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South India Explorer

14 days

Explore the highlights of Southern India, from Chennai to Kochi on this 14-day tour. Visit some of the most intricate and beautiful UNESCO world heritage temples of Southern India and uncover the delights of tropical Kerala in India's deep south. Visit the former hill station of Munnar and its sprawling tea plantations, spot elephants in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and spend a night aboard a houseboat, gliding along the tranquil, palm fringed backwaters.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Travelling with children or prefer being on your own, see our private version of this tour.

Tour Overview

Duration

14 days

Starts

Chennai

Ends

Kochi

Range

Signature

Tour Guide

Yes - escorted by a tour guide

Group Size

Min 2 / Max 24

Minimum age

15 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Departs

Sundays

Hotel Rating

3 - 4 star and heritage properties

Countries

India

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

2024: Yes | 2025: No - can be booked for a supplement

Meals included

Breakfast: 13, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 2
Per Person From
NZD$5,165.00
Deposit From
Final payment
NZD$1,000.00
$9,330.00

Tour Highlights

Kerala Backwaters – Sail along the famous backwaters in our deluxe rice boat and enjoy marvelous views
Mahabalipuram – Visit the impressive Shore Temple on the Bay of Bengal and the striking Five Rathas
Kumarakom – Relax on the shores of Lake Vembanad and opt to visit the local bird sanctuary
Madurai – Attend an evening Aarti prayer ceremony and see the impressive rock cut temple of Thirupparankunram Murugan
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary - Spot herds of elephants from an included boat ride on Lake Periyar
Tanjore – Visit the giant 1,000 year old Brihadishwara Temple on our guided tour of the city’s highlights
Kochi – Enjoy free time to explore the coastal city and perhaps enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance show
Pondicherry – Tour the French colonial city including the Sacred Heart Basilica and walk on the beach
Munnar – Explore the former British Hill Station and enjoy a guided stroll through one of the many sprawling tea plantations
Chettinad - Sample traditional life in the quaint village of Chettinad, renowned for its flavourful cuisine

Included

13 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 2 dinners
12 nights 3-4 star and heritage hotels
1 night deluxe houseboat cruise along the Keralan backwaters
Guided sightseeing - Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Chettinad, Madurai and Munnar Tea Plantation
Boat ride on Lake Periyar
Escorted by an English-speaking Indian tour guide (for groups of 4 or more)
Services of English-speaking Indian specialist guides at some sites
Airport arrival transfer on day 1 (For departures in 2024 a departure airport transfer is provided on day 14)
All relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles

Not Included

International flights and visa
Tip for your tour guide. We recommend you allow USD$4-7 per day, per traveller. Tipping your guide is an entirely personal gesture
Entrance Fees: USD$35-45pp, paid in local currency
Tipping Kitty: USD$60-70pp, paid in local currency
Tipping is not a natural part of many Western cultures and many of us feel uncomfortable, or unsure, about when, or how much, to tip. However, in the places you will visit, tipping makes up a significant part of many people's wages so it's important that we get it right. For this reason we've developed a very simple system to take all the hassle out of tipping. With our 'tipping made easy' policy, a nominal pre-determined amount is collected from all group tour participants to cover tips en route. This then saves you the hassle of when and how much to tip bellhops, luggage handlers, local guides and other support staff through the tour. Our 'tipping made easy' doesn't include a tip to your group tour leader. Naturally, though, the amount is up to you as tipping is an entirely personal gesture.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome to Chennai

Sunday. Welcome to Southern India! On arrival at Chennai airport you are met and transferred to our hotel. The rest of today is free to explore the city at leisure before meeting the group and guide at the hotel at 18:00 for a Welcome meeting.

Overnight: Chennai

Day 2 - Mahabalipuram sightseeing

Chennai - Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry. Say goodbye to Chennai this morning as we travel to the French colonial city of Pondicherry. French rule lasted here until 1954 and the influence is still clear in the city’s architecture.

