Arrive Chennai

On arrival at Chennai airport or railway station our representative having a placard displaying your name will meet you to pick you up and transfer to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay.

Chennai City Tour

This morning after breakfast taka a full day city tour of Chennai visiting Fort St. George, Government Museum, Valluvar Kottam, Snake Park, the Kapaleswara Temple-one of the most famous Shiva temple in south and the Marina Beach-believed to be the second longest beach in the world. (Museum will be closed on Fridays and Birla Planetarium will be covered on that day). Snake Park will be closed on Tuesdays. By evening return to hotel to stay overnight.

Kanchipuram & Mahabalipuram

This morning after breakfast you will be transferred to Kancheepuram known as one of India's Seven Sacred cities. Visit the Ekambareswar temple, Kailasanathar temple, Sri Kamakshi temple and Varadarajaswamy temple. Late afternoon proceed on to Mamallapuram. Overnight stay at hotel in Mahabalipuram. After Check in at hotel visit Arjuna’s Penance-this huge whale back shaped rock contains figures of God, demigods, men, beast, birds, and in fact represents the entire creation.

Mahabalipuram

This morning after breakfast take a full day city tour of Mahabalipuram. Mahabalipuram is famous for its stone carvings, sculpted reliefs, rathas and the magnificent Shore Temple which is the most famous monument. The Shore Temple when lit by moonlight is one of the most beautiful locations in the region. The temple is carved from a single piece of stone and has stood for more than 1400 years. Also visit Arjuna’s Penance-a giant bas-relief filled with detailed carvings, including a family of elephants and monkeys. The Pancha Pandava Rathas - five "rathas", literally chariots, dating from the 7th century. The sculptures are complemented by some enormous stone animals, including a large elephant. You can also visit the Sculpture Museum and by evening return to hotel to stay overnight.

Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry

This morning after breakfast you will be transferred to Pondicherry at a distance of 162 kms and around four hrs drive. After check in at hotel visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram renowned for the Integral Yoga, meditation and a place to attain inner peace. It was set up in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo Ghose, one of India’s greatest philosopher-poets. Later visit Auroville located around 8 km from main city; it was designed by the French architect Roger Anger. Auroville was envisioned as a Universal Town, where people from different nationalities, faiths and beliefs, can live in peace and harmony Nearly 2000 people from 35 countries are living here to realize human unity and transformation of consciousness. During the inauguration ceremony of Auroville on 28th February 1968, the soil of 124 countries was poured into a lotus-shaped an urn, to symbolize universal oneness. Return to hotel to stay overnight.

Pondicherry City Tour

This morning after breakfast visit beach promenade. The 1.5 km long promenade running along the beach is the pride of Pondicherry. On the sea front are several landmarks; the statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Jeanne d'arc and Duplex, the elegant war memorial raised by the French, the heritage building 'Marie Hall", the 27m tall old light house and many more colonial architecture adds charm to this beach avenue. Also visit Puduvai Museum, Botanical Garden, Manukula Vinayagar temple, Sri Vedapureeswarar temple, Kamatchiamman Temple and Varadaraja perumal temple located in the heart of the city, The Sacred-Heart church and Chunnambar - a river closer to the sea filled with back waters is a charming place to take a boat ride during the sunrise and sunset of the day. Return to hotel to stay overnight.

Pondicherry to Swamimalai to Thanjavur (237Kms / 6Hrs)

This morning after breakfast you will be transferred to Tjhanjavur. Enroote you will visit Swamimalai Temple. It is one of the six Abodes (Arupadaiveedu) dedicated to Lord Subramanya, it has an imposing golden chariot made of 7 kg of gold 85 kg of silver and other metals like copper. Overnight at Thanjavur.

Thanjavur city tour and transfer to Trichy

This Morning after breakfast visit the beautiful Chola Temple of Brihadeeshwara which is an outstanding example of Chola Architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is now an UNESCO World Heritage site. Near the Brihadeeshwara temple is the Thanjavur Palace, a vast building of masonry built partly by the Nayaks around 1550 AD and partly by the Marathas. The art gallery in the palace, there are a number of granite and bronze statues of the Chola period. This afternoon proceed to Tiruchirapalli popularly known as Trichy is known for its temple architecture. Overnight stay at Trichy.

Trichy City Tour & transfer to Rameshwaram

This Morning after breakfast visit the Rock-Fort temple which is the landmark of Trichy. A climb of 437 steps leads to the ancient temple of Ganapati on top and a further climb to a Shiva temple. You can also visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Thiruvanaikaval Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Sri Jambukeswara Tepmple. This afternoon proceed to Rameshwaram located at a distance of around 250 kms from Trichy. Rameshwaram referred to as “Varanasi of South” is the place where Lord Rama built a bridge across the sea to rescue Sita from the clutches of Ravana. This is one of the 12 Jyotirlangams of India.

