Gems of South India

Starting from

€
2105
Per Person
•
Embark on an enriching 18-day journey through the vibrant and culturally rich southern regions of India. This thoughtfully curated itinerary invites travelers to explore Kerala's tranquil backwaters, Tamil Nadu's majestic temples, and the French-influenced charm of Pondicherry, culminating in the bustling metropolitan experience of Chennai.
   Cochin
 --- 
Kumarakom
 --- 
Periyar
 --- 
Madurai
 --- 
Chettinad
 --- 
Trichy
 --- 
Pondicherry
 --- 
Mahabalipuram
 --- 
Chennai  

Tour Plan

Embark on an unforgettable 18-day journey through South India, beginning in the historic port city of Cochin and winding through the serene backwaters of Kumarakom aboard a traditional houseboat. Explore spice plantations and wildlife in Periyar, and immerse yourself in the temple towns of Madurai and Thanjavur, rich with Dravidian architecture and cultural heritage. Discover the grand mansions of Chettinad, the spiritual aura of Trichy, and the colonial charm of Pondicherry. Witness the rock-cut marvels of Mahabalipuram and conclude your adventure in vibrant Chennai, experiencing a blend of ancient traditions and modern city life. This journey offers a perfect mix of culture, cuisine, nature, and heritage.

Itineraries Of The Day

Arrive at Cochin International Airport and meet your Liberty representative. Transfer to your hotel for check-in. Spend the rest of the evening at leisure to relax and acclimate to the surroundings.

Overnight stay in Cochin.

Start your day early by watching fishermen return with their catch and witnessing the unique Chinese fishing nets in action. After breakfast, spend the morning with Nimmy Paul and her husband, learning about Kerala’s home customs and participating in a hands-on cooking session, followed by a delicious meal.

In the afternoon, visit the Portuguese Museum and enjoy free time exploring the charming streets of Fort Cochin. End the day with a visit to a local theatre to watch a mesmerizing Kathakali performance.

Overnight stay in Cochin.

After breakfast, drive to Kumarakom, a tranquil village by the Vembanad Lake known for its scenic backwaters.

Upon arrival check-in.

Later visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and spot migratory birds like Siberian storks and egrets. 

Overnight stay in Kumarakom.

After breakfast, get ready to explore Kumarakom Village Life.

Spend the day engaging in immersive village activities in Manjira. Try your hand at canoeing, coconut tree climbing, toddy tapping, net fishing, and coir making. Get a true taste of Kerala’s local life and traditions.

Overnight stay in Kumarakom.

After breakfast, board a traditional deluxe houseboat for an unforgettable cruise through the serene backwaters. Sail past lush greenery, paddy fields, and quaint villages. Enjoy onboard meals and the calm rhythm of life on the water. Dock by sunset.

Overnight on the houseboat.

After breakfast, check out & disembark at Kumarakom Jetty, drive to Periyar. En route, stop at a rubber plantation and enjoy a local lunch. On arrival in Periyar, check into your hotel. In the evening, witness a thrilling Kalaripayattu (martial arts) show. 

Overnight stay in Periyar.

After breakfast, visit a spice plantation and learn about the cultivation of cardamom, pepper, cloves, and turmeric. Enjoy lunch at the scenic Shalimar Spice Garden. In the afternoon, visit Periyar National Park. Spot water birds and Asiatic elephants during a boat ride on the artificial lake. You can also choose bamboo rafting.

Overnight stay in Periyar.

After breakfast, drive to Madurai – one of South India’s oldest cities. Visit the iconic Meenakshi Temple, marvel at its architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Explore Tirumalai Nayak Palace and the sacred temple tank. Attend the enchanting Night Ceremony at Meenakshi Temple.

Overnight stay in Madurai.

