Temples, Spices and Backwaters - Southern India Tour

Upon arrival at Chennai International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel.

In the afternoon, set out on a private guided tour of Chennai’s historic highlights. Visit the striking San Thome Basilica, the storied Fort St. George and the elegant St. Mary’s Cathedral.

As evening falls, take in the ritual atmosphere at Kapaleeshwara Temple and wander through the lively surrounding bazaars for a taste of local life.

Return to your hotel and relax, ready to begin your journey through South India.

Accommodation: Taj Connemara, a first-class period hotel blending colonial charm with contemporary luxury

After breakfast, set out for Mahabalipuram to explore the UNESCO-listed Shore Temple, the Five Rathas and the impressive Arjuna’s Penance, all remarkable examples of ancient rock-cut art.

Then continue to Pondicherry, where French colonial charm blends seamlessly with vibrant South Indian culture. Spend time wandering the lively markets and heritage streets on a private guided walk. Visit highlights such as the Aurobindo Ashram and Pondicherry Museum, and enjoy a relaxed rickshaw ride through the contrasting French and Tamil quarters.

End the day with a gentle stroll along the seafront promenade, watching the sun set over the Bay of Bengal.

Accommodation: Palais de Mahe, a boutique heritage hotel blending French colonial elegance nestled in the heart of the French Quarter.

Today’s drive takes you from the serene eastern coastline into the heartland of Tamil Nadu, with a stop at the magnificent Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple, an exquisite example of Chola dynasty grandeur and architectural mastery.

Enjoy a walk through the charming village of Veppathur. Immerse yourself in the rhythms of rural life and discover authentic local customs in an intimate setting. Experience a rare cultural encounter as you visit master artisans practicing the ancient craft of traditional ‘Pattu’ silk weaving.

Accommodation: Mantra Koodam, a serene boutique retreat blending heritage and modern comfort.

Explore Thanjavur, once the capital of the Chola Empire, visiting its UNESCO temples renowned for intricate craftsmanship. Experience traditional bronze casting at a Sthapathi artisan workshop.

Then journey to Chettinadu, where grand mansions and bustling markets reveal a rich heritage. Discover the handcrafted tiles of Athangudi and visit the unique Ayyanar shrine at Kothadi, where rows of life-sized terracotta horses stand as striking offerings to the local guardian deity.

End your day with a private cooking class, learning the secrets behind Chettinadu’s bold flavours, followed by a delicious dinner in a historic mansion.

Accommodation: Visalam, a lovingly restored heritage Chettiar mansion that is now a boutique hotel.

A short drive takes you to Madurai, the spiritual heart of Tamil Nadu. Marvel at the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, renowned for its intricately carved gopurams and sacred corridors. Visit the elegant Thiru Malai Nayak Palace, designed by an Italian architect, alongside the atmospheric Puthu Mandapam (a former bustling marketplace) and the impressive pillared hall.

As dusk falls, enjoy a traditional rickshaw ride through the vibrant local markets, witnessing the vibrant life of the banana, vegetable, and textile bazaars alive with rich colours and sounds.

Accommodation: Gateway Hotel Passumalai, a charming first-class hotel atop Pasumalai Hill, offering panoramic views of Madurai.

Travel to Munnar, a serene highland region in the Western Ghats known for rolling hills and lush tea plantations. Explore the Lockhart Tea Trail with guided walks through green estates and meet women hand-picking tea leaves. Visit the Lockhart Tea Factory to see how tea is made.

Spend time at Shristi, a local NGO empowering people with disabilities through vocational training and artisanal crafts.

Nature lovers can visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, with stunning views and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Accommodation: Windermere Estate, private plantation retreat set amidst Munnar’s rolling tea hills

Travel down from the hills to Fort Cochin, a historic coastal town blending colonial heritage with modern comforts. Settle into a boutique hotel in the heart of town.

Explore spice-scented alleys, see the famous Chinese fishing nets, and visit St. Francis Church, the Dutch Palace, and the Paradesi Synagogue. Browse vibrant shops on Jew Street.

Relax on a private sunset cruise, then enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance with a chance to watch the makeup ritual. For a richer experience, take a private cooking class and dinner with a local family.

Accommodation: Malabar House, a stylish heritage boutique hotel in the heart of Fort Cochin, seamlessly blending Indo-European charm with contemporary art and cultural flair.

Late morning, drive to Alleppey, known as the ‘Venice of the East’. Board your private air-conditioned houseboat around midday for an overnight cruise through Kerala’s famous backwaters.

Sail across Lake Vembanad and through a network of canals lined with palms, temples, churches and everyday village life. Your crew will serve lunch, evening tea and dinner onboard made from fresh local ingredients.

At sunset, the boat anchors in a quiet, scenic spot. As night falls, enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the water and the stars above, creating an unforgettable experience.

Accommodation: A private one-bedroom, air-conditioned houseboat, combining traditional design with modern comfort.

After breakfast, disembark from your houseboat and travel to the coastal village of Mararikulam, north of Alleppey. This laid-back fishing village is the perfect place to unwind at the end of your journey.

Life moves at a gentle pace at your seaside retreat, guided by the sound of the waves. Spend your days lounging by the beach or pool, enjoying morning yoga, or indulging in authentic Ayurvedic treatments at the resort spa.

Optional excursions include a visit to the local fishing harbour, or a cultural tour of nearby temples, markets, and the surrounding villages of Alleppey and Mararikulam.

Accommodation: Marari Beach Resort, an eco-conscious seaside retreat set amid coconut groves.

At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to Cochin International Airport to board your onward flight, taking with you cherished memories of your journey from Tamil Nadu’s eastern coast to the serene heartlands of Kerala.

Price Guide:
From £3,890 per person (October to April)
From £3,090 per person (May to September)

Prices are based on two guests sharing and exclude international flights. These are guideline rates and may vary depending on travel dates, room category, exchange rate fluctuations, and peak holiday periods such as Christmas, New Year, or regional festivals.

Please get in touch with your dates and we will be pleased to provide you with your personal itinerary and accurate quote.

What’s Included in Your Tailor-Made Journey with Authentic India Tours

• A dedicated Travel Consultant to plan and manage every detail of your holiday
• Private car and driver at the destination for all your transfers and tours.
• Your own English-speaking local guides for insightful, personal experiences
• A selection of unique and meaningful experiences, handpicked by our expert team
• Entrance to museums, monuments, national parks and key cultural and historical sites included in your itinerary.
• Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis at all destinations, staying in carefully selected hotels as listed in the itinerary.
• 24/7 in-country support, so you’re always in safe hands.

The price does not include:

• International flight tickets
• Travel insurance & Visas
• Expenses of personal nature like laundry, tips, beverages etc
• Meals other than mentioned in the above meal plan
• Camera & video fees at national parks, museums & monuments

The prices mentioned above are per person based on two people sharing a double room. The prices which were valid at the time of publication may be subject to change, based on your date of travel and local market fluctuations. You will be informed of any price differences prior to booking.

For a quote based on your dates of travel, any alternative accommodation or changes to this itinerary, please call us on 01792 315499 or email us at info@aitholidays.com

Please remember all our private tours are designed to meet your exact requirements, and this Southern India tour is just an example to help inspire you.

For more information please email info@aitholidays.com or call our India specialists on 01792 315499.

ABTA and ATOL Protected Tour Package

Authentic India Tours is a member of ABTA and ATOL. All the holidays on this website are ABTA protected. If you would like us to arrange your holiday including flights we will be happy to provide a quote and your holiday will also be ATOL protected.