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A remarkable journey of around twenty days across three southern Indian states, unveiling the rich cultural diversity of the region. From the majestic Dravidian temples of Tamil Nadu to the splendid palaces of Mysore, and the tranquil charm and breathtaking landscapes of Kerala.
Request a quoteStarting from Chennai, this tour invites you to explore Tamil Nadu and Kerala, with a detour into the southern part of Karnataka. Your journey begins with the discovery of Tamil Nadu's iconic temples, continues through the Nilgiri mountains and their tea fields, then visits the grand Mysore Palace, before enjoying the idyllic beaches of the Malabar Coast.
Warm welcome at Chennai airport and transfer to Mamallapuram, a fishing village and former port of the Pallava dynasty (7th century). This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its finely carved monolithic temples, true architectural treasures. Check-in and rest.
Visit the archaeological site: the Shore Temple, the Five Rathas village, and the giant fresco of Arjuna’s penance. Visit a nearby agricultural village and enjoy a traditional lunch with a local family. In the afternoon, visit the Eagle Temple at Thirukazhukundram, perched on a hill offering a great panoramic view. At sunset, participate in the evening rituals at the temple. Return to Mamallapuram.
Travel to the former French settlement of Pondicherry. Discover the historic heart of the city, with its grid plan designed by French engineers and urban planners in the 18th century. Visit the Manakula Vinayagar Temple, dedicated to Ganesh, and the Ashram, founded after World War I by Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, two spiritual companions. Stroll through the vibrant Goubert Market.
Morning dedicated to discovering Auroville, the utopian city founded in 1968 by the Mother. The visit to the Matrimandir, the city’s temple, is limited to 15 minutes and is preceded by a film explaining the history of this experimental city. The afternoon is free to explore Pondicherry. Why not enjoy the benefits of an Ayurvedic massage at a local clinic? In the evening, learn Tamil cuisine through a cooking class at your guide’s home.
Early departure to Thanjavur. Visit the Shiva Nataraja Temple at Chidambaram, a major site of Shaivism. Explore Gangaikonda Cholapuram, the ancient Chola capital and its grand temple. Finally, in Darasuram, explore the delicate sculptures of the Airavatesvara Temple and visit family-run silk weaving workshops nearby. Overnight in Thanjavur.
In the morning, visit the famous "Big Temple" of Thanjavur, a masterpiece of Chola architecture. Discover the royal palace and the Saraswathi Mahal library, renowned for its precious manuscripts. In the early afternoon, head to the Chettinad region, famous for its magnificent merchant palaces and refined cuisine. A stop is planned at Athangudi to visit the beautiful Athangudi Palace, often used as a film set.
Discover the villages of Chettinad, land of the Chettiars, wealthy merchants who traded with Southeast Asia. Visit temples dedicated to the local god Ayyanar, known for their remarkable ritual pottery. Explore the local craftsmanship with a visit to workshops producing traditional Athangudi tiles. In the early afternoon, head to Athoor, a village nestled at the foot of the Western Ghats, offering a preserved natural setting.
Free morning for bird watching or a walk through the village. After lunch, head to Madurai, one of the main holy cities in southern India. Explore the flower market, the Gandhi Museum, and the Thirumalai Nayak Palace. Visit the must-see Meenakshi Temple, famous for its colorful gopurams and its thousand-pillared hall, followed by a stroll through the traditional market. Return to Athoor for the night.
Today, depart for the Nilgiris, the "Blue Mountains," a mountainous region covered in tea plantations. Check-in at Coonoor, a hill station with British colonial charm.
A scenic ride on a cogwheel steam train through the mountains from Mettupalayam. Visit Sim's Park, a botanical garden with rare species. Drive to the famous Ooty station and then to Gudalur, at the heart of tea plantations. Meet a local entity working in the social and solidarity economy. Overnight in a guesthouse in Gudalur.
Today, discover traditional tea production by participating in tea picking and processing, or embark on a jeep hike through the plantations. Enjoy meeting locals and share a meal in a local school with students and teachers.
Travel to Mysore, former capital of the Maharajas. Guided tour of the magnificent palace, a masterpiece of Indo-Saracenic architecture and the second most visited site in India after the Taj Mahal. Stroll through the Devaraja Market, filled with the scents of incense and spices. Overnight in Mysore.
Morning dedicated to Ayurveda with a traditional massage at a city clinic. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the city, its lively bazaars, and its craft shops, or visit the archaeological sites of Somnathpur and Talakadu.
Visit Srirangapatna, the former capital of Tipu Sultan, with its historical fort and temple dedicated to Vishnu. Fly to Trivandrum and drive to Kovalam, a famous beach resort in Kerala with palm-fringed beaches.
Free morning at the beach. Head to Munroe Island, a hidden paradise formed by the confluence of eight canals. Enjoy a boat ride at sunset through the backwaters and mangrove.
Discover the peaceful life on the island: visit a cashew nut factory, enjoy a bike ride, meet the locals, and observe traditional activities. Fishing enthusiasts can also indulge in their favorite pastime.
Drive to Fort Cochin via Alleppey. Explore the picturesque backwater landscapes on a "shikara" ride, a traditional boat, or relax on the tranquil Mararikulam beach. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali performance, a traditional Kerala art form combining dance, theater, and music. You will also witness the makeup session for the artists before the performance.
Guided tour of the former Portuguese settlement: St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, the fascinating Indo-Portuguese Museum, the Dutch Palace, and the famous Chinese fishing nets. Explore Jew Town and its synagogue (closed on Fridays), as well as the public laundry Dhobi Khana.
Free day for last-minute discoveries: shopping at Lulu Mall in Ernakulam or wandering through the historic streets of Fort Cochin. Transfer to Cochin airport for your return flight.
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.
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