Begin your day in Madurai with a visit to the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, exploring its intricately sculpted Hall of Thousand Pillars and the temple museum showcasing ancient artifacts. Continue to the grand Tirumalai Nayak Palace, a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture with its vast courtyard and majestic pillars. Conclude the tour at Mariamman Teppakulam, a serene temple tank known for its central shrine and religious festivities. 

Overnight stay in Madurai.

After breakfast, check-out and start drive to Chettinad, a region known for its palatial homes and unique cuisine. Check into your heritage hotel and spend the day soaking in the peaceful and regal atmosphere.

Overnight stay in Chettinad.

After breakfast, set out to explore the cultural gems of Chettinad. Begin with a visit to the majestic Raja’s Palace and stroll through the opulent Chettiar mansions, known for their unique blend of European and South Indian architecture. Stop by Athangudi village to witness the making of vibrant handmade tiles, a signature craft of the region.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Chettinad cooking demonstration followed by a flavourful dinner at the heritage property, The Bangala.

Overnight stay in Chettinad.

After breakfast, drive to Trichy, explore Trichy’s Rock Fort and Srirangam temple town. Visit Shri Ranganathaswamy Temple before continuing onwards to Thanjavur, once the capital of the Chola kings. Check into the hotel upon arrival.

Overnight stay in Thanjavur.

After breakfast, explore Thanjavur with visit to Dharasuram to see the Airateshwara temple, a stunning example of 12th-century Chola architecture. Explore Gangaikonda Cholapuram, known for its grand temple dedicated to Shiva.

In the late afternoon, enjoy a village tour near Thanjavur along the river Kaveri. Meet a local family, hear village stories, and taste local treats with filter coffee.

Overnight stay in Thanjavur.

After breakfast, check out and drive to Pondicherry. On arrival, check in at your hotel.

Stroll through the French and White Towns, starting at Baker Street and ending at Alliance Française. Explore colonial villas, tree-lined boulevards, and visit Cluny Embroidery Centre for unique hand-crafted souvenirs.

Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

After breakfast, check out and drive to Mahabalipuram. Enroute visit Auroville — an experimental township founded in 1968, where people from around the world live in harmony. Explore the area and get a glimpse into its unique way of life.

On arrival, check in at your hotel.

Overnight stay at Mahabalipuram.

After breakfast, delve into the ancient wonders of Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the remarkable bas-relief of Arjuna’s Penance, admire the monolithic rock-cut temples of the Five Rathas, and visit the iconic Shore Temple overlooking the sea. End the day with a stunning sunset by the Bay of Bengal.

Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.

After breakfast, drive to Chennai, the vibrant capital of Tamil Nadu. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel.

Later, discover the city’s cultural and colonial landmarks including the Kapaleeswarar Temple, San Thome Cathedral, Fort St. George, and the grand Indo-Saracenic High Court. Enjoy a scenic drive along Marina Beach and explore the bustling spice markets for a taste of local life.

Overnight stay in Chennai.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel. Transfer to Chennai International Airport for your onward flight, concluding your enriching journey through the gems of South India.

Cost is based on minimum 02 full paying pax traveling together

Price Starting From
€
2105
Per Person

Residency & Living Space

Price per person in double/twin room

minimum of 2 pax

Price per person in double/twin room

minimum of 2 pax

Price per person in double/twin room

minimum of 2 pax

4 * Category low season 5,820 EUR 5,820 EUR 5,820 EUR
Single supplement 5,820 EUR

Accommodation

Cochin: Tea Bungalow/Similar
Kumarakom: Backwater Ripple/Similar
Houseboat: Marvel Cruise/Similar
Periyar: Shalimar Spice Garden/Similar
Madurai: Heritage Madurai/Similar
Chettinad: Chidambra Vilas/Similar
Tanjore: GRT Great Trails/Similar
Pondicherry: Villa Shanti/Similar
Mahabalipuram: Ideal Beach Resort/Similar
Chennai: The Residency Towers/Similar

Whats Included

Not Included

Tour Video

Sheherazad Mehta
sheherazad.mehta@liberty-int.com

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