Transport

Our fleet consists of brand-new, meticulously maintained vehicles to ensure optimal comfort and safety throughout your journey. Each vehicle undergoes rigorous inspections to guarantee reliability. Our drivers are extensively vetted, ensuring they possess thorough knowledge of local routes, making solo travel with them completely secure. Transportation is provided in air-conditioned private vehicles with drivers fluent in local languages. Our offerings include: Swift Dzire or similar for up to 2 passengers Innova Crysta or similar for 3-4 passengers Tempo Traveller or similar for groups of 5-8 passengers AC Coach for more travellers Rest assured, our commitment to quality transport ensures a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

Others

Accommodation in pre-selected hotels as per the itinerary. Buffet breakfast as per the program. Transfers and sightseeing as per the itinerary in a private AC vehicle. Houseboat excursion in the backwaters of Alleppey, including lunch onboard. Entrance fees to monuments and activities mentioned in the itinerary. Local English-speaking guides as per the program. For groups of 6 or more travelers, an accompanying tour escort will be provided for the entire tour. Rickshaw ride experience in Madurai. Mountain Jeep Safari in Periyar Stay hydrated with two complimentary bottles of water provided daily inside the vehicle. 24/7 local assistance. All taxes, parking, tolls, and driver expenses.

Guide

All tours and transfers as per the itinerary will be conducted in a private vehicle accompanied by an English-speaking guide. For groups larger than six people, an accompanying tour guide will be provided for the entire group. Accommodations for the additional guide will be arranged separately.

Meals

Breakfast is included as per the itinerary. For departures during Christmas and New Year, mandatory Gala Dinner charges will apply.

Hygieneprotocol

In accordance to the COVID 19 pandemic all our tours are operated with all precautionary measures including SANITIZED CARS AND HOTELS/COMPLIMENTARY SANITIZERS/MASKS (Your safety is our priority) * Visit https://www.newdelhiairport.in/pdf/Guidelines-for-International-arrivals-updated-on-10th-February-2022-11-02-22 .pdf to know about the lates guidelines regarding the International arrivals in India. * Have a valid tourist visa. Visa for India can be applied online. Visit https://indianvisaonline.gov.in to apply for a visa * Fill the online Health Declaration form on https://www.newdelhiairport.in/airsuvidha/apho-registration. * Clients flight details, Passport copies and contact details must extend to the travel agent at the time of booking of the tour. * Vaccination card in English with all the applicable doses where the client will be able to travel 14 days after the final dose.

Accommodation

We offer accommodations in the following categories. 1. Standard Category Chennai - Hotel Lotus /Lotus Hotel Sameera/ Similar Pondicherry - Annamalai / White Pearl / Villa Helena / Similar Tanjore - Lakshmi Hotel / Hotel Gnanam / Similar Chettinad - Chettinad Court / Similar Madurai - JC Residency / Madurai Residency / Similar Periyar - Green View Homestay / Elephant Route / Similar Kumarakom - Deshadan Backwater Resort/Backwater ripples / Similar Cochin - Hotel Abad / Pepper Route /Abad Fort/ Similar Mysore - Sandesh Pride / Similar Hassan - Clarks Inn / Similar 2. Superior Category Chennai - Grand Chennai By GRT / Regenta Central / The Residency / Similar Pondicherry - Shenbaga / Accord / Similar Tanjore - Sangam / Ideal River View / Similar Chettinad - Chettinad Mansion / Similar Madurai - Fortune Pandyan / GRT Madurai / Similar Periyar - Peppevine/ Poetree Sarovar/ Similar Kumarakom - Abad Whispering Palms / Lake Song / Backwater Ripples / Punnamada / Similar Cochin - Casino Hotel / The Dutch Bungalow / IBIS / Similar Mysore - Southern Star / Lalitha Mahal / Similar Hassan - Ashok Hassan / Similar 3. Prestige Category Chennai - Trident / Taj Club House / Accord Metropolitan / Radisson Blu / Similar Pondicherry - The Residency Tower / Radisson Resort Pondicherry Bay /Similar Tanjore - Svatma / Similar Chettinad - Chidambara Vilas / Visalam / Similar Madurai - Heritage Madurai / Gateway Pusumalai / Similar Periyar - Elephant Court / Cardamom County / Similar Kumarakom - Coconut Lagoon / Zuri Kumarakom / Niramaya Retreats / Similar Cochin - Eight Bastion / The Trident / Fragrant Nature / Xandari Harbour / Similar Mysore - Radisson / Country Inn / Similar Hassan - Hoyasala Village Resort / Similar Please Note: It is always our endeavor to provide you with the hotels listed in the program. However, if the listed hotels are unavailable, we will provide the best possible options within the same category.

