Trip to South India During the Jallikattu Festival

November 18, 2026, - Arrival in Chennai / Chennai – Mahabalipuram (58 Km, 1 Hour 30 Minutes)

Arrival at Chennai International Airport.

Once the immigration formalities are completed and the luggage has been collected, our representative will meet you outside the terminal for the transfer to the hotel.

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

George Town: From the trading post of the East India Company in the 17th century to its modern incarnation as Chennai’s commercial hub. Explore China Bazaar Road, Vishnu Temple, Kasi Chetty Charities, Mint Road, Sowcarpet, Armenian Church, and Madras High Court.

Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Originally built in the 7th century AD by the Pallavas, the temple was initially located where the present-day Santhome Church stands. After its demolition by the Portuguese in 1566 AD, the Vijayanagara kings rebuilt the temple in the Dravidian architectural style.

Upon arrival in Mahabalipuram, transfer to the hotel.

Dinner and overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.

November 19, 2026, - Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry (100 Km / 2 Hours)

After breakfast, proceed for the 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. It was built using blocks of granite. Since it is located on the coast overlooking the Bay of Bengal, it is called the Shore Temple.

Descent of the Ganges: The monolith stands proudly fifteen feet high and one hundred feet long, making it one of the largest and finest of its kind in the world. It is covered with realistic carvings of humans, elephants, deities, and mythical creatures, intricately arranged in rows across the entire surface.

Five Rathas: Located at the southern end of Mamallapuram, the Five Rathas are five independent temples. There are about nine monolithic temples in Mahabalipuram.

Arjuna’s Penance: Popularly known as “Arjuna’s Penance,” this bas-relief is believed to depict an episode from the Mahabharata in which Arjuna, one of the Pandavas, performed severe penance while praying to Lord Shiva to obtain the mighty and divine bow.

After visiting Mahabalipuram, drive to Pondicherry.

Upon arrival, visitGoubert Market: A lively and traditional market famous for fruits, spices, flowers, and local products.

Pondicherry Beach: The beaches of Pondicherry are among the most breathtaking attractions of this coastal city. With pristine shorelines, sparkling waters, golden sands, and abundant natural beauty, some of the finest beaches in Pondicherry attract countless visitors.

Sri Aurobindo Ashram: Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a place where one can seek spirituality in a peaceful atmosphere and attain inner peace through meditation in its serene surroundings.

Auroville: A city dedicated to human unity. Its history dates back to the 20th century, when the concept of Auroville Township was developed in June 1965 by MirraAlfassa, popularly known among her followers as “The Mother.”

Dinner and overnight stay in Pondicherry.

November 20, 2026, - Pondicherry – Chidambaram – Kumbakonam (165 Km, Approx. 4 Hours)

After breakfast, depart for Kumbakonam.

En route, visit Chidambaram Nataraja Temple: This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva as Nataraja, is one of the Five Sabha (divine halls) where Lord Shiva performed the Cosmic Dance. Chidambaram is also one of the PanchaBoothaSthalams, representing Akasam (Sky), one of the five elements of nature.

Pichavaram Mangrove Forest: The Pichavaram Mangrove Forest is located between two important estuaries, the Vellar estuary in the north and the Coleroon estuary in the south. The Vellar-Coleroon estuarine complex forms the mangroves of Killai and Pichavaram.

Continue the drive to Kumbakonam.

Bronze Factory: This is a unique artistic tradition of the town, and the bronze idol makers are famously known as the “Bronze Icons of Swamimalai.”

Mahamaham Temple: This is one of the many temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in Kumbakonam. The Goddess here is Visalatchi. The temple houses shrines associated with the Nine Rivers, and visiting it is considered especially auspicious for young women.

Dinner and overnight stay in Kumbakonam.

November 21, 2026, - Kumbakonam – Darasuram – Tanjore (98 Km, 2 Hours 30 Minutes)

After breakfast, depart for Tanjore.

Visit Darasuram.

Airavatesvara Temple: The Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram is a historic temple rich in cultural heritage and remarkable artistic splendor. One of the three ancient temples collectively known as the “Great Living Chola Temples,” the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Upon arrival in Tanjore, after lunch, transfer to the hotel for some relaxation.