En route visit Mahabalipuram - the beautiful 7th century Shore Temple, so-named because of its location on the shore of the Bay of Bengal. Continue to the world’s largest bas-relief carving, Arjuna’s Penance and the incredible Five Rathas. This UNESCO-listed site is made up of five different temples, all carved individually from separate rocks. The temples lay hidden under sand until the British rediscovered them 200 years ago.

Overnight: Pondicherry
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 - Pondicherry

Pondicherry. Today we explore the highlights of Pondicherry including the Sri Aurobindo Ashram spiritual community and Pondicherry Beach, with it's beautiful golden sand and lapping waves. Finally, we explore the striking Sacred Heart Basilica, a famous Christian pilgrimage site. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Overnight: Pondicherry
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 - Temples and Tanjore

Pondicherry - Tanjore. Leaving Pondicherry today, we travel to the vibrant city of Tanjore (Thanjavur). We discover the ancient, fortified town with a guided tour exploring Tanjore's glorious history dating back more than 1,500 years. Take in the enormous Brihadishwara Temple. This temple is over 1000 years old and the dome on top is thought to have been hauled up in a similar way to the construction of the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.

Overnight: Tanjore
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 - Chettinad

Tanjore - Chettinad. Today we travel to Chettinad which renowned across India for its unique spectacular combination of flavourful cuisine, yet few venture to this sleepy, tranquil village. Explore the crumbling Chettinad Palace and the famous tile factory in Athangudi, where your guide will explain how the renowned handmade terracotta tiles of Chettinad are crafted and readied.

Overnight: Chettinad
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6 - Madurai sightseeing & Evening Aarti Ceremony

Chettinad – Madurai. Departing Chettinad we continue onwards to Madurai, where we enjoy a half day guided tour taking in the Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal. This grand palace is known for the giant circular pillars in its courtyard and dates back to the 17th century. We continue to the famous rock cut temple of Thirupparankunram Murugan. According to a famous Hindu legend, this is where Murugan slayed the demon Surapadman. Finally, we join an Aarti prayer ceremony at the Meenakshi Temple. The ceremony involves the lighting of candles and songs being sung in praise of the gods.

Overnight: Madurai
Meals: Breakfast

Days 7-8 - Munnar Tea Plantations

Madurai - Munnar. Leaving Madurai today we travel to the picturesque former hill station of Munnar where we spend the next two nights. Today we take a guided walk through a local tea plantation and visit a local market. The remainder of day 7 and day 8 is spent at your own leisure. You may wish to visit the nearby Blossom Park and enjoy cycling or boating in the stunning surrounds.

Overnight: Munnar
Meals: Breakfast x2

Day 9 - Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Munnar - Periyar. A drive south to Periyar, South India’s most popular Wildlife Sanctuary and home to bison, antelopes, sambar, wild boar, birds and even the odd tiger! Kumily, close to the sanctuary and where we’ll stay, is a pretty little town dotted with small spice and handicraft shops. There is plenty to do in and around Periyar, so we leave the choice to you to enjoy the remainder of the day at your own leisure.

Overnight: Kumily
Meals: Breakfast

Day 10 - Boating on Lake Periyar

Periyar. Today we enjoy an included boat ride on Lake Periyar to spot herds of wild elephants. The rest of the day is at your own leisure to explore on your own. You can opt for an optional visit to explore the spice plantation or enjoy a kalaripayattu dance performance.

Overnight: Kumily
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11 - Kumarakom

Periyar - Kumarakom. Today, we leave Periyar and take a drive to Kumarakom - a village spread over a cluster of islands on Lake Vembanad. The day is free to relax or explore Kumarakom at your leisure. Perhaps take a boat ride on the lake or visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to many rare bird species and is an important stopover for migratory birds in the winter (Nov-May).

