Spotlight on South India - Tamilnadu, Kerala & Karnataka !!

Beginning promptly at 10 a.m., our South India tour itinerary ensures a smooth start to your journey. If you arrive at the airport on the tour's start date in the morning, our representative will be there to greet you with courtesy. Alternatively, we will arrange a convenient pickup if you have already checked into your hotel.

When you arrive in Chennai, formerly known as Madras, you will be greeted by our representative who will be stationed outside the International Airport's exit gate. Chennai, a dynamic city situated on the Coromandel Coast along the Bay of Bengal in southern India, is the capital of Tamil Nadu and a major centre for culture, commerce, and education in the region. Chennai is the fourth-largest city in India by population, and its history spans over four centuries.

Beginning with a panoramic tour of Marina Beach, begin your day by exploring the city's highlights. Chennai's coastal location endows it with several beautiful beaches, the most famous of which is Marina Beach, one of the world's longest urban beaches.

Your journey continues with a stop at the San Thome Basilica, an important religious structure built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, who arrived in India in the third century A.D. Visit the Kapaleeshwar Temple, a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, to conclude your day. After this enlightening excursion, you will check into your hotel in Chennai, where you will spend the night.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fees

Highlights: St Thomas Church, Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwar Temple.

Please Note: Hotel Checkin will be done after the sightseeing.

Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a captivating coastal town in Tamil Nadu, India, situated along the Coromandel Coast. This charming town is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed collection of monuments and rock-cut temples, which demonstrate the architectural brilliance of the Pallava dynasty. The rich tapestry of culture and history woven into Mahabalipuram, coupled with its picturesque coastal location, makes it an extremely popular tourist destination.

In the seventh and eighth centuries, when the Pallava dynasty was in power, Mahabalipuram was a major seaport and a bustling trading center. The rock-cut temples, monolithic sculptures, and intricate bas-reliefs that the Pallavas, renowned for their passionate support of art and architecture, left behind continue to captivate visitors to this day.

Nestled on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, the iconic Shore Temple is a prime example of Dravidian temple architecture. This temple complex is home to two shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu and is adorned with intricate carvings depicting Hindu mythological scenes, exemplifying the Pallava artistic prowess.

Your journey begins with an exploration of Mahabalipuram, including a stop at the Shore Temple, a 7th-century architectural marvel surrounded by verdant gardens. These Shore Temples are a testament to Mahabalipuram's splendour, gracefully perched on the Bay of Bengal and exemplifying Dravidian temple architecture at its finest. The artistic prowess of the Pallava dynasty is on display in the two shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, which are adorned with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

Explore the Five Rathas, monolithic rock-cut temples from the seventh century named after the Pandava brothers from the epic Mahabharata. Each ratha, or chariot, represents a distinct architectural style, such as Dravidian, Buddhist, and even Greek.

Your journey continues with a stop at the Arjuna Penance point, also known as the Descent of the Ganges, which features a massive bas-relief spanning two enormous granite boulders. This intricately carved piece of art depicts Hindu mythological scenes, including gods, demigods, and animals. This ancient Indian work of art is a marvel due to its skilful execution and meticulous attention to detail.

After exploring the historical treasures of Mahabalipuram, your journey continues to Pondicherry. Explore the ancient French colony of Pondicherry, particularly the French Quarter, upon arrival in the afternoon.

The French Quarter, also known as White Town, is the epicentre of Pondicherry's colonial past. Colorful facades, bougainvillea-covered balconies, and ornate wrought-iron grilles characterize the well-preserved French architectural styles of the region's well-preserved buildings. The Pondicherry Promenade, which offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Bengal, and the majestic Raj Nivas, once the residence of the French Governor and now the office of the Lieutenant Governor, are notable landmarks in the French Quarter.

You will also have the opportunity to visit the Ashram of prominent philosopher Sri Aurobindo. Built in his memory by one of his disciples, this evocative ashram is one of the most spiritually significant active ashrams in India. In addition, take a walking tour of the old city and visit the ancient Portuguese and French churches that attest to Pondicherry's rich historical legacy.

Explore South India's cultural and historical treasures, from the architectural marvels of Mahabalipuram to the colonial history of Pondicherry.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fees

Highlights: Seashore Temples of Mammalapuram, Aurobindo Ashram

Begin a journey to Tanjore, where you will explore the architectural marvels of Darasuram's temples and the artistry of the silk weavers' village. Notably, Darasuram is renowned for the Airavateswara Temple, a masterpiece built by Rajaraja Chola II in the 12th century. This temple is a prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing a sumptuous combination of artistic and architectural excellence.