Rameshwaram

This Morning after breakfast visit The Ramanathswamy Temple. Ramanathaswamy Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is an outstanding example of Dravidian architecture. This temple is famous for its 1200 gigantic granite columns, the 54 meter tall gopuram (gate-tower), 1220 meters of magnificent corridors and 22 wells with water tasting entirely different from the other. These are also known for their curative properties. Later visit Dhanushkodi, The chain of small islets and reefs in the sea between Sri Lanka ans Dhanushkodi are collectively known as Adam’s Bridge. Also visit Kothandaraswamy Temple around 12 km from the town is dedicated to Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, Lakshmana, Hanuman and Vibhishana. Ewrawadi at a distance of 24 kms from Rameshwaram is an impostant Muslim pilgrimage center famous for the tomb of Ibrahim Shahid Aulia. Return to hotel to stay overnight in Rameshwaram.

Rameshwaram to Madurai

This Morning after breakfast drive to South India’s temple town Madurai located at a distance of 165 kms from Rameshwaram famous for Meenakshi Temple. Over 2500 years old, Madurai is the second largest city of Tamil Nadu it is an important cultural and commercial center. The city is planned in the shape of a lotus. This afternoon visit the great Meenakshi Temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and her consort Lord Sundareswarar. Thousand of pilgrims all over the country and the world visit this famous temple. The 11 exquisite gopuramas that make up the temple are adorned with figures of Gods, Goddesses and mythical animals. Here do not miss the thousand-pillared Mandapam. Later, visit the Tirumalai Nayak Palace, a gracious building in the Indo-Saracenic style famous for stuccowork on its domes and arches. Evening visit to Meenakshi temple again & witness the “Palli Arai” ceremony at the Meenakshi Temple. Overnight at hotel in Madurai.

Madurai to Kanyakumari (242 Kms travel time 5 to 6 hrs)

This Morning after breakfast you will be transferred to Kanyakumari located at the extreme southern tip of India. This afternoon visit The Kumari Amman or Kanya Kumari Temple , located on the shore is dedicated to virgin Goddess Kumari Amman who undertook severe penance to obtain Lord Shiva’s hand in marriage. Stay overnight at hotel in Kanyakumari.

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Kanyakumari City Tour & Transfer to Trivandrum

This Morning after breakfast you will visit the famous Vivekananda Rock Memorial, dedicated to Indian Saint Vivekananda, who meditated on this very rock before he proceeded to West to propagate Hinduism. Also there is a recently erected memorial of Thiruvalluvar, a Tamil saint who had written the Thirukkural, containing 1330 verses for a better living for every human. Evening view the sunset at the southern most tip of India, where the 3 seas meet (Namely Indian Ocean in the south, Arabian sea in the west and Bay of Bengal in the east). Later on transfer to Trivandrum to stay overnight.

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Trivandrum City Tour

This morning after breakfast proceed to take a full day city tour of Trivandrum. You will visit the Padmanabha Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is a blend of the Kerala and Dravidian styles of architecture. It is known for its mural paintings and stone carvings. One among the 108 sacred Vishnu temples in India, the presiding deity in here is Lord Vishnu reclining on Anantha the Serpent. Located near the Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple is Kuthiramalika (Puthenmalika) Palace Museum: This palace was built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma - the King of Travancore, who was a great poet, musician, social reformer and statesman. This rare specimen of workmanship in the traditional Travancore style of architecture also has exquisite wood carvings. The palace museum displays paintings and various priceless collections of the royal family, also visit The Napier Museum, built in the 19th century, the Indo - saracenic structure boasts a "natural" air conditioning system and houses a rare collection of archaeological and historic artifacts, bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot and ivory carvings. Located near the Napier Museum is the Sree Chithra Art Gallery, this art gallery displays select paintings of Raja Ravi Varma, Svetlova and Nicholas Roerich and exquisite works from the Rajput, Mughal and Tanjore schools of art in India. The collection also includes paintings from China, Japan, Tibet and Bali. You can also visit Shankhumugham Beach: Just 8 km from the city, this is a favourite haunt of sunset watchers. The beach is adjacent to the Thiruvananthapuram Airport and Veli Tourist Village. An indoor recreation club, the matsya kanyaka (a gigantic, 35 m long sculpture of a mermaid) and a restaurant shaped like a starfish are some of the attractions here. Overnight at hotel in Trivandrum.

