Day 01 Arrival in Chennai

Arrival at Chennai International Airport.
Once you have completed the immigration procedures and have collected your luggage, our representative will wait for you outside the Terminal
Arrival at the hotel and check-in. Standard Check-in 2:00 p.m. / Check-out 12:00 p.m.

After breakfast, continue the city tour of Chennai.

You will visit George Town’s heritage walk: – from the trading post of the East India Company in the 17th century to its modern avatar as the commercial hub of Chennai. Experience, China Bazaar Road, Vishnu Temple, Kasi Chetty Charities, Mint Street, Sowcarpet, Armenian Church, Sowcarpet, Madras High Court.

Marina Beach: – Marina Beach in Chennai, along the Bay of Bengal, is the longest beach in India and the second longest in the world. This nearly 12 kilometer sandy domain stretches from Beasant Nagar in the south to Fort St. George in the north.

Kapleshwar Temple: – Initially, the temple was built in the 7th century AD. C. by the Pallavas, where the current Santhome Church is located. After its demolition by the Portuguese in 1566 AD, the Vijayanagara kings rebuilt the temple in Dravidian architectural style.

Overnight in Chennai.

Day 2 – Chennai-Mahabalipuram (58 Km, 1 Hour 30 Minutes)

After breakfast drive to Mahabalipuram.

Upon arrival you visit The Shore Temple: – This is one of the oldest temples in South India and belongs to the second half of the 7th century AD, built with granite blocks. Since it is located on the coast overlooking the Bay of Bengal, it is called Shore Temples.

The Descent of the Ganges: – The monolith stands proudly at fifteen feet high and one hundred feet long, one of the largest and most beautiful of its kind in the world, and is smothered in lifelike carvings of humans, elephants, deities and mythical monsters, intertwined and marching in rows across every inch.

Five Rathas:- There are around nine monolithic temples in Mahabalipuram. They are the unique contribution of the Pallavas to Indian art. The monolithic temples are locally called Ratha (Chariot) as they resemble the processional chariots of a temple.

Arujuna’s penance: – It is the largest in the world measuring 27 x 9 m. It has over 100 sculptures of deities, birds and beasts and saints. It is popularly called “Arjunan’s Penance” as this bas-relief is believed to illustrate an example from the Mahabharata wherein Arjuna, one of the Pandavas, performed a rigorous penance with a prayer to Lord Shiva to obtain the Powerful and Divine Bow.

Transfer to the hotel. 

Overnight in Mahabalipuram.

Day 3 – Mahabalipuram-Pondicherry (100 km / 2 hours)

After breakfast, drive to Kumbakonam.

After visiting Mahabalipuram, leave for Pondicherry. 

Upon arrival you will visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram  –  Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a kind of place where you can seek spirituality in a relaxed atmosphere and achieve inner peace by meditating in its serene aura. The magical ambience of this sanctuary makes you forget everything as soon as you enter the ashram and the beautiful scenery will leave you speechless, thus making the overall setting even more spectacular.

Auroville –  a city dedicated to human unity, tracing its history back to the 20th century, the concept of Auroville Township was developed in June 1965 by Mirra Alfassa, popularly known to her followers as The Mother. She wanted to build a city where people from all over the world, irrespective of their nationality, caste, religion and social status, could live peacefully under one roof.

Pondicherry Beach :-  Pondicherry beaches are the most breathtaking feature of the coastal city of Pondicherry for all the tourists. With its pristine shoreline and a heap of natural beauty filled with sparkling waters and golden sands, some of the best beaches in Pondicherry attract hordes of tourists.

Visit the local market by rickshaw –  This is an exploration of the Tamil quarter of Pondicherry, on foot and by cycle rickshaw. We will see the traditional houses, places of worship and the lively local markets of the district.

Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

Day 4 – Pondicherry-Pichavram (76 Km, 1 hour 50 minutes) Pichavaram-Kumbakonam (87 Km, 2 hours)

After breakfast, drive to Kumbakonam.