When you arrive in Tanjore, the historical center of the Chola dynasty, you will be transported back to the reign of Rajaraja I and Rajendra I in the eleventh century. In addition to being protectors of the arts, these noble rulers were also formidable conquerors. Your travels will then take you to the revered Brihadeshwara Temple, an icon of Tanjore and a World Heritage site. This temple's eastern entrance is flanked by two imposing gopurams and is surrounded by imposing walls and a complex cloister decorated with columns and niches.

The Brihadeshwara Temple is an architectural example of Dravidian temple design, featuring a magnificent mandapa and a vast chamber leading to the central sanctum, which was hewn from an enormous 80-ton granite monolith. Your exploration continues with a stop at "The Raja Museum and Art Gallery," where a fascinating collection of Chola-style bronze and granite artifacts awaits your admiration. In addition, the Saraswati Mahal Library contains over 40,000 rare books and inscriptions, as well as palm leaves written in both Indian and European languages.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fees

Highlights: Darasuram Temple, Brihadeshwara Temple at Tanjore

Explore the revered Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam, a symbol of Lord Vishnu's awe. This temple, one of the 108 significant Lord Vishnu temples, dates back to the fourteenth century. Comprised of seven concentric walls, or 'prakara,' with entrances at each cardinal point, and adorned with twenty-one towering gopurams. The 73-meter-tall (240-foot-tall) 'Srirangam Rajagopuram' serves as the main entrance to this sacred sanctuary.

The Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple has undergone extensive expansions and renovations over the centuries, evolving into its present splendour. Its architectural splendour is characterized by intricate carvings, imposing temple towers, ornate halls with pillared corridors, and expansive courtyards.

Within the temple's sanctum sanctorum resides the presiding deity, Lord Ranganatha, reclining gracefully on the serpent Adisesha, representing one of the most colossal depictions of Lord Vishnu, measuring an astounding six meters (20 feet) in length. It is adorned with dazzling jewels and serves as a symbol of reverence for the faithful.

As you continue your journey towards Chettinad, you will discover the origins of the name for this historically prosperous region. "Chettinad" not only refers to the region but also to the Chettiars, the dominant ethnic group in this region.

Chettinad is distinguished by its distinctive architecture, which is exemplified by the lavish 'Chettinad houses' or 'Nattukottai Chettiar homes.' These opulent mansions feature a blend of Indian and European design elements, including intricate woodwork, intricate carvings, and vibrant colour schemes. Reflecting the wealth and prosperity of the Chettiar community, the mansions are frequently adorned with expansive courtyards, grand pillared halls, and intricate frescoes.

In the afternoon, take a stroll through the village to admire the ancient structures and visit a cotton weaving centre and a tile-making factory to gain insight into traditional craftsmanship and local industries.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fees

Highlights: Sri Ranganathswamy Temple at Trichy, Chettinad Village

Madurai, a legendary city situated in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage that dates back more than 2,500 years. Madurai, often referred to as the "Athens of the East" for its contributions to art, literature, and culture, is renowned for its magnificent temples, vibrant festivals, and skilled artisans' handiwork. Upon arrival in Madurai, check into the hotel. 

Start your exploration of this enchanting city with a ride on a rickshaw through its historic district. This unforgettable journey aboard Asia's longest rickshaw ride transports you back in time, revealing the vibrant Spice Market, Banana Market, Onion Market, Textile Market, residential areas, and local small-scale factories.

Afterwards, visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple, an iconic work of art. This temple, dedicated to Meenakshi, the Goddess of Parvati, and Sundareshwar, Lord Shiva, is the focal point of Madurai and one of India's most prominent religious structures. The temple complex is a magnificent example of Dravidian architecture, distinguished by its towering gopurams, each of which is adorned with intricate sculptures and vibrant paintings that truly captivate the senses. Notably, the temple hosts the annual Meenakshi Thirukalyanam festival, an occasion of great religious and cultural significance that draws devotees and tourists from around the world.

After an engaging day of exploration, return to your hotel for a restful night's sleep.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fees

Highlights: Meenakshi Temple, Rickshaw Ride, Evening Ceremony

Embark on a journey to Thekkady, which is located at an altitude of 900 meters within the picturesque Western Ghats, amidst a breathtaking backdrop of lush tea and spice plantations. Thekkady is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, wildlife sanctuaries, fragrant spice plantations, and variety of thrilling adventure activities.

