Tour of Tamilnadu and Kerala

Day 01 Arrival in Chennai

Arrival at Chennai International Airport.

Once you have completed the immigration procedures and collected your luggage, our representative will wait for you outside the terminal.

Arrival at the hotel and check-in. Standard check-in 14:00 / check-out 12:00.

After breakfast, continue the city tour of Chennai.

George Town heritage walk: - From the trading post of the East India Company in the 17th century to its modern role as a commercial hub, explore China Bazaar Road, Mint Street, Sowcarpet, Armenian Church, and Madras High Court.

Marina Beach: - One of the longest beaches in the world, stretching along the Bay of Bengal, known for its wide sandy shore and lively atmosphere.

Kapaleeshwar Temple: - Originally built in the 7th century by the Pallavas and later rebuilt in Dravidian style, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Overnight in Chennai.

Day 2 - Chennai-Kanchipuram (86 km, 2 hours 45 minutes)
After breakfast, drive to Kanchipuram.

Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and rest, then visit in the evening.

Kamakshi Amman Temple: - A major Shakti shrine dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, symbolizing knowledge, wealth, and compassion.

Gandhi Road Market: - Famous for silk sarees, Kanchipuram is known as the Silk City with skilled traditional weavers.

Vaikunta Perumal Temple: - A historic temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, built in Dravidian architectural style.

Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam: - A prominent Hindu monastic institution representing spiritual traditions and philosophy.

Overnight in Kanchipuram.

Day 3 - Kanchipuram-Mahabalipuram (91 Km, 2 Hours)
After breakfast, drive to Mahabalipuram.

Upon arrival, visit Shore Temple: - One of the oldest temples in South India, built in the 7th century overlooking the Bay of Bengal.

Descent of the Ganges: - A massive rock carving depicting mythological scenes with detailed sculptures of humans, animals, and deities.

Five Rathas: - Monolithic temples carved from single rocks, representing unique Pallava architecture.

Arjuna's Penance: - A large bas-relief depicting scenes from the Mahabharata with intricate carvings.

Transfer to the hotel.

Overnight in Mahabalipuram.

Day 4 - Mahabalipuram-Chidambaram-Kumbakonam (231 Km, 5 Hours)
After breakfast, drive to Kumbakonam.

En route visit Pichavaram Mangrove Forest: - Located between Vellar and Coleroon estuaries, known for its dense mangrove ecosystem and scenic boat rides.

Chidambaram Nataraja Temple: - A sacred temple where Lord Shiva is worshipped as the cosmic dancer, representing the element of space.

Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.

Overnight in Kumbakonam.

Day 5 - Kumbakonam-Darasuram-Tanjore (98 km, 2 hours 30 minutes)
After breakfast, drive to Tanjore.

Mahamaham Temple: - A sacred temple associated with holy rivers, considered highly auspicious for devotees.

Bronze Factory: - Famous for traditional Swamimalai bronze idols crafted using ancient techniques.

En route visit Airavatesvara Temple, Darasuram: - A UNESCO-listed Chola temple known for intricate carvings and architectural beauty.

On arrival in Tanjore, transfer to the hotel for relaxation.

Visit Tanjore: - A historic city known for temples, art, and rich cultural heritage.

Thanjavur Maratha Palace: - Houses Saraswathi Mahal Library and an art gallery with ancient artifacts.

Tamil University Museum: - Displays coins, musical instruments, and folk artifacts.

Brihadeeswarar Temple: - A grand UNESCO World Heritage temple built in 1010 AD, showcasing Dravidian architecture.

Overnight in Tanjore.

Day 6 - Tanjore-Trichy (65 Km, 1 Hour) Trichy-Chettinad (82 Km, 1 Hour 25 Minutes)
After breakfast, drive to Chettinad.

En route visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple: - Located in Srirangam, dedicated to Lord Vishnu in reclining form, one of the largest temple complexes in India.

Rock Fort: - A historic rock structure with temples offering panoramic views of Trichy city.

Kallanai Dam: - One of the oldest dams in the world, built on the Kaveri River during the Chola period.

On arrival, visit Chettinad.

Chettinad Palace: - A grand heritage mansion reflecting traditional Chettinad architecture.

Chettinad Mansion: - A historic property offering insight into royal lifestyle and culture.

Transfer to the hotel.

Overnight in Chettinad.

Day 7 - Chettinad-Madurai (90 Km, 2 Hours)
After breakfast, drive to Madurai.

Vairavanpatti: - A temple site associated with legends and traditional worship practices.

Soorakudi: - A historic temple area known for cultural and spiritual significance.

Upon arrival, visit Gandhi Museum: - Showcases India’s freedom struggle and Gandhian life.

Check-in at the hotel and rest.

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

Meenakshi Temple: - A historic temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Shiva, known for its towering gopurams.

Flower Market: - A vibrant market offering fresh flowers used for rituals and decorations.

Evening Ceremony: - Witness the traditional pooja and procession at the temple.

