From Tamil Nadu to Hampi

Suggested duration 22 days
Santhi's photo
Santhi

Your Bindi Travel contact

Hop on a grand three-week journey through South India, from Bangalore to Kochi. Explore the majestic temples of Tamil Nadu, then immerse yourself in nature in Kerala, the garden of India. From Kochi, head to the idyllic beaches of Goa before concluding your trip with the fascinating ruins of Hampi.

Request a quote

Your Itinerary

Your tour program

A three-week tour in southern India, from Bangalore to Cochin. This itinerary takes you through the must-see sites of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, offering a complete insight into the culture and heritage of Southern India. The journey ends with a relaxing time on the beaches of Goa, followed by a final stop at Hampi, an iconic site known for its exceptional heritage and spectacular landscapes of rock formations.

Arrival in Kanchipuram

Warm welcome at Bangalore airport and drive to Kanchipuram. In the afternoon, visit the temples of Varadaraja Perumal (dedicated to Vishnu), Kamakshi Amman (dedicated to Parvati), and the Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple. Stroll through Kanchipuram's market with the option to visit silk weaving workshops.

Kanchipuram - Mamallapuram

Drive to Mamallapuram with a stop at Thirukazhukundram. Hike up to the Eagle Temple for a beautiful panoramic view of this typical Tamil Nadu village. In the afternoon, enjoy a English-guided tour of the Mahabalipuram archaeological site, including the Shore Temple, the Five Rathas, and the Arjuna's Penance fresco.

Mamallapuram - Pondicherry

Drive to Pondicherry. Check-in and free time for an initial exploration of the city. Visit the Manakula Vinayagar Temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh and the Sri Aurobindo Ashram.

Pondicherry

In the morning, take a English-guided tour of the colonial houses of Old Pondicherry with Ashok. Visit the Goubert Covered Market, accessible from Nehru Street.

Pondicherry - Swamimalai

Early departure for Swamimalai. On the way, visit the Shiva Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram with its rituals, followed by a visit to the Gangaikonda Cholapuram site, the former capital of the Cholas. Option for a traditional lunch.

Swamimalai - Chettinadu

Full day guided tour in English of the Darasuram and Thanjavur sites. Visit the Airavatesvara Temple and silk workshops in Darasuram. In Thanjavur, explore the Brihadesvara Temple, the palace, and the Saraswathi Mahal Library. Drive to Chettinad.

Chettinadu

Day dedicated to exploring the villages of Chettinadu, the land of the Chettiars, wealthy merchants who traded with Southeast Asia. In Kanadukathan, see the exterior of the Chettinadu Palace and visit a cotton weaving workshop. Discover the colorful Sri Solai Andavar Temple near Pallathur. In Ilankudi, visit the Sri Bagachchaala Moorthy sanctuary. In Athangudi, visit the colored cement tile workshops and a Chettiar palace.

Chettinadu - Madurai

Before leaving for Madurai, visit a typical local market. Arrive in Madurai by late morning. In the afternoon, enjoy a English-guided tour of the Tirumalai Nayak Palace, followed by the must-see Meenakshi Temple, where you will witness the evening rituals.

Madurai - Munnar

In the morning in Madurai, visit the flower market and the Mahatma Gandhi Museum. Drive to Munnar with a stop at a handmade brick factory. Visit the Lockhart Tea Museum. Discover a spice and Ayurvedic plant garden.

Munnar

Guided hike through tea, coffee, cardamom, and black pepper plantations. Explore local flora and remote villages. In the late afternoon, visit Munnar's local market for chocolates and spices.

Munnar - Alleppey

Drive to Alleppey. Check-in and afternoon free to relax by the backwaters.

Alleppey

In the morning, take a traditional Kerala boat ride (shikara boat) through the network of canals. Enjoy lunch with a local family. Panoramic view near the Pallathuruthy bridge where traditional houseboats are moored.

Alleppey - Fort Kochi

Drive to Fort Kochi. After lunch, enjoy a English-guided tour of the city's cultural heritage. Visit St. Francis Church, the Indo-Portuguese Museum, the Dutch Palace, the famous Chinese fishing nets, the Jew Town area and its synagogue. Meet the Dhobi Khana laundry community. In the late afternoon, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, including a makeup session for the artists.

Flight to Goa Beaches

Free morning for last-minute discoveries and shopping. In the afternoon, transfer to Cochin domestic airport. Direct flight to Goa. Transfer to your hotel in Goa.

Goa

Enjoy three days of relaxation on Goa's idyllic beaches, with swimming, lounging, and sunset walks. To immerse in local history and heritage, explore the countryside by visiting the old mansions of Figueiredo House in Loutolim, and Menezes Braganza House in Chandor. Have lunch in a prestigious setting at Palácio do Deão in Quepem. These stops unveil the rich architecture and culture inherited from Goa's colonial past.

Train to Hampi

This morning, depart for Madgaon railway station for a train journey to Hospet. Upon arrival, a rickshaw driver will warmly welcome you and take you to Hampi.

Hampi

Day dedicated to exploring the exceptional site of Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its grand ruins, including majestic temples like Virupaksha and royal palaces, which testify to the splendor of the former Vijayanagara Empire. Marvel at the unique landscapes of sculpted rocks and surrounding rice fields.

Hampi - Bangalore Airport

Enjoy your last moments in Hampi before taking the road, late morning, towards Bangalore airport for your return flight.

When to go?

Choose the ideal time to travel with our Weather Calendar.

Designed according to your itinerary stages and based on weather data from the last 3 years (regularly updated), it reliably guides you to select the best travel dates.

Prices & conditions

Rates being updated
International flights not included
Update in progress Please contact us
2 people 4 people 6 people
Low season
High season

THIS INCLUDES:

  • 24/7 English-speaking assistance during your stay
  • Accommodation in standard double (or twin) room with breakfast included
  • Transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle with English-speaking driver
  • Entry fees to sites and monuments as well as, more generally, costs related to mentioned activities
  • A English-speaking tour guide for any group of 4 people or more, otherwise occasional English-speaking guides at stages requiring them

THIS DOES NOT INCLUDE:

  • International flights and related taxes
  • Visa fees
  • All lunches and dinners (except those mentioned)
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses: drinks, phone calls, tips, etc.
Tailor this tour

Your Testimonials