Not included:

Others

Flights, visa fees, and insurance. Tips, personal expenses, extra visits, or additional vehicle usage. Anything not specifically mentioned in the inclusions or itinerary.

Flights

Flights are not included in the tour package; however, we can arrange them upon request. Please consult with us regarding the timings before booking your domestic flight.

Insurance

Travel insurance is not included in the program. It is advisable to obtain travel insurance for your tour.

Optional

Optional experiences are available on this tour for an additional cost and will be included in your finalized travel documents. Chettinad Bullock Cart Ride Experience - USD 60 Per Person Thekkady - Ancient Martial Art Show - USD 25 per person Thekkady - Cooking Class and Dinner - USD 35 per person Thekkady - Elephant Experience - USD 50 per person Periyar - Elephant Sanctuary Tour - USD 85 per person Madurai - Heritage Walking Tour - USD 55 per person Kumarakom - Traditional Ayurvedic Massage (1 Hour) -USD 55 per person

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Arrival In Chennai & Sightseeing
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Arrival In Chennai & Sightseeing

Upon arrival in Chennai and completion of customs formalities, you will be greeted by a representative from MTA Destination Experts outside the exit gate of the International Airport. Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is a vibrant city situated on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal in southern India. It is the capital of Tamil Nadu and a major cultural, economic, and educational hub. With a rich history spanning over 400 years, Chennai is the fourth-largest city in India by population.

Begin your day with a panoramic tour of the city, starting with Marina Beach. As one of the longest urban beaches in the world, Marina Beach is a prominent landmark. Later, proceed to the San Thome Basilica, built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, who is believed to have come to India in the 3rd century AD. This prominent religious site showcases exquisite architecture. Conclude your tour with a visit to the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, a fine example of Dravidian architecture. After sightseeing, check into your hotel for an overnight stay in Chennai.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees, Assistance

Highlights: Marina Beach, San Thome Basilica, Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Note: Hotel check-in will be done after sightseeing.
Day 2 Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry (220 Km – 5 Hrs Approx)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry (220 Km – 5 Hrs Approx)

After breakfast, drive to Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram. This historic town on the Coromandel Coast is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed monuments and rock-cut temples, reflecting the architectural brilliance of the Pallava dynasty from the 7th and 8th centuries. Visit the iconic Shore Temple, an exquisite example of Dravidian temple architecture, followed by the Five Rathas, monolithic rock-cut temples named after the Pandava brothers from the Mahabharata. Conclude your visit with Arjuna’s Penance, an intricate bas-relief depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

Continue your journey to Pondicherry, arriving in the afternoon. Explore the French Quarter, also known as White Town, characterized by its well-preserved French colonial architecture, colorful facades, and bougainvillea-laden balconies. Visit the Aurobindo Ashram, a serene place founded by the great philosopher Sri Aurobindo. End the day with a walking tour of the old city, visiting ancient Portuguese and French churches.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights: Shore Temple, Five Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance, French Quarter, Aurobindo Ashram
Day 3 Pondicherry – Gangaikondacholapuram – Darasuram – Tanjore (210 Km – 5 Hrs Ap-Prox)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Pondicherry – Gangaikondacholapuram – Darasuram – Tanjore (210 Km – 5 Hrs Ap-Prox)

Transfer to Tanjore with stops at Gangaikondacholapuram and Darasuram. Visit the Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate art and architecture, built by Rajaraja Chola II in the 12th century. Continue to Tanjore, once the ancient capital of the Cholas, dating back to the reigns of Rajaraja I and Rajendra I. Visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a symbol of Tanjore and a world heritage site. Explore the Raja Museum and Art Gallery, which houses Chola-style bronze and granite sculptures, and the Saraswati Mahal Library, with over 40,000 rare books and inscriptions.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights: Airavatesvara Temple, Brihadeeswarar Temple, Raja Museum and Art Gallery, Saraswati Mahal Library
Day 4 Tanjore – Trichy – Chettinad (100 Km – 3 Hrs Approx)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Tanjore – Trichy – Chettinad (100 Km – 3 Hrs Approx)

Transfer to Chettinad with a stop at Srirangam to visit the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple complex, with its seven concentric walls and towering gopurams, is an important pilgrimage site. Continue to Chettinad, known for its unique architecture and grand mansions. In the afternoon, take a walking tour of the village to admire the ancient buildings, visit a cotton weaving center, and a tile manufacturing factory.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights: Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Chettinad Village, Cotton Weaving Center, Tile Man-ufacturing Factory
Day 5 Chettinad – Madurai (100 Km – 2 Hrs Approx)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Chettinad – Madurai (100 Km – 2 Hrs Approx)

Depart from Chettinad for Madurai, renowned as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities glob-ally, often referred to as the "Athens of the East" for its profound cultural and historical significance. Upon arrival in Madurai, proceed to check into your hotel. Later, immerse yourself in the vibrant local life with a rickshaw ride through the bustling old city. This unique journey will offer glimpses into the lively markets, including the spice, banana, onion, and textile markets, as well as visits to small-scale local factories.

