipu Sultan. It is situated in scenic surroundings on an island formed by two branches of The River Cauvery. Several monuments relating to the sultan’s rule are scattered across the island. We then return to Mysore and visit the Palace of the Maharaja (Emperor), a harmonious synthesis of Hindu and Saracenic styles of architecture – with a plethora of magnificent archways, domes, turrets, colonnades and sculptures. We also visit the Chaumundi Hill with its temple dedicated to Durga. On the road up to the temple there is a giant monolithic Nandi bull, carved from a single piece of granite in 1659. Known for its sandalwood, Mysore is also famous for some of India’s finest crafts, such as printed silk, inlaid furniture and ivory carvings.
Day 7 : Excursion to Halebid and Belur

Mysore (Mysuru) - Hassan
Today, we will drive to Hassan. On arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Depart for an excursion to Belur and Halebid for their temples carved with scripts from Hindu mythology having mythological characters from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, the two famous Epics. In Halebid, we visit the Hoysaleswara Temple where we see half-life size statues of Hindu deities with minute details in each all around the temple. At Belur, we see the Chennakesava Temple, famous for its architecture and sculptures. Later we drive back to the hotel in Hassan.
Day 8 : Drive to Bengaluru and board the train to Chennai

Hassan - Bangalore (Bengaluru)
After breakfast, we drive to Bangalore(Bengaluru); stopping en route at Shravanabelagola, a city sacred to the Jains and famous for its 18-meter Jain colossus. Standing on Vindhyagiri Hill, the statue of Gomateshwara is said to be the tallest and most graceful monolithic statue in the world. The site is visited by hundreds of pilgrims daily. We later arrive in Bangalore.
Bengaluru - Chennai
Transfer to the Railway station to board our train to Chennai. Upon arrival in the late evening, we transfer to the hotel.
Day 9 : Way to Mahabalipuram en route visiting Kanchipuram

Chennai - Mahabalipuram
After a refreshing breakfast we take a sightseeing tour of Chennai, the fourth largest city in India and the capital of Tamil Nadu to visit Kapaleeswarar Temple, Government Museum and San Thome Basilica.
Next, we drive down to Kanchipuram, one of the seven holy cities in the country and famous all over India for its hand-woven silk sarees. We visit the Kailasanathar Temple famous for exquisite carvings with 58 small shrines situated around the main shrine. Next in our programme is Kamakshi Amman Temple housing the statue of Kamakshi who is said to be the Super-goddess, Parasakti, having Saraswati, Lakshmi and Parvati as her eyes. She blesses all who dedicate themselves to her. We later drive to Mahabalipuram and check into the hotel.
Day 10 : Town famous for temple of Five Rathas

Today we take a tour of Mahabalipuram, once the main port and naval base of the great Pallava Kingdom. The Rock carvings at Mahabalipuram are notable for the delightful freshness and simplicity of their folk art origins. We see the skillfully carved rock of Arjuna’s Penance - the largest bas-relief sculpture in the world. The Five Rathas, five monolithic temples, each created in different exquisite styles, and also the Shore Temple built on the seashore of Bay of Bengal with blocks of granite are also a feast to the eye. Built in Dravidian style the temple dates back to the 8th century CE. The monuments are mostly rock-cut and monolithic representative of the early stages of Dravidian architecture with Buddhist elements clearly visible.
Day 11 : Drive to Puducherry

Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry (Puducherry)
Today we proceed to Pondicherry, which retains a strong sense of the former French presence in India: grid pattern streets, distinctive police uniforms and the occasional colonial building around everywhere.
After we check into the hotel and enjoy lunch we embark on a sightseeing tour of the town to explore its Gallic heritage. Places of tourist interest include the Shree Aurobindo Ashram, Auroville, the French Institute and Colony, Museum and Church.
- Themes : Heritage
- Meals & Drinks : lunch
Day 12 : Way to Thanjavur via Kumbakonam

Way to Thanjavur via Kumbakonam
Day 13 : Journey to Madurai

Thanjavur - Madurai
In the morning, we visit Brihadeeswarar Temple which dates from the 10th century CE. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a brilliant example of Dravidian Temple architecture.
After the visit, we continue our drive to the colourful city of Madurai famous for its intricate temples. One of the oldest and most fascinating cities in Tamil Nadu, Madurai is also a thriving cultural center with a rich past. After arrival, we check into our hotel and relax for the rest of the day.
- Themes : Heritage
Day 14 : Sightseeing of Madurai