Note: Dress code required; sleeveless clothes and shorts are not allowed. Non-Hindus cannot enter the sanctum.

Overnight in Madurai.

Day 8 - Madurai-Kanyakumari (269 km, 4 hours 20 minutes)
After breakfast, drive to Kanyakumari.

Triveni Sangam: - The confluence of the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean, considered sacred.

Thiruvalluvar Statue: - A tall statue symbolizing Tamil culture and literature.

Vivekananda Rock Memorial: - A famous monument located on a rock island in the sea.

Devi Kanya Kumari Temple: - A sacred temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy.

Kanyakumari Beach: - A scenic coastal spot where three seas meet.

Sunset: - A spectacular sunset view at India’s southernmost tip.

Overnight in Kanyakumari.

Day 9 - Kanyakumari-Poovar (66 Km, 2 Hours) Poovar-Kovalam (14 Km, 20 Minutes) Kovalam-Trivandrum (18 Km, 30 Minutes)
After breakfast, drive to Trivandrum.

En route visit Padmanabhapuram Palace: - One of the largest wooden palaces in India, known for intricate carvings and heritage architecture.

Mathur Aqueduct: - A historic aqueduct offering scenic views over the Pahrali River.

On the way visit Poovar.

Boat Ride: - A relaxing ride through Neyyar Lake and village canals leading to Poovar Beach.

Proceed to Kovalam and visit:

Lighthouse Beach: - A popular beach known for its lighthouse and scenic views.

Hawa Beach: - A peaceful beach known for natural beauty; swimming is not advised due to strong currents.

On reaching Trivandrum, visit:

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple (External Photo Stop): - A historic Vishnu temple known for its architecture and spiritual importance.

Overnight in Trivandrum.

Day 10 - Trivandrum-Kollam (83 km, 2 hours 30 minutes)
After breakfast, drive to Kollam.

En route visit Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple (photo stop).

On arrival visit Thevalli Palace: - A historic palace located on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake.

Jatayu Nature Park: - A rock-themed park featuring the world’s largest bird sculpture and adventure activities.

Transfer to the hotel.

Overnight in Kollam.

Day 11 - Kollam-Kumarakom (104 km, 3 hours 20 minutes)
After breakfast, drive to Kumarakom.

En route visit Kottayam and Aymanam.

Kottayam: - Known for its literacy achievements, early education centers, and printing history.

Aymanam: - A scenic village surrounded by Vembanad Lake and Meenachil River, offering natural beauty and cultural charm.

Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: - A famous birdwatching destination with migratory species from across the world.

Overnight in Kumarakom.

Day 12 - Kumarakom-Alleppey (32 Km, 1 Hour) (Full board)
After breakfast, drive to Alleppey.

Arrival and transfer to houseboat; rest of the day at leisure.

Alleppey: - Known as the “Venice of the East,” famous for backwaters and houseboat experiences.

In the afternoon, take a boat ride to explore village life, paddy fields, and coconut groves.

Overnight in Alleppey with full board on a houseboat.

Day 13 - Alleppey-Thekkady (128 km, 3 hours 40 minutes)
After breakfast, drive to Thekkady.

Spice Plantation: - Explore plantations of cardamom and other spices unique to the region.

Elephant Junction: - A place to interact with elephants through activities and experiences.

Boat ride at Periyar Lake: - Located in a wildlife sanctuary, offering chances to spot animals.

Kathakali Performance: - A traditional dance-drama with elaborate costumes and storytelling.

Kalaripayattu Show: - An ancient martial art showcasing agility and discipline.

Overnight in Thekkady.

Day 14 - 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 15 - Munnar
After breakfast, the day begins.

Tea Museum: - Showcases the history and process of tea production.

Echo Point: - Famous for its natural echo phenomenon and scenic surroundings.

Mattupetty: - A popular picnic spot with a dam and lake.

Photo Point: - A scenic photography spot surrounded by tea gardens.

Kundala Dam: - A picturesque dam with beautiful surroundings and seasonal blossoms.

Rose Garden: - A garden with a variety of roses and other plants.

Overnight in Munnar.

Day 16 - Munnar-Kochi (127 km, 3 hours 40 minutes)
After breakfast, drive to Kochi.

The Mattancherry area: - A culturally diverse area with colonial buildings and religious harmony.

Chinese nets: - Traditional fishing nets operating on balance principles.

Jew Street: - Famous for antiques, handicrafts, and historic shops.

The Synagogue: (Closed on Friday and Saturday) - A historic synagogue with rare artifacts.

Dutch Palace: (Closed on Saturday) - Built by the Portuguese and renovated by the Dutch.

Cathedral Basilica: - One of the oldest churches known for its architecture and history.

Dhobi Khana: - A traditional laundry site reflecting colonial-era practices.

Overnight in Kochi.

Day 17 - Kochi-Next Destination

Transfer to Kochi airport.

Ciao India Tours wishes you a happy journey.