INDIA: ENCHANTING SOUTH INDIA - 8 DAYS

Cochin - Kumarakom - Thekkady - Madurai - Chennai

Embark on a captivating journey through South India, where ancient traditions blend harmoniously with breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures. Our "Enchanting South India" tour takes you on an immersive exploration of this diverse region, offering a kaleidoscope of experiences that will leave you spellbound.

ITINERARY & PRICES

Day 01: Arrive Kochi
Arrive this afternoon in Kochi, formerly known as Cochin. Upon arrival, met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight enjoy a presentation of the colorful costumed Kathakali dance drama.  Abad Atrium Hotel or similar.

Day 02: Kochi / Kumarakom
Embark on your morning tour of Kochi. Visit the oldest quarter of town, Fort Cochin, the Raja’s Palace with its elaborate murals, the Jewish Synagogue and St Francis Church. Afternoon travel to Kumarakom - serene, emerald green peninsula set in the backdrop of Vembanad Lake. Rest of the day at leisure to relax and pursue independent activities. (B) Houseboat 

Day 03: Kumarakom
Take a cruise this morning on Vembanad Lake, site of a bird sanctuary. The main attractions are local birds like the waterfowl, cuckoo, owl, egret, heron and the water duck. Parrots, teal, larks, flycatchers, wood beetle along with the Siberian cranes are seen here during their respective migratory seasons. Continue and enjoy the backwater cruise as you cruises through the series of canals and lagoons through several tiny villages. (B) Houseboat

Day 04: Kumarakom / Thekkady
Drive through a landscape of rubber and tea plantations to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a region of jungle, forest and grassland. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. An afternoon boat trip will search for elephant, gaur, deer and a wide range of birds. (B) Cardamom County Hotel or similar.

Day 05: Thekkady / Madurai
This morning’s drive takes you down to the plains studded with granite outcrops to the temple city of Madurai. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. Your afternoon tour includes a visit to the Indo-Saracenic Thirumalai Nayakar Palace and the evocative Meenakshi Temple. Watch the nightly Hindu Pooja ceremony at Meenakshi temple. (B) Fortune Pandyan Hotel or similar

Day 06: Madurai / Chennai
Today fly to Chennai, formerly known as Madras. Upon arrival, met and transferred to your hotel. Afternoon is at leisure. (B) Novotel hotel or similar

Day 07: Kanchipuram and Mammalapuram
Enjoy your full day excursion to Kanchipuram and Mammalapuram. Visit Kailasanatha, Ekambareshwara and Vaikuntaperumal temples in Kanchipuram followed by tour of Mammalapuram. (B)

Day 08: Chennai Sightseeing / Home
Enjoy your morning tour of Chennai. Your tour includes visits to Victoria Art Gallery, Bronze Gallery, Chennai Museum, The Fort St. George, San Thom Cathedral and Kapaleeswarar Temple. Afternoon at leisure. Evening transfer to the airport for your flight back home. (B)

Single room supplement is extra. Please contact us for Single travel alone and Single room supplement.

INCLUSIONS

• Accommodation on twin sharing basis as per the itinerary, in hotels mentioned or similar

• All breakfast as mentioned in the program

• Transport services using air-conditioned vehicle

• Meet and greet services by office representative in each city

• Local English Speaking guide as per program during sightseeing

• Entrance fees to included features

• All currently applicable taxes

EXCLUSIONS
• Personal expenses, International airfare, Visa fees
• Customary gratitude to your guide and driver