Overnight: Kumarakom
Meals: Breakfast

Day 12 - Kerala backwaters

Kumarakom - Alleppey - Keralan Backwaters. On day 12, we will take a scenic drive to Alleppey. Here we board our private rice boat for a voyage through the famous Kerala backwaters. Our rice-boat takes us sedately along the enchanting palm-fringed backwaters, covering a distance of some 20 kms, during which time the boat glides past local villages and fascinating scenes of everyday rural life. Watch a beautiful sunset over the backwaters and enjoy tasty meals (starting with lunch) prepared by the on-board chef using fresh local produce.

Overnight: Deluxe rice boat
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13 - Kochi

Keralan Backwaters – Kochi. This morning, we disembark our rice boat and head for Kochi. Formerly a princely state, Kochi is also fondly referred to as “The Queen of the Arabian Sea”. The rest of the day is at leisure exploring Kochi on its own. This evening you can opt for an optional tour to watch an entertaining and traditional Kathakali dance show. Kathakali performers are known for their elaborate costumes and makeup, and they always put on a fantastic show.

Overnight: Kochi
Meals: Breakfast

Day 14 - Kochi

Saturday. Our Indian adventure comes to an end today. A departure transfer is included today for departures in 2024. If you are travelling in 2025 this can be booked for an additional supplement if required.

Meals: Breakfast

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.

Pre and Post Tour Accommodation

Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.

Post-Tour Accommodation - Kochi

Double

$175per passenger

Twin

$175per passenger

Single

$315per passenger

Pre-Tour Accommodation - Chennai

Double

$165per passenger

Twin

$165per passenger

Single

$305per passenger

Additional Excursions

Enhance your tour with these optional extras, helping you to get the most from your adventure.

Kochi Airport Departure Transfer (per vehicle / max 2 persons)

$155

per passenger

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.

The Residency
Chennai

The Residency is a smart and modern hotel with a good choice of restaurants and bars. The rooms are spacious, comfortable and modern in decor. The fitness centre although small, has a good array of fitness machines.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Hotel GRT Grand
Chennai

In the heart of Chennai, the GRT Grand is a luxurious hotel with excellent amenities. Guest rooms feature some fantastic comforts including jetted baths, free Wi-Fi internet and state of the art LCD TVs. The hotel also boasts 3 delicious restaurants and an on site full service spa and indoor pool. Well located close to the Ramee Shopping Mall SDAT Tennis Stadium.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Hotel Atithi
Pondicherry

With its great selection of facilities, this modern hotel has marked itself one of the finest hotels in Pondicherry. Each room is fully equipped with all the essential amenities, with the added perks of 24-hour room service and free WiFi. Guests can enjoy the in-house gym, rejuvenating spa and an outdoor pool offering amazing views over the city. There are plenty of options when it comes to dining, with a lounge bar, two multi-cuisine restaurants and a fun-filled rooftop bar. If that wasn’t enough, Hotel Atithi is also well-located close to many of the top attractions in this heritage city.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Hotel Sangam
Thanjavur

Set among the historic temples of Thanjavur, Hotel Sangam offers you a peaceful and comfortable stay. Its guestrooms are spacious and feature modern interiors with large windows allowing for plenty of natural light. Enjoy local and international cuisine at the Thillana Restaurant, where you’ll find both guests and locals alike, or opt for a light snack and cool beer in the Layam Bar. An outdoor pool serves the perfect place to kick back and relax after a day of sightseeing. And you can always expect a warm greeting from staff, who are more than happy to share their knowledge of the area.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Chidambara Vilas
Chettinad

Chidambara Vilas is a heritage property tucked away in the rustic Chettinad region, renowned worldwide for its famous Chettinad cuisine. The culture, heritage and opulence of the beautiful heritage hotel takes you to the bygone era. The property offers 25 guest rooms, recreating the ambience of authentic Chettiar lifestyles reflected in its furnishings and with modern day comfort's such as air-conditioning. The property also features a swimming pool, the perfect spot to relax and recharge in a quiet atmosphere.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
Mid Range Heritage Hotel
JC Residency
Madurai

