Cultural Tour Of South India - Group Departure

Cultural Tour Of South India - Group Departure

The South Indian culture is differs a lot from any other part of India whether it is dress, music and art. South India has 4 popular states and each state has their unique traditions and customs. We have crafted 12 Days Cultural Tour of South India to explore the beautiful culture of Kerala, Tamilnadu and Pondicherry. Experience the beautiful backwaters of Kerala, sand beach of the Arabian Sea at Tamil Nadu, french streets of Pondicherry and other most precious gems.

DAY 1:     ARRIVAL CHENNAI – TRANSFER TO MAMALLAPURAM               

Upon arrival you will be welcomed traditionally and transfer to your hotel in Mamallapuram.

DAY 2:      MAMALLAPURAM

History walk of Mamallapuram exploring UNESCO sites.

DAY 3:       MAMALLAPURAM TO PONDICHERRY

After breakfast proceed to Pondicherry. Enroute discover the harmonious community of Auroville. Today evening proceed to visit Shri Aurobindo Ashram.

DAY 4:        PONDICHERRY TO TANJORE

Depart to Tanjore. Despite its important history and culture. Tanjore was once the capital of the Chola empire and, although many buildings from that period no longer survive, the town is still full of lovely temples.

Enroute visit Darasuram temple and silk weaving village.

DAY 5:        TANJORE TO KARAIKUDI

Drive Tanjore, enroute visit the Brihadeshvara Temple an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later drive to Karaikudi/ chettinadu which is the homeland of the Nattukottai Chettiars, a banking and business community.  Enjoy lunch at The Bangala.

DAY 6:        KARAIKUDI TO MADURAI

Drive to Madurai. This vast, pulsating city, one of the oldest cities in South India, dating back 2500 years, sprawls along the banks of the River Vaigai. Afternoon proceed for Rickshaw tour.

DAY 7:      MADURAI

Wander through the tailors markets and bazaars and further visit the Sri Meenakshi Temple, which lies in the heart of the city.  Visit Thirumalai Nayak Palace, an example of architectural grandeur.

DAY 8:        MADURAI TO PERIYAR/THEKKADY

Drive to Periyar/Thekkady. The evocative name of the Cardamom Hills is home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a reserve on the Kerala/Tamil Nadu border, which is surrounded by tea and spice plantations. Lush forest, with a vast lake at its heart, it is home to many indigenous animals.

    

This afternoon proceeds to a Spice Plantation tour with a Naturalist.

DAY 9:  PERIYAR

Boat ride in Periyar lake and Kerala cooking class.

DAY 10:     PERIYAR TO ALLEPPEY

Drive to Alleppey, Homestay in Greenpalm Homes located on a backwater island which gives an unique chance to get into the Indian-Keralean culture. Explore Backwater & Village life.

 

DAY 11:     ALLEPPEY – COCHIN  

Drive to Kochi a colonial port town whose diverse architecture acts as a reminder of the foreign traders who came over the centuries to buy spices. Sightseeing tour of Fort Kochi. Evening Kathakali dance show.

DAY 12:     DEPARTURE TRANSFER TO AIRPORT

After breakfast it's time to bid farewell to South India.  You will be dropped at the Cochin airport to connect your onward flight.