Trivandrum to Alleppey

This morning after breakfast transfer to Alleppey popularly referred to as “Venice of the East” and check-in to the traditional houseboat for Back water Cruise, which will be a unique experience in your life. No tourist can go away from Alappuzha without taking a cruise along the backwaters in a traditional houseboat. The houseboats complete with a well furnished bedrooms, a kitchen and a bathroom. There are drivers and a cook on board. On the houseboat you can observe the everyday life of locals, pick up toddy( a mild alcoholic drink made from coconut sap), dig into grilled prawns and indulge in bird watching. And if you are traveling in the month of August you can witness the famous Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race. Enjoy dinner on board overnight in the houseboat.

Alleppy to Kumarakom

This morning after breakfast check-out from the houseboat and drive to Kumarakom located on the Southern coast of India enjoys a well-balanced tropical climate. The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake. After check in at hotel visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, the best time for this is between November and March, when a range of migratory birds from Siberia make it their winter home. Some of the species include the Snake bird Little Cormorant, Crow Pleasant, White-branded water Hen and Tree pie. Occasionally you can catch the native kingfishers setting the waters ablaze in a psychedelic flash of colours. The night herons, the Golden-backed woodpeckers are added delights. At the fourteen-acre bird sanctuary one can glimpse many a rare bird – some of which, sadly, may not be around forever. Evening enjoy the sun set cruise thereafter return to hotel for overnight.

Kumarakom to Periyar

Today wake up early in the morning for the grandest show on earth. The sunrise. In the mornings, the lake is calm, misty and sensuous. And the sun breaks with a smile and stretches its arm across the river to wish you good morning. After breakfast transfer to Periyar. The Periyar Wildlife sanctuary is spread across 780 sq km, of which 360 sq km is thick evergreen forest; this sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. Noted for its geomorphology, diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the Reserve attracts visitors all over the world and is one of the world's most fascinating natural wildlife. Further, the splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar River adds to the charm of the park. This is the only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat on the lake. The greatest attraction of Periyar, however are the herds of wild elephants that come down to the play in the lake. This afternoon enjoy boats boat ride and enjoy a unique the wild life experience. Overnight at hotel in Periyar.

Periyar to Munnar

This morning after breakfast you will be transferred to Munnar at a distance of 70 kms from Periyar. Munnar is a nature lovers’s paradise with its sprawling tea plantations and winding lanes. The misty hills with tea plantations appear like velvet lawns on the gentle slopes of the hills. Some of the highest tea gardens of the world are located in Munnar. After check in at hotel Visit Eravikulam National Park, the best place to see Nilgiri Tahr. Other attractions of Munnar are Kundale tea plantation surrounded by a lovely lake and if you are adventure enough you can take a trek to Anamudi-the heist peak in South India. Overnight at hotel in Munnar.

Munnar to Cochin

This morning after breakfast you will be transferred to Cochin (175 kms from Munnar a 4 hrs drive) On arrival check in to the hotel. This afternoon visit Parishath Thampuram Museum previously called the Durbar Hall, It has a collection of 19th century oils paintings, a collection of coins, models of ancient temples and sculptures. Later visit The Hill Palace Museum built in AD 1865 to serve the official residence of Kochi royal family. In the evening, enthrall yourself with a special presentation of the colorfully costumed Kathakali Dance Drama at a local theatre; thereafter return to hotel for overnight stay.

Cochin City Tour

This morning after breakfast take a full day city tour of Kochi. Your sightseeing will include visit to Chinese Fishing Nets, Fort Kochi beach, Jewish Synagogue, Mattancherry Palace or “Dutch Palace”. Chinese Fishing Nets: The Chinese fishing nets found here are the only ones of its kind in India. It is believed that traders from the court of the Chinese ruler Kublai Khan introduced these nets here. Dutch Palace: The Dutch Palace was originally built by the Portugese. Later, in 17th century, the Dutch modified it and presented to the Raja of Kochi. Coronation of many Rajas of Kochi was held here. The place has a fine collection of mural paintings depicting the scenes from the Hindu epics Mahabharatha and Ramayana. Fort Kochi beach: A stroll along the beach, particularly at sunset with the chinese fishing nets and sailing ships in the background, is a fine experience. Many European style bungalows can be seen along the shoreline. Jewish Synagogue: The synagogue, magnificently decorated by Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers, was built in 1568. Giant scrolls of the Old Testament can be found here. It is located near the Dutch Palace. In the evening enjoy Motor Boat Ride at Cochin Harbour and thereafter evening free to walk around the beach or relax at the pool – side. Overnight at the hotel.

