Duration: 20 Nights/21 Days
Places Covered:- Pondicherry - Swami Malai - Tanjore - Trichy - Madurai - KanyaKumari - Kovalam - Periyar - Kottayam - Alleppey - Cochin - Ooty - Mysore - Hassan - Bangalore - Mumbai

Day 01: Arrive Chennai
Arrive Chennai, the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu and India's fourth largest metropolitan city. Popularly known as "Gateway to South India", it is well connected internationally and to other parts of India.
Chennai boasts of rich historical legacy which lends an inexplicable charm to the city. The Portuguese arrived here in the 16th century and were followed by the Dutch, and East India Company. The British were able to establish their undisputed supremacy in the city and the Fort St George became the nucleus around which the British authority grew and expanded. In the 19th century, the city emerged as the seat of Madras presidency and today stands as a significant city of India.

Assistance on arrival at Chennai airport and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Chennai.

In present context the city is counted among the seven holiest sacred cities and is next in line in to Varanasi in popularity and importance among the devotees. Kachipuram remained the capital of different successive dynasties starting from the Pallavas to the Cholas and the Rajas of Vijayanagar. It was during the period of the Pallavas some where between 6th and 7th century that the magnificent temples were erected. The city is prominent in present times for the hand-woven silk fabrics and is regularly visited by tourists from all over India and abroad.

Named as Arjuna’s penance the mandapams or the large halls are really eye catching. The architectures of the place gives ample proof of the artistry of the period between 5th and 8 th century. One of the oldest temples of South India the sacred shrine dates back to the early 8th century is the Shore Temple. A greater majority of the temples and rock carvings that are built in Mahabalipuram belongs to the reign of Narasimha Varman between 630-668 AD. The conversion of king Mahendra Varman to Shiavism led to the creation of the monuments devoted to the Hindu Gods Lord Shiva and Vishnu.
Overnight in Chennai.

Day 03: Chennai-Pondicherry (120 Kms / 3 Hrs)
Morning, after breakfast leave by surface to Pondicherry. The Union Territory of Pondicherry is situated on the Coromandel Coast of South India, about 160 kms south of Chennai.It is touched by the Bay of Bengal on the east and on the other three sides by the South Arcot District of Tamil Nadu. Pondicherry comprises the towns of Karaikal, on the east coast; Mahe, which is situated on the Malabar Coast, and Yanam, situated further up the east coast. Pondicherry traces its origin to Saint Agasthya, the revered sage of the south. It was also the site of many a battle between the British and the French, and was the capital of French India, before it attained its independence. Being a small and quiet enclave of Tamil Nadu, it has imbibed Tamilian culture. Apart from the charming atmosphere, excellent restaurants, and cheap beer, what attracts most travelers to Pondicherry is the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. The ashram, founded by Sri Aurobindo in the year 1926, has brought international reputation to this coastal town. Tours of the ashram, the spiritual tenets of which combine yoga and modern science, are popular within India and abroad.

Arrive Pondicherry and continue sightseeing tour. Pondicherry has a lovely beach, which is about 1.5 Kms long. One can relax, sunbathe, swim, or take a stroll along the promenade. The beach has historical connections too. Facilities for boating are available at the Boat House on the River Chunnambar. The backwaters and the lush greenery on both sides of the Chunnambar River provide an ideal setting for boating tours. Boats are available for hire by tourists on all days of the week.
Travel to a spiritual retreat when you visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, situated in the eastern part of Pondicherry. A tour of this samadhi of Shri Aurobindo and his chief disciple, the Mother is worth making. It is not only a quiet place of retreat but also a vibrant center of life. It comprises of almost 1500 members who live here and practice Sadhna for the evolution of another way of life, which seeks a higher spiritual consciousness. Many tourists travel to Pondicherry to visit this internationally renowned Ashram. Check in at the hotel after sight seeing.
Overnight in Pondicherry

Chidambaram is one of the most ancient and most celebrated of shrines in India. It is of great religious as well as historic and cultural significance. Chidambaram is associated with Nataraja, or Shiva in his Ananda Tandava pose (the Cosmic Dance of bliss) in the cosmic golden hall and the hall of consciousness (Chit Sabha). The word "Koyil" or temple in the Tamil Saivaite tradition refers to none other than the Chidambaram Nataraja temple.Chidambaram is one of the Panchabhoota Stalams signifying the five elements of wind (Kalahasti), water (Tiruvanaikka), fire (Tiruvannamalai), earth (Kanchipuram) and space (Chidambaram).