En route visit Pichavaram Mangrove Forest: –   Pichavaram Mangrove Forest is located between two major estuaries, Vellar Estuary in the north and Coleroon Estuary in the south. The Vellar-Coleroon estuary complex forms the Killai and Pichavaram mangroves.

Chidambaram Nataraja Temple: – This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva called Nataraja is one of the Five Sabhas [divine stages] where Lord Shiva performed the Cosmic Dance.  Chidambaram is a Pancha Bootha Sthalam, representing Akasam (Sky), one of the five elements of nature.

Upon arrival in Kumbakonam visit Bronze factory: – In fact, it is a specialized artistic tradition that is unique to the city, hence the bronze idol makers here are known as the ‘bronze icons of Swamimalai’.

Enroute you visit the Darasuram, Airavatesvara Temple: –  Airavatesvara temple in Darasuram is a historic divine temple filled with rich heritage and astonishing artistic splendours. One of the three ancient temples that are collectively called “Great Chola Living Temples”, the Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram, has been awarded the UNESCO heritage tag.

Mahamaham Temple: – This is one of the many temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in Kumbakonam. The Goddess is Visalatchi. It has shrines connected to Nine Rivers and visiting this temple is considered auspicious for girls.

Overnight in Kumbakonam.

Day 5 – Kumbakkonam-Tanjore (98 km, 2 hours 30 minutes)

After breakfast, drive to Tanjore.

On arrival in Tanjore, after lunch, transfer to the hotel to relax.

Visit Tanjore:- Thanjavur is a city in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Its many temples include the 11th-century Brihadeeswarar temple, a vast Chola dynasty-era complex with frescoed interiors.

The Thanjavur Maratha Palace: – houses the century-old Saraswathi Mahal Library, with palm leaf manuscripts, and the Thanjavur Art Gallery, with bronze statues.

The Tamil University Museum: – exhibits coins, folk artifacts and musical instruments. Visit Brihadeeshwara Temple, Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery.

Brihadeeswarar Temple: – It is one of the largest temples in India and is an example of Dravidian architecture during the Chola period. Built by Emperor Raja Raja Chola I and completed in 1010 AD, the temple turned 1000 years old in 2010.

Overnight in Tanjore.

Day 6 – Tanjore-Trichy (65 Km, 1 hour) Trichy-Chettinad (82 Km, 01 hour 25 minutes)

After breakfast, drive to Chettinad. 

En route you visit Trichy Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple: – Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is located in Srirangam town in Trichy. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, a reclining form of Lord Vishnu. The temple complex along with the surrounding area covers a total area of ​​156 acres.

Rock Fort: – Trichy Among the many spectacular sites to visit in Trichi, Rock Fort Temple is a must-visit. The fort is a huge rock structure built at an altitude of 83 m above sea level.

Kallanai Dam: – Kallanai Dam, also known as Grand Anicut, is an ancient dam built on the Kaveri River, located at a distance of 15 km from Tiruchirapalli. The dam was originally built by the then ruler of the area, a Chola king Karikalan, around the 2nd century AD.

On arrival visit Chettinad. 

Chettinad Palace: – Chettinad Palace, located in the Sivaganga region of Tamil Nadu, is a splendid illustration of the traditional construction of the Chettinad village. Its magnificent construction dates back to the 18th century.

Chettinadu Mansion: – Chettinadu Mansion in Kanadukathan is a historic retreat. This palace has existed for more than a century and has been used as a spa since it opened its doors to the public.

Transfer to the hotel.

Overnight in Chettinad.

Day 7 – Chettinad-Madurai (90 Km, 2 hours)

After breakfast, drive to Madurai. 

Vairavanpatti:- The temple dates back to the 19th century and is associated with many legends. Sivapurandevi and Lord Aatkondanathar are worshiped here, although other deities may also be present.

Soorakudi:– A route leading to Chettinad railway station and Kanadukathaan passes by the Soorakudi temple, which is located on the outskirts of the city, about ten kilometers from Karaikudi. The impressive temple is inspired by Soorai bushes, a species grown here for its therapeutic properties.

