
Southern India Uncovered
New
Kick off in Chennai and wind up in Kochi on a 13 day sweep through South India. You’ll explore UNESCO listed Mahabalipuram, the pastel French Quarter of Pondicherry and serene ashrams, then delve into Chola grandeur at Brihadeeswarar and the vibrant temples of Madurai – with an evening aarti for good measure. Cross into Kerala’s hills to wander Munnar’s tea estates, spot wildlife by boat on Lake Periyar and browse fragrant spice markets. Drift through Kumarakom’s backwaters by shikara and spend a night aboard a traditional houseboat – expect sunset skies, village life and total relaxation – before a breezy coastal finish.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Tour Overview
Duration
13 daysHotel Rating
Starts
ChennaiEnds
KochiMinimum Age
18 years oldMaximum Age
Tours have upper age limits for several reasons, such as but not limited to: tour pace, activity level, and accommodation standards. If you fall outside of this age limit, we do have lots of other tours in India that are suitable for all ages!
Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
YesTour Guide
Yes - for included sightseeing.Country
IndiaMeals Included
Breakfast: 12, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1Passengers
$9,700.00
$4,850.00
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 2 / Max 12
Trip Type
Group Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - for included sightseeing.Group Size
Min 2 / Max 12Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Group ToursTour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Chennai
On arrival in Chennai, we meet our local representative and transfer to the hotel. You settle in and prepare for the journey ahead. We gather for a welcome briefing that outlines the itinerary and practical details – a relaxed orientation to the city and the days to come.
Day 2 - Chennai - Pondicherry - Mahabalipuram
We drive south along the coastal road from Chennai to Pondicherry, watching the skyline soften into quiet shores. En route we explore the ancient rock cut wonders of Mahabalipuram – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – pausing at the Shore Temple and the intricately carved monoliths shaped by Pallava artisans. On arrival in Pondicherry, you have time at leisure to stroll the town or unwind at the hotel – the evening mood offers a gentle first taste of this coastal city.
Day 3 - Pondicherry
We wander the elegant French Quarter, where tree lined avenues and graceful colonial buildings create a distinctive ambience. We visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram – a serene space for reflection and insight into its founders – before discovering a lively temple devoted to Lord Ganesha, noted for its colourful gopuram and active rituals that reveal Tamil spiritual life. We round off the day with a coastal walk along Promenade Beach – sea views, salt breezes and the iconic Gandhi Statue.
Day 4 - Pondicherry - Tanjore
We immerse ourselves in rural arts at the Mohanam Cultural Centre, exploring village traditions, joining creative workshops and enjoying a Tamil–style lunch served on banana leaves. Later, we travel inland to historic Tanjore, passing fertile fields and traditional settlements along the way.
Day 5 - Tanjore - Madurai
We visit the monumental Brihadeeswarar Temple – a Chola masterpiece – to admire its soaring vimana, exquisite stonework and the mighty Nandi that showcases remarkable craftsmanship. We then continue south to Madurai, one of India’s oldest living cities, and settle in ready to explore tomorrow.
Day 6 - Madurai
We delve into Madurai’s Old City, where narrow lanes bustle with markets, fragrant flower sellers and traditional homes that offer a vivid glimpse of daily life. We admire the Indo–Saracenic grandeur of Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace – its vast courtyard and ornate pillars are a triumph of the Nayakkar era. We visit the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple and, as evening falls, we witness the aarti – an atmospheric ritual at the heart of worship.
Day 7 - Madurai - Munnar - Munnar
We leave Tamil Nadu for Kerala, climbing into the hills towards Munnar as broad plains give way to cool, mist veiled valleys and slopes clothed in tea. We arrive at this refreshing hill station surrounded by plantations. You have time at leisure to enjoy the crisp air – perhaps take a gentle stroll near your hotel.
Day 8 - Munnar
We explore Munnar’s vibrant market, alive with the scent of spices, fresh produce and local crafts. You have free time to browse the colourful lanes and pick up regional goods. We then visit a tea plantation, where neat contours ripple across the hills as pickers work among the vivid green.
Day 9 - Munnar - Thekkady
We drive from the tea clad hills of Munnar to Thekkady, passing small towns and scenic farmland. On arrival, we take a tranquil boat ride on Lake Periyar, encircled by jungle clad slopes, keeping watch for wildlife along the shore – elephants, deer and water birds are frequent sights. You then have free time to explore Thekkady’s spice shops and relaxed streets.
Day 10 - Thekkady - Kumarakom
We travel to the serene backwaters of Kumarakom, arriving amid palm fringed channels and quiet lakeside scenes. We glide along narrow canals by traditional shikara, taking in village life, coconut groves and still water vistas. We visit local workshops to learn about coir making, mat weaving and toddy tapping – crafts that sustain livelihoods. In your free time, you can relax by the water or opt for an Ayurvedic treatment – an ideal place to unwind in nature.
Day 11 - Kerala Backwaters
We check in to a traditional kettuvallam houseboat for an overnight journey on the backwaters. We cruise at an unhurried pace through lagoons, canals and rivers as birdlife and village scenes unfold along the banks. We savour tranquil views and a glowing sunset – you can simply settle on deck and watch the scenery drift by.
Day 12 - Kochi
After breakfast, we disembark at a local jetty and bid farewell to the backwaters. We drive to the coast near Kochi and transfer to your beach hotel. On arrival by the sea, we check in and you have the rest of the day at leisure – you might unwind on the beach or explore the neighbourhood for a relaxed final evening.
Day 13 - Kochi
We arrange your transfer from the Kochi hotel to the airport for departure, bringing your Kerala adventure to a close. After you check out, we ensure a smooth journey and timely arrival for your onward flight. The tour concludes in Kochi once the airport drop off is complete – if you wish to extend, you can add extra nights in the city.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.




Prices & Dates
"Double/Twin" prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. "Shared" prices are for those solo travellers happy to share a room with another solo traveller of the same sex. Please note that for anyone wanting the privacy of their own room, a single supplement will apply. Please contact us for more information or a quote.
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