Four most revered Saivaite Saints (Appar, Sundarar, Sambandar and Manikkavachakar) have worshipped at Chidambaram, and the bulk of Manikkavachakar's work is in praise of Shiva at Chidambaram. Accordingly, their images are placed in the temple entrances corresponding to their points of entry into the temple. (Sambandar - South, Appar - West, Sundarar - North and Manikkavachakar - East).

Arrive Tanjore and check into the resort. Tanjore is the capital of the powerful Chola dynasty, built most of the 93 odd temples here. Although they were great patrons of arts and lavished their wealth on building temple and the biggest temple is called "Brihadishwara Temple. This 66 meter tall tower can be observed from miles around. Inside the temple the Archaeological Museum has collections of sculptures and photographs that show the temple before restoration along with chart and maps. Thanjavur palace, art gallery & library are the other attractions of Tanjore. The famous Tanjore painting combination of raised and painted surfaces are also seen in an around, the lord Krishna in white painted are only seen here rather than blue black.
Overnight in Tanjore.

Day 05: Tanjore - Trichy (40 Kms / 1 Hrs)
Moning drive to Trichy visiting en-route Tanjore Temple. Trichy, once a bastion of the Chola dynasty centuries before Christ, it gained eminence under the Nayaks of Madurai, who built the fort and temple. It's the fourth largest city of Tamil Nadu. Trich's landmark monument is Rock fort, which is 83 meters high up on a rocky out growth rising abruptly from the surrounding plains and located in the centre of the town. There are two main temples one Sri Thayumanaswamy temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Half way to the top, another temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha -Vinayaka. The 437 steps stiff climb stone cut steps but well worth it to see. Trichy: Once a bastion of the Chola dynasty centuries before Christ, it gained eminence under the Nayaks of Madurai, who built the fort and temple. It's the fourth largest city of Tamil Nadu. Trich's landmark monument is Rock fort, which is 83 meters high up on a rocky out growth rising abruptly from the surrounding plains and located in the centre of the town. There are two main temples one Sri Thayumanaswamy temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Half way to the top, another temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha -Vinayaka. The 437 steps stiff climb stone cut steps but well worth it to see. Arrive Trichy, check-in at the hotel.

Afternoon visit Srirangam and Rock Fort. Located 3 km from Trichy on an island called Srirangam on the cauvery river fascinating temple complex built in 10th century dedicated to Lord Vishnu called Sri Ranganathaswamy temple, inside 21 gopurams which is one of the largest in India.
Overnight in Trichy

Day 06: Trichy - Madurai (130 Kms / 3 Hrs)
After breakfast, leave by surface to Madurai. Arrive Madurai and check-in at the hotel. One of the South India's oldest cities, and has been a centre of learning and pilgrimage for centuries situated on the banks of Vaigai River. Madurai's main attraction is Sri Meenakshi Temple in the heart of old town, designed by Viswanatha Nayak in 1560 was built during the reign of Tirmalai Nayak (1623-1655 AD) dedicated to goddess Meenakshi. The another attraction is the evening ceremony where, lord Shiva was carried to the bed chamber of God Parvathi (Meenakshi) which is considered as a holy ceremony. Tirumalainayak Palace which was built in the Indo - Saracenic style architecture in the year 1636 by the ruler whose name is bears. Tirmalai Nayak which is located near the temple. Today, only the entrance gate, main hall and dance hall remain but these are well worth seeing. The rectangular courtyard known as the Swargavillasam or the "Celestial Pavilion" and the massive stone pillars that supports the 20m high roof bear mute witness to the original grandeur of this palace regarded as one of the finest secular monuments in South India.
Afternoon sightseeing tour of Madurai covering the temple, palace and temple tank.
Overnight in Madurai.