After visiting Chettinad, departure to Madurai.

Upon arrival visit Gandhi Museum is located in the ancient palace of Rani Mangammal. The museum brings the fight for freedom to life. The Gandhian movement is well represented as an art gallery.

Then check in at the hotel and time to rest.

In the afternoon visit the temple followed by the evening ceremony. 

Meenakshi Temple: – It is dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi, a form of Parvati, and her consort Sundareshwarar, a form of Shiva. Built in the 14th century, it has four imposing towers called Gopurams and the tallest is around 170 feet tall

Flower Market: – Flower Shops where you can choose from the different varieties of flowers available and get a bouquet. The decorators can expertly sculpt the flowers into bouquets, garlands, frames, and other items.

Evening Ceremony: – Late in the evening, you will witness the amazing pooja (prayer) ceremony at Meenakshi temple. During the ceremony, the idols of Sundareshwar (an avatar of Lord Shiva) and his consort Meenakshi (an avatar of Parvati) are brought in a grand procession to the bedroom, where they are kept for the night.

Note: To visit Meenakshi Temple, you have to follow the dress code which includes half-sleeved or long-sleeved shirt/top and pants. Sleeveless dresses, shorts or shorts are not permitted. Non-Hindus are not allowed to enter the sanctum sanctorum.

Overnight in Madurai.

Day 7 – Madurai-Thekkady (141 Km, 3 hours 30 minutes)

After breakfast, Drive to Thekkady

On arrival visit to spice plantation –  Spice and spice plantations are something unique to Thekkady, Kerala and most of them do not miss this interesting activity. Spices like cardamom require a very moderate cool climate which only Thekkady offers and that is why Thekkady and surrounding places are full of cardamom plantations.

Elephant Junction – Thekkady, located near Kumily, is an excellent place to learn about elephants, go for elephant rides, take baths and showers with them. It is a fun and entertaining activity for kids and adults.

Boat Ride at Periyar National Park & ​​Wildlife Sanctuary has ensured that it is widely known as Periyar Lake. Governed by the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department, the lake sees hundreds of thousands of foot traffic every year.

Kalaripayattu Performance – Considered one of the oldest and most scientific martial arts in the world, Kalaripayattu was developed in Kerala. Lauded as the pride of Kerala, the training begins with an oil massage of the entire body until it becomes supple and flexible. Feats such as chattom (jumping), ottam (running) and marichil (somersault) are also integral parts of the art form.

Later return to the hotel and relax.

Overnight stay in Thekkady.

Day 8 – Thekkady-Alleppey (141 Km, 3 hours 30 minutes) (Full Board)

After breakfast, drive to Alleppy.

Arrive in Alleppy and transfer to hosueboat, rest of the day dedicated to relaxation.

Alleppey:-  Popularly known as the Venice of the East, Alleppey or Allapuzha is famous for its serene backwaters and their exceptionally scenic surroundings. Houseboat cruise in Alleppey is the latest and probably the best addition to the list of ways you can enjoy the mesmerizing natural beauty of this quaint town. This is one of the most exciting things to do in Alleppey.

Boat tour in the late afternoon get off the houseboat and take a smaller boat to observe the daily life of those who live there, these shores have not changed over the centuries. Vast expanses of rice paddies and coconut trees that gently sway with the wind surround you.

Overnight stay in Alleppey on Houseboat with full board.

Day 9 – Thekkady-Munnar (91 km, 2 hours 53 minutes)

After breakfast, drive to Munnar.

Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and then visit.

Pothemed Viewpoint: Experience the wonderful views of Munnar!  Take a trip to Pothamedu, a hilltop site where you can enjoy beautiful views of mist-shrouded hills and green valleys caressed by cool winds.

Pallivasal Falls, Pallivasal Falls in Munnar is a secluded yet picturesque tourist spot.  These waterfalls are formed by the Muthirappuzhayar River and are among the most popular waterfalls in the area.  Visit the place during monsoons and the sight of water flowing over the rocks will revive your senses.