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 beautiful frescoed interiors.

The Thanjavur Maratha Palace houses the centuries-old Saraswathi Mahal Library, known for its palm-leaf manuscripts, and the Thanjavur Art Gallery, famous for its bronze statues.

Brihadeeswarar Temple: It is one of the largest temples in India and a fine example of Dravidian architecture from the Chola period. Built by Emperor Raja RajaChola I and completed in 1010 AD, the temple celebrated its 1000th anniversary in 2010.

Dinner and overnight stay in Tanjore.

November 22, 2026, - Tanjore – Trichy – Madurai (197 Km, 3 Hours 20 Minutes)

After breakfast, depart for Madurai.

En route, visitRock Fort: Among the many spectacular sites to visit in Trichy, the Rock Fort Temple is a must-see attraction. The fort is a massive rock structure built at an altitude of 83 meters above sea level.

Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and relax.

In the evening, visit the temple.

Flowers Market: Apart from the breathtaking temples of Madurai, the city’s flower market, located between the central market and the Maatuthavani bus stand, is a vibrant representation of local life that travelers should not miss.

Meenakshi Temple: This temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, a form of Parvati, and her consort Sundareshwarar, a form of Shiva. Built in the 14th century, it has four impressive towers called Gopurams, the tallest reaching approximately 170 feet. More than 33,000 sculptures adorn the temple, and the roof is covered with intricate designs. Other remarkable features include the Hall of 1000 Pillars and the Musical Pillars.

Dinner and overnight stay in Madurai.

November 23, 2026, - Madurai – Jallikattu Festival

After breakfast, the day begins with a visit to witness the traditional Jallikattu festival.

The Jallikattu celebrations are generally held in the morning, from 08:00 AM to 01:00 PM.

Jallikattu is an ancient tradition of Tamil Nadu, practiced for more than 2,500 years during the Pongal festival, celebrated in January. During the event, bulls are released into an arena where participants attempt to hold onto the hump of the bull for as long as possible, following strict safety rules and respecting the animals.

After the activities, return to the hotel.

Dinner and overnight stay in Madurai.

November 24, 2026, - Madurai – Munnar (160 Km, 4 Hours 30 Minutes)

After breakfast, depart for Munnar.

Pothemedu View Point: Take an excursion to Pothamedu, a hilltop viewpoint from where you can enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding mist-covered hills and lush green valleys caressed by cool breezes.

Blossom Park: Many activities are available here, including boating, skating, cycling, and more. If you prefer a peaceful visit, you can admire the trees and a wide variety of beautiful flowers in the park.

Tea Factory (Closed on Mondays): Tea has played a vital role in the history of Munnar. The plantations have greatly contributed to attracting people to the area. Tata Tea established a Tea Museum in 2005, which houses photographs and machinery that narrate the journey of tea in the region.

Dinner and overnight stay in Munnar.

November 25, 2026, - Munnar

After breakfast, the day begins.

Lockhart Tea Garden Treks (Munnar): Ideal for a 1–2 hour walk through the plantations. You can stroll through vast green tea gardens, observe tea pickers at work, and enjoy the crisp mountain air.

Echo Point: Located about 15 km from Munnar, Echo Point is famous for its natural echo phenomenon. The area remains crowded with enthusiastic visitors throughout the year.

Mattupetty:Mattupetty is among the most visited destinations in the famous hill station of Munnar. It is a beautiful picnic spot that regularly attracts numerous visitors. People enjoy visiting the dam and the lake here, while families can often be seen spending relaxing afternoons in the area.

Photo Point: While much of Munnar is highly photogenic, Photo Point is even more so. Located just 3 km from the main market of this hill station, it is a favorite spot among photographers.

Munnar Rose Garden: The Rose Garden of Munnar is truly a paradise for rose lovers. This garden is home to roses of almost every color. Besides roses, the garden also features hundreds of rare varieties of flowers and herbal plants.

Kathakali Show: Kathakali is one of the major forms of Indian classical dance. It is a “story-play” art form known for its elaborate makeup, richly colored costumes, and traditional masks worn by male actor-dancers.