Day 07: Madurai
Breakfast at hotel. Day at leisure. Optional  Day trip to visit Rameshwaram or Kodaikanal.

Rameshwaram is an island situated on the tip of the Indian peninsula. The city is also an important south India pilgrimage center of the Indians. It is the place from where Lord Rama had built a bridge across the sea to rescue his consort Sita.This is the place where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva to cleanse away the sin of Ravana. Both the Vaishnavites and Shaivites visit this pilgrimage city. The place is significant for the Hindus. The presiding deity is the Linga Of Sri Ranganatha, which happens to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of India. Rameshwaram is popularly referred as the 'Benaras of the south'. In order to attain Moksha it is believed that a visit to Rameshwaram is mandatory. In fact the entire area of Rameshwaram is associated with various incidents from the Ramayana. The city of Rameshwaram happens to be one of the most visited pilgrim sites in India. The places of visit include the Ramanathaswamy Temple, which was built in the 17th century and is situated close to the sea on the eastern side of the island; Pamban bridge is 3 kms long which connects the island of Rameshwaram & Dhanuskodi to the mainland. This is the longest bridge in India and illustrates the marvel of the engineers; Dhanuskodi is the easternmost tip of Rameshwaram. Most of this spot is occupied by the sea during tropical cyclones. On the way, the Kodandarama temple exists.

Kodaikanal, also known as Kodai, is a mesmerizing hill station perfect for a holiday destination. Situated on the southern tip of the upper Palani Hills, Kodai is located in Dindigul District of Tamil Nadu state. It is situated at a height of about 2,133-m and spreads over an area of 21.45-sq-km. A popular tourist holiday destination, having many natural splendors such as waterfalls, a pleasant lake, and many beautiful mountain viewpoints.The place is also known for hill-plantation of fruits and plums known for their freshness and taste. Kodaikanal is also famous for educational institutions of international repute. From Kodai, Mount Perumal, an extinct volcano, can also be viewed.
Overnight in Madurai.

Day 08: Madurai - Kanyakumari - Kovalam (225 Kms / 5 Hrs & 90 Kms / 1 Hrs 30 Min)
Morning drive to Kanyakumari (Cape Comorin), the last end of India where three Oceans meet. Continue driving to Kovalam and on arrival.
Overnight in Kovalam.

Today Kovalam beach is known as the "Paradise of the South". It is warm and clean filled with the coconut trees and the white sandbed as the seabreeze gently plays with the waves. Swimming and bathing are very refreshing and exhilirating in the waves. One can walk into the sea for about 100 metres without loosing ground. This cove is also the safest place for swimming. At many coastal places there are beautiful patches of coral reefs. The underwater views, which are visible during snorkeling, are really marvelous.
Overnight in Kovalam.

Formed with the building of a dam in 1895, this reservoir meanders around the contours of the wooded hills, providing a permanent source of water for the local wildlife. Though its a Tiger Reserve, tourists come here to view the Indian elephants in the act of ablution and playfulness by the Periyar lake. Boat cruises make the best option to check out the wilds of Periyar Sanctuary.Today the Periyar lake presents an excellent boating spot for tourists. Although it is unusual to see many animals from the boats, still you spot a family of Elephants, Wild Boar, and Sambar Deer by the water's edge. The upper deck is best for wildlife viewing when taking a boat cruise, but better turn up half an hour early to get the best seat. To maximise you chances, take the 7.00 am boat.
Overnight in Periyar.

