Serene South India Tour Package - Kerala Temples, Kerala Backwaters, Jungle Boat Safari

You may think that a 16-day long trip to South India seems right out of a storybook, but we are here to make it a reality with your own private guided tour. Experience the spice plantations, houseboat tours, Kathakali dances, ancient temples, jungle boat safaris, and lounge around on the magnificent beaches of South India as you begin your journey in Chennai.

After sightseeing in Chennai, check out Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram, the two temple towns of South India. From famous rock carvings to seeing a thousand temples, these two ancient cities will leave you spellbound.

Add a dash of a French experience to your holiday with a trip to Pondicherry, where you see the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville. Move on to Tanjore, a 1500-year-old city that houses the 1000-year-old Brihadeeshwara Temple. If you have had your fill of temples, take an adventurous route to visit the Periyar National Park and check out a Kathakali dance performance in Kochi.

No trip is complete without Ooty, the queen of hill stations. A ride in Ooty's toy train will take you back to your childhood. The city of palaces, Mysore, and a visit to the very modern Bengaluru wraps up this long South India odyssey.

Day 1 Chennai, Welcome to Incredible India

You will be greeted & assisted by our representative at Chennai international airport and later transferred to your hotel to check in. Remaining time is at leisure till next day.

Day 2 Explore Chennai

After breakfast, spend your day exploring Chennai. Your morning will be spent visiting the iconic 7th-century Kapaleeshwar Temple, Parthasarthy Temple, and the San Thome Basilica, followed by a traditional South Indian lunch (own expense) in a local restaurant. Later visit the 17th-century Fort Saint George before returning to your hotel. Remaining time is at leisure till next day. Breakfast

Day 3 Chennai - Mahabalipuram

After breakfast, check-out from the hotel to visit the ancient city of Mahabalipuram, a popular UNESCO World Heritage Site located between Great Salt Lake and the Bay of Bengal. Mahabalipuram is famous for its rock carvings and the beautiful 7th century Shore Temple, Pancha Pandava Rathas and Varaha Mandapa.

Day 3 Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry

Later, we will drive you to the Puducherry (formerly known as Pondicherry), an erstwhile French colony. Located along the Bay of Bengal, this Union Territory offers bewitching views of swaying palms dotting pristine beaches, fishing villages, great sea-food, quality wine and backwaters. Check-in to your beach resort and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure. Breakfast

Day 4 Pondicherry, French & Tamil Flavour

Today is all about adding French & Tamil experience to your holiday in India. The most apparent legacy of Pondy's colonial past is the French and Tamil quarters of the town; separated by a canal. Firstly visit the French Quarter, distinguished by the Goubert Avenue which runs along the Promenade Beach. The manicured layout of the avenue is lined with heritage villas and buildings and statues - the most significant part of Pondy's history. Then cross the canal to visit the Tamil Quarter which has its own architectural heritage, best demonstrated by restored mansions (like Hotel Maison Perumal) which feature semi-public street verandahs, central courtyards and large windows. The Tamil Quarter bustles with activity all day long and displays the Indian side of Pondicherry. Afterwards, visit the unique Aurbindo Ashram, the city of dawn. This ashram promotes Aurbindo's ideas in bringing about a synthesis of Yoga and modern science, so as to unite the spirit and matter. Later in the day, the tour will take you to Auroville, the township established in 1968 to celebrate the unity among human beings. The world's largest solid crystal can be found in this township. Breakfast

Day 5 Pondicherry - Tanjore

Have delicious breakfast and we will drive you to your next destination Tanjore, a city with 1500 years of impressive history. After brief refresh, visit 1000-year-old Brihadishvara temple, one of the largest temples in South India. The Sacred Bull made from a single piece of stone is one of the significant highlights in the temple. Breakfast

Day 6 Tanjore - Trichy

Have delicious breakfast and take a drive to Trichy. Visit the Rock Fort Temple Complex. It presides over Tiruchirappalli, perched on an immense rock that's said to be 3.8 billion years old (this makes it older than the Himalayas!). It's the city's most prominent landmark. The complex consists of three Hindu temples, as well as a fort. Later visit the Jambukeshwar and Srirangam temples.