Thekkady's verdant surroundings are surrounded by expansive spice plantations, making a tour of these estates essential to your trip. The region is renowned for its cultivation of cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, among others. Guests may participate in guided tours of these spice plantations, which delve into the complexities of cultivation methods, harvesting procedures, and the medicinal properties of these spices. Additionally, visitors can purchase spices of the highest quality directly from the source.

In addition to its natural beauty, Thekkady offers a glimpse into the vibrant traditions of Kerala through its cultural offerings. Enthusiasts can witness captivating performances of classical dance forms such as Kathakali, a dance art distinguished by intricate movements, ornate attire, and expressive facial makeup. Thekkady is also famous for its displays of Kalaripayattu, a martial art indigenous to Kerala. These cultural exhibitions illuminate the region's rich heritage and artistic legacy.

After arriving in Thekkady, settle into your chosen accommodation. Embark on a thrilling Jeep Safari through the mountainous terrain in the afternoon. Enjoy a brief tour of a spice plantation and pass through the picturesque landscapes of tea, coffee, and cocoa gardens along the way.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fees

Highlights: Jeep Ride, Spice Plantations

Transfer to Kumarakom, arrival, and hotel check-in Kumarakom, a picturesque village on the shores of Vembanad Lake in Kerala, India, awaits your arrival. This idyllic location is renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and abundance of avian life in its surroundings. It is a popular refuge for city-weary vacationers.

Offering a variety of Ayurvedic therapies and wellness treatments, Kumarakom beckons as a sanctuary for holistic well-being. Based on the ancient healing tradition of Ayurveda, this region practices this holistic system of medicine extensively. Numerous resorts and wellness centres offer rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages, therapeutic interventions, and yoga classes, providing visitors with the opportunity to revitalize their body, mind, and spirit. Devote a whole day to leisure, embracing relaxation and revitalizing yoga treatments.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport

Highlights: Yoga Treatment, Relax

You have the opportunity to enjoy leisure time, rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments, or simply relax in the morning. The time has come to conclude your hotel stay and continue your journey to Cochin. Along the way, you will embark on an enlightening excursion aboard a traditional Kerala Houseboat, navigating the intricate network of canals, rivers, and natural lakes that crisscross this enchanting region like a spider's web. On board the Houseboat, an exquisite lunch will be served. After disembarking from the Houseboat, you will continue your journey to Cochin.

Please Note: Houseboat Excursion will not be provided if a single person is traveling alone.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Lunch, Transport

Highlights: Houseboat Excursion followed by Lunch, Backwater of Kerala

Cochin, also known as Kochi, is a vibrant city located in the state of Kerala along the southwestern coast of India. This city's maritime significance is considerable, and its historical legacy spans several centuries. Cochin has served as a cultural crossroads over the years, resulting in a unique blend of traditions, architectural styles, and culinary influences. In 1498, when the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama landed for the first time, it became a prominent hub in the 15th century. To protect their commercial interests, the Portuguese established a strong presence in Cochin and constructed Fort Manuel, now known as Fort Kochi. They brought Christianity to the region and constructed numerous churches, including the iconic St. Francis Church, one of the oldest European churches in India.

Explore the cosmopolitan gem of South India, Cochin, and discover its renowned attractions, such as the Chinese fishing nets, the historic Mattancherry Dutch Palace, the renowned San Francesco Church, which houses the tombstone of Vasco de Gama, and the picturesque synagogue in the Jewish quarter. Immerse yourself in the vibrant art form of Kathakali through an enthralling dance performance in the afternoon.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fees

Highlights: Chinese Fishing Net, Fort Cochin.

Take a flight to Bangalore and, upon arrival, travel approximately 140 kilometres to Mysore over the course of three hours. Visit the renowned Somnathpur Temple, also known as the Chennakesava Temple, along the way. This architectural masterpiece is located approximately 35 kilometres east of Mysore in the Indian state of Karnataka, in the village of Somnathpur. It is a prime example of Hoysala architecture, which is renowned for its intricate craftsmanship, exquisite carvings, and painstaking attention to detail.

Explore the magnificent Mysore Palace in the afternoon, which was once the residence of the Maharajas. Mirrors, paintings, and stained glass adorn the interior of this palace, which also features mosaic floors and intricately carved doors. The historical legacy of Mysore Palace dates back to the 14th century, when the Wadiyars, the ruling dynasty of Mysore, founded their kingdom. The original palace was a simple structure made of wood and mud, but it has undergone multiple reconstructions due to calamities such as fires.