Day 11: Periyar - Kottayam - backwaters The spectacular beauty of Kerala's backwaters needs no introduction. One can go for a leisurely cruise on a multi deck boat, allowing you enjoy the scenic backwater life. Traditionally, the houseboat was called Kettuvallam, which means a boat made by tying together pieces of wood. Unbelievable as it may sound, not a single nail is used in the making of a Kettuvallam. Jack wood plankare joined together with coir rope and then coated with black resin made from boiled cashew nut shells. The materials that go into the making are all local and Eco friendly bamboo poles, coconut fiber ropes, bamboo mats, coir carpets etc These traditional country boats were used as the mode of transport in the early times from the isolated interior villages to the towns. But these boat services have been laid off with the developments taken place in the transport services in the recent past. Today these giant 80-foot long crafts have been adapted into luxuriously furnished houseboats. A Kettuvallam usually has one or two bath attached rooms, an open lounge, deck, kitchenette and a crew comprising two oarsmen and a cook. Traditional lanterns are used as lights. Your holiday in this tranquil world is the comfortably furnished houseboats. Come, check into a houseboat for a memorable cruise along the backwaters of Kerala.

A guided tour down the backwaters would provide you with a complete and most enchanting experience on the back waters of Kerala and will also reveal to you some interesting facts about the life of local village people. There is a Kerala that lives along these backwaters throbbing with its own unique culture .For you, as a visitor to Kerala it can be incredibly different experience just floating this backwaters in a country craft and absorbing unusual representation. After breakfast, leave by surface to Kottayam and board Kettuvalom, the Houseboat.Sail through the day.
Overnight onboard.

Day 13: Cochin
After breakfast, sightseeing tour of Cochin covering Bolghatty Palace or  the  Dutch palace is situated on the Bolghatty island; The chinese fishing nets found here are the only ones of its kind in India. It is believed that traders from the court of the Chinese ruler Kublai Khan introduced these nets here; The Dutch Palace was originally built by the Portugese. Later, in 17th century, the Dutch modified it and presented to the Raja of Kochi. Coronation of many Rajas of Kochi were held here. The place has a fine collection of mural paintings depicting the scenes from the Hindu epics Mahabharatha and Ramayana. A stroll along the beach, particularly at sunset with the chinese fishing nets and sailing ships in the background, is a fine experience. Many European style bungalows can be seen along the shoreline. The synagogue,magnificently decorated by Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers ,was built in 1568. Giant scrolls of the Old Testament can be found here. It is located near the Dutch Palace.

Evening witness Kathakali Dance Show in a Theatre. Kathakali is the classical dance-drama of Kerala, South India, which dates from the 17th century and is rooted in Hindu mythology. Kathakali has a unique combination of literature, music, painting, acting and dance. 'Katha' means story and 'Kali' means dance. In Kathakali dance-drama, communication is made effective through the remarkable use of gestures and mudras. This also lends Kathakali its universal appeal. People of varied tastes all over the world appreciate and admire the beauty of this distinguished art. Another distinct feature of Kathakali is its elaborate costume and make-up. It is a magical sight to watch Kathakali artistes performing in their traditional attire. Their larger than life form transport the audience to a make believe wonderland. It takes about 8-10 painstaking hours to carry out the elaborate Aharya, (the make-up) in all its detail. Artistes are trained to do the make-up on their own.
Overnight in Cochin.

Day 14: Cochin - Ooty (280 Kms / 5 Hrs)
After breakfast, leave by surface to Ooty. Arrive Ooty and check-in at the hotel.
Overnight in Ooty.

Day 15: Ooty

The unassuming beauty of this heavenly hill resort beckons you to come and embrace the tranquility and solace that tours to Ooty India offer. One of the reasons people like to visit hill stations is that, they not only offer a respite from the dust and pollution of the city but also give people a chance to see the undefiled beauty of nature. The green hills, the cascading waterfalls and sparkling brooks, all make the hill stations a delight for the eyes of the urban dweller. Ooty is an ideal hill station since it offers all this and much more. There are many places you can tour, such as the Botanical Gardens, Lamb's rock and Dodabetta Peak, on tours to Ooty India.