The JC Residency is ideally located in a serene part of Madurai, offering Heritage styling throughout the hotel. Guest rooms feature contemporary decor and generous space and modern facilities including LCD TV, high speed Wi-Fi connectivity, electronic safes and well-equipped bathrooms. Hotel facilities also include an outdoor swimming pool and gym.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Amber Dale Munnar
Munnar

Experience a stay of comfort and convenience at Amber Dale Munnar, where complimentary WiFi and an inviting restaurant await. The property offers a children's playground and fitness center, ensuring entertainment for all. Rooms are well-appointed, each with a private bathroom, free toiletries and a hairdryer. All include amenities like a kettle and flat-screen TV. A 24-hour front desk is ready to assist, while the hotel also offers a serene garden and a games room, creating a well-rounded retreat for guests seeking relaxation or entertainment.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
The Elephant Court
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Located on 4 acres of land, the Elephant Court is a grand hotel decked out in cooling teak wood. Guest rooms are beautifully appointed with earthy hues of brown and pale green set off by crisp cotton sheets. Dining options include local specialities and international cuisine, all served in the restaurant with beautiful views of the swimming pool and surrounding area. A trip to the beautiful rooftop curio shop to pick up some souvenirs is a must. The accommodation is well located close to the Thekaddy forests.

Our Rating
Deluxe
Local Rating
5 Star Hotel
Eastend Lakesong
Kumarakom

Nestled among the serene backwaters of Kumarakom, Eastend Lakesong comprises of 8 acres of facility packed leisure land. Guests sleep in villas and cottages, which are all well furnished with colourful interiors and comfortable beds. The onsite restaurants offer an excellent selection of local and international cuisine. Why not treat yourself to a relaxing massage at the Ayurveda on site Spa? It is the perfect way to unwind after a long day of exploring in the fierce Indian heat.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Deluxe Houseboat
Alleppey

There are few things as serene and tranquil as floating along the Keralan backwaters in the comfort of a luxurious houseboat. Deluxe houseboats are elegantly furnished, with up to four bedrooms, equipped with modern en suites, an open lounge, dining area and a deck to relax and admire the beautiful views of the lush green palms and rice paddies. Air conditioning operates in the bedrooms between 9pm to 6am only. The cruises are full board, with tasty meals freshly prepared by the onboard chef.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
Deluxe House Boat
The Fern Ecotel Hotel
Kochi

Nestled on the tranquil Willingdon Island, The Fern Hotel, formerly known as the Trident Hotel, offers a comfortable stay filled with indulgent amenities. Guests can unwind at the Ayurvedic spa, take a refreshing dip in the inviting outdoor pool, or stay active in the modern fitness center. The elegantly designed, air-conditioned rooms and suites overlook lush gardens or the pool, and each room is equipped with modern conveniences like satellite TV and minibars. Suites add an extra touch of luxury with spacious, separate living areas. With four diverse restaurants, The Fern Hotel invites guests on an exceptional culinary journey.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
5 Star Hotel

Prices & Dates

All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. Room sharing is not available on this tour.

2024
Twin/Double
Single
15 Dec - 28 Dec
Sold Out
Sold Out
29 Dec - 11 Jan
$5,705
$8,855
2025
Twin/Double
Single
12 Jan - 25 Jan
$5,165
$7,955
26 Jan - 8 Feb
$5,165
$7,955
9 Feb - 22 Feb
$5,165
$7,955
23 Feb - 8 Mar
$5,165
$7,955
23 Mar - 5 Apr
$5,165
$7,955
30 Mar - 12 Apr
$5,165
$7,955
6 Apr - 19 Apr
$5,165
$7,955
13 Apr - 26 Apr
$5,165
$7,955

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