Day 6 Trichy - Chettinad/Karaikudi

Later, leave for Chettinad. The origin of Chettinad begins in the 13th century when the Nattukottai Chettiars migrated to Karaikudi. The most endearing symbol of the Chettiar era has been the Chettinad homes. From cuisine, architecture, furniture and customs, the rich and well-travelled Chettiars evolved a unique style combining western and eastern sensibilities. These result in an experience found nowhere else in the world. Check-in at your hotel and rest of the day is at leisure. Breakfast

Day 7 Explore Chettinad

After breakfast, visit the Athangudi Palace. The place with its Italian marble, European Cherubs, Athangudi tiles, and elaborate chandelier will leave you awe-stricken. As you wander within this mansion, you will also, come across a pictorial story on its walls. Afterwards, go for Mansion Hopping. There are lots of abandoned mansions in and around Karaikudi. This is why Mansion Hopping is one of the topmost things on your list of Karaikudi sightseeing. The best place to start is right next to the Raja’s palace in Kanadukathan. In fact, that particular village will overwhelm you with the gargantuan abodes. Visiting one of these will introduce you to the world of Mugappus and Valavus while showcasing the eco-friendly architecture of the place. End the day by Shopping at the Karaikudi Antique Market. Shopaholic or not, you must visit the Karaikudi Antique Market. A tiny lane filled with artifacts from the abandoned homes of Chettinad, the antique market of Karaikudi resembles a living museum. You can find the rare and original Ravi Varma paintings as well as the bronze sculptures of yesteryears. For collectors, there are tons of coins and old black and white pictures on sale. Antique furniture including metal benches, wooden pillars and artistic doors wait to find new homes. Breakfast

Day 8 Chettinad - Madurai

After breakfast, drive to Madurai. Check-in at your hotel. After brief refresh, visit Tirumal Nayak Palaceconstructed in the Indo-Saracenic style in 1639 AD. The curved dome, standing without the support of a girder or rafter, is an architectural feat. Pass by the Mariamman Teppakulam - the tank with mandapam in the center. In the evening, you can plan to experience the night at popular Shree Meenakshi Temple. A procession takes place during the ceremony where the bronze idol of Lord Shiva is taken to the bedchamber of the Hindu deity, Parvati. Breakfast

Day 9 Madurai - Munnar, Scenic Drive

After breakfast, take a Scenic drive from to Munnar, which is one of the highlights of the day. Munnar, probably one of the most enchanting hill stations in South India. Drive through lofty mountains of Western Ghats and admire the natural beauty of rolling hills and green valleys. Check-in at your hotel and enjoy an overnight stay. Remaining time is at leisure till next day. Breakfast

Day 10 Munnar Sightseeing

After breakfast, leave for Eravikulam National Park in the morning to see Nilgiri Tahr, a mountain goat found only in the Nilgiri Hills and the Western Ghats. Eravikulam National Park (Closed for the months of February and March) A wildlife park in the Kannan Devan Hills built to protect endangered animals such as the Nilgiri Tahr, a wild mountain goat species. Offering a magnificent view of the nearby hills used as tea plantations, it’s one of the best places in Munnar for taking photos. Afterwards, proceed to Mattupetty Dam and capture the captivating views. Activities like horse riding and boating add more fun to your visit to the Mattupetty Lake. Later visit the Tea Estate. A beautiful high-altitude tea garden located outside of Munnar, the Tea Estate is a stunning part of nature that any traveler has to see at least once! There is even an old factory on the plantation where you can watch how tea is made and buy some souvenirs. Breakfast

Day 11 Munnar - Periyar, Spicy & Wild

After breakfast, the day starts with a scenic drive to Periyar National park, Thekkady. After brief refresh, be a part of wildlife boat ride over the beautiful Periyar Lake in Periyar National Park, one of the prominent elephants reserves in India and admire the gorgeous natural surroundings. You can explore various species of animals and birds and might get a glimpse of wild elephants, boars and bison.

Day 11 Evening Kalaripayattu Martial Arts Show

In the evening attend 1 hour Kalaripayattu Martial Arts Show. Kalaripayattu is a type of Traditional Martial Art of Kerala meant for entertainment in Kerala. This again is one of the oldest forms existing in the world which has its origin in south India. Kalaripayattu the mother of all martial arts requires the knack and skill which can be performed only by well trained masters. Crafted in ancient South India drawing inspiration from the raw power and sinuous strength of the majestic animal forms - Lion, Tiger, Elephant, Wild Boar, Snake, and Crocodile. Kalaripayattu laid down the combat code of the Cholas, the Cheras and the Pandyas. Shrouded in deep mystery and mists of secrecy Kalaripayattu was taught by the masters in total isolation, away from prying eye. Breakfast

Day 12 Periyar - Backwaters Resort

After breakfast, we will take you to your backwaters resort in Alleppey. Today is all about relaxing at your backwaters resort on the banks on the backwater lagoons. You can take part in different activities (own expense) offered by the resort like Yoga, Ayurveda Massage, Canal Boating, Fishing, Cycling, Sunset Cruise, Kayaking and many more. Spend your day at leisure. Breakfast

Day 13 Backwaters Resort

Today is all about relaxing at your backwaters resort on the banks on the backwater lagoons. You can take part in different activities (own expense) offered by the resort like Yoga, Ayurveda Massage, Canal Boating, Fishing, Cycling, Sunset Cruise, Kayaking and many more. Spend your day at leisure. Breakfast

