Chennai: 8-Day Fully Guided Tour of South India

Discover South India on an 8-day tour from Chennai. Visit the ancient stone temples of Mahabalipuram, explore Pondicherry, and cruise through the peaceful lagoons of Alleppey on a houseboat.
Embark on a journey through South India's temples, backwaters, and rich culture. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage town of Mahabalipuram, the French colonial city of Pondicherry, the temple city of Madurai, and the backwaters of Alleppey.

Day 1: Chennai – Mahabalipuram
Arrive at Chennai International Airport and drive to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage town. Explore ancient stone temples and rock-cut sculptures, including the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and Arjuna's Penance. Stay at the Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay or the Ideal Beach Resort.

Day 2: Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry
Drive to Pondicherry, a coastal city known for its French colonial charm. Visit Auroville, an experimental international township, and walk through the French Quarters with colonial villas, quiet streets, and cafes. Enjoy the evening at Promenade Beach. Stay at the Palais de Mahe by CGH Earth or The Promenade by Hidesign.

Day 3: Pondicherry – Madurai
Take a short flight or scenic drive to Madurai, Tamil Nadu's temple city. In the evening, visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture with towering gopurams (gateway towers). Stroll around the local markets and sample traditional South Indian snacks. Stay at the Heritage Madurai or JC Residency.

Day 4: Madurai – Thekkady
Drive through the lush Western Ghats to Thekkady in Kerala. Visit a spice plantation and learn about cardamom, pepper, and other spices. Take a boat ride on Periyar Lake, spot wildlife, or enjoy a Kalaripayattu martial arts show. Stay at the Spice Village by CGH Earth or Greenwoods Resort.

Day 5: Thekkady – Alleppey
Drive to Alleppey, famous for its backwaters and houseboats. Board a private houseboat and cruise through the peaceful lagoons and canals. Enjoy authentic Kerala meals prepared on board. Relax and watch village life pass by. Stay on the Spice Routes Premium Houseboats or the Rainbow Cruises Deluxe Houseboats.

Day 6: Alleppey – Cochin
Drive to Kochi (Cochin), a city blending Portuguese, Dutch, and Indian influences. Explore Fort Kochi, including St. Francis Church, Chinese Fishing Nets, Jew Town, Paradesi Synagogue, and Mattancherry Palace. Stay at the Brunton Boatyard by CGH Earth or the Old Harbour Hotel.

Day 7: Cochin – Day at Leisure
Spend the day at leisure. Attend a Kathakali dance performance in the evening, enjoy an Ayurvedic massage or spa therapy, or go shopping for spices, antiques, and handicrafts. Stay at the Brunton Boatyard by CGH Earth or the Old Harbour Hotel.

Day 8: Cochin – Departure
Transfer to Cochin International Airport for your flight home.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.