In the evening, explore the renowned Meenakshi Amman Temple, a quintessential example of Dra-vidian architecture dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Shiva. This majestic temple, with its towering gopurams (gateway towers) and intricately carved sculptures, is a central highlight of Madu-rai’s rich heritage. After a day of exploration and cultural immersion, return to the hotel for a restful overnight stay.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights: Meenakshi Amman Temple, Rickshaw Ride
Day 6 Madurai – Periyar (145 Km – 4 Hrs Approx)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Madurai – Periyar (145 Km – 4 Hrs Approx)

Continue towards Thekkady, situated in the picturesque Western Ghats and renowned for its lush tea and spice plantations. This region is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife sanctuaries. Upon arrival in Thekkady, you will check into your hotel and have some time to freshen up.

In the afternoon, experience a thrilling Jeep Safari through the verdant mountains. This safari will take you on a scenic exploration of the surrounding landscape, including a brief tour of the local spice plan-tations. You will have the opportunity to witness the cultivation of various spices such as cardamom, pepper, and cloves, as well as visit tea, coffee, and cocoa gardens. This immersive experience not only highlights the region’s agricultural heritage but also provides a unique insight into the local farming practices and natural environment.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights: Jeep Safari, Spice Plantations
Day 7 Periyar – Kumarakom (112 Km – 3:30 Hrs Approx)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Periyar – Kumarakom (112 Km – 3:30 Hrs Approx)

After breakfast, depart from Periyar and transfer to Kumarakom, a picturesque village located on the serene banks of Vembanad Lake. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Kumarakom offers a unique retreat amidst lush greenery, coconut groves, and tranquil backwaters. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings of Kumarakom. This region is famous for its exceptional Ayurvedic therapies and wellness treatments. You may choose to indulge in a variety of rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages and therapies that are tailored to enhance your well-being, or simply relax and unwind in the serene environment. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of Kumarakom as you take in the nat-ural beauty and explore the wellness options available at your resort.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport

Highlights: Ayurvedic Treatments, Relaxation
Day 8 Kumarakom – Cochin (50 Km – 1 Hr Approx)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Kumarakom – Cochin (50 Km – 1 Hr Approx)

Begin your day in Kumarakom with a leisurely morning, allowing time for Ayurvedic treatments or relaxation. After a refreshing morning, check out from your hotel and embark on a scenic journey to Cochin. En route, experience a memorable houseboat excursion through the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. This unique journey provides an opportunity to explore the intricate network of canals, rivers, and lakes that define the region’s landscape. Enjoy a delicious lunch served onboard, savoring local delicacies while floating amidst the lush greenery. Upon completion of your houseboat experience, continue your transfer to Cochin. Arrive in Cochin and check into your hotel, where you will spend the evening at your leisure.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Lunch, Transport

Highlights: Houseboat Excursion, Backwaters of Kerala
Day 9 Cochin Sightseeing
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Cochin Sightseeing

Cochin, or Kochi, is a lively city renowned for its historical significance and cultural diversity. Begin your exploration with a visit to the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, which are a testament to the region’s rich maritime history and unique fishing techniques brought by Chinese traders centuries ago. Next, explore the Mattancherry Dutch Palace, a stunning example of Indo-European architecture, featuring intricate murals and artifacts that reflect the historical grandeur of the Dutch colonial era. Proceed to St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, which holds historical significance as the original burial site of Vasco da Gama. Conclude your tour of the historical landmarks with a visit to the Paradesi Synagogue, located in the historic Jewish area of Mattancherry. This synagogue, with its or-nate architecture and historical treasures, is a symbol of Cochin’s diverse cultural heritage. In the even-ing, immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a Kathakali dance performance, an elaborate and traditional art form of Kerala known for its vibrant costumes and dramatic storytelling.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights: Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Dutch Palace, St. Francis Church, Kathakali Dance Show
Day 10 Cochin – Bangalore – Mysore (Flight To Bangalore, Drive To Mysore 140 Km, 3 Hrs Ap-Prox)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Cochin – Bangalore – Mysore (Flight To Bangalore, Drive To Mysore 140 Km, 3 Hrs Ap-Prox)

This morning, you will take a flight from Cochin to Bangalore. Upon arrival in Bangalore, you will em-bark on a drive to Mysore, a journey of approximately 140 kilometers that will take around three hours. During the drive, make a notable stop at the Somnathpur Temple, a distinguished example of Hoysa-la architecture.