Blossom Park: – It is a park located in one of the most beautiful places in the country.  Many activities are offered here, such as boating, skating, cycling, etc.  And if you want a quiet visit, admire the trees and a wide variety of beautiful flowers in the park.

Overnight in Munnar.  

Day 10 – Munnar

After breakfast the day begins.

Tea Museum: (Closed on Monday)- Tea has played a vital role in the history of Munnar.  The plantations played a very important role in attracting people to the area.  Tata Tea established a Tea Museum in 2005 that features photographs and machinery chronicling the journey of tea in the area.

Echo Point – About 15 km from Munnar is the famous Echo Point.  Popular for its natural eco phenomenon, you can always find the area packed with enthusiastic visitors throughout the year.  At an altitude of about 600 feet, people love to stroll through the lush greenery surrounding the place.  It is an ideal place for picnics.

Mattupetty   is among the most visited destinations in the tourist hotspot of Munnar.  It is a nice picnic spot that regularly attracts visitors.  People love visiting the dam and lake here and families can regularly be seen enjoying a beautiful afternoon in the area.

Photo Point: – While most of Munnar is photogenic, Photo Point is doubly so.  Just 3 km from the main market of this hill station, this site is a favorite among photographers.  Surrounded by the Tata Tea Gardens of Kanan Devan Hills and a variety of silver oaks, this place is located just off the main road.

Kundala Dam: – About 20 km from Munnar, Kundala Dam is a picturesque tourist spot.  The dam is built on the Periyar River and is surrounded by the green mountain range of the Western Ghats.  The area also has cherry trees, which bloom twice a year, adding to the beauty of the place.

The Munnar Rose Garden is a dreamland for rose lovers.  This garden contains roses of almost every color.  The Rose Garden is home to not only roses, but also hundreds of rare varieties of other flowers and herbaceous plants.  The tea, cardamom and vanilla plantations behind the Rose Garden are very attractive and a lovely place for a quiet walk.  Seasonal tropical fruits such as strawberries, lychee, rambutan, amla and vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage, potatoes and beans are grown here.

Overnight in Munnar.

Day 11 – Munnar-Kochi (127 km, 3 hours 40 minutes)

After breakfast, drive to Kochi.

The Mattancherry area: –  has people of different languages ​​and ethnic identities. Churches, agraharams, mosques and a synagogue coexist in the area, along with buildings from the colonial era, which bear witness to a vibrant past and a harmonious present.

Chinese nets: – Chinese nets made of teak wood and bamboo poles work on the principle of balance. Each structure, approximately 10 m high, is fixed to the beach and has an overhang with attached netting that extends over an area of ​​approximately 20 meters.

Jewish Street: – you can choose between curiosities, antique tableware, carved wooden furniture, bronze and brass sculptures, remains of traditional houses and jewelry. Antique sellers love to chat and keep you informed about the origins of the items and their shops.

The Synagogue: (Closed on Friday and Saturday)- The Paradesi Synagogue, in a corner of the Jewish City, is more than a hundred years old and houses many rare antiquities. The synagogue, which attracts many visitors, adds to the picturesque charm of Mattancherry.

Dutch Palace: (Closed on Saturday) Although the Dutch Palace was called that, it was the Portuguese who built it. What the Dutch did was just a cosmetic restoration and repair.   During the first decades of the 16th century, the Portuguese looted many temples in Kochi.

Cathedral Basilica – The Holy Cross Cathedral Basilica in Fort Kochi, Kochi, is one of the nine basilicas in Kerala. Counted as one of the historical buildings of Kerala, this church is one of the most beautiful and impressive in India and visited by tourists throughout the year

Dhobi Khana is the place where the Tamil-speaking Vannan community performs laundry work, the profession traditionally practiced by the community. This practice of the Vannan community dates back to the colonial period.

Overnight in Kochi.

Day 12 – Kochi-Next Destination

Transfer to Kochi airport.

Ciao India Tours wishes you a happy journey.