The most famous sight in Madurai is the Meenakshi Amman Temple - an outstanding example of Vijayanagar Temple architecture. Built during the Nayaka period between 16th and 18th centuries it is one of the largest temple-complexes in India. The gopurams that surround the temple are known for their colourful stucco images of Gods, Goddesses and animals. Later we visit the Thirumalai Nayak Mahal built in 1636 in Indo-Mughal style by the Nayaka Dynasty. The main temple is dedicated to Meenakshi, the ‘fish-eyed Goddess’ and consort of Shiva. Madurai is a perfect place to wander around and to experience Hindu culture with the temples and bazaars in the heart of the vibrant city. The evening is free to explore.
Day 15 : Scintilating route through western ghats

Madurai - Periyar (Thekkady)
In the morning, we drive to Periyar(Thekkady) and re-enter the state of Kerala. The drive is spectacular as the road climbs through the Western Ghats and commands fantastic views across Tamil Nadu. We arrive in the small bustling village of Thekkady and check into the hotel. This whole area is a center for spice cultivation. After lunch, we take a short walk around a spice garden where we see many different spices growing. There is plenty of time in the afternoon to explore the bazaar where a large number of shops selling cardamoms, vanilla, peppercorns, chilies, turmeric and other spices flank the road.
- Meals & Drinks : lunch
Day 16 : Periyar Wildlife Sancturay

In the early morning, we take a Jungle walk in the park along with our forest guides to admire abundance of birdlife that includes kingfishers, storks and hornbills which are the most commonly spotted birds. Periyar National Park is one of the largest reserves in South India and is set around a large man-made lake. We return to the hotel for breakfast. In the afternoon, there is a possibility to do an Optional Boat Ride on Periyar Lake. This is an ideal opportunity to get close to the animals and a good opportunity to spot elephants, otters, wild pigs and buffaloes. On offer here is Ayurvedic massage (optional), which can be arranged in the nearby Ayurvedic massage center.
Day 17 : Enthralling experience of houseboat

After breakfast we drive to Alleppey. Also known as Alappuzha, the town is a principal center for backwater cruises in Kerala. We board our houseboats and begin our cruise along the backwaters of Kerala; one of the highlights of the trip. These enchanting boats have been decorated and made into comfortable cruise vessels. We meander along the waterways flanked by lush tropical vegetation, catching glimpses of dazzling tropical birds and watching idyllic villages. Our overnight stay is on the boats in the middle of the famous Vembanad Lake..
- Meals & Drinks : breakfast
Day 18 : Serene water along the coast

After a relaxing breakfast on the houseboats we disembark and drive to Kovalam. Kovalam is an extremely popular beach resort due to shallow water and low tidal waves. It offers an excellent diversity to suit all desires and occasions. A massive rocky promontory on the beach has created a beautiful bay of calm water ideal for sea bathing. The beaches are backed by precipitously mounting headlands and covered by fertile coconut palms. The southernmost part of light house beach is more beautiful. Some of the leisure options at this beach are sunbathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programs, catamaran cruising, etc.
- Meals & Drinks : breakfast
Day 19 : Optional tour of Kanyakumari

We have a free day to enjoy the idyllic soft sandy beaches and warm clear waters of Kovalam. There is also the opportunity to enjoy an optional day’s sightseeing tour by taxi from Kovalam to Kanyakumari, the extreme southern tip of India where the Indian Ocean meets the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. The trip also takes in the old wooden palace of the rulers of Travancore at Padmapuhamban- a marvelous building with fantastic woodcarvings, and the Hindu temple at Suchindram with its amazing stone carvings (this trip can be booked and paid for locally).
Day 20 : Transfer to airport of Trivandrum for boarding the return flight

Today we check out from the hotel and are transferred to the International airport of Trivandrum for our onward journey.

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Inclusions

Hotel
Sightseeing
Accommodation for 18 nights in a double room in the hotels mentioned or equivalent on breakfast basis
01 night on Full board in a houseboat in Alleppey
All ground transportation included in the program using private air-conditioned vehicle with English speaking driver
Entrance fees to the park and monuments as described in the program
Train tickets in 1st Class AC for the sector as mentioned below: (Bangalore - Chennai)
Guided forest walk at Periyar (Thekkady)
Toy Train ride in Ooty
Local English-speaking guides as described in the program (Till 05 Pax)
Professional English-speaking tour leader throughout India (From 06 Pax onwards)
Govt. Taxes

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Exclusions

International flights tickets
Travel insurance
Any optional activities
Lunches and dinners during the trip except Full board in Alleppey
Miscellaneous Expenses - drinks, souvenir, personal expenses etc.
Tips for driver and other local staff
Charges for Camera in the monuments and Parks
The cancellation and baggage insurance, assistance and repatriation
Indian Visa
All services not mentioned in "inclusion"

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Terms & Conditions

Payment Terms & Methods :
* Some Advance Percentage of total booking amount
* Airfare/Transport fare to be paid full at one time in advance.

Cancellation & Refund Policy :
* Upon cancellation, refund will be made after deducting the Retention Amount.
* Retention Amount varies as per the number of days left before your package start date.

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