Grand Tour of Southern India

The first stop on your South India tour is Chennai, the thriving capital of the Southern state of Tamil Nadu and a rich storehouse of Southern culture and tradition. On arrival at Chennai International Airport you will be met by your Authentic India Tours representative and transferred to your hotel.

In the afternoon you will embark upon a discovery tour of Chennai. Highlights of the tour include the ancient Shiva temple of Kapaleeshwar, Fort St. George and San Thome Basilica, which is said to have been built over the tomb of Thomas the Apostle.

End the day with a visit to Marina beach, a 13km stretch of sand and sea. It’s a popular hangout spot for the locals and is perfect for an evening promenade

Accommodation: Grand Hotel by GRT, Chennai

After breakfast we drive along the coast to visit the Mamallapuram, a laid back beachside town where the ancient and the modern rub shoulders.

Here you will find a UNESCO heritage site of 7^th and 8^th century monuments and temples. Marvel at the chariot shaped temples (rathas) and amazing cave temples, carved deep into the rock.

The intricately carved Shore Temple, which overlooks the Bay of Bengal, is a perfect place to watch the sun set.

Approximate travel time and distance: 2 hours, 70 kms

Accommodation: Ideal Beach Resort, Mamallapuram

Meals included: Breakfast

Enjoy the morning drive to the former French colony of Puducherry. This is a town brimming with unique experiences, from the famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram to miles of beautiful sandy beaches.

You can visit the striking Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple to meet their resident elephant, Lakshmi. Here you will earn a blessing in exchange for a donation of a few rupees or a banana, which she will accept with her trunk. Later we will visit a handmade paper-making unit and Puducherry museum, to learn about the city’s fascinating colonial history.

Explore the historic French Quarter with its wide cobbled streets and some of the best restaurants in South India, offering a scintillating fusion of French and Indian cuisines.

Approximate travel time and distance: 2 hours, 100 kms

Accommodation: Maison Perumal, Puducherry

Meals included: Breakfast

We leave the coast today and start our inland journey to Thanjavur. No trip to India is complete without a visit to some temples, and today you will have an opportunity to see some of South India’s finest.

On route there is an opportunity to visit Chidambaram, renowned for its Nataraja Temple complex, spread over 40 acres of land. The temple represents a fine example of Tamil Nadu’s unique Dravidian architecture. You will continue to Darasuram, home of the ornate Airavatesvara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Approximate travel time and distance: 4 hours 30 mins, 230 kms

Accommodation: GreaT Trails River View, Thanjavur

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning’s Thanjavur tour, includes the Brihadeeswarar Temple, with its 62 metre high tower ornately decorated with carvings, followed by the bronze museum and the fascinating bronze idol making units.

Later it’s onto Chettinad, the homeland of the Chettiyars. This community of merchants grew prosperous trading in the 19^th and 20^th centuries, and spared no expense building their homes. The afternoon is free to stroll the shady streets admiring the vast palatial mansions, visit the local market and sample the delicious Chettinad cuisine. Your accommodation is the Chettinadu Mansion which has been historically preserved.

Approximate travel time and distance: 2 hours, 100 kms

Accommodation: The Bangala, Chettinad

Meals included: Breakfast

Today you can soak up the sights and sounds of Chettinad and explore palatial mansions decorated in Burmese teak and Italian marble. Visit the Arraynar shrine of Kothadi, decorated in terracotta figures, and some of the best local markets in South India.

There is also the chance to visit the Athangudi handmade tile-making unit to see expert craftspeople at work, alongside a traditional sari weaving centre. Why not then go in search of some souvenirs to take back home. You can find some unique antiques at the market on Muneeswaran Koil Street in Karaikudi. Shopkeepers are friendly and happy to chat about the rich history of their wares, most of them from local Chettiar homes.