Continue your journey to Mysore, where you will visit the illustrious Mysore Palace. This grand pal-ace, the residence of the Maharajas of Mysore, is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, blending Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles. The palace is adorned with opulent decorations, including intricately carved wooden doors, vibrant stained glass windows, and richly decorated interi-ors. The Mysore Palace, with its historical significance and architectural grandeur, offers a glimpse into the regal heritage of the Wadiyar dynasty. After the tour of the palace, proceed to your accommoda-tion in Mysore for an overnight stay.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights: Somnathpur Temple, Mysore Palace
Day 11 Mysore – Hassan (120 Km – 3 Hrs Approx)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Mysore – Hassan (120 Km – 3 Hrs Approx)

After breakfast, proceed with a drive to Hassan, where you will check into your hotel. In the afternoon, embark on an exploration of the renowned temples of Belur and Halebidu, celebrated for their exceptional Hoysala architecture.

Begin your tour at the Chennakesava Temple in Belur, a masterpiece dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple, constructed in the 12th century, is renowned for its elaborate carvings and intricate sculptures that reflect the high level of artistry of the Hoysala dynasty. The temple’s exterior is adorned with de-tailed depictions of deities, celestial beings, and mythological scenes, showcasing a harmonious blend of Dravidian, Nagara, and Hoysala architectural styles.

Next, visit the Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu, another fine example of Hoysala craftsmanship. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, was built during the same period but remains incomplete due to historical invasions. Despite this, it stands as a testament to the grandeur of Hoysala art, with its intri-cately carved walls and ornate sculptures. The temple features twin sanctums, each adorned with de-tailed carvings of deities and epic narratives, illustrating the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the era.

Return to your hotel in Hassan for an overnight stay.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights: Chennakesava Temple, Hoysaleswara Temple
Day 12 Hassan – Sravanabelgola – Hassan (53 Km – 1 Hr Each Way)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Hassan – Sravanabelgola – Hassan (53 Km – 1 Hr Each Way)

Embark on an excursion to Sravanabelgola, a significant pilgrimage site renowned for its Jain temple and the towering monolithic statue of Bahubali, also known as Gommateshwara. The statue, carved from a single block of granite, stands at an impressive height of 57 feet, making it one of the tallest free-standing statues in the world. This awe-inspiring monument is a masterpiece of Jain art and sym-bolizes renunciation, self-control, and enlightenment. As you explore the temple complex, you’ll gain insight into the rich history and religious significance of this sacred site. The serene ambiance and the majestic presence of the Bahubali statue offer a profound spiritual experience. After the visit, return to your hotel in Hassan for an overnight stay.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tour Guide, Entrance Fees

Highlights: Sravanabelgola Jain Pilgrimage Site
Day 13 Hassan – Bangalore – Airport (185 Km – 3 Hrs Approx)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Hassan – Bangalore – Airport (185 Km – 3 Hrs Approx)

Transfer to Bangalore for a short city tour in the afternoon. Visit the major landmarks before transferring to the international airport for your onward journey.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Transport

End of Our Services

+10

13 days tour

Spotlight On South India - Tamilnadu, Kerala & Karnataka

This tour includes:

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Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Spotlight On South India - Tamilnadu, Kerala & Karnataka

Arrival In Chennai & Sightseeing

Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry (220 Km – 5 Hrs Approx)

Pondicherry – Gangaikondacholapuram – Darasuram – Tanjore (210 Km – 5 Hrs Ap-Prox)

Tanjore – Trichy – Chettinad (100 Km – 3 Hrs Approx)

Chettinad – Madurai (100 Km – 2 Hrs Approx)

Madurai – Periyar (145 Km – 4 Hrs Approx)

Periyar – Kumarakom (112 Km – 3:30 Hrs Approx)

Kumarakom – Cochin (50 Km – 1 Hr Approx)

Cochin Sightseeing

Cochin – Bangalore – Mysore (Flight To Bangalore, Drive To Mysore 140 Km, 3 Hrs Ap-Prox)

Mysore – Hassan (120 Km – 3 Hrs Approx)

Hassan – Sravanabelgola – Hassan (53 Km – 1 Hr Each Way)

Hassan – Bangalore – Airport (185 Km – 3 Hrs Approx)

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