Dinner and overnight stay in Munnar.

November 26, 2026, - Munnar – Thekkady (91 Km, 2 Hours 53 Minutes)

After breakfast, depart for Thekkady.

Upon arrival, visit theSpice Plantation: Spice plantations are one of the unique attractions of Thekkady, Kerala, and most visitors do not miss this fascinating experience.

Elephant Junction: Located near Kumily, Thekkady is an excellent place to learn about elephants, enjoy elephant rides, witness their bathing rituals, and participate in their care. It is an enjoyable activity for both children and adults.

Boat Ride at Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary: The Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary is widely known for the famous Periyar Lake. Managed by the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department, the lake welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.

Kalaripayattu Show: Considered one of the oldest and most scientific martial arts in the world, Kalaripayattu was developed in Kerala. Celebrated as the pride of Kerala, the training begins with a full-body oil massage to make the body agile and flexible. Techniques such as chattom (jumping), ottam (running), and marichil (somersaulting) are also integral parts of this art form.

Later, return to the hotel and relax.

Dinner and overnight stay in Thekkady.

November 27, 2026, - Thekkady – Alleppey (141 Km, 3 Hours 30 Minutes) – Full Board

After breakfast, depart for Alleppey.

Arrival in Alleppey and transfer to the houseboat. The rest of the day will be dedicated to relaxation.

Alleppey: Popularly known as the “Venice of the East,” Alleppey or Alappuzha is famous for its tranquil canals and exceptionally scenic surroundings. A houseboat cruise in Alleppey is the latest and probably the finest way to experience the enchanting natural beauty of this picturesque town. It is one of the most exciting experiences to enjoy in Alleppey.

Boat Ride: In the late afternoon, disembark from the houseboat to board a smaller boat and observe the daily life of the local people living along these shores, which have remained almost unchanged over the centuries. Vast stretches of paddy fields and gently swaying coconut trees will surround you.

Full board included.

Dinner and overnight stay in Alleppey.

November 28, 2026, - Alleppey – Kochi (53 Km, 1 Hour 30 Minutes) / Departure

After breakfast, depart for Kochi.

Mattancherry Area: This area is home to people of different languages and ethnic identities. Churches, agraharams, mosques, and a synagogue coexist alongside colonial-era buildings, reflecting a vibrant past and a harmonious present.

Chinese Fishing Nets: The Chinese fishing nets, made of teak wood and bamboo poles, operate on the principle of balance. Each structure, about 10 meters high, is fixed on the beach and has a cantilever with an attached net extending over an area of approximately 20 meters.

Jew Street: Here you can browse through curios, antique utensils, carved wooden furniture, bronze and brass sculptures, remnants of traditional homes, and jewelry.

The Synagogue (Closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and during all Jewish holidays): The Paradesi Synagogue, located in a corner of Jew Town, is more than a hundred years old and houses many rare antiques. It is one of the most visited attractions and adds to the unique charm of Mattancherry.

Dutch Palace: Although it is called the Dutch Palace, it was actually built by the Portuguese. The Dutch were responsible only for its restoration and aesthetic repairs. During the early decades of the 16th century, the Portuguese had plundered many temples in Kochi.

Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica: Located in Fort Kochi, it is one of the nine basilicas in Kerala. Considered one of the most important historic buildings in Kerala, this church is among the finest and most impressive in India and is visited by tourists throughout the year.

Dhobi Khana: This is the place where the Tamil-speaking Vannan community carries out laundry work, a profession traditionally practiced by the community. According to history, the Vannan people were brought by the King of Kochi from Coimbatore and Tirunelveli to wash the uniforms of the Portuguese or Dutch army in 1795.

Dharmanath Jain Temple: This temple is one of the major Jain pilgrimage sites in India. It is beautifully decorated with white marble and adorned with artwork, carved pillars, and idols of the Tirthankaras.

Dinner and overnight stay in Kochi.

November 29, 2026, - Kochi-To your next destination

Transfer to Kochi Airport.

Ciao India Tours wishes you a pleasant journey.