Accommodation: The Bangala, Chettinad

Meals included: Breakfast

Today your journey takes you to the exotic city of Madurai, a beautiful town set against the backdrop of the 14 colourful gopurams (gateway towers) of Meenakshi Amman Temple. You will have the chance to marvel at the multi-tiered, technicolour wonder covered in bright carvings of mythical figures. The Dravidian-style temple is a major pilgrimage site, and our guide will help you unravel its mysteries.

In the evening you will visit the Thirumalai Nayak Palace and the Sri Meenakshi Amman Temple. Upon entering the temple, notice the colourful textile and crafts stalls around the Pudhu Mandapam with diligent tailors at their sewing machines.

Approximate travel time and distance: 2 hours, 90 kms

Accommodation: Heritage Madurai

Meals included: Breakfast

Today you venture to the captivating tea county of Munnar, a popular summer retreat for colonial settlers generations ago.

Located in the Western Ghats mountain range at 1,532m above sea level, the cool air is infused with an intoxicating blend of scents from the nearby spice plantations and indigenous sandalwood forests.

In the evening, there’s a plantation walk around the estate, where you will learn about the history, cultivation and processing of tea, as well as soaking up the incredible biodiversity the estate has to offer.

Approximate travel time and distance: 5 hours, 160 kms

Accommodation: Ambady Estate, Munnar

Meals included: Breakfast

Today be prepared for stunning views and scenery. In the morning you can enjoy a Lockhart tea trail experience. Lockhart tea estate is situated 8 kms from Munnar town and will take about 30 minutes to reach

Depending  on what you choose, you can take part in walks lasting from 30 minutes to 4 hours. As you explore this area, you’ll be rewarded by breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. There may also be an opportunity to interact with the ladies picking tea leaves.

A scenic drive or a visit to Munnar and its busy market can easily be arranged if you prefer.

Later you can visit a tea museum and tea factory, where you’ll gain a fascinating insight into the region’s tea production, from crop-picking to flavour adjustment.

Accommodation: Ambady Estate, Munnar

Meals included: Breakfast

Your journey today is a scenic drive from Munnar to Coimbatore, passing sandalwood forests, mountains, and the lime green paddy fields of Marayoor. As we descend through the Western Ghats you can take in the lush green surroundings, and stop to admire a gushing waterfall or two.

After this beautiful drive we reach Coimbatore, a city that brims with life.

Approximate travel time and distance: 5 hours, 160 kms

Accommodation: The Residency Towers, Coimbatore

Meals included: Breakfast

For many people, this is the highlight of their holiday in India, a journey on the famous Nilgiri Hill Train.

This heritage ‘toy train’ will take you to the hill station of Ooty across quaint bridges and through small hillside tunnels. You will pass by undulating green hills and shady forests.  At Ooty Railway Station you will be met by your driver and taken to your hotel.

Ooty is a popular hill station, also known as the ‘Scotland of India’ because of its clear lakes, refreshing climate and manicured gardens. It is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful locations in South India and the perfect place for an afternoon of exploring.

Approximate travel time and distance: 1 hour road travel and 5 hours train travel, 90 kms

Accommodation: Taj Savoy, Ooty

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast you will travel to Mysuru, a city with a rich cultural heritage, which is located at the foot of the Chamundi hills. In the afternoon your tour continues with a short drive into the Chamundi Hills, where you will be able to get a panoramic view of the city and see the Nandi Bull – a huge statue carved from stone.

Any trip to India should include some souvenir shopping and Mysuru is famous for its colourful silks. These can be purchased from shops around the city, including the Government Silk Factory. Centuries old Devaraja Market provides another unique shopping experience. It’s a smorgasbord for the senses, with the sounds of hundreds of shoppers, the smells of fragrant flowers, and vivid cones of coloured dyes.