Day 14 Backwaters Houseboat

After breakfast, at appropriate time we will transfer you to the Backwaters Houseboat. Undoubtedly, this houseboat cruise in the backwaters is the most outstanding highlight of a holiday in Kerala. It will be a unique and exclusive experience in your lifetime. You will be cruising along the village sides and paddy fields witnessing the core life of the Kerala villages. Spend your afternoon and evening while sailing through the gorgeous backwaters of Kumarakom. Stay overnight in the Houseboat. Breakfast Dinner

Day 15 Hoyseboat - Kochi

This glorious day after breakfast, take a short drive to Kochi. After brief refresh, start a guided sightseeing tour of Kochi/Cochin. Explore St. Francis Church- the oldest church in India, the imposing Santa Cruz basilica built by the Portuguese, the heritage sites of Fort Kochi and shop for antiques and spices. Chinese fishing nets, the Dutch Palace and Jewish Synagogue are other highlights of the tour. You will have several opportunities to find prized souvenirs such as spices and antiques while shopping at Jew Street. KATHAKALI DANCE Add a cultural tinge to the evening with a Kathakali dance performance at a popular cultural centre in Fort Kochi. The, colourful dance is not merely a dance. It is an art form that comprises powerful storytelling with ritual, drama, and music. Breakfast

Day 16 Kochi Departure

This Morning after breakfast checkout from your hotel and at appropriate time you will be transferred to Kochi International Airport for your flight for your onward journey. Board your flight and fly back with memories to cherish for life. Tour ends. Breakfast

Important Info

Booking Policy

Once you’ve selected your desired tour, all you need to do is forward a deposit of 20% plus air and train tickets costs per booking per trip to secure your place. You won’t need to pay your final balance until 60 days prior to your tour start date. If your booking is made within 60 days of the tour start date, then the full amount is payable at the time of booking. Note: International and domestic airline tickets and rail tickets are subject to full payment at the time of booking and are subject to respective airline booking, and cancellation policies.

Cancellation Policy

Note: We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance with covid related disruption cover.
You can cancel right up to 30 days before the tour starts and we will refund your full land deposit and any progress payments made by you within 14 business days.
Note: Cancellation and rebooking policies are only valid for land part of tour not International and domestic airline tickets and train tickets.
Note: International and domestic airline tickets and train tickets are subject to full payment at the time of booking and are subject to respective airline and train operators policies for booking, rebooking and cancellation.

From 30 days before tour start date:-

If your tour is cancelled due to government travel restrictions, your deposit and any progress payments will be carried forward as full credit towards future travel with us with Zero fees.
If you leave a trip for any reason after it has commenced, we are not obliged to make any refunds for unused services. Vibrant India Tours will endeavour to recover as much of your funds as we can on your behalf or negotiate a credit for future use.
If you fail to join a tour, join it after departure, or leave it prior to its completion, no refund will be made. Vibrant India Tours will endeavour to recover as much of your funds as we can on your behalf or negotiate a credit for future use.
If you have to amend or cancel the tour from 30 days before the tour start date to the end date of the tour, any cost arising from it will be your liability and payable by you within 24 hours of amendment.
If the tour needs to be amended or cancelled due to sickness or covid related reason, we are not obliged to make any refunds for unused services. Vibrant India Tours will endeavour to recover as much of your funds as we can on your behalf or negotiate a credit for future use. Any cost arising from it will be your liability and payable by you within 24 hours.
A cancellation or rebooking will only be effective when we receive written confirmation of the cancellation.
For full cancellation & refund policy, visit

https://www.vibrantindiatours.com.au/terms-conditions/

Single Traveller Supplement

For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement applies.

Passport Validity

Customers are required to provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days prior to the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. In this instance, customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred.

Luggage

You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on the tour. With regards to domestic airline, default Check-in luggage is 15kg and Carry-on luggage is 7kg.

Fitness Level Required / Mobility

Our vehicles are not equipped with wheelchair access, so, unfortunately, our tours are currently not suitable for wheelchair users and those less mobile.
Please note: a general level of fitness will be required. If you have any concerns please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.

Sightseeing

Please note: In the event that entrance to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary where possible, will be adjusted or similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).

Voluntary Changes

This includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.

Changes - $100.00 per booking + any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Name Changes Due To Passenger Error

If the incorrect name has been advised to Vibrant India Tours, charges of $100.00 per booking + any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

South Indian Odyssey

Serene South India Tour Package - Kerala Temples, Kerala Backwaters, Jungle Boat Safari

Vibrant Experiences

Trip Route

Dates

Tour Itinerary

Important Info

South Indian Odyssey

Serene South India Tour Package - Kerala Temples, Kerala Backwaters, Jungle Boat Safari

Vibrant Experiences

Trip Route

Dates

Tour Itinerary

Important Info

Enquire Now