It formed the backdrop for David Lean's movie A Passage to India (1984) based on E. M. Foster's novel. Coonoor comes under the Coimbatore-Mettupalayam-Coonoor-Ooty circuit. Coonoor provides the traveller with the panoramic view of the lush green Nilgiri hills, with its ravines, valleys, and waterfalls. Bird watching is a popular pastime in Coonoor, as the area boasts of a large variety of species like cormorants, pipits, thrushes, parakeets, skylarks, Nilgiri verditer, etc. Travellers can take a walk through the tea gardens. There are number of trekking and hiking trails around Coonoor. Travellers can enjoy the exhilarating and unique ride on the toy train that connects Coonoor with Mettupalayam and Ooty. The trip provides some breathtaking views of the Nilgiri hills in all its natural glory.
Overnight in Ooty.

Day 16: Ooty - Mysore (140 Kms / 4 Hrs)
After breakfast, leave by surface to Mysore. Located 770m above sea level and 140 Kms from Bangalore, Mysore, the imperial city, was the erstwhile capital of the Wodeyars. Also known as the city of Palaces, Mysore has never failed to mesmerise the tourists with its quaint charm, rich heritage, magnificent palaces, beautifully laid-out gardens, imposing buildings, broad shady avenues and sacred temples. Mysore is the erstwhile capital of Wodeyars, the rulers of Mysore State. The Wodeyar family ruled Mysore since 14th century except for a short period of 40 years when Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan were the rulers. Today Mysore is one of the major cities of Karnataka. Mysore has emerged as a thriving market for exotic sandalwood & incense, the Mysore silk sarees and stone-carved sculptures. Arrive Mysore and check-in at the hotel.
Overnight in Mysore.

Day 17: Mysore
After breakfast, morning visit the Somnathpur Temple.
Afternoon visit Srirangapatnam which is a historic island cradled by two branches of the Cauvery river. The magnificent Sri Ranganatha Temple inside the port is an ancient temple of exquisite eauty dating back to the 15th century. From 1610 to 1799 A.D., it was the capital of several Mysore kings like Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan.The Daria Daulat bagh set in a lush Persian-style garden, it is Tipu’s Summer palace in Srirangapatnam. The Palace was built in the Indo-Saracenic style in the 18th century. The interior is profusely adorned with sculpted, decorative arches, ornate ceilings, liberally-gilded wall panels and frescoes. There is a small museum, which is the history-lover’s delight. The exhibits here include Tipu’s personal belongings and some 19th century European paintings and engravings. Srirangapatnam is 16 km from Mysore on the Mysore – Bangalore Road.
Overnight in Mysore.

Day 18: Mysore - Hassan (120 Kms / 3 Hrs)
After breakfast, leave by surface to Hassan. Arrive and check-in at the hotel.
Afternoon visit Belur and Halebid Temples.
Overnight in Hassan.

Sravanabelagola has remained a great Jain centre and the goal of thousands of pilgrims who flock to see the magnificent and gigantic statue of Lord Gomateswara or Bahubali. It was the Ganga King Rachamalla who commissioned the sculptor Arstameni in 981 A.D. to create this mammoth statue. This 17m [55 ft] giant statue was carved out of a single block of stone. It is regarded as one of the largest monolithic statues in the world. Every 12 years the statue of Bahubali is anointed with potfuls of exotic offerings including honey, almonds, saffron, sandalwood, coconut milk, dates, bananas, poppy seed, ghee and even gold and silver coins. This ceremony is called MAHAMASTABHISHEKA and the next ceremony is in 2005 as the last one was in 1993. Sravanabelagola is 2 ½ hours bus journey from Mysore, three hours journey from Bangalore.
Arrive Bangalore and check-in at the hotel. Bangalore is the capital of Karnataka. The city was founded in 1537 by Kempe Gowda, a Vijaynagar Chieftain and today it is the fifth largest city in India. The city, often nick named as the GARDEN CITY, has an amazing number of flowering trees and parks, in addition to other attractions.

Afternoon sightseeing tour.
Overnight in Bangalore.

Day 20: Depart Bangalore
Transfer in time to the international airport to board flight for onward destination.