Under the patronage of Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, the present-day Mysore Palace was constructed between 1897 and 1912. His goal was to design a palace that exemplified the splendour of the kingdom. The construction of this magnificent palace was entrusted to the British architect Lord Henry Irwin, who created a mesmerizing Indo-Saracenic architectural masterpiece that incorporates Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic elements.

Inclusions: Domestic Flight, Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fees

Highlights: Somnathapur, Mysore Palace

Begin your journey to Hassan, where you will be transferred to your hotel upon arrival. In the afternoon, explore the renowned Belur and Halebidu temples, which are exquisite examples of the Hoysala dynasty's architectural prowess.

Our first stop is the Chennakesava Temple in Belur, an architectural masterpiece of Hoysala revered as a divine homage to Lord Vishnu. This magnificent structure was commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana in the 12th century to commemorate his victory over the Cholas. It took more than a century to complete. Its façade is a magnificent synthesis of Dravidian, Nagara, and Hoysala architectural styles. The exterior is adorned with intricate carvings depicting Hindu deities, celestial beings, animals, and scenes from Hindu mythology. Specifically, the outer walls are renowned for their intricate sculptures, including the celebrated elegance and grace of the Madanikas (celestial nymphs). In the primary sanctum of the temple stands a magnificent statue of Lord Chennakesava, an alternate manifestation of Lord Vishnu, in a regal stance. The interior of the temple is adorned with intricately carved columns, intricate ceiling designs, and sculptures depicting captivating mythological stories.

Your journey will then lead you to the Lord Shiva-dedicated Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu, hailed as a masterpiece of Hoysala architecture. This temple, built during the reign of King Vishnuvardhana in the 12th century, is a testament to the era's splendour. Due to an incursion by the Delhi Sultanate in the 14th century, the construction of the temple was left unfinished.

Similar to the Belur Temple, the exterior walls of the Hoysaleswara Temple are adorned with intricate sculptures and intricate carvings, depicting a rich tapestry of Hindu deities, celestial beings, animals, and scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The temple's dual shrines, one dedicated to Lord Hoysaleswara (Shiva) and the other to Lord Shantaleswara (a form of Vishnu), are notable features. The inner sanctums contain intricately carved lingams and divine statues. The temple complex also features a large statue of Nandi (the bull) and a museum displaying an impressive collection of sculptures and artefacts. Both the Belur and Halebidu temples are prime examples of Hoysala's architectural brilliance.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fee

Highlights: Temples of Belur and Halebidu

Travel to Sravanabelgola in the heart of South India, where you will have the opportunity to visit the Jain temple perched atop a majestic hill and containing the enormous monolithic statue of Bahubali. 

Sravanabelgola, situated in the picturesque Hassan district of Karnataka, India, is a revered pilgrimage site for Jains, rich in historical and religious significance. The town is renowned throughout the world for its towering monolithic representation of Lord Bahubali, also known as Gommateshwara, which is regarded as one of the world's tallest free-standing statues. Lord Bahubali exemplifies the virtues of renunciation, self-control, and enlightenment, which are represented by this awe-inspiring sculpture meticulously carved from a single granite block. The statue is revered as a masterpiece of Jain art and an essential pilgrimage site that attracts devotees from around the world.

Sravanabelgola has a rich Jain legacy, having served as a prominent centre for Jainism for more than 2,000 years. Numerous Jain saints and scholars have resided in this town over the centuries, tying it inextricably to the illustrious history of Jainism. It remains a holy site for Jains, attracting a large number of worshippers who seek spiritual solace and pay homage to Lord Bahubali.

In Sravanabelgola's calendar, the Mahamastakabhisheka, a grand ceremony held once every 12 years, is a momentous occasion. During this auspicious occasion, milk, saffron paste, and sandalwood are used to anoint the colossal statue of Lord Bahubali. The Mahamastakabhisheka attracts a large number of devotees who participate in the elaborate rituals and joyous celebrations. Return to your hotel for a restful overnight stay after concluding this remarkable visit.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fee

Highlights: Sravanabelagola Jain Pilgrimage Site

Start your trip to Bangalore with a convenient transfer. Take an informative afternoon city tour. You will be transferred to the international airport to conclude the day. Please note that this itinerary does not include a stopover.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Transport

Please Note: Please note that you will be dropped at the airport or any other location of your choice. Please plan accordingly your onward journey.