Approximate travel time and distance: 3 hours, 120 kms

Accommodation: Radisson Blu Plaza, Mysuru

Meals included: Breakfast

Once the capital of the Ancient Kingdom of Mysuru, Mysuru has been bestowed with the nickname ‘City of Palaces’. The most magnificent of these is Mysuru Palace, an architectural marvel of domed turrets and intricately carved marble pillars. Following your visit to the palace, we drive to the Sri Rangapattanam district to see the Tipu Sultan’s spectacular Summer Palace and the high-walled ruins of the Tipu Sultan’s Fort.

In the afternoon you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a trip to the famous Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary. Enjoy a rowing boat cruise along the River Cauvery, where you will see hundreds of birds roosting on the rocks, gliding across the water, or fishing for food. Expect to see sleek black cormorants, river terns and black crowned night herons.

Accommodation: Radisson Blu Plaza, Mysuru

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast you will be driven to Hassan, a city steeped in history and heritage. It was at the height of its glory during the rule of the Hoysala Empire between the 10th and 14th centuries. Here you will discover Hoysala temples, as well as ancient Jain monuments. It’s the perfect base to explore several important Hoysala temples in and around the area, like Belur and Halebidu.

En route we visit the impressive 57 foot high Gomateshwara statue on Vindyagiri Hill. This monolithic statue commands a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.

Approximate travel time and distance: 3 hours, 150 kms

Accommodation: Hoysala Village, Hassan

Meals included: Breakfast

Today your day will be packed with the fascinating history of the Hoysala Empire as you visit the heritage towns of Belur and Halebidu.

First, you will visit Belur, a UNESCO world heritage site. Here you will be amazed by the intricate carvings and statues of the Chennakeshava and Veeranrayana Temples, which should be top of any South Indian temples to visit.

This is followed by a visit to Halabidu, the regal capital of the Hoysala Empire in the 12th Century. You will have the chance to admire the ornate Hoysaleswara Temple, before returning to the Holsaya Village for a second night.

Accommodation: Hoysala Village, Hassan

Meals included: Breakfast

The next couple of days is a real treat for nature lovers. After breakfast, you travel to Nagarhole National Park, which is amongst the most popular national parks in India. It’s an area of lush forest threaded by the Kabini River and backwaters, which provides water for hundreds of different animals. Here you can spot wild elephants and sometimes even a tiger.

In the afternoon, explore a forest track in a jeep, looking out for animals hidden in the undergrowth, before taking a motor boat or canoe ride across the reservoir. You will spend the night in a luxury safari lodge, giving you the opportunity to pamper yourself whilst surrounded by nature.

Approximate travel time and distance: 4 hours, 160 kms

Accommodation: Kaav Safari Lodge, Kabini

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Spend the day at one with nature in the national park.

An early morning game drive is recommended, as the animals are most active at this time of day. You will be travelling in an open-top vehicle, so make sure you bring something warm to wear. Look out for elephants, tigers, spotted deer, mongoose, peacocks and jungle fowl.

In the afternoon there’s a chance for a second expedition with an expert local naturalist, so make sure you pack sunscreen and a hat.

Accommodation: Kaav Safari Lodge, Kabini

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

This morning is your last chance for another game drive with a local wildlife expert and the opportunity to see one of the many wonderful animals that inhabit the park.

You then travel to the city of Calicut, located on South India’s Malabar Coast. On the way you will stop at Beypore Port, where there is a shipbuilding yard famed for its traditional construction of the Uru, an Arabian trading vessel. This method of construction dates back almost 1,500 years, and the craftsmanship of the workers here is exceptional. Upon arrival in Calicut, you have an afternoon of leisure. We recommend indulging in the local pastime of watching the sun set on Calicut beach.

Approximate travel time and distance: 5 hours, 170 kms

Accommodation: Raviz Kadavu, Calicut

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast you leave Calicut and head for the thriving port city of Cochin. Cochin is a dizzying array of cultures, religions and nationalities, first ruled by the Portuguese, and then taken over by the Dutch and the British. This multicultural heritage is reflected in the city’s diverse architecture.

