South Indian Highlights - Overland Trip

2 weeks: to (IMT-HTSI)

Intro

This leisurely journey through Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka encompasses all the highlights of southern India. The beachside retreat of Mamallapuram is our initial base and from here we explore the historic French colonial town of Pondicherry (Puducherry) and the temple cities of Thanjavur (Tanjore), Trichy and Madurai. Next is the lush tropical land of Kerala - home to varied wildlife, palm-fringed backwaters and the harbour city of Cochin (Kochi), with its diverse architectural and religious influences. The historic palace city of Mysore takes us back to the grandiose age of the maharajas. Our journey finally ends in the lively former colonial city of Chennai (Madras).

Included

Local tour leader, local guides, arrival transfer, transport including train, sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary.

Itineraries ( - )

Day 1

(Sun) Arrive in Chennai (Madras) Airport and transfer to hotel in Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram) - an ancient seaport that is now a coastal retreat with a long sandy beach.

Day 2

Visit fabulous rock-cut temples, giant frieze and the Shore Temple along the Coromandel Coast. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 3

Drive to former French colony of Pondicherry (Pudicherry). Afternoon at leisure to stroll along the boulevards or visit the unique alternative community at Auroville.

Day 4

Travel to Thanjavur (Tanjore). Afternoon visit to Sri Brihadishwara Temple - a World Heritage-listed site.

Day 5

Drive to Madurai. Stop en route in Tiruchirappali to visit the Rock Fort Temple, towering above the city, and also the gigantic Srirangam Temple.

Day 6

Explore Madurai - a city of colourful bazaars, street tailors, pilgrims and joyful religious processions. The main attraction is the famous temple dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi.

Day 7-8

From our base in Thekkady, we explore Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve - one of the largest in India and set deep in the scenic Cardamom Hills. We enjoy a jungle walk followed by a boat cruise on Periyar Lake.

Day 9

Enjoy a cruise though the famous backwaters and lagoons of Kerala. Relax and watch the world go by, amidst the sheer peace of the palm-fringed waterways. Spend a night on board our houseboat.

Day 10

Kochi (Cochin) is set on a cluster of islands and narrow peninsulas and is one of the most unique towns in south India. Watch an evening performance of Kathakali dancing.

Day 11

Enjoy a tour of Fort Cochin and a cruise around the harbour. Catch overnight sleeper train to Bangalore (Bengaluru).

Day 12-13

Arrive in Bangalore and drive to Mysore. Visit the Maharaja's Palace and Chamundi Hill. Shop for handicrafts.

Day 14

Catch Shatabdi express train back to Chennai.

Day 15

Tour ends after breakfast in Chennai (Sun).

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