Cochin to Coonoor & Train to Ooty by Nilgiri Mountain Train

This morning after breakfast your will be transferred by road to Coonoor located at distance of 210 kms from Kochi. Coonoor is a hill station surrounded by tea plantations. After reaching Coonoor visit the high field tea factory where you can see the process of tea making and enjoy the sips of Masala Tea or the Chocolate tea. Also visit the Sims Park, it has a very beautiful rose garden and if you are there in the month of May you can catch a glimpse of the roses in bloom. This evening you will be transferred to Coonoor railway station to board the Nilgiri Toy Train to Ooty. (Train No. 0664 Departure from Coonoor (ONR) at 16:30 hrs arriving Udagamandalam (UAM) at 17:45 hrs.) This Nilgiri Mountain Rail is unique as it is the steepest one in Asia and is a UNESCO world Heritage Site. From Coonoor, the track is uphill till you reach Ooty at a height of 2,218 M. If you enjoy taking pictures, keep your camera ready for a few shots of the viaduct between Kallar and Adderley. This ride is sure to be a journey to remember. On arrival at Ooty at 17:45 hrs pick up and transfer to hotel. Overnight at hotel in Ooty.

Ooty

Ooty is rightly described as the “Queen of all Hills.” The extraordinary scenaries make Ooty a great tourist spot. The misty dense clouds, the chill weather and the evergreen ambiance make things much fantastic. This morning after breakfast tak a full day city tour of Ooty. The Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, St. Stephen’s Church, Rose Garden, Dodabetta Peak and Stone House are some of the attractions of Ooty. Return to hotel to stay overnight at hotel in Ooty.

Ooty to Mysore

This morning after breakfast your will be transferred by road to Mysore 160 kms from Ooty. This afternoon visit the Mysore Palace referred to as the Maharaja’s Palace. The original palace built wood got burnt down in AD 1897. It was rebuild in AD 1912by the 24th Wodeyar Raja. This entire complex is worth seeing specially the Diwan-e-Am and Diwan-e-Khas. Other attractions of the Mysore are the Chamundi Hill Temple & the Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery and the most famous Brindawan Gardens. Stay overnight at hotel in Mysore.

Mysore to Hassan & Visit to Shravanabelagola, Belur & Halebid.

This morning after breakfast your will be transferred by road to Hassan 115 kms from Mysore. After check in at hotel visit Shravanabelagola. The most important monument in Shravanabelagola is the image of Sri Gomateshwara. This monolithic image is carved beautifully with accurate sense expression. The image is simple, gigantic but majestic. It is about 57 feet high. There is no monolithic image of this height in the whole world. The most important occasion on which several thousands of persons from all over India passes through this place is at the time of "Mahamasthakabhisheka" which coincides once in 12 years. There after proceed to Belur known for its exquisite temples and referred to as Dakshina Varanasi or South Banaras for its temples. The serenity of Belur is attributed to the celebrated temple of Channakeshava, built by the Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana in 117 A. D. Later drive to Halebid. The Hoysaleshwara temple, standing on platform like a casket, is a sculptural extravaganza, richly endowed with most finely detailed scroll work in stone. Outside there is a Nandi( the sacred bull, a vehicle of the Lord Shiva) and a hillock where a palace stood, connected to the temple by a passage. Inside its dark depts., the queen Shantala Devi beckons from an alcove. Return to Hassan to stay overnight.

Hassan to Bangalore (187 Kms travel Time 4 Hrs.)

This morning after breakfast your will be transferred by road to Bangalore the Capital of Karnataka and one of India’s happening IT hub. After check in at hotel explore this beautiful city. Lal Bagh Botanical Garden, Bull Temple, Venkatapa Art Gallery, The Fort of Tipu Sultan, Bangalore Palace and the Gavigangadhareswara Temple are some of the attraction of Bangalore. Overnight at hotel in Bangalore.

Bangalore to Mumbai by Flight

This morning you will be transferred to Bangalore airport to board your flight to Mumbai. On arrival at Mumbai airport pick up and transfer to hotel. This afternoon you will proceed for a sightseeing tour of Mumbai city, rich blend of East and West. The tour includes visits to 26 meters high British-built Arch “Gateway of India”, Mumbai’s landmark built to honour the visit of George V and Queen Mary in 1911. Marine Drive dubbed, as the Queen’s Necklace is Mumbai’s most popular promenades and a favorite sunset watching spot. The Kamla Nehru Park from where you have a picturesque view of the city, Hanging Gardens are so named since they are located on top of a series of tanks that supply water to Mumbai. Pass by the `towers of silence’ the crematorium of the Parsis. Also visit Mani Bhawan a private house where Mahatma Gandhi used to stay when he visited Mumbai. It is now a museum and research library with 20,000 volumes. Return to hotel for overnight.

Transfer to Airport

Today you will be transferred to International airport to board your flight.

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