Description
There is a moment on this journey — it comes somewhere between standing beneath the 66-metre tower of the Brihadishwara Temple in Tanjore and watching a Hoysala craftsman's 12th-century vision cover every surface of a temple wall in Belur — when South India stops being a geography and becomes a civilisation.
Most tours of India head north. This one goes south — and south is where the oldest, deepest, least-visited layer of India lives.
This 18-day South India tour moves through four states, a thousand years of architecture, and three completely different versions of beauty. Think of it in three movements — stone, water, and light — each one arriving just as the previous one has fully settled.
The first movement is stone.
It begins in Chennai, then drives south to Mahabalipuram — a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Pallava artisans in the 7th century carved temples, chariots and sculpted panels directly from living granite boulders. There is nothing else like this on earth, and standing in front of it, the impulse to reach out and touch the stone is almost impossible to resist.
Then deeper south into the Chola heartland. Tanjore — where the Brihadishwara Temple has stood for over a thousand years, its shadow engineered to fall within its own base at noon — remains one of the most precise and most overwhelming buildings in human history. Then Madurai, the city that never sleeps, where the Meenakshi Amman Temple contains 14 gopurams, 33,000 sculptures and a sacred tank that has reflected the same carved tower for four centuries. Madurai is not a city with a temple in it. The temple is the city, and always has been.
This is South India at its most ancient — built to outlast everything, and succeeding.
The second movement is water.
The drive into the Western Ghats announces the change before you fully register it — the air cools, the cardamom and pepper plantations replace the temple towns, and the road begins to climb. Thekkady and Periyar National Park sit at the heart of one of the world's great biodiversity hotspots — 777 square kilometres of tiger reserve around a lake where elephants come to drink at dusk, unhurried, completely indifferent to the boats watching from the water.
Then the backwaters. The Kerala houseboat cruise on Alleppey's canals is the tour's great exhale — a full day and night moving through a world that operates at the pace of paddy fields, coconut palms and fishing nets, where the only sound is water against the hull and occasionally a kingfisher. It is the single experience most travellers describe when they come home from this tour.
Fort Kochi closes the water movement: the Jewish Synagogue, the Portuguese church, the Chinese fishing nets at golden hour — layers of a trading port that welcomed everyone and kept something of each of them — and a Kathakali performance where the makeup transformation begins ninety minutes before the curtain rises and the dancer's face becomes something no longer quite human.
The third movement is light.
Mysore glitters — the palace illuminated on Sunday evenings with nearly a hundred thousand bulbs, the gold throne inside for Dasara, the Chamundi Hill views at dawn. Then Belur and Halebid, where the Hoysala temples of the 12th century cover every exterior surface in carvings so fine and so dense that scholars have spent careers failing to catalogue them fully. This is devotion expressed as precision — and it stops you in a way that the grand scale of the Chola temples, for all their power, does not quite manage.
Then Hampi — the ruined capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, a UNESCO World Heritage Site spread across one of India's most surreal landscapes: giant granite boulders balanced against each other across river gorges where 500,000 people once lived, traded and built the richest city in the medieval world. A cooking class here — in the ruins of that city — is the most unexpected and most memorable meal of the entire tour.
The final light belongs to Goa. Three unhurried days on the Arabian Sea — Portuguese churches and painted balconies in Panjim, beaches that change character from north to south, and the food — xacuti, sorpotel, bebinca — that speaks of 450 years of a culture that was neither Indian nor European and became something completely its own. The Arabian Sea at this latitude turns a particular shade of copper at dusk that you will not forget easily.
Eighteen days. Four states. Stone, water, light — and one civilisation after another, each one extraordinary, none of them anything like the last.
Duration
18 Days 17 Nights
Language
English
Price
US$2375HIGHLIGHTS
- 18-Day Southern India Trip: An extensive journey through South India's diverse landscapes and cultures.
- Ancient Temple Marvels: Explore the spiritual and architectural wonders of Mahabalipuram, Tanjore & Madurai.
- Nature's Embrace: Immerse yourself in Thekkady's lush spice plantations & serene Kerala Backwaters.
- Royal Grandeur & Intricate Art: Discover regal Mysore & the exquisitely carved temples of Belur and Halebid.
- Historic UNESCO Sites: Witness the awe-inspiring ancient ruins of Hampi.
- Goa's Golden Shores: Conclude your adventure relaxing on the vibrant beaches of Goa.