In the evening you will enjoy a traditional Kathakali performance, a dance famed for its athletic movements, colourful costumes and make-up. It’s worth arriving early to experience the dancers’ elaborate make-up preparation.

Approximate travel time and distance: 5 hours, 180 kms

Accommodation: Eighth Bastion Hotel, Cochin

Meals included: Breakfast

Today you will visit Kumbalangi, a picturesque model fishing village. Here you will witness traditional activities such as crab farming, fishing, pottery and making coir ropes from coconut husk.

These activities are followed by a delicious home-cooked Keralan lunch, enjoyed in an idyllic backwater setting.

You will return to Cochin to spend the afternoon strolling down the sleepy lanes and cobbled streets of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry, a district famed for its jumble of antique shops. Visit the Jewish Synagogue and St Francis Church, the oldest European church built in India. Wander through the rooms of Mattancherry Palace, gazing at the colourfully painted murals depicting the Ramayana, an ancient epic poem.

Accommodation: Eighth Bastion Hotel, Cochin

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast you will leave the bustling city of Cochin for the small village of Alleppey in the heart of the Kerala backwaters, nicknamed the ‘Venice of the East’, due to its intricate network of canals.

It’s time for a once in a lifetime experience – an overnight stay on a luxury houseboat. An on board cook will cater to your every need, serving up Keralan dishes infused with spices, aromatic curry leaves and fresh coconut. Each houseboat is fully crewed so all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the views. Keep an eye out for electric-blue kingfishers, snake birds and herons and catch a glimpse of village life on the backwaters.

Approximate travel time and distance: 2 hours, 65 kms

Accommodation: Private Houseboat, Alleppey

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

After a leisurely breakfast, disembark from your houseboat at Alleppey Boat Jetty. You will be met by your driver and taken to the quaint village of Mararikulam, with its tranquil, unspoilt beaches.

Spend the day relaxing on the beach, soaking up the rays of golden sun.

Approximate travel time and distance: 45 mins, 25 kms

Accommodation: ABAD Turtle Beach Resort

Meals included: Breakfast

Spend your final day relaxing on the beach, soaking up the serene surroundings.

Unwind in a hammock under a palm tree or indulge in massage. It’s a time to reflect and leave South India feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Accomodation: ABAD Turtle Beach Resort, Mararikulam

Meals included : Breakfast

You will be picked up by your driver and transferred to Cochin International Airport in time for your flight home.

Approximate travel time and distance 2 hours and 30 minutes, 100 kms

Meals included : Breakfast

Pricing & Inclusions

The price guide for this 24 day Grand Tour of Southern India is

• £3990 in low season (May – September inclusive)
• £4490 in high season (October – April inclusive)

The prices do not include flights.

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.

This is a private tour and can be tailor-made to meet your exact requirements. Prices will vary depending on the number of people, length of tour, accommodation & season. Reductions are normally available for groups of three or more. Some hotels operate an additional peak pricing rate during busy times which is normally from mid December to mid January.

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

Included with this Tour of Southern India are the following:

• Authentic India Tours meet & grtet assistance on arrival
• All internal transfers and sightseeing tours using an air-conditioned vehicle
• Accommodation for 23 nights on twin sharing basis
• Standard category rooms at all hotels unless otherwise mentioned
• Meal plan: Kabini & Houseboat on full board; Bed & breakfast elsewhere
• Kumbalangi village visit & lunch in Cochin
• Tickets for Kathakali dance show in Cochin
• English speaking guide for sightseeing tour of Chennai, Mamallapuram, Puducherry, Thanjavur, Madurai, Mysuru, Hassan & Cochin
• Guided Lockhart tea trail and tea factory visit
• Game drives in Kabini
• Mettupalayam – Ooty first-class train tickets
• Entrances at all national parks, museums and monuments as per the itinerary
• Mineral water on all days of travel

Price does not include:

• International flight tickets
• Travel insurance & Visa
• 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

Prices mentioned above are per person based on two people sharing a twin 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 South 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.