MH India Trips

MH India Trips

South India Highlights: Temples & Backwaters
South India15 Days / 14 Nights

South India Highlights: Temples & Backwaters

Discover the tropical charm of the south: historical temples of Tamil Nadu and backwaters of Kerala

Private Luxury Tour

Chauffeur & Car

Hotel Category

4★ & 5★ Luxury Palace

Travel Style

Heritage Temples & Heritage

Min Travellers

2 Guests Min

Bespoke Journey Overview

South India Highlights: Temples & Backwaters

Discover the cultural and natural beauty of South India on a memorable journey through Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala. Explore magnificent temples, ancient heritage sites, colourful markets and historic cities before experiencing the peaceful backwaters and lush landscapes of Kerala. From the architectural wonders of Chennai, Madurai and Mahabalipuram to the scenic charm of Mysuru, Coorg, Munnar and Alleppey, this journey offers a perfect blend of spirituality, heritage, nature and local culture.

Important Travel NotesThese prices are not valid for the period from December 20th to January 5th, as it is peak season and prices vary.
Step-by-Step Guidance

Day-by-Day Bespoke Itinerary

1
Day 1

Arrival in Chennai

Arrival in Chennai

Arrival in Chennai. Greeted at the airport by our driver and transfer to hotel. Visit Kapaleeswarar and Parthasarathy temples if time permits. Overnight in Chennai.

2
Day 2

Chennai to Mahabalipuram via Kanchipuram

Chennai to Mahabalipuram via Kanchipuram

After breakfast, drive to Mahabalipuram. En route, visit Kanchipuram temples (Kailasanatha, Ekambareshwarar, Vaikunda Perumal). Visit Shore Temple and Arjuna's Penance in Mahabalipuram. Overnight in Mahabalipuram.

3
Day 3

Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry (French Town)

Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry (French Town)

After breakfast, drive to Pondicherry, a former French colony. Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Pondicherry Museum, and Manakula Vinayagar Temple. Overnight in Pondicherry.

4
Day 4

Pondicherry to Tanjore Heritage Sites

Pondicherry to Tanjore Heritage Sites

Drive to Tanjore, passing through Chidambaram, Gangaikondacholapuram, and Darasuram temples. Afternoon city sightseeing of Tanjore. Overnight in Tanjore.

5
Day 5

Tanjore Temples & Palaces

Tanjore Temples & Palaces

After breakfast, visit the magnificent UNESCO-listed Brihadeeswara Temple, Tanjore Palace, observation towers, and the art gallery. Overnight in Tanjore.

6
Day 6

Tanjore to Trichy & Rock Fort

Tanjore to Trichy & Rock Fort

After breakfast, drive to Trichy on the banks of Kaveri river. Visit the famous Rock Fort Temple built high on a rock by the Nayaks of Madurai. Overnight in Trichy.

7
Day 7

Trichy to Madurai via Chettinad Palace

Trichy to Madurai via Chettinad Palace

Drive to Chettinad to visit Chettinad Palace, famous for local heritage homes. Continue to Madurai. Visit Sri Meenakshi Amman Temple and Nayak Palace. Overnight in Madurai.

8
Day 8

Madurai to Kovalam Beach Resort

Madurai to Kovalam Beach Resort

After breakfast, drive to Kovalam, stopping en route to visit the Padmanabhapuram Teak Palace. Check-in at the beach resort and relax. Overnight in Kovalam.

9
Day 9

Kovalam Beach Relaxation & Ayurveda

Kovalam Beach Relaxation & Ayurveda

Free day to relax on the sandy beaches of Kovalam. Enjoy Ayurvedic massages (optional), swimming, and fresh seafood by the Arabian Sea. Overnight in Kovalam.

10
Day 10

Kovalam to Alleppey Houseboat Cruise

Kovalam to Alleppey Houseboat Cruise

Drive to Alleppey to board a traditional luxury houseboat at 12:30 PM. Cruise through the backwaters and Vembanad Lake. Lunch and dinner on board. Overnight on Houseboat.

11
Day 11

Alleppey to Thekkady (Periyar)

Alleppey to Thekkady (Periyar)

Disembark from houseboat at 9:00 AM and drive to Thekkady. Check-in at the hotel. Spend the rest of the day exploring the local spice markets. Overnight in Thekkady.

12
Day 12

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Cruise

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Cruise

Morning boat ride on Periyar Lake inside the national park to observe wildlife like elephants, gaurs, and birds in their natural habitat. Overnight in Thekkady.

13
Day 13

Thekkady to Munnar Tea Estates

Thekkady to Munnar Tea Estates

Drive to Munnar, a beautiful hill station. Visit Mattupetty Dam, Tea Museum, and see the rare Nilgiri Tahr mountain goats. Overnight in Munnar.

14
Day 14

Munnar to Cochin & Kathakali Show

Munnar to Cochin & Kathakali Show

Drive to Cochin. Guided tour of Fort Cochin including St. Francis Church, Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace, and attend a classical Kathakali dance show. Overnight in Cochin.

15
Day 15

Cochin to Chennai Flight & Departure

Cochin to Chennai Flight & Departure

Transfer to Cochin airport for your flight back to Chennai and onward flight connections. End of our services.

Included Services & Amenities

  • Private cruise and overnight stay in a traditional Kerala Houseboat
  • Traditional rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage session in Kovalam
  • Classical Kathakali dance cultural performance in Cochin
  • Boat cruise on Periyar Lake in Thekkady to spot wild elephants

Not Included Services

  • International and domestic flights unless specifically mentioned.
  • Travel insurance and personal medical expenses.
  • Personal expenses including laundry, telephone calls, shopping and tips.
  • Meals and beverages not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Entrance fees to temples, monuments and attractions not included in the confirmed package.
Transparency & Guest Guidelines

Cancellation Policy & Terms and Conditions

Cancellation Policy

Flexible Guest Friendly Protection
  • 30+ Days Before Departure: Free cancellation & 100% refund of deposit.
  • 15 - 29 Days Before Departure: 50% refund on total tour package cost.
  • Under 14 Days Before Arrival: Non-refundable due to pre-paid hotel & chauffeur reservations.
🛡️ Guaranteed Protection

Terms & Conditions

Transparent Booking Rules
  • Booking Deposit: 25% deposit required to confirm reservations; balance due 15 days prior to arrival.
  • Private Chauffeur & SUV: Air-conditioned private vehicle included daily with experienced English-speaking driver.
  • Hotel Timings: Standard check-in is 12:00 PM / 2:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM / 12:00 PM.
📋 Standard Operating Policy

Important Travel Notes

Essential Information For Travelers
Price is calculated per person based on a minimum of 2 travellers with private vehicle and chauffeur.
Prices may vary during peak festival seasons such as Holi, Diwali, Pushkar, Christmas, and New Year.
Hotel check-in and check-out time is 12:00 PM.
The Taj Mahal remains closed every Friday.
MH India Trips is not responsible for road blockages, train delays, or unforeseen circumstances.
Final price depends on hotel category, domestic flights, travel dates, and number of guests.
Applicable government taxes will be added to the final quote.
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