Travel Itinerary
Welcome to Chennai! On your arrival at Chennai Airport, our team will assist and will ensure a smooth transfer to your pre-booked hotel. Your incredible South India adventure officially kicks off here. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in Chennai.
After breakfast, explore Chennai, discovering Fort St. George, St. Mary's Church, and the Basilica of Santhome. Also enjoy some time at the fabulous Marina Beach, the world's longest urban beach.
Afterward, we drive to Mahabalipuram. Here, prepare to be amazed by its ancient rock-cut and monolithic monuments, showcasing early Dravidian architecture with unique cave temples, monolithic chariots (rathas), and stunning sculpted reliefs. It's a journey back in time!
Today, we shall be driving to Tanjore, a city renowned for its rich paintings and incredible cultural heritage.
Upon arrival visit the grand Brihadishwara Temple, a masterpiece from the Chola period truly awe-inspiring. Also explore the Royal Palace, the historic Shivaganga Fort, the Rajaram Museum, and a fascinating art gallery. Plus there's an option to browse the local bazaar for beautiful Tanjore Paintings as they make fantastic souvenirs.
Begin your journey towards the vibrant city of Madurai for a perfect blend of history and spirituality.
On arrival explore some of its most famous sites. Be awestruck by the magnificent Meenakshi Temple, a true architectural marvel. Also visit the grand Thirumalai Nayak Palace, the insightful Gandhi Museum, and the serene Koodal Azhagar Temple, among others.
The rest of your day is completely at leisure, so you can plan they you want or can explore more of Madurai's vicinity as per your desire.
After a leisurely breakfast checkout and then have a scenic drive to Thekkady. Be ready for a pleasant change of scenery as we move towards lush nature and wildlife.
In the evening, enjoy a truly exciting experience: a boat ride on Periyar Lake as this is a fantastic opportunity to spot exotic South Indian wildlife, especially elephants drinking or playing by the river's edge. It's a magical way to connect with nature! (Just so you know, the boat ride is on direct payment basis)
After breakfast, get ready for a thrilling tour of Periyar National Park. This incredible park is home to amazing wildlife – keep an eye out for elephants, bison, deer, and even the elusive tiger.
Later explore Periyar's spice plantations. Discover sizeable fields of pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger, learning all about these aromatic treasures. It will be a sensory experience of nature.
Today we journey to the tranquil Alleppey (Alappuzha) Backwaters. Upon arrival aboard your traditional Kerala houseboat at the jetty, and begin your gentle cruise.
Get ready to discover a world of serene beauty as you glide along, with the scenic countryside slowly evolving around you. Enjoy delicious lunch and dinner under the open sky, a starlit night, and wake to breakfast right on the water. This Alleppey houseboat cruise is truly an unforgettable journey, immersing you in Kerala backwater’s magic.
Wake up to stunning views from your Alleppey houseboat, seeing the spectacular backwaters and Chinese fishing nets. After finishing breakfast in your floating home, drive to Kochi.
Explore St. Francis Church (Vasco Da Gama's resting place), Santa Cruz Basilica, the Jewish Synagogue, and Mattancherry Palace. As evening arrives, watch vibrant Kathakali Dance show. Overnight stay in Kochi.
After a leisurely breakfast we shall journey from Kochi towards the grand city of Mysore. Known for its majestic palaces and beautiful churches, Mysore is a treat for one’s eye. It will be a full day of driving. On the way enjoy rustic views, passing charismatic local markets and villages along the way. Overnight stay is in Mysore.
Start your Mysuru day visiting Chamundi Hill for amazing views and to see the huge Nandi the Bull and Mahishasura statues.
Then, discover dazzling Mysore Palace, an Indo-Saracenic marvel where the gold throne is displayed during Dusherra festival.
Also see the Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery, filled with unique collections from ivory to antique instruments. Night stay is in Mysuru.
Today embark on a mesmerizing drive from Mysuru towards Hassan. Along the way stop to visit the truly remarkable temples of Belur and Halebid.
Prepare to be awestruck by these incredible examples of Hoysala era temple architecture. In Belur, you'll see the superb Chennakeshava Temple, a masterpiece completed over 100 years. Next in Halebid explore the stunning Hoysaleswara Temple, known for its intricate carvings. Overnight stay is in Hassan
Today journey from Hassan to spectacular landscape of Hampi. On arrival, be amazed by this rock-moulded land, where this was once the magnificent capital of the imperial Vijayanagara Empire in 14th century.
Spend your time exploring some of Hampi's most iconic ancient sites, including the admired Virupaksha Temple, the incredibly intricate Vittala Temple, and the peaceful Kodanda Rama Temple. Get ready to step back in time and be awestruck by this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Get ready for a full day of immersive exploration of Hampi. Today is all about discovering the vast, spellbinding landscapes and countless ancient ruins that make this UNESCO World Heritage site unique.
Have ample time to wander through incredible royal enclosures, explore stunning carved boulders, and soak in the surreal beauty of the rock-strewn terrain. Every corner holds a story from the mighty Vijayanagara Empire!. A day to truly study deep into Hampi's magic.
Today, we journey towards the sunny, serene shores of Goa. Upon arrival in Goa, you'll check into your comfortable hotel. The rest of the day is completely yours to enjoy as you wish! You can relax and unwind after your journey, or head straight to one of Goa's famous beaches to soak up the sun and the lively atmosphere.
Note: We shall be departing from Hampi to Goa by train [Subject to availability at time of reservation].
See that the train from Hampi to Goa operates on alternate days: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. If our travel dates do not align with these train operating days, we can arrange for a private car service to Goa at an additional cost.
Today soak in the unique facets of this vibrant state. Take a delightful walk around Panjim city. See the charming glimpses of its Portuguese heritage, with its colorful European-style balconies and distinctive red-tiled roofs – it's beautifully unique and perfect for a leisurely stroll!
The rest of your day is completely at leisure. You can continue exploring Panjim's quaint streets, or can find a cozy cafe, or simply head back to the Goa beaches to relax by the waves. Enjoy another comfortable night in Goa.
Your full day is for leisure and rest. You can spend hours on beaches, soaking up the sun or can try exciting water activities [On direct payment basis]. Also have an opportunity to savor the world-famous Goa cuisine – a delicious blend of flavors awaits. Whatever you choose, enjoy every moment. Night stay is in Goa.
[No Transportation services is included for the day]
Another day awaits you in Goa, dedicated for leisure and rest.
If you want then you can revisit your favorite beaches, discover a new quiet spot, or simply relax by the hotel pool. This is your day to fully savor Goa's charm, making the most of every relaxing moment. Overnight stay is in Goa.
[No Transportation services is included for the day]
After breakfast you shall be transferred to Goa airport as per your flight timings to board your flight for onwards journey. Your incredible 18-day South India’s Tanjore, Madurai, Thekkady, Kerala Backwaters, Mysore, Belur, Halebid, Hampi & Goa Tour concludes here.
INCLUDED
- 17 Nights’ Of Accommodation In Good Standard Hotels As Per Desire With Base Category Of Rooms At Each Place
- Daily Breakfast At All The Hotels
- All Transportation, Driver And Sightseeing Tours Using An Private AC Medium Car.
- Spice Plantation Tour In Periyar
- Rickshaw Ride In Madurai
- Cooking Class In Hampi
- Full Board In Deluxe Houseboat In Alleppey [Kerala Backwaters] On Fixed Menu Basis
- Train Fares for Hampi - Goa Sector By 2nd Air condtioned Sleeper Class [Day Train Journey]
- English Speaking Local Guide Services At All Places [ Not In Goa ]
- Kathakal Dance Show In Kochi
- All Pick-Ups & Drop-Offs As Per Itinerary.
- All Taxes, Parking, Toll Charges, Driver Allowance, And Service Charges
EXCLUDED
- Medical Insurance Of Any Kind
- Any Domestic / International Flight Fares
- Any Meals ( Unless Specified ) Anything Except In Inclusions
- Any Monument Fees As Per Tour Plan
- Any Expenses Arising Out Of Unforeseen Circumstances Like Flight Delay/Cancellation/Fare Hike, Strike Or Any Other Natural Calamities
- Personal Nature Expenses I.E. Telephone Calls, Laundry, Soft / Hard Drinks, Meals, And Tipping
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes there is a supplement for solo traveler. You can check the price with us for the same.
Mostly all the hotels are giving free WI-FI in the tour.
Yes, All Airport / Railway Transfers Are Included In The Tour Plan
As you will be exploring places of India, hence Indian Rupees shall be required to pay in local areas In hotels and restaurants
In Travel Industry We Are Working Since 2013.
You Shall Receive Whole Tour Kit Which Includes Hotel Vouchers, Train / Flight Tickets / Meals Vouchers As Per Tour Plan.
Tour Terms & Conditions
- Until 90 days prior to arrival – 30% of the deposited amount
- Between 89 days to 60 days prior to arrival – 40% of the deposited amount
- Between 59 days to 0 days